How to Clean the Bottom of a Boat in Florida

Frequently cleaning the bottom of a boat will keep it in peak condition.

The bottom of a boat, also called the hull, is the area most frequently in contact with water. This means that it needs consistent cleaning to stay in good condition. Boats in Florida require extra protection because of the intense UV rays from the sun. All boats should have their bottoms cleaned at least once a month, which most people can do on their own.

Things You'll Need

• Hose
• Bucket
• Hull cleaner
• Sponge
• Soft towel
• UV protecting wax

Instructions

1. Move your boat onto dry land and to an area with a hose nearby. Pull smaller boats such as kayaks and canoes from the water and use a boat trailer for large boats.

2. Turn smaller boats upside down with the bottom facing up. Keep larger boats as they are right side up on the trailer.

3. Spray down the bottom of your boat using fresh water from a hose. Small boats are easy to spray, while large boats require you to bend down and spray them from underneath.

4. Pour hull cleaner into a bucket and add water. Hull cleaner products vary, so follow the directions on the package. They are available at boating supply stores and online.

5. Apply the mixture to the bottom of your boat using a sponge while the boat is still wet. Small boats will be quick and easy, while larger boats require you to go underneath and apply the mixture.

6. Rinse off your boat using the hose and then dry off using a soft towel. Larger boats may require a few towels to do the job.

7. Apply a UV protecting wax to the hull after you are through cleaning. This is especially important in a place such as Florida and will help prevent rusting.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a large boat, consider hiring a professional hull cleaner periodically to keep your vessel in great shape.

References

• Bass Pro Shops: Cleaning Your Boat From Top to Bottom