Amanda Knapp
Fiberglass boats require a different cleaning approach to other boats. Owners should be aware that moisture can build up and lead to mildew growth, and that this is a common problem, especially in winter. To prevent mildew, it is important to dry your boat after washing it and to ensure good ventilation. If mildew stains are already present, there are a number of cleaning products that can be used, including bleach, white vinegar, borax, and commercial products such as Concrobium. Polishing and waxing can also help to protect the boat's surface.
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What You'll Learn
Use a mildew stain remover
If you notice mildew stains on your fiberglass boat, it's important to apply a mildew stain remover to get rid of them. The gelcoat of the fiberglass boat needs to be free of oil and grease, and soap alone usually won't cut it. That's why a degreasing product is key.
There are two key options for mildew stain removers:
- Non-scratching degreasing formula: Apply this formula across the surface of the fiberglass boat's gelcoat with a damp cloth. Then, rub it off with a microfiber towel.
- Spray-on-and-rinse-off degreaser product: Spray this product onto the gelcoat, let it sit, and then rinse it off.
When selecting a mildew stain remover, it's important to read the labels on the cleaning products to find out what types of stains they are formulated to combat. Follow the instructions on how to use the product properly. Make sure your boat is in a well-ventilated area before using any chemicals.
Some specific mildew stain removers that have been recommended for use on fiberglass boats include:
- Marine Spray Nine: This product is a spray-on cleaner that can be used to remove mildew stains. It can be found at West Marine and other boating supply stores.
- Chlorox Clean Up: Mix Chlorox with water in a ratio of 1/3 water to 2/3 Chlorox, and spray it onto the boat with a garden sprayer. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse and brush the boat with light soapy water. Finally, rinse and wax the boat.
- Bleach and water: Mix bleach and water in a ratio of 40% bleach to 60% water, and spray it onto the boat with a garden sprayer. Avoid getting it on vinyl, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, rinse the boat with a hose and apply wax.
- ZEP Mold and Mildew Remover: This product is available at Home Depot. It can be sprayed on and then hosed off, without the need for scrubbing.
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Try a 50/50 mix of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide
To clean mildew off a fiberglass boat, a simple solution of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide can work wonders. This natural cleaner is slightly acidic, breaking down dirt and grime and leaving a streak-free shine.
For a 50/50 mix of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, start by pouring equal parts of both liquids into a spray bottle. You can adjust the amount depending on the size of your boat and the extent of the mildew. Before spraying, ensure you are wearing old clothes, as the solution may cause discolouration.
Spray the entire surface of the fiberglass, paying special attention to any cracks or crevices where mildew may be hiding. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes. You will notice that the vinegar and hydrogen peroxide combination starts to break down the mildew, making it easier to remove.
For heavily soiled areas, you can sprinkle baking soda onto the sprayed surface. The baking soda will react with the vinegar, creating a gentle fizzing action that further breaks down dirt and grime. Using a sponge, gently wipe down the area using a circular motion. Finally, rinse the boat well with hot water and allow it to air dry.
While this method is effective, it is important to note that vinegar and hydrogen peroxide can create peracetic acid, which is reactive and should be handled with care. Always read up on proper dilutions and safety precautions before proceeding.
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Bleach and water can remove mildew stains
Bleach and water can be effective in removing mildew stains from a fibreglass boat. However, it should be noted that bleach is not a cleaner but a whitener and disinfectant. Therefore, it should be used alongside a soap or detergent for effective cleaning.
To clean mildew stains from your fibreglass boat, start by mixing one cup (240 ml) of bleach per one gallon (3.8 L) of cleaning solution. You can also try a 40/60 or 2/3 bleach-to-water ratio and put the mixture in a garden sprayer. Spray the mixture everywhere, including the bilge and compartments, avoiding vinyl surfaces. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a hose. Follow up with wax.
Alternatively, mix one quart of household bleach with four quarts of warm water in a plastic bucket. Pour the mixture onto the mildew, thoroughly coating the fibreglass. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the area, loosening surface debris and mildew growth. Rinse the area well with hot water and allow it to air dry.
While bleach can be effective in removing mildew, it is important to exercise caution when using it. Always wear protective clothing, including old clothes, gloves, and a mask, when handling bleach and cleaning mildew. Additionally, ensure the area is well-ventilated.
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Prevent mildew with ventilation and avoid fabric against the hull
Mildew is a common problem on boats, and it can be challenging to prevent and remove. While mildew can be removed with commercial or homemade mildew removers, good ventilation is the best way to prevent mildew from forming in the first place.
To prevent mildew, it is essential to keep your boat well-ventilated. Open hatches and lockers, and consider installing fans or power ventilation systems to keep the air circulating. Traditional cowl vents with built-in water traps are an effective way to ventilate your boat without needing an outside power source. If you want to keep your boat's sleek look, removable cowl vents can be used while docked, and replaced with a watertight deck plug when cruising. Solar-powered ventilators are another attractive and eco-friendly option for keeping your boat well-ventilated.
In addition to ventilation, it is important to avoid storing fabric right against the hull. Fabric can soak up condensation, creating an ideal environment for mildew to grow. Instead, create an air gap between the hull and any fabric or mattresses by using interlocking rubber grids, a layer of plasticized "horse hair", or dri-lock tiles.
By improving ventilation and avoiding fabric against the hull, you can effectively prevent mildew from forming on your boat. However, it is important to note that preventing mildew requires a continuous, multi-pronged approach, as mildew spores are everywhere and can grow with just a little moisture and warmth.
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Degrease your boat to protect and restore gelcoat
To keep your boat's gel coat in good condition, it's important to regularly clean and degrease your boat. This will help to protect the gel coat and restore its shine.
Start by rinsing your boat with warm, clean, fresh water to remove any loose debris and dust. Then, mix water and a boat cleaning soap into a bucket and use a long-handled soft brush or sponge to scrub the exterior of your boat. Pay particular attention to any areas with caked-on gunk. Rinse the boat again with fresh water to remove any remaining soap, grime, dust, and debris.
It's important to thoroughly dry your boat after washing it to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mildew growth. If you notice mildew stains, apply a specialised mildew stain remover.
Soap and water alone won't remove oil and grease, so the next step is to degrease your boat. Apply a non-scratching degreasing formula over the entire surface of your boat's gel coat using a damp cloth. Then, rub off the excess degreaser with a microfiber towel. Alternatively, you can use a spray-on-and-rinse-off degreaser product, which can be rinsed off with fresh water after application.
Allow the boat to dry before moving on to the next step, which is polishing. Polishing is an important step to smooth out a pitted gel coat surface and restore shine. Apply a high-gloss polish to a soft cloth or a damp foam polishing pad and rub it in a circular motion into small areas at a time. For larger boats, you may want to use an electric circular buffer. Once you've finished polishing, wipe down the vessel with a microfiber towel.
The final step is to wax your boat, which adds a protective coating and improves gloss. Apply the wax according to the product instructions and wait for it to have a hazy appearance before wiping away the excess residue with a soft cloth.
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Frequently asked questions
Ventilation is the best way to prevent mildew from growing on your fiberglass boat. Open hatches, use fans, and open lockers. Avoid storing fabric items against the hull, as condensation will form and cause mildew.
You can use a specialised mildew stain remover. Alternatively, try a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide with a couple of drops of dish detergent. You can also use a 1/3 water and 2/3 Chlorox mix, or a 40/60 bleach and water mix.
Use a spray bottle to apply the remover to the affected areas. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with water.
You can add a protective coating by waxing your boat. Apply the wax according to the product instructions, wait for it to dry, then wipe away the excess residue with a soft cloth.
