Helena Frye
Mold and mildew on boats can be a challenging issue to tackle, but it's certainly not impossible. The growth of these fungi is facilitated by the presence of dirt, spills, crumbs, and moisture, especially from seawater. To prevent mold and mildew, it is crucial to maintain a clean and dry boat, ensuring that any dirt or water is promptly addressed. Proper ventilation is also key, with air circulation or replacement recommended to prevent the buildup of dampness. When it comes to removal, a variety of commercial products are available, including Star brite's Mildew Stain Remover, Spray Nine Cleaner, and Boat Scrub. For those seeking a more natural approach, diluted bleach, borax, white vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide are all viable options. However, caution must be exercised when using bleach to avoid damage to the boat's upholstery and appearance.
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What You'll Learn
Bleach and water solution
Bleach is a common household product used to clean and remove mould from boats. However, it is important to note that bleach is not a cleaner but a whitener and disinfectant. Therefore, it is recommended to use bleach in combination with soap or detergent to effectively clean and remove mould.
When using bleach to clean mould off a fibreglass boat, it is crucial to take safety precautions. Wear protective gear, such as an N95 particulate mask, rubber gloves, coveralls, and eyewear, to prevent exposure to mould spores and bleach fumes. Ensure the boat is well-ventilated during the cleaning process.
To make a bleach and water solution for mould removal, mix one part bleach with three parts water. This solution can be applied using a spray bottle or a brush. Spray or brush the solution onto the mouldy areas of the boat and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the area with a stiff deck brush to remove the mould. Rinse the area with fresh water to remove any residue.
For heavy-duty mould, a stronger solution may be required. A mixture of four quarts of freshwater, one quart of bleach, 2/3 cup of TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate), and 1/3 cup of laundry detergent can be used. Apply this solution in the same way as the previous solution, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
It is important to note that bleach may not be suitable for all boat surfaces. It can cause damage to certain materials, such as vinyl, headlining, soft furnishings, and wood. Always test the solution on a small, hidden area before applying it to the entire surface. Additionally, bleach may not be effective against algae or lichen, as these are plants, and bleach does not efficiently kill plants.
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White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide
To clean mould off a fibreglass boat with white vinegar, combine it with a mild dish detergent to make a homemade cleaner. Use a soft cloth or nylon brush to rub the cleaner onto the surface of the fibreglass, scrubbing in a circular motion with a light touch to avoid scratching the finish. For tough stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for at least 12 hours before cleaning the area with soapy water.
Alternatively, a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, with a few drops of dish detergent, is a powerful mould remover for fibreglass boats. However, this combination creates peracetic acid, which is reactive and potentially dangerous. Therefore, use caution and ensure proper ventilation when working with this mixture.
For a safer approach, use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution diluted with three parts water. Apply generously with a damp cloth or spray bottle and let it soak. Then, wash off with light, soapy water, and a soft-bristled brush if needed. Be cautious, as hydrogen peroxide can act like bleach on delicate surfaces.
To prevent mould from returning, ensure proper ventilation in the boat by opening hatches and ports. Keep lockers open and use fans to promote air circulation. Avoid storing fabric items against the hull, as condensation can form, leading to mildew growth. Regularly clean the insides of lockers and other enclosed spaces.
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Commercial mildew remover
One of the most highly recommended commercial mildew removers is Star brite's Mildew Stain Remover, which contains bleach. It comes in a 22-ounce trigger spray bottle, allowing you to direct the spray into hard-to-reach areas. It is important to note that bleach can be harsh on certain surfaces, so it is recommended to spot-test the solution on an inconspicuous area first.
Another well-regarded commercial mildew remover is Spray Nine Cleaner, which does not contain bleach. This product is also available in a trigger spray bottle, making it easy to apply.
If you are unable to find a commercial mildew remover, you can create your own by mixing 5 1/2 tablespoons of calcium hypochlorite into a quart of water. Always add the calcium hypochlorite to the water, not the other way around, as pouring water onto the chemical can cause a rapid, explosive reaction. Be sure to keep this mixture away from children. As with any cleaning solution, test it on a small, hidden area first to ensure it does not discolour or damage the surface.
In addition to using commercial mildew removers, it is important to maintain proper ventilation and keep your boat clean to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
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Ventilation and air circulation
To prevent mold and mildew from growing on your fiberglass boat, it is important to ensure that your boat is well-ventilated and that air is constantly circulating. A standard ventilation system may not be sufficient to keep mold at bay, so it is important to take additional steps to ensure proper ventilation and air circulation.
One way to improve ventilation is to install a ventilation system that pulls air in and exhausts air out. This will help to ensure a constant flow of fresh air throughout the boat. If installing a new ventilation system is not possible, fans can also be used to move air around, as long as the existing ventilation system allows for adequate air intake and exhaust.
Another way to improve air circulation is to make use of cowl-style vents, which can help circulate air below decks. Additionally, it is important to keep the boat clean and free of dirt, spills, and crumbs, as mold and mildew can grow on dirty surfaces. Any seawater that comes into contact with soft furnishings or canvas should be washed off with fresh water as soon as possible to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mold growth.
To further reduce moisture and the potential for mold growth, it is recommended to remove and launder bedding regularly. When dealing with mold on the deck, especially on non-skid surfaces, cleaning, sealing, and protecting the deck with a specialized kit can help stop mold growth and make it easier to keep the deck clean. Additionally, products such as Canvas Shield can be applied to the canvas boat top to make it waterproof, reducing the moisture that mold needs to grow.
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Boat cleaning products
There are several products available for cleaning mold and mildew off a fiberglass boat. The best product for you will depend on the extent of the mold, the material of your boat, and your budget.
Bleach-Based Products
Bleach can be an effective way to kill mold spores. However, bleach can also be very harsh on certain materials, so it's important to check that it is safe to use on the surfaces you are cleaning. Bleach-based products include:
- Star brite Mildew Stain Remover
- Marykate Mildew Stain Remover
- 3M Marine Mildew Stain Remover
- Klean-Strip Mildew Stain Remover
- Sudbury Mildew Cleaner & Stain Remover
- Boat Armor
Non-Bleach Products
If you are looking for a gentler alternative to bleach, there are several non-bleach products available that are also effective at removing mold and mildew:
- Spray Nine Cleaner: This product is highly rated by Practical Sailor and can be found at Home Depot or boating supply stores.
- Soft Scrub: This product contains bleach but is safe to use on fiberglass.
- Chlorox Clean-Up: Mix with water and apply with a garden sprayer.
- White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide: Mix with a couple of drops of dish detergent.
- Borax: Use a solution of 1/2 cup of Borax per gallon of water.
- Concrobium Mold Control: This product is safe to use on a variety of surfaces and can be found on Amazon.
- ZEP Mold and Mildew Remover: Available at Home Depot.
- MEAN GREEN: Available at the dollar store.
Natural Methods
If you are looking for a more natural method to remove mold, try using a stiff deck brush and some soap and water. This method may require more scrubbing but can be effective at removing mold and mildew.
Prevention
To prevent mold and mildew from returning, ensure your boat is well-ventilated. Cowl-style vents can help circulate air below decks. It is also important to keep your boat clean and free of dirt and salt, which can create a favorable environment for mold growth.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a mold and mildew cleaner like Star brite's Mildew Stain Remover, or an off-the-shelf mold and mildew remover product. Alternatively, you can use a solution of bleach, water, TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate), and powdered laundry detergent. Other products include Soft Scrub, Chlorox Clean Up, Spray Nine, or white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.
A 50/50 mix of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide with a couple of drops of dish detergent works great on fabric and fiberglass.
To prevent mold and mildew, ensure your boat is well-ventilated. The air inside the boat should be replaced at least every hour, and any dirt, spills, and crumbs should be cleaned up immediately.
You can try cleaning, sealing, and protecting the deck with the Sure Step Deck Protect Kit.
Remove the windows during the spraying process or mask them with plastic or towels. Spray on a mold remover product and wipe with a soft cloth. Rinse with clear water and apply a second coat if needed.
