How to clean the boat while she's in the water

[Tony5898]

I missed an opportunity to clean, polish and wax my boat while it was on the hard. Any recommendations on how best to clean the sides once the boat is in the water. Cleaning the deck should not be a problem, however, I can't quite figure out how I'll manage to clean, polish and wax the sides while she's floating.Thanx all

 

[Steve O.]

use a dinghy

I tie off my dinghy along side of the boat and wax on, wax off. Don't even think of using power, you'll have to do it by hand.

 

[John Shullo]

My method

I use a sponge mop to wax the sides while in port and it works very well. Just soak the sponge with rubbing compound, cleaner or polish and rub away. The long handle provides good leverage allowing you to really apply pressure. I usually wash off the residue with a sponge mop rather than wiping it with a dry cloth. Easier and quicker.The sponge mop works well while on the hard also if you don't have a buffer.I am curently experimenting with Holloway House Floor Polish as a final coat. It is a no wax product, just polymers and other chemicals. It seems to fill in all the microscopic scratches and produces a great non slip shine. Just wipe it on, let it dry for a minute and give it another coat. No need to wipe it off. Add as many coats as needed to get the finish you want.I did the top sides about 6 months ago and it still loooks great. Just be sure to clean the surface well with rubbing compound or other cleaner because it will seal in what ever is there. Product is about 5 bucks in Publix, Kroger, Wal-Mart etc. Made my 28 year old boat about the same as new.

 

[Calif. Ted]

I lay on the dock

recomendable, I lay down a piece of carpet. I've dropped 2 buffers in the drink last year alone so don't go there anymore. Our boats are in the water year round so hope someone has a better method to offer.

 

[DAVE C.5111]

The Easy Way

I had three of our kids do it, by moving it around in the slip so they could reach it from the dock or for the areas they couldn't reach from the dingy.I sat on the deck and supervised.Worked like a charm and only had to pay them $30 each.dave...

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Don't use a dinghy

Use a work raft that's floating around the marina somewhere for the yard to use. It's much more stable, which will accelerate your work.