Ok, so what’s the verdict on SoftScrub on the composite decks and hull? There’s a boat in need of rescue that is seriously filthy after sitting exposed a good while. Would this cleaner do damage?
SoftScrub cleaner on H216 on stained areas?
- Thread starter Lightnsail
- Start date
I am probably going to get some grief about these recommendations; however, the key word is moderation. Using Soft scrub {without bleach) isn‘t going to damage the deck nonskid; I wouldn’t use it continuously for routine cleaning but for a deck rescue it’s OK. I would use a pressure washer first, (2500 psi) being careful not to direct the stream at hatch seals or rigging plates that are bedded to deck with sealer as well as decals. The pressure washing should remove grime & mildew, revealing any stubborn stains that can be removed with soft scrub. Thoroughly clean the topsides & cabin with the pressure washer & a soft brush & cleaning solution. Be aware that if the hull & cabin is heavily oxidized, it will require compounding with heavy duty compound (possibly wet sanding first), polishing, & waxing to rescue the gelcoat. See @Maine Sail protocol for compounding & waxing; lots of work but great results. After the rescue is complete, routine care with milder cleaners should be sufficient for maintenance.
Tips For A Great Buff & Wax
Buff Polish & Wax Try these products (for Gel-Coat only not intended for Awlgrip) The Cliff Note Version: Steps: #1-Clean the hull with an acid base cleaner like FSR, oxalic acid or On & Off to remove rust & tannin staining. (only if necessary) #2-Wet Sand by hand 600 (if real bad)...
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All good suggestions, though I’m not sure they all apply to the composite/plastic boats by Hunter.
Try all of the above methods in limited areas to determine effectiveness & any harmful effects. When you mention that the boat needs “rescuing”, I am assuming that it is in fairly bad shape. That equates to aggressive cleaning methods that could be harmful if done repeatedly; however, if done once to “rescue”, it’s doubtful if any damage would occur.
I am a devoted fan of this stuff
It is essentially soft scrup with oxalic acid added. Oxalic acid dissolves rust stains and attacks tannins (i.e. leaf stains). There are few stains that I have not been able to get rid off using this stuff. I've even pulled rust stains out of a sail. Just let it soak for a bit.
After a gentle pressure wash, I'd squirt a bottle of barkeepers over the affected areas, get one of these...
Scrub it really well and then pressure wash again.
Then go back with a scotch bright pad and more barkeepers to attack the difficult spots.
It is essentially soft scrup with oxalic acid added. Oxalic acid dissolves rust stains and attacks tannins (i.e. leaf stains). There are few stains that I have not been able to get rid off using this stuff. I've even pulled rust stains out of a sail. Just let it soak for a bit.
After a gentle pressure wash, I'd squirt a bottle of barkeepers over the affected areas, get one of these...
Scrub it really well and then pressure wash again.
Then go back with a scotch bright pad and more barkeepers to attack the difficult spots.
BTW: Sometimes it is hard to find the liquid/slurry version. You can get the powdered form at Walmart. I don't like the powdered form as much but I suppose you can make it work. The powedered form functions and feels a lot like Comet powder. I usually find the liquid slurry form at Lowes, Home Depot or Amazon.
I don't want to sound like a nut (too late) but I have even used Barkeepers on laundry when I have a difficult stain to remove. I've even gotten blood stains out of a white towel before. I had to let it soak a while but it came out.
If you have cheap stainless steel that is starting to get a little bit of rust on it... wet a rag with Barkeepers and rub it on the rust stain. It will come right off. If you have rust stains in your gel coat, work some Barkeepers into the stained area and let it sit for 10 min... then buff it out and rince.
If you have cheap stainless steel that is starting to get a little bit of rust on it... wet a rag with Barkeepers and rub it on the rust stain. It will come right off. If you have rust stains in your gel coat, work some Barkeepers into the stained area and let it sit for 10 min... then buff it out and rince.
I have found that this stuff works well. Have used Soft Scrub in the past but found that this works as well or better. Yes, power wash to begin with to get the majority of the grime off. My 2 cents.
Star brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner & Protectant - Ultimate Deck Wash
Star brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner & Protectant - Ultimate Deck Wash
I agree with @BigEasy, start off with a pressure washer. Be careful around deck fittings as it will blow the seals away. My pressure washer is an electric that's only 2100psi. It works well for cleaning the boat. Since your boat is relatively small, you could take it over to a DIY car wash. Expect to spend $20-30 but the difference will be night and day.
Barkeepers friend is a bit abrasive as is my former go to tool for cleaning - Magic Erasers. Both work amazingly well when used appropriately. Spray Nine is my general cleaning solution. Most cleaners get decks white. This stuff gets them bright white. I have not tried the lye based marine formula.
Barkeepers friend is a bit abrasive as is my former go to tool for cleaning - Magic Erasers. Both work amazingly well when used appropriately. Spray Nine is my general cleaning solution. Most cleaners get decks white. This stuff gets them bright white. I have not tried the lye based marine formula.