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How to Clean & Polish Your Pontoon Boat in 5 Steps
Pontoon boats, which are great for cruising on smaller lakes, are exposed to lots of dirt, like algae, moss, and other forms of “lake scum,” which can make them look less than perfect. When this happens, proud pontoon owners will probably want to know how to clean and polish pontoons, including their tubes and rails.
Almost all pontoon boats ride on floats made of aluminum, and cleaning and polishing aluminum pontoons takes only a few hours and five simple steps.
Here’s how to clean and polish pontoons and clean and polish pontoon tubes and rails.
1) Prepare Your Pontoon Boat
Before you start polishing an aluminum pontoon boat, you’ll have to clean off all the old buildup. If you leave your boat docked or at the marina for long periods of time, there may be algae, salt buildup, and other grease on it. If so, may need to pressure wash it or use boat de-salt concentrate.
Spray on a boat cleaner and wipe it as you spray. If there’s no visible buildup, you can pressure wash the dirt and grime for a quicker prep time.
To find out how to clean pontoons on a trailer, you’ll need to figure out how to lift the pontoons off the trailer bunks. You should carefully research how to do this because doing it incorrectly can be very dangerous. Once you’ve followed this cleaning process, you should hose down your trailer as well to avoid putting dirt back on your freshly washed pontoon. Make sure to carefully clean the pontoons on the trailer.
2) Apply Boat Cleaner
If you want your polish job to last longer, you should clean your pontoon before you polish it. Boat cleaner removes toxins and buildup that you can’t see.
To make applying the cleaner easier, you can get a one-gallon sprayer. Work in sections so the cleaner doesn’t dry up and leave deposits behind—a wash mitt can make this a more efficient process. Then thoroughly spray off the boat cleaner using a hose or pressure washer. Rub as you spray the water to ensure that all cleaner is removed, and make sure your pontoon is completely dry before you move on to polishing.
This is a great time to use a highly absorbent drying cloth like the Boat Lover’s Towel.
If you’re wondering how to clean pontoons that are in the water, you should use simply a cleaning brush to scrub off algae and rings around your boat, and avoid using cleaning products until you are back on land.
3) Apply Boat Polish and Buff
For a mirror finish, you need to polish and buff your pontoon boat. Bigger boats may need an electric polisher like a Dewalt or Makita. Make sure to polish in circular motions for the best application.
You can use a polishing pad or cloth for smaller boats. Wipe the polish in circular motions or an “S” pattern, as rubbing up and down can leave marks. The entire process should take about two hours.
4) Apply Boat Cleaner Again
When deciding how to clean aluminum pontoons to make them sparkle, you should apply boat cleaner twice. If you don’t use cleaner after you polish and buff, there may be polishing residue left on the surface, which will show once you apply a metal protectant like Shark Hide.
So, just like step four, work in sections with your boat cleaner, and thoroughly rinse and dry your boat to make sure it will look great when you complete the last step of the cleaning and polishing process.
5) Apply Shark Hide
The last, and arguably most important step, is to apply a metal and aluminum protectant like Shark Hide. This will seal in your polishing job, and it protects your boat from UV rays, saltwater damage, algae, and more. You’ll be able to see your pontoon shine from all the way under the water. Now it’s time to congratulate yourself, you have learned how to clean aluminum pontoons.
How to Clean Pontoons in the Water?
- Firstly, start with cleaning your pontoon boat with fresh water.
- Use soap only when you find a stubborn dirt spot.
How to Clean Pontoon Tubes?
- Use simple fresh water.
- Some soap solutions may disrupt the oxidative layer of aluminum.
Make Your Pontoon Boat Sparkle With CleanTools
Now you know how to polish pontoons and also how to polish pontoon rails for a mirror finish, and CleanTools has the products to make this process go as smoothly as possible. From highly absorbent clothes, like The Absorber®, to washing mitts and boat brushes, your pontoon boat will look like new in no time.Shop Boat Lover’s Towel
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6 Steps on How to Get Scratches Out of Plexiglass
Plexiglass is a popular material used for boat windows and other surfaces. However, over time, scratches can mar its appearance and—even worse—hinder your visibility. Luckily, we have composed a step-by-step guide to getting those unsightly scratches out of your boat’s plexiglass.
Keep reading to learn about how to remove plexiglass imperfections from your boat and set sail without any scratches in your way.
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7 Common Boating Mistakes to Avoid
Whether you’re new to boating or are a seasoned seafarer, it’s easy to make mistakes. Most boating mistakes happen when boaters are in a hurry—and such simple mishaps can lead to big problems.
Avoid the worst by preparing for the best-case scenario. Check out the seven most common mistakes you should avoid on and off the water.
The 7 Boating Mistakes You Should Never Make
Everyone makes mistakes, but you should make sure you’re taking the necessary steps to avoid these common boating errors.
1) Forgetting To Check the Marine Weather Forecast
You should make it a habit to always check the weather forecast before each voyage. Otherwise, you run the risk of sailing straight into high winds, rough seas, or dangerous storms.
2) Failure To Install the Boat Drain Plug Before Launch
Installing the boat drain plug is one of the most basic practices in boating—yet many forget this important step. Failing to install your drain plug can result in a boat full of water, so remember to ensure it’s in your vessel before each voyage.
3) Failing To Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Your boat is a lot like your car. It needs regular maintenance, just like any other motor vehicle or vessel out there. Create a regular maintenance plan and stick to it to avoid any surprises on the water.
4) Overloading the Boat
Overloading a boat is more common with smaller boats than with large yachts. Make sure you know what your boat’s weight capacity is before loading and launching—and don’t overload it with passengers, coolers, or unnecessary items.
5) Running Aground
Running your boat around is dangerous and can cause some serious damage to your investment. Running aground happens when there’s no longer sufficient water to float your boat. Instead, your boat may scrape along sand and rocks. Avoid this issue with a depth finder.
6) Not Putting Out Enough Anchor Line
If you’re catching yourself drifting after you’ve put out the anchor line, then you probably haven’t put enough line into the water. Boats that aren’t properly anchored can drift ashore, into a neighboring boat, or even out to sea.
Make sure you’re putting out an anchor line that’s between five and seven times as deep as the water you’re in.
7) Getting Lost at Night
Getting lost at sea is scary—but it can be terrifying at night. When the sun goes down, it becomes much harder to identify the shoreline. To avoid this, only go out in sufficient daylight and head back to the shore before dusk.
You should also use a chart and a marine VHF radio to signal the Coast Guard if you become lost.
Prep For Your Next Voyage With Boat Lover’s Towel
Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule is important. So is regular cleaning. Make sure your boat is looking its best before every launch with the products boaters trust. Boat Lover’s Towel offers a wide collection of drying products and cleaning products to keep your ship in tip-top shape.
Shop our full collection of cleaning accessories or grab your very own Absorber® for the ultimate dry.Shop Boat Cleaning Products
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3 Essential Boat Cleaning Supplies Every Boater Should Own
Is your boat looking a little grimy? Make it seaworthy with three essential boat cleaning supplies every boater needs in their toolbox.
If you own a boat, then you should know how to clean it. Slacking on a regular cleaning routine can cause your boat to become dirty and downright disgusting. Combat mold, mildew, and all of that sea grime with three essential cleaning products from Boat Lover’s Towel.
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Boat Prep: Getting Your Boat Ready for Spring
Spring isn’t just in the air—it’s in the water, too. Now that everything is thawing out, it’s time to stretch your sea legs and get your boat back in action. But before you launch your vessel on its first voyage of the new year, there are a few crucial steps before you get your boat ready for the spring, that you should cross off your spring maintenance checklist.
Maintain The Nuts and Bolts
Your boat’s mechanics are what propels it through the water, so it’s crucial to keep your mechanical parts in check. If you are mechanically inclined, then checking your vessel’s mechanical parts should be a breeze. If not, you can always hire a professional to take a peek.
Here are a few important components you should test and check before setting sail:
- Check the battery and wire connections
- Check the steering and shifting
- Reinstall the propeller
- Test the bilge pump
- Check the seacocks
- Replace zincs
You should also check your coolant level, hoses, and oil pressure before starting your boat up from its winter slumber. Regardless of whether or not you hire a mechanic, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with your boat’s moving parts in case of an emergency.
Check Your Cabin Essentials
Now it’s time to venture into the cabin. When you’re not enjoying the sunshine reeling in a big catch, you’re most likely spending time in your cabin. You should always keep your cabin clean and free from any excess moisture.
Ensure that you have:
- Plenty of lifejackets onboard
- Checked all switches and appliances
- Checked your faucets and showers
- Stocked adequate food
This is also a good time to load up your towels and linens. Remember to stow away an ultra-absorbent towel for the ride to wipe away any excess water.
Don’t Forget Your Safety Gear
The last thing you want is to find yourself in the middle of an emergency. However, if you find yourself in this position, you should always have easy access to your safety gear.
Take time to double-check the gear that matters the most and:
- Inspect your lifejackets
- Inspect the dock and anchor line
- Inspect anchors and shackles
- Check fenders and fender lines
- Check your flares
Inspect the Deck and Hull
Your deck and hull make up the majority of your boat, so it makes sense that these areas see a lot of wear and tear. Oftentimes, the deck and hull of your boat can accumulate some rust stains and other flaws such as sun damage.
Before you launch your boat into the water, take the time to:
- Remove all rust stains
- Clean the deck vinyl
- Use a UV protectant on your vinyl
Set Sail Into Spring With the Absorber®
There’s a reason why boaters across the country don’t leave the docks without their Absorber®. This super absorbent towel is the perfect sidekick for handling moisture, spills, and splashes of any size. The Absorber® lasts for years and comes in a handy tube for easy storage on your boat or yacht.
Set sail this spring and shop our collection of cleaning and drying products.
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Brace Your Boat for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide To Winterizing
Your boat was built for water—but it wasn’t built to handle the bitter cold of winter. Below-freezing temperatures can do a number on your vessel, so it’s essential to winterize your boat before winter rears its ugly head.
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5 Easy Steps To Clean Your Boat’s Interior
Spring is on the way, so now is a good time to start practicing good boating habits.
You love your boat, right? Keep it as clean as the day you took your first voyage by maintaining a sparkly clean interior. Regular cleaning will keep nasty mold, mildew, and dirt buildup at bay so you can comfortably enjoy every moment on the water. Just follow our easy step-by-step guide to achieve a spotless boat.
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3 Tips for Restoring Marine-Grade Stainless Steel
Stainless steel isn’t just for kitchens. That’s right—this versatile alloy can be used in plenty of different applications, including those fixtures for your boat. In fact, marine-grade stainless steel is designed to withstand harsh corrosive environments.
Let’s dive into the ins and outs of stainless steel restoration and how marine-grade stainless can amplify the functionality of your vessel.
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Hauling Out a Boat: Everything You Need to Know About Hauling
Boat owners know how important it is to maintain their vessel, especially if that vessel spends most of its time in the water. Annually hauling out a boat isn’t just an option for mariners—it’s expected.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the nuts and bolts of boat hauling so you can be ready for your next voyage.
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How to Easily Clean and Maintain the Isinglass of Your Boat
Isinglass is a word you’ve probably heard within the boating world. This clear plastic glass is typically found covering the helms of large fishing boats and cruisers but is susceptible to scratching and hazing over time.
With a little elbow grease and the right products, you can make your isinglass shine as bright as your first day on the open water.
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6 Tips For First-Time Boat Owners
Are you planning to buy a new boat for the first time, or have you just bought your first boat? Now what?
Buying your first boat is exciting, but there’s a lot of information you need to know to take care of your new investment. Before you get behind the helm of your vessel, grab a pencil and paper, and let’s dive into what you need to know as a first-time boat owner. For convenience, we have created a first-time boat owner checklist, let’s check it out.
First-Time Boat Owner Checklist
1. Have the Correct Insurance
Even though boats are a boatload of fun, they can come with their fair share of mishaps. Having the right insurance will protect you from significant expenses and will give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your time on the water. Our tip? Take the headache out of boat insurance by working with an insurance agent.
2. Learn to Trailer Your Boat
There are many trials and tribulations that come along with trailering your boat. But don’t worry—you’ll become a pro in no time.
Make sure your vehicle is rated to tow the boat you’re buying and familiarize yourself with its weight capacity (Gross Combined Vehicle Rating). The last thing you want to find out is that your vehicle won’t be able to tow the boat you just purchased.
3. Learn to Launch & Retrieve Your Boat
Yes, there’s such a thing as boat ramp etiquette. Launching and retrieving your boat can be stressful for first-time boat owners, especially on busy weekends—but just remember practice makes perfect. Try practicing backing up your boat in an empty lot before heading out to launch.
4. Understand the Basic Maintenance Required
A boat has an engine with a lot of moving parts, just like your vehicle. So, with any watercraft, it’s important to keep up with annual maintenance. Pencil in regular oil and filter changes on your calendar, including propeller inspections.
For colder climates, you’ll want to winterize your vessel.
5. Get Proper Equipment
Sometimes, things happen on the water. Whether it be an overboard emergency or troubles with your motor, you’ll need basic proper equipment onboard your boat at all times. This includes:
- Life Vests
- Throwable flotation devices
- A fire extinguisher
- Visual and audible signaling devices
- A VHF radio to call for help
- A safety kit
- A toolbox
6. Master Your Operating Skills
Safe boating makes boating fun for everyone. Opt to take a boating safety course or courses offered by the US Coast Guard to hone your boating skill and make the boating experience safe and enjoyable for everyone onboard.
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7 Common Terms Every Boater Should Know
Why Boating Terminology Matters
Are you a recreational boater that tenses up when asked common boating words and phrases like which side the starboard is on? Don’t worry—no boater is automatically born knowing important boating terminology. However, if you want to become a seafaring connoisseur, learning the language of your vessel will make you sail safer and smarter.
Knowing the different parts of your boat will help you grow into a better boater for yourself and your passengers. Let’s take a look at seven nautical terms you must know before grabbing the helm.Top 7 Boating Terms & Phrases
Bow & Stern
The front and back of your boat aren’t called the front and back. Instead, these areas of your boat are called the bow and stern. The bow refers to the front of your boat, while the stern refers to the back.Port & Starboard
You’ve most likely heard the terms port and starboard—but do you know what they mean? When facing the bow, your port is located on the left side of the deck. Your starboard is located on the right side.An easy way to remember which side your port and starboard are on is by identifying your running lights. When turned on, your red light is on the port side, and your green light is on the starboard side.
Forward & Aft
Forward and aft go hand-in-hand with your bow and stern. Simply put, your forward refers to the bow of your boat, and your aft refers to the rear or stern.Hull
Your hull is the bottom portion of your boat that sits in and on top of the water. It’s worth noting that not all hulls are the same shape. For example, the hull of your pontoon boat is made up of (you guessed it) pontoons. Many boats exhibit the familiar V-shaped hull, which is made of fiberglass.The Transom
You can find the transom at the stern of your boat. This area is where your motor attaches to your boat.
Bilge Pump
A bilge pump plays a big role in the buoyancy of your boat. This pump is built into the hull and is designed to clear and drain any standing water it detects. Most bilge pumps run automatically, but some need to be turned on with a switch.Gunwale
Your gunwale refers to the top edges of the sides of your boat—nothing more and nothing less.Boat Smarter With The Absorber®
Are your port and starboard in need of a little TLC? Keep your ship in tip-top shape with The Absorber®—an ultra-absorbent towel designed to make your deck shine brighter than the water on a sunny day. Your boat deck is susceptible to all kinds of water damage that can lead to mold and mildew growth.Keep your bow and stern dry with The Absorber®’s powerful absorption abilities, so you can protect your investment and enjoy life on the water.