Without a doubt, one of the most important pieces of equipment aboard a vessel is the fenders. Fenders are designed to protect the side of the hull to avoid dings and scratches when docking or securing the vessel to a dock for extended periods of time. Fenders are exposed to the elements and rub against dirty docks; therefore, they become stained. As a boater, maintaining your vessel and accessories is critical. Here is the best method for cleaning boat fenders. 

Why Do Boat Fenders Become Stained

Take into consideration how frequently fenders are used aboard boats. The combination of tossing them over the side to protect the hull and being thrown in an onboard storage locker when not in use. The combination of the two causes them to become stained and lose the bright shine of recently purchased fenders. 

First, fenders are prone to grown mold and mildew, especially when stored in boat compartments. Unquestionably, vessel hatches are damp spaces; therefore, the onset of mold and mildew is rapid. For this reason, it is important to remove the fenders periodically and clean them before they become coated from top to bottom. 

Secondly, fenders protect the hull of the boat from dock rash. Dock rash is caused by the boat making direct contact with the dock, thus causing chips, gouges, and scratches. Comparatively, the fenders serve the purpose of creating a barrier between the dock and the vessel. Therefore, the fenders become stained from rubbing on the dock. 

How To Properly Clean Boat Fenders

Cleaning boat fenders is more straightforward and simple than one might imagine. However, it should be noted that elbow grease is often required. Here is the best method for cleaning dirt, mold, and mildew from boat fenders. 

Gather Cleaning Supplies

First thing first, gather all of the necessary cleaning supplies, and this includes Soft Scrub, dish soap, a stiff brush, a dishwashing sponge with an abrasive side, and a source of freshwater. 

Importantly, you’ll want to take the least harsh approach to begin. When stubborn stains persist, a more aggressive cleaning method will become a necessity. I always start with dish soap and a sponge. 

Place The Fenders On The Dock Or In The Driveway

Lay the fenders from the boat on the driveway or dock. The driveway and dock are flat surfaces to make your life easier when it comes to scrubbing. 

Secondly, drag the hose to the area in which you will be washing the fenders clean. Having everything on hand helps speed along the process. 

Wet The Cleaning Brushes And Fenders

When you get started with the cleaning process, soak down the fenders, sponge, and brush. The wet surface will activate the soap by making it become sudzy, thus aiding the cleaning process. 

Apply The Soap To The Fenders

As noted above, your best bet is to start with the most mild approach, which would be the combination of dish soap and a sponge. I recommend applying generous amounts of soap to better remove grime. 

Scrub The Fenders

Once the soap is applied, scrub the fenders. The fenders must be washed from top to bottom and side to side. Without question, a small amount of mold or mildew left behind is likely to manifest into covering the entire fender in short order. 

Importantly, don’t be afraid to apply pressure when scrubbing the fenders. Stubborn stains respond to aggressive cleaning. 

Rinse The Fenders And Inspect

Take your time to rinse the fenders and inspect them. I recommend switching from dish soap to soft scrub if stains remain visible. Additionally, swap the sponge for the scrub brush. 

Apply Soft Scrub To the Fender

Again, comparable to dish soap, apply generous amounts of Soft Scrub to the fenders. Coat all surfaces of the fender with Soft Scrub before utilizing a bristled brush to clean. 

Scrub The Fenders With The Scrub Brush

Unquestionably add additional elbow grease when scrubbing the fenders with Soft Scrub and bristle brush. The combination of the abrasiveness of the brush and the stain removing power of Soft Scrub will lift stains free of the fenders. 

Don’t Rinse The Fenders Immediately After Cleaning

One of the biggest mistakes is rining the Soft Scrub off the fender when the cleaning process is complete. Instead, allow the Soft Scrub to sit on the fenders, especially in the sun. When Soft Scrub is allowed to remain on the surface of the fender, it continues to lighten and eventually remove difficult stains. 

Rinse And Dry The Fenders

Now that the cleaning process is complete, it is time to rinse the fenders, cleaning supplies, and dock or driveway. Once everything is rinsed, take an extra moment to wipe the fenders dry, especially before stowing in an onboard compartment. 

Cleaning Boat Fenders Is Easy

Following these steps when cleaning your boat fenders will save you time and remove difficult stains. I know as an avid boater, I am particular about the condition of my boat and accessories. Take the time to clean your boat’s fenders as often as needed. Remember, allowing stains to remain for extended periods of time only makes them more challenging to remove in the future.