One of the most hard to reach places when it comes to cleaning is the hull and particularly when the boat is in the water. I have cleaned everything from yacht hulls to the hulls of dinghies. For this reason, I can tell you the best methods for detailing the hulls of your boat. Without a doubt, you will need different strategies depending on the location of the vessel. If you’re wondering how to clean boat hull, here are the best methods. 

Location Matters When It Comes To Cleaning Boat Hulls

No doubt about it, the location of the vessel highly impacts the approach to cleaning the exterior of the vessel. Here is a breakdown of the best approach for cleaning hulls depending on location. 

Vessels At Anchor

Unquestionably, the most challenging hull to clean is that of a vessel at anchor. I have cleaned the hulls of boats at anchor through the Bahamas and the Caribbean. 

I can tell you with certainty jumping in the water is not going to work unless you’re only detailing the waterline. 

The best method for cleaning the side of an anchored boat is by using a small dinghy. The dinghy can be maneuvered around the boat. For this reason, it provides the best access and most stable platform. 

Importantly remember to bring along all of the necessary supplies to avoid returning back to the boat. However, it should be noted that someone should remain onboard the vessel being cleaned. The person aboard the boat being cleaned can use onboard water to wash the soap free. 

Watercraft Tied Dockside

The second most challenging approach to cleaning the hull of a boat is when it is secured dockside. 

Certainly, one side of the boat is resting against the dock, making it easy to detail. However, the opposite side is not the same case. 

When it comes to cleaning the opposite side, I suggest pulling the boat away from the dock and switching the side to which it is secured. Keep in mind reaching the lowest areas near the water line and tip of the bow will present a challenge. 

With that being said, a full detail of the port and starboard side is made possible by switching the side in which the boat is secured to the dock. Lastly, dock water is most often always available. 

Boats On A Trailer Or Washdown Rack

No question about it, a vessel on a trailer or wash rack is the most simple to clean. A boat resting on the bunks of a trailer or wash rack provides complete access to all points of the watercraft. 

In addition to access is the availability of being with close proximity to a hose. No matter if you’re in your driveway or at the marina. A hose will be at your disposal. 

Take advantage of these opportunities as it provides the opportunity for the most thorough cleaning. 

What Supplies Are Needed To Clean The Hull Of A Boat

To detail the vessel thoroughly, you’ll want to make sure you have all the needed supplies on hand. Here is a breakdown of the gear necessary to clean your boat’s hull. 

Garden Hose

A freshwater hose is a necessity when it comes to cleaning the hull of a boat. Fortunately, they are easily accessible in most cases. 

The only scenario that may become a challenge is when anchored either because you don’t have a freshwater tank or don’t have enough water in the tank to complete the cleaning. 

Boat Soap With A Bucket

When it comes to soaps, I am particular, and that is why I choose OrPine boat wash. The combination of a bucket of water and Orpine soap removes stubborn stains when brushed. 

Importantly, you’ll want to make sure you have enough soap on hand in the event you tip and spill the buckets. 

Boat Pole And Brush

One of the best known boat poles and brushes is the Shurhold. The Shurhold poles are extendable; therefore, you are more capable of cleaning the hard to reach places. 

In combination with the pole, I recommend the Shurhold soft bristle brush. The Shurhold brush is surrounded by a soft rubber bumper to prevent dinging the hull of the boat. 

Chamois Mop

One of the most often forgotten steps is drying the hull after it is washed and rinsed. Over time, the hull will develop water marks if standing water is not removed on a consistent basis. I recommend drying the hull with a chamois mop after every wash. 

Steps For Washing The Sides Of The Hull

One important step that is often forgotten is cleaning the hull’s stern portion. The stern is often forgotten but is prone to staining, particularly with inboard boats. Here are the steps on how to clean boat hull. 

Soak The Hull With Fresh Water

Without question, the hull must be doused in freshwater before beginning the cleaning process. Ensure that the boat remains wet while cleaning to avoid soap from drying on the hull. 

Scrub The Hull With The Soap Mixture And Brush

Once the OrPine soap mixture is created, dip the brush head in the soap. The head of the brush must be well coated in suds before scrubbing the hull. Next, brush the sides, bow, and transom while repeatedly dipping the brush. 

It should be noted if the soap becomes contaminated with dirt, dump the bucket and refill it even if you’re only halfway done with the project. 

Rinse The Soap Free From The Hull

I have seen too many people fail to properly rinse the soap from the boat’s hull. Always thoroughly rinse to avoid the paint from becoming streaked with soap. Importantly, you’ll want to spray from the water level up towards the rub rail, as this is where soap accumulates. 

Dry The Hull Of The Boat

As mentioned above, after all the soap is rinsed free, ensure to dry the hull. Continuously ring the chamois mop free as it becomes saturated with water. I am particular about drying all of the water as it is more challenging to remove hard water stains compared to washing a hull frequently. 

How To Clean A Hull Is Done With Ease

Without question, cleaning a boat’s hull is a simple process, but challenges are faced depending on the location of the vessel. I suggest cleaning the hull after every use but also routinely, even if the boat remains stationary. Lastly, don’t forget to apply wax on a bi-yearly basis to keep the hull shining bright.