How to Clean and Maintain a Pontoon Boat

As the days begin to get longer you’re probably starting to daydream about days at the lake. Before taking your pontoon boat out to the water, you may need to give it a good cleaning from its time in storage. Continue reading for our tips on how to clean and maintain a pontoon!

Washing the Boat

You likely washed your boat before it was put into storage, but after sitting for the season you should give it another cleaning. Start by cleaning any fiberglass components with soap and water, working from the top of the vessel down. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid soap buildup!

For any aluminum or metal components, you’ll need to use a specialized cleaner. This will help protect the material and keep it shining. 

Furniture and Flooring

Now is also a great time to clean and sanitize the interior of the boat, specifically any furniture, controls, and flooring. You can use soap and water to wipe down the furniture and flooring, but make sure you have enough airflow so it can dry properly. 

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

After you complete the cleaning process, you should inspect your pontoon boat for signs of damage or necessary repairs to address. You should have a regular maintenance schedule for your vessel and ideally, you should complete an inspection before and after each use. 

Utilize a Cover 

One of the best ways to improve the lifespan of your boat is to use a cover when it's not in use. It can protect it from the elements, pests, and any dust or debris. It can also reduce the effects of sun exposure on the exterior. 

Allow the boat to completely dry before installing the cover to avoid mildew or mold. 

Caring for your pontoon boat will help it last for many seasons to come! Our team at Island Watersports, located in Fenwick Island, DE, would love to be a resource for you. We offer winterization, parts, service, and rentals. We proudly serve the Ocean City and Salisbury areas.