Cleaning & maintenance
Products to keep your boat like new: hull cleaners, gelcoat polish and wax, antifouling paint, teak care, marine sealants, bilge cleaners and canvas care.
10 comparisons
cleaning & maintenance comparisons
Gelcoat polish and wax Dull gelcoat needs a cleaner wax; oxidized gelcoat needs compound, polish and wax. Diagnose first, then pick the level of cut. See comparison → 
Boat bottom paint (antifouling) For most boats that stay in the water all season, a quality ablative bottom paint is the default. Here is how to pick the type, work out the gallons and apply it right. See comparison → 
Boat moisture absorbers and dehumidifiers On a boat without shore power, use calcium chloride absorbers in the cabin, lockers and salon; with a dock outlet, an electric dehumidifier. And always, ventilate. See comparison → 
Pressure washers for boats For a recreational boat, a washer around 1,600-1,900 PSI with decent flow is plenty. What matters is knowing where not to use it: teak, canvas, seals and electronics. See comparison → 
Boat hull cleaners For regular washing, a pH-neutral boat soap; for the yellow waterline stain, an acid hull cleaner. Here is what goes with each kind of dirt. See comparison → 
Stainless steel cleaners and polishes Marine stainless does not truly rust, but it does stain: a dedicated cleaner and a mild polish restore it almost every time. Here is what to use in each case. See comparison → 
Marine canvas and vinyl cleaners For canvas, biminis and covers, use a dedicated canvas cleaner followed by a waterproofer; for vinyl, a mild cleaner and a UV protectant. Against mildew, dry and ventilate. See comparison → 
Bilge cleaners and oil absorbents Absorb the oil first, then degrease with a biodegradable cleaner and dispose of the dirty water ashore. A permanent absorbent under the engine keeps the bilge from fouling again. See comparison → 
Marine sealants and silicones For most deck hardware, a semi-permanent polyurethane or MS hybrid is the right call; silicone is for interior joints. Here is what goes where. See comparison → 
Teak care products for boats Teak needs a cleaner, a soft brush and, if you want to keep the color, oil or a sealer. Here is what to use for the result you want. See comparison → Best sellers right now
Marine canvas and vinyl cleaners 303 Aerospace Protectant for Vinyl, Plastic & Rubber, 32 oz
9.2 BarcoEquipado score: 9.2 out of 10
Stainless steel cleaners and polishes Autosol Utosol 0400 75Ml Metal Polish
9.0 BarcoEquipado score: 9.0 out of 10
Marine sealants and silicones 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200, Black, 10 fl oz Cartridge with…
8.7 BarcoEquipado score: 8.7 out of 10
Pressure washers for boats Westinghouse ePX3500 Electric Pressure Washer, 2500 Max PSI…
9.0 BarcoEquipado score: 9.0 out of 10
Guides to help you choose
How to Winterize a Boat: Step-by-Step Guide (2026) How to winterize a boat step by step: fuel, engine, batteries, water systems, moisture and cover. What to do in the water or on land before the off-season. How Much Does It Cost to Own a Boat per Year? (2026) What owning a boat really costs each year in the US: slip fees, insurance, haul-out, engine and fuel, with ranges by boat length and ways to save. Boat Teak Care: How to Clean, Oil and Protect Teak Decks How to clean, oil and protect boat teak without wearing it away: brushes, cleaners, oils, deck seams and a simple maintenance calendar. How to Clean a Non-Skid Boat Deck Without Damaging It How to clean a non-skid boat deck without harming the gelcoat: step-by-step method, brushes, common stains and mistakes to avoid. How to Clean Boat Stainless Steel: Rust Removal & Passivation Why stainless rusts at sea and how to clean it: rust remover, citric acid passivation, polishing and a routine that keeps tea staining away. How to Repair Boat Gelcoat Step by Step Learn how to repair gelcoat scratches, chips and cracks: diagnosis, materials, catalyst ratios, wet sanding and polishing for a repair you can't see.