It is that time of the year again for a little bit of spring cleaning. As many of you will recall I usually put together an article this time of year on several marine grade cleaners featuring both new products on the market as well as some tried and true products that I have used over the years. With so much focus on the environmental impacts of cleaners these days and with everyone watching their budgets so tight; this year I have provide you with a much shorter list of products. This is a list of products you most likely have sitting in your kitchen pantry or medicine cabinet already and are effective and natural cleaning agents for some of the most common and troublesome marine related issues.
General marine vinyl wash and mildew removal - Mix (1) tablespoon ammonia, (1/4) cup hydrogen peroxide, (3/4) cup of water. Scrub with a soft to medium bristle bush, rinse thoroughly with fresh water, allow to air dry.
Marine canvas wash and mildew removal - Mix (1/4) cup of laundry detergent, (2) tbsp. vinegar and (1) gallon of water in a bucket. Sponge it onto the canvas. Use a medium bristle brush to scrub from the center out to the edges and corners of the canvas. Once you have washed the entire canvas, thoroughly rinse and allow the canvas to dry in the sun before storing.
Rust stains on fiberglass or gel coat White vinegar or lemon juice can be put on the stain full strength. These weak acids will remove minor rust stains. If stains are more severe try several applications of the acid or mix either of these two acids with borax, a common household cleaner to form a paste. The paste should be left on the stain until dry and then rinsed away.
Mildew growth on hard surfaces such as fiberglass or gel coat - Mix one part hydrogen peroxide (3%) with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray on areas with mold. Wait at least one hour and rinse with fresh water.
Hopefully these natural cleaners will provide you with the ability to take care of some spring time detailing without breaking the ban