Maintaining a boat takes time, care and a good knowledge of the right techniques. However, it's easy to make mistakes that can damage your boat or reduce its long-term efficiency. Here are the 5 most common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your boat, and our tips for overcoming them.

Household detergents, although effective for domestic surfaces, can cause damage to specific materials on a boat, such as gelcoat, teak or stainless steel equipment.

Why is this a mistake?

These products can be too aggressive for your boat's surfaces, some of which, like gel coat, are sensitive, and it is strongly recommended that you use products designed for this purpose.
When you wash your boat, the waste goes directly into the sea, but conventional household detergents often contain substances that are harmful to the marine environment, so it's best to use products that respect the marine environment.

Solution:

Use cleaners specially formulated for boats, ideally biodegradable and harmless to marine ecosystems.

Some owners think that a deep clean is enough from time to time. However, failing to rinse your boat regularly after a sea trip is a major mistake.

Why is this a mistake?

Salt water leaves deposits that promote corrosion and damage surfaces over the long term.
Salt splashes can damage electrical and electronic circuits.

Solution:
After each trip, rinse your boat thoroughly with fresh water, paying particular attention to the outboard motors, deck and windows.
Absolute Magnitude also offers professional yacht cleaning services. Whether it's regular maintenance or intensive cleaning ahead of major events, their services are designed to give boat owners and crews peace of mind, so they can concentrate on their core business.

Scrubbing with excessively hard brushes or abrasive sponges may seem effective, but it can seriously damage your boat's surfaces.

Why is this a mistake?

This can create micro-scratches on the gelcoat or painted surfaces, leaving your boat vulnerable to dirt and wear.

Solution:

Use brushes with bristles suited to the surface you're cleaning and soft microfibres to preserve the appearance and durability of your surfaces.

Perfect cleaning is useless if you don't apply protection afterwards.

Why is this a mistake?

Exposed materials (teak, gelcoat, stainless steel) deteriorate rapidly without a protective layer.
Dirt and UV rays can cause accelerated damage.

Solution:
Applying a protective product can extend the life of surfaces and make them easier to maintain.
Today, Absolute Magnitude is a benchmark for boat owners and crews looking for cleaning and protection solutions tailored to the needs of the marine industry. Whether it's a small family boat or a luxury superyacht, every customer can rely on their expertise and commitment to sustainability.

It's tempting to focus solely on the visible areas, such as the deck or glazing, but the hidden areas are just as important.

Why is this a mistake?

Chocks, water tanks and drainage systems can accumulate dirt and cause bad smells or breakdowns.
Stagnant humidity encourages mould and structural problems.

Solution:
Take the time to clean hard-to-reach areas regularly, and use specialist products to prevent harmful build-up.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll extend the life of your boat, reduce maintenance costs and protect the environment. Want to simplify your cleaning routine even further? Call on our tailor-made products and services for optimal, environmentally-friendly and effortless maintenance.

Do you need any help? Contact us today for a personalised quote!