Best wash for Boats? ONR or Convential Soap

[bdaly84]

I have a 21' Regal Boat this coming weekend and I am doing a full detail on it. I ordered the gelcoat polishes, sealants, and cleaners, however, I was thinking of using ONR, but now I am leaning towards a convential wash/soap. The boat is mildly ox'd and it will require polishing. There aren't many black streaks, but it just dirty from sitting through the winter. It is on trailer.



What do you guys think? There are plenty of Marine stores around me to pick a gelcoat specific wash, or just ONR it? Opinions/experiences please.

 

[Driven Auto Detail]

I'll be doing my first boat detail soon. Yesterday, I ordered this: Duragloss Duragloss Marine / RV Wash Concentrate



I tend to go with products that are intended for a particular use.

 

[imported_ajbarnes]

For boats, especially in the condition you mentioned, I'd stick with soaps & cleaners designed for marine cleaning.

 

[Diesel1]

If you will be washing on the water or within a close proximity to the water, you should really use a biodegradable boat soap. I would also bring along a good APC and a stiff deck brush for the non skid surfaces.



When I did boats we would do the initial wash with basically a good APC and boat soap. A scotch-brite pad + apc and soap will work wonders on vinyl seats. Just be sure to dilute the apc and do not let it soak on the vinyl cause it can cause streak marks, use a very fine mist.

 

[imported_mirrorfinishman]

The wash process plays a big part in getting the boat ready for polishing and waxing. It's really important to get the all of the non skid areas , exposed vinyl upholstery and those storage areas thoroughly cleaned during the wash process. All of that prep work helps to reduce overall total detailing time. Gotta love doing boats this time of year!