After sitting for the offseason, you finally reach the day when you can pull your boat out of storage.  It's an exciting moment - that is, until you realize all of the cleaning and maintenance that needs to be done!  One of the most common and most frustrating issues for boats coming out of storage is the preponderance of mold and mildew.  The stuff seems to find every nook and cranny on the vessel to develop and spread.  

There are two components to dealing with mold and mildew on your boat.  In order to curb that frustration in the future, proper prevention of mold & mildew is key.  But once it happens, there are also key steps and supplies to use in order to clean up any mold or mildew lurking on your boat.

Prevention of Mold & Mildew on Your Boat

There are a few key factors that can help you avoid mold and mildew from becoming a big problem on your boat.

  • The key to preventing mold and mildew from developing on your boat is by keeping it dry as much as possible.  This probably sounds impossible for something whose function is to operate in the water, but it can be done.  This starts with regular cleaning.  Wipe down surfaces with a clean cloth and warm water, and use an appropriate cleaning agent when necessary.
  • Proper ventilation is essential for preventing mold and mildew growth. Open hatches and windows to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the boat.
  • A dehumidifier can be a big deterrent to mold and mildew. It can help remove excess moisture from the air, reducing the likelihood of mold and mildew growth.
  • There are a number of very effective moisture absorbers available to aid you in the fight against mold and mildew. Products like moisture-absorbing crystals, silica gel packs, or damp rid can help absorb excess moisture in the air.
  • There are also many anti-mildew sprays available that can help prevent mold and mildew growth. Be sure to read instructions and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully in order to ensure the chemicals can be effective.
  • One of the best ways to fight moisture that might create mold and mildew is to find the source of the moisture. Regularly inspect your boat for leaks and address them promptly. Moisture from leaks can contribute to mold and mildew growth.
  • Finally, stay organized and neat! Store items in a dry location and avoid leaving wet towels, clothing, or other items on board for extended periods of time.  

All of the above tips are important throughout the year, but they are especially important before putting your boat into storage for the offseason or any time when you plan to be away from the boat for an extended period of time.

Cleaning Up Mold & Mildew on Your Boat

Prevention is the preferable approach to mold and mildew, but in the event that you do encounter that the stuff is spreading on your boat, there are some key tips you can use to help get rid of it.

  • First, identify the source of the moisture. It will do no good to clean up the mold and mildew if you do not address the actual cause.  Mold and mildew need moisture to grow, so the first step is to identify the source of the moisture in your boat. This could be a leak, condensation, or simply a lack of ventilation. Once you have identified the source of the moisture, you can take steps to address it.
  • Clean the affected area. Once you have identified the source of the moisture, you need to clean the affected area. Some suggest using a mild detergent and water solution to clean the area, or vinegar, or even a bleach solution.  There are some terrific and effective mold and mildew cleaners available specifically for the boating environment as well. No matter what cleaning agent you use, be sure to rinse it thoroughly afterwards.  Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning mold and mildew, especially in poorly ventilated areas.  You should also try to ventilate the area as much as possible when using bleach or other cleaning products.
  • After you have cleaned the affected area, it is important to dry it completely. This will help to prevent the mold and mildew from growing back. You can use a fan or a hair dryer to help dry the area.
  • Once the affected area is dry, it is important to ventilate the area. This will help to prevent the mold and mildew from growing back. You can open windows and hatches, or use a fan to circulate the air.
  • Prevent future growth. Once you have removed the mold and mildew, it is important to prevent it from growing back. You can do this by addressing the source of the moisture, cleaning the area regularly, and ventilating the area.
  • If the mold and mildew is severe, you may need to call a professional to remove it.

Hopefully, with these tips you can make your boating season preparation a lot easier and eliminate a lot of hassle, along with making every area of your boat safe and clean.  If you have any questions about the right steps to properly maintain your boat, please give our ABYC-certified experts a call at (866) 388-0390.