There’s nothing quite like cruising the lake on a warm summer day aboard your pontoon boat. But before you invite your friends, pack the cooler, and fire up the Bluetooth speakers, it’s essential to give your pontoon the care it needs after a long winter. A well-maintained boat not only looks great but also runs better, lasts longer, and protects your investment. Whether you stored it in the water, under a canopy, or shrink-wrapped in your driveway, now is the time for a thorough cleaning and summer prep.
Here are the top 5 tips to clean your pontoon boat and get it ready for a stress-free season on the water:
1. Start With a Rinse and Exterior Wash
The first step in your cleaning process is a full rinse. This helps remove surface dirt, dust, spider webs, pollen, and other debris that has accumulated during the off-season. Use a garden hose with moderate pressure to rinse the entire boat—top to bottom. Focus on:
- The deck and rails
- Fenders and cleats
- Seating and storage compartments
- The pontoons themselves
Once the debris is rinsed off, it’s time for a more detailed wash. Use a marine-grade boat soap and a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Avoid household detergents like dish soap, as they can strip protective finishes. Wash from the top down in sections to avoid water spots and streaks. Be sure to scrub the deck thoroughly, as mildew, leaf stains, and grime can build up and cause long-term damage.
Pro tip: For vinyl seats, use a dedicated vinyl cleaner and a soft cloth. Follow up with a UV-protectant to prevent sun cracking or fading.
2. Protect with a Quality Boat Cover
If you’re not using your pontoon every day, a high-quality boat cover is one of the most important tools for keeping it clean and protected between outings. Even during summer, your boat is exposed to sun, rain, bird droppings, falling leaves, and airborne debris. A cover protects your hard work and keeps your boat looking showroom-ready all season long.
What to look for in a good cover:
- UV resistance: The sun can be brutal on vinyl, paint, and electronics. A UV-resistant cover helps prevent fading and cracking.
- Ventilation: Mold and mildew thrive in moist, enclosed spaces. Look for a cover with built-in vents or moisture-wicking material.
- Snug fit: Choose a cover that fits your specific pontoon model. A loose or sagging cover can collect water and tear over time.
- Ease of use: Consider a support pole system to keep water from pooling on top, and invest in straps or clips to secure it during windy weather.
- Bonus benefit: A good cover also deters animals, insects, and nosy neighbors from treating your boat like their playground.
3. Deep Clean the Interior and Storage Compartments
Next, tackle the interior of your pontoon. This includes seats, flooring, consoles, and hidden areas like storage lockers and under-seat compartments.
These areas are often forgotten, but moisture and mold love to hide there:
- Seats: Use a vinyl-safe cleaner and soft brush to remove mildew, sunscreen stains, or general dirt. After cleaning, apply a UV-protective treatment.
- Flooring: Whether you have carpet, vinyl, or woven flooring, sweep or vacuum it first. Then mop with a cleaner suited for your flooring type. For vinyl floors, use a non-skid cleaner that won’t leave a slippery residue.
- Storage areas: Empty every compartment. Wipe down the interior with disinfectant or mold-preventing cleaner. Let it air out completely before storing gear again.
- Cup holders, console dials, steering wheel, and radio: These areas gather dust and grime. Use a microfiber cloth and all-purpose marine interior cleaner to freshen them up.
Extra tip: Check all upholstery seams and stitching for early signs of wear and repair them before the summer sun makes it worse.
4. Inspect and Maintain Key Systems
A clean boat isn’t just about looks—it’s also about making sure your systems are ready to perform safely. After cleaning, do a walk-through to check the following:
- Battery: Clean off any corrosion around terminals and fully charge the battery. Make sure it holds a charge and that connections are secure.
- Fuel system: Check hoses and clamps for cracks or leaks. Replace the fuel filter if needed and make sure your gas tank is full of fresh fuel.
- Propeller and motor: Inspect the prop for dings or fishing line. Make sure the motor is clean and free of debris. Run it briefly (with water intake connected) to confirm it starts easily and idles smoothly.
- Lights and electronics: Test all navigation lights, interior lighting, depth finders, speakers, and other electrical systems. Replace any faulty bulbs or fuses.
- Trailer (if applicable): Inspect the trailer’s tires, lights, and winch. Clean and lubricate wheel bearings, and check that all straps and safety chains are functional.
This maintenance phase is your best defense against breakdowns and costly surprises during boating season.
5. Restock Essentials and Reorganize for Summer Fun
The final step is to restock and reorganize your pontoon so it’s ready for fun from the moment you untie the lines. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Safety gear: Make sure you have enough life jackets in good condition for all passengers. Check that your fire extinguisher is charged and not expired. Inspect your first aid kit and flares.
- Cleaning supplies: Keep a stash of microfiber towels, spot cleaner, and a spray bottle of all-purpose marine cleaner on board for quick wipe-downs after each trip.
- Lake toys & accessories: Pull out your inflatable tubes, paddleboards, tow ropes, snorkels, and water shoes. Inspect for damage and patch or replace as needed.
- Cooler space & food storage: Wipe down your onboard cooler or mini fridge, and restock with the summer essentials—drinks, snacks, and reusable cups.
- Music and tech: Test your Bluetooth speakers or onboard stereo. Recharge portable devices and ensure your navigation apps are updated.
Organization tip: Use waterproof bins and mesh bags to store items. Label everything so you and your guests can find what they need quickly without digging through gear.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning and prepping your pontoon boat for summer may feel like a chore, but it’s the key to a smooth, relaxing boating season. By following these five tips, you’ll not only extend the life of your pontoon but also ensure every lake day is as fun and hassle-free as possible. After all, the only thing better than a clean boat… is the feeling of casting off for your first ride of the season! Enjoy one of the benefits of Lakefront Living.
See you out on the water!
Posted by Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”