No matter the size or type of boat, vessels are prone to buildup on the hull. One of the peskiest problems is algae attached to the bottom and sides of the boat. This is not only unappealing to look at, but it also slows the acceleration of the boat and becomes harder to remove over time. There are many professional cleaning sprays and mixtures that you can use on your boat, which have proven results, however you can also make your own mixture. Cleaning the algae off of your boat hull can be done either in the water or on land, using different methods.
Remove the algae with a bristle brush and putty knife. Scrape the algae as hard as possible to remove it. Get rid of the remaining algae or barnacle buildup with the putty knife. This is the most natural method as there is only elbow grease, and no chemicals. This can be done in the water or on land. If on land, spray the boat with a garden hose first.
Combine one part chlorine bleach and one part hot water in a bucket to remove the algae when your craft is on land.
Apply the mixture using a bristle brush or the scrubbing side of a sponge. Let stand for five minutes.
Scrub the boat until the algae is removed. Repeat the process if necessary.
Mix one part muriatic or hydrochloric acid with one part water in a spray container attachment for a garden hose as an alternative treatment when your boat is on land.
Spray the boat with plain water. Attach the spray bottle and spray the boat hull completely with the acid mixture. Let sit for about five minutes, but no longer than 10.
Spray the hull with water on the highest spray setting to remove the algae. If there is algae remaining, scrape with a bristle brush or repeat the acid wash.
