Marine grade stainless steel is an important component of any boat’s construction, whether that be a freshwater or saltwater boat. Like the rest of your boat, those stainless steel features deserve a little TLC more often than not. Saltwater can be particularly harmful and corrosive for stainless steel, leaving parts of your boat covered in stains or even rust. Luckily, a good stainless steel cleaner can be your best friend when combating these issues.

Follow our guide to ensure you’re incorporating the best products for cleaning stainless steel into your boat’s regular maintenance routine.

How Often Should You Clean Your Stainless Steel?

Every boat owner has their own unique care plan for maintaining and cleaning their boat. Regardless of your routine, when it comes to cleaning your marine grade stainless steel, consistency and frequency is key.

Certain factors will require more care, such as boating in a saltwater environment. Hardware that is constantly exposed to saltwater or that has moveable parts will also require a higher level of maintenance. One instance where you need to really maintain your stainless steel properly is when it comes to ladders. Telescoping ladders are particularly susceptible to crevice corrosion, so be sure to wash down your ladder with fresh water after every use!

What Should You Use to Clean Stainless Steel?

There is an abundance of boat cleaners available in today’s market, which fortunately for boaters, provides us with an overwhelming amount of options to choose from. Fortunately, there are specialized cleaners for stainless steel, which are expertly engineered to be used on marine grade systems and components.

In terms of cleaning instruments, a simple cotton cloth or rag is recommended. For tougher stains and rusted areas, a toothbrush or green, general purpose scrubbing pad is also useful.

Cleaning Methods 

For the best results, use a combination of different stainless steel cleaners including:

• Fresh Water Rinse - Sea water contains concentrations of corrosive elements. When sea water evaporates, it leaves behind increased concentration of chloride ions and salt crystals. Rinse hardware with fresh water as soon as possible to protect the surface.   
•  Detergent Soaps - Break up surface dirt. Some contain a protective wax.
•  Waxes - Coats the surface creating a barrier against corrosive elements.
•  Polishes - Abrasive compounds which smooth surface and remove contaminants. Many polishes are a combination or mild abrasive and wax protectant.
•  Chemical cleaners - Acidic compounds that remove surface material, including rust, to expose uncontaminated material.

Some of the most popular polish/cleaner brands include Star Brite, Flitz (our go-to), and Meguiars.

You can finish the job with a freshwater rinse with mild household detergent or soap, and then add an optional anti-corrosion spray to top things off.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel

Throughout the cleaning process, there are some considerations you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Avoid the use of any steel wool rag, brush or cleaning pad—the use of these could likely cause permanent scratches to your stainless steel.
• Avoid the use of any chlorine-based cleaners, which could potentially be corrosive.
• If possible, steer clear of using DIY or homemade cleaning solutions.

Final Thoughts to Consider

Every boat is different and requires its own level of care. Use your best judgement when it comes to cleaning and maintenance, and pay close attention to the condition of your stainless steel components.

Between freshwater vs. saltwater use, exposure to sunlight and other natural elements, general wear-and-tear, age, and frequency of use, there’s a lot of factors that contribute to your boat’s overall condition. Give your pride and joy the attention it deserves, and it will continue to give you countless unforgettable memories on the water for years to come.

How do you clean your stainless hardware? Share with us in the comments below!

Visit MarineDepotDirect.com for a wide variety of cost-effective, top quality stainless steel marine hardware. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest updates or call 818-215-4211 to speak with a representative.