Keeping your pontoon clean isn’t just about looks — it’s about protecting your investment and keeping your boat performing its best. Over time, dirt, algae, and mineral buildup can wear down surfaces and shorten the life of your boat if not addressed. Whether you’re a weekend cruiser or a full-summer boater, regular cleaning is essential. In this post, we’ll walk you through when and how to clean your pontoon, plus tips from the pros and how Atwood Lake Boats can help.
Why Is It Important to Keep My Pontoon Clean?
1. Prevent Corrosion and Damage
Aluminum pontoons can corrode over time if algae, minerals, or lake buildup are left untreated. Regular cleaning helps protect the tubes and deck structure from long-term wear.
2. Improve Performance
Clean pontoons move more efficiently through the water. Removing grime and buildup reduces drag and can even lead to better fuel efficiency on the water.
3. Protect Upholstery, Flooring, and Canvas
Sunscreen, food spills, mildew, and bird droppings can damage your boat’s seats, floors, and canvas if left unchecked. Routine cleaning helps extend the life of all soft surfaces onboard.
4. Preserve Resale Value
A clean, well-maintained pontoon shows pride of ownership and holds its value better over time — a real advantage when it’s time to trade in or sell.
When Is It the Best Time to Clean My Boat or Pontoon?
The best time to thoroughly clean your pontoon tubes is in the fall, when the boat is pulled from the water. This is the ideal time to remove algae, stains, and waterline buildup using a professional-grade aluminum cleaner, available as part of our fall service packages at Atwood Lake Boats. This process helps restore the natural shine of the pontoons and protects them from long-term corrosion.
Other parts of your boat benefit from more frequent cleanings:
- Upholstery and flooring should be wiped down every few outings to prevent stains and mildew.
- Canvas covers and bimini tops should be cleaned monthly or after heavy rain and high pollen.
For added protection, we carry marine-safe cleaners and fabric protectants in our ship store to help keep your pontoon looking sharp all season long.
Professional Tips for Cleaning Your Boat or Pontoon
Want to keep your pontoon looking its best between professional services? Here are a few expert tips from the team at Atwood Lake Boats:
1. Rinse After Every Use
A simple freshwater rinse removes dirt, debris, and lake minerals before they can cause stains or buildup — especially helpful for pontoons that stay in the water.
2. Use Marine-Safe Cleaners
Avoid harsh household products. Stick to cleaners made specifically for boats to protect vinyl, flooring, and aluminum.
3. Wipe Down Upholstery Regularly
Use a soft cloth and vinyl-safe cleaner to remove sunscreen, food residue, and dirt. Follow with a UV protectant to extend the life of your seats.
4. Treat Canvas and Covers
Rinse with fresh water and let dry completely before storage. Apply a fabric protectant from our ship store to help repel mildew, stains, and UV damage.
5. Don’t Forget the Pontoons
If you’re DIY-ing, use an aluminum cleaner designed for marine use. Avoid abrasives and always follow up with a good rinse. For a deep clean, leave it to the pros during fall haul-out.
Boat & Pontoon Detailing at Atwood Lake Boats
Want your pontoon to look showroom-new again? Leave the hard work to us. Atwood Lake Boats offers professional boat and pontoon detailing services through our service department — including aluminum tube cleaning, interior deep cleans, and full exterior washes. Whether you’re preparing for storage, looking to refresh your boat mid-season, or getting ready to sell, we’ll help restore that like-new shine.
To schedule your detailing service, just call our service department or stop by the marina. Our team can walk you through the options and help you choose the right level of service for your boat. Let us help you protect your investment — and keep your pontoon looking great on the water.
