From pesky algae to unsightly stains, the interior and exterior of your boat are prone to several problems. Luckily, you do not always need the help of the pros to deal with these issues. With a little effort and time, it is easy to keep the boat clean. This is especially the case if you have the right tools, such as the best boat cleaning brush.
A good brush for boat cleaning is made of sturdy materials. The bristles must effectively scour dirt on the surface without scratching the exterior. It should also have an ergonomic handle, which will make boat cleaning an easy task for you!
Are you looking for a boat brush? Sure, cheap is good! However, price alone is not a good indication of what to buy. Read on and we’ll help you make the right decision.
Shurhold 970
+ Has solid wood construction |
+ Bristles are extra soft |
+ Lathers soap very well |
Better Boat Deck Brush
+ Universal pole tip |
+ Floats on water |
+ Has soft-textured bristles |
Table of Contents
- Top 12 Boat Cleaning Brush Reviews
- 1. Carrand 93062 10” Dip Brush
- 2. Shurhold 970 Boat Deck Brush
- 3. Better Boat 8” Soft-Bristle Deck Brush
- 4. Star Brite Extending Handle
- 5. Shurhold 1960 Marine Mate Soft Brush
- 6. Superio Deck Scrub Brush
- 7. Star Brite Boaters Combo Set
- 8. EVERSPROUT No Scratch Scrub Boat Brush
- 9. Unger Hydropower Bi-Level Soft Wash Boat Brush
- 10. Better Boat Telescoping Extension Pole
- 11. Star Brite Deluxe Long Handle Utility Brush
- 12. MATCC 62” Microfiber Boat Brush
- How Does a Boat Cleaning Brush Work
- Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Boat Cleaning Brush
- Types of Boat Cleaning Brushes
- How to Choose the Best Boat Brush
- Care and Maintenance
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Top 12 Boat Cleaning Brush Reviews
1. Carrand 93062 10” Dip Brush
If you are looking for a boat wash brush with softer bristles compared to those mentioned above, this is a great alternative. By having softer materials, it will be gentler when cleaning surfaces, which will prevent scuffs and scratches.
One problem most boat-owners commonly encounter in boat brushes is slippery poles. Especially when you are working with water and soap, your hand is bound to be slippery at one point. Luckily, this product comes with a foam handle. This isn’t just comfortable to hold, but it also prevents your hand from slipping.
Additionally, you will benefit from the ideal length of the pole. Its maximum stretch is 65 inches, which is great for cleaning areas hard to reach by an otherwise shorter pole. It is also adjustable, so you can customize the length depending on what a specific task requires.
More so, since it has rubber bumpers, you need not worry that the edges of the brush head will damage the parts of your boat.
- Has a long and telescoping handle
- Comfortable to grip
- Comes with rubber bumpers to prevent damage
- Large brush head for exceptional cleaning coverage
- Does not scratch surfaces
- Bristles can be too soft
2. Shurhold 970 Boat Deck Brush
The Shurhold 970 model is another top choice for a boat hull cleaning brush; it stands out as a versatile tool you might want to have. Aside from the hull, it is flexible enough to clean other parts of the boat, such as floor and seats.
Before you buy this brush, take note that it is available in four configurations depending on the stiffness of the brush that you prefer. You can choose from extra-soft, extra-stiff, medium, and soft.
I like how this 6-inch brush is compact, yet ensuring good cleaning coverage. You can easily clean dirty surfaces on your boat with a single pass, therefore saving much time and effort.
While the bristles are extra-soft, they have a flared construction. The latter means that it can hold a large amount of cleaning solution, which makes it the ideal use for various boat sizes, even the large ones.
When you purchase this product, it does not come with a handle. But if you already have a Shurhold handle, you can use it to fit into this brush since it has universal compatibility.
It is worth mentioning that this product has a robust wood base. More than looking good, the brush head is also durable, making sure that it will hold the bristles together despite frequent use.
- Brush head has a solid wood construction
- Bristles are extra soft
- Compatible with any Shurhold handle
- Various choices of brush stiffness for cleaning different surfaces
- Lathers soap very well
- High-priced boat cleaning brush
3. Better Boat 8” Soft-Bristle Deck Brush
Cleaning your boat does not have to feel too much of a burden. To make it easier, you need to have the right deck scrub brush like this highly-recommended model
Looking at the overall construction of this brush, it is obvious that the manufacturer pays much attention to its design. For instance, the rubber bumper is made thicker than usual to protect the surfaces of your boat and prevent marks.
Furthermore, this Better Boat deck brush comes with an 8-inch wide head. The face is packed with soft bristles that will clean different materials, including wood, vinyl, glass, and fiberglass, among others. You can be confident that the bristles will not damage your boat’s surface.
Another notable feature of this deck brush is that it floats! In case the brush goes overboard, it will be easy to get it back.
Best of all, the manufacturer is offering a money-back guarantee. Unhappy with how it works? Let the manufacturer know and they will provide an unconditional refund.
- Works on a wide array of surface materials
- Universal pole tip
- Comes with a thick rubber bumper
- Floats on water
- Has soft-textured bristles
- Does not come with the handle
4. Star Brite Extending Handle
For a quick and almost effortless way to clean your boat, this brush is one of my favorites! It is built for all-purpose deck cleaning, which you can use even for cleaning interiors!
I love how this cleaning brush comes with an extendable handle. Even when you are inside the boat, it will be easy to clean the exterior. The pole can extend from 3 to 6 feet. This means that even hard to reach areas will be effortless for you to brush!
I have used several boat brushes that are a pain to hold, especially for a long time. When my hands are wet, the handle slides. With this brush, however, that isn’t the case. It has a non-slip grip, which means that even with wet hands, you can hold it properly.
The most important part of the boat cleaning brush is the brush itself, and that’s another point where this model does not disappoint. The brush head is made of a proprietary material known as Star Prene, which are lightweight polymer fibers. Aside from being tough on dirt and stains, these fibers are also stain-resistant. They can withstand chemicals and high temperatures, making the brush durable.
If you accidentally drop the brush in water, there’s nothing to worry about! It will float once it is in the water, so it will be easy for you to get the brush.
- Has a huge cleaning brush for optimal coverage
- Comes with an easy to hold non-slip grip
- Material resists external elements that can speed up wear
- Withstands temperature of up to 200 degrees
- Handle extends for cleaning hard to reach areas
- Handle retracts when there is too much pressure
5. Shurhold 1960 Marine Mate Soft Brush
Need a hand cleaning your boat? This deck brush in a stick is one of the most promising options. It comes with a 48-inch handle, which will be long enough to cover most areas of the boat. Cleaning hard to reach areas is a breeze, therefore prevent your back from aching!
One of my favorite things in this product is the six-inch soft brush head. It can be quite small, but it does a good cleaning job. It has split end fibers, which are capable of holding more water and soap. Hence, lathering will not be a problem due to such design. You can easily produce the foam that you want from your cleaning solution.
To add, the brush comes with sturdy bristles, unlike others that disintegrate easily. Even if you frequently apply a strong force when you are scrubbing, you can be confident that the bristles will stay in the brush head. From solvents to acids, the brush can withstand a variety of cleaning materials.
Another good thing about the brush is that it has a flared construction. I love that it can easily penetrate crevices on the boat, which would have been otherwise hard to reach if you are using another kind of brush. It is easy to make sure that it cleans all parts of the boat!
- Comfortable grip size
- Right pole length for most boats
- Brush head can withstand acids and solvents
- Lathers soap well with split end fibers
- Comes with a seamless one-piece construction
- Slippery wood handle
6. Superio Deck Scrub Brush
Even the most stubborn dirt will be effortless for you to remove when using this boat washing brush. From the hull to the floor of your boat, this brush can be your savior when doing regular cleaning.
The best asset of this brush is the bristles. They are semi-rigid, so you can be confident that they will be strong enough to tackle even tough dirt. In the same way, they are gentle enough when cleaning to avoid damaging surfaces.
I like this brush because of its long handle, which is 48 inches to be exact. If it is too short for you, then I recommend that you take a look at another version of this brush, which comes with a 54-inch handle.
Aside from the length, one more thing that most users love in this deck cleaning brush is the lightweight construction. Cleaning for a long time will not make you easily feel tired.
The protective rubber side bumper is another exceptional feature. You do not have to worry when cleaning fiberglass surfaces or any similar material. The bumper is a great design for the brush head to prevent leaving scratches.
- Bristles are not easily prone to fraying
- Gets rid of tough dirt even in between grooves
- Lightweight construction makes it comfortable to use
- Rubber corners prevent damages on sensitive materials
- Can easily reach even corners
- Handle can bend easily
7. Star Brite Boaters Combo Set
With this set of boat cleaning tools, you will enjoy impressive quality at a good price. It comes with a brush and handle, as well as a sponge, boat hook attachment, and boat scuff eraser. All of these are available at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.
More so, I like how this boat cleaning kit comes with a telescoping handle, which will make it versatile. You can set the handle longer or shorter depending on the extent of cleaning you will need to do. The handle is extendable from 3 to 6 feet, which can save your back from pain when cleaning.
Besides, this product features a medium-fiber stiff blue brush, which is 8-inch wide. Its high-density fibers using materials are exclusively developed by the manufacturer. With the latter, you can use the brush for all-purpose cleaning and will work well even on stubborn spots.
One of the bonuses that you will receive is the scuff eraser. This piece is handy in the removal of grime and streaks, which will make your boat spotless, especially in the interior.
- Comes with multiple cleaning materials for your boat
- Lightweight but strong
- Affordable, considering that it is a set
- Has a boat hook attachment
- Telescoping handle design
- Does not come with a screw head for fastening pole
8. EVERSPROUT No Scratch Scrub Boat Brush
Whether it is your boat’s deck or hull, scrubbing too hard can damage surfaces. Luckily, that is not going to be a problem when you have this EVER SPROUT boat scrub brush.
I am amazed by how soft the bristles on this brush are. In truth, they are made of synthetic fibers, which can deliver thorough cleaning without scratching. This is unlike stiffer fibers that can leave unsightly marks on your boat’s interior and exterior.
More so, the bumper on the edges of the brush is added to promote smooth cleaning. This feature will be useful in preventing the corners of the brush from scratching surfaces.
Too short to reach high areas? Need to clean the boat without getting in the water? I recommend using this brush as it comes with an extendable pole. You can adjust its length from 1.5 to 3.5 feet.
This product is an excellent pick for anyone who would like to make a positive environmental impact. For every item you order, the company will be planting one tree. This is a good way to do something good for our planet!
Remarkably, the overall construction of the pole impresses numerous users. It is made of anodized metal, which is great in terms of durability as it resists rust and corrosion. It also has an EVA foam grip, so you can hold the brush firmly even when your hand is wet.
- Soft bristles with effective cleaning capabilities
- Long handle for cleaning hard to reach areas
- Sturdy construction for long-term functionality
- Comes with a rubber bumper
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ridges of the squeegee can be difficult to use
9. Unger Hydropower Bi-Level Soft Wash Boat Brush
If you are looking for underwater boat cleaning tools, this is another product that should be on your radar. I recommend this for people on a budget. While it is affordable, this does not mean that quality and performance are compromised in any way.
One of the things I like about this product is the bi-level design of the bristles. This will make it more effective when cleaning at different angles, making sure that no traces of dirt will be left behind.
More so, I am also impressed at how the bristles are incredibly soft, so that it will be gentle on different materials. Even if you exert more force when you are scrubbing the surface of your boat, you can be confident that there will be no scratches.
It is great to know how this brush has a unique design that is compatible with a garden hose. With the latter, you can connect the brush head directly to a water supply, which will make it tougher on dirt.
- Effectively cleans surfaces at multiple angles
- Ideal for both wet and dry use
- Designed with a protective bumper to avoid scratches
- Can be attached to any handle
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee from the manufacturer
- Does not include a pole
10. Better Boat Telescoping Extension Pole
Before anything else, let me mention that this is only an extension pole. This does not include a brush attachment. You can purchase it to match with a suitable brush head for convenient use.
Strong yet lightweight – such a model is an ideal option for those who need a pole for a boat deck scrub brush. Aluminum is the main material, so you can be confident that the weight will never be an issue. Even when cleaning for hours, it will never be a burden.
Aside from its aluminum construction, users love utilizing this pole because of its extendable design. The telescoping handle extends to almost 9 feet, which will help them reach larger areas when cleaning the boat.
I also like the versatile universal ACME thread. With a ¾-inch diameter, it is compatible with a wide array of brush heads, including those that are made by other manufacturers.
The locking washer is an add-on feature that you will appreciate. This will make the attached brush head secure. Even if you exert a lot of effort in scrubbing, you’ll be happy to know that the brush head will not easily loosen from the pole.
Furthermore, the handle also comes with a dense foam padding, making it ergonomic. Wrapping your hand around the pole will not cause discomfort because of the foam grip.
- Easy to adjust telescoping handle
- Pole is made of thick aluminum
- Ideal for extended cleaning since it is lightweight
- Versatile thread tips
- Made by a family-owned American company
- Does not lock strongly when extended
11. Star Brite Deluxe Long Handle Utility Brush
For those who are looking for a budget-friendly option for the right brush for cleaning the bottom of the boat, choosing this Star Brite Deluxe Utility Brush makes excellent sense. It has a short but stable handle, which will let you scrub the dirt with more force as against ones with a longer handle.
Aside from the price, this brush gains numerous compliments from customers due to its durable bristles. They are built to be tough on dirt. Meanwhile, they are also smooth and gentle, which means that you do not have to worry that they will be leaving unsightly marks on any surface you are cleaning.
The handle is wrapped with high-quality slip-resistant material. More than its ergonomic design, I am also amazed at how easy it is to hold. Even if you have wet hands, you can hold the handle securely.
- Affordable utility brush for boat
- One-piece and sturdy handle
- Bristles do not easily fray
- Compact design for easy grip
- Handle can be too short
12. MATCC 62” Microfiber Boat Brush
The next product in our list is different from most of the options for boat bottom cleaning tools, including those mentioned earlier. It does not use bristles for cleaning. Rather, it uses microfiber cloth.
One of the many things I like about the microfiber cloth is how absorbent it is. The chenille microfiber will be gentle on surfaces, so you don’t need to worry that it will be leaving scuffs and scratches.
Additionally, great versatility and flexibility are other reasons why I am recommending this product. You can use it with the included pole, especially in areas that are difficult to reach. Meanwhile, if you want to be more hands-on, you can take off the brush head and attach it to your hand instead.
The handle comes with a telescoping design. It is divided into four parts, which will let users customize the length of the handle as they desire. The maximum length that the handle can reach is 62 inches.
To add, the manufacturer guarantees your highest level of satisfaction. If you have any complaint or concern, let the manufacturer know and they will extend a helping hand within 24 hours.
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Made of a super-absorbent material
- Pole comes in multiple sections
- Rotates 180 degrees
- Reliable customer support
- Microfiber brush can easily lose its shape
How Does a Boat Cleaning Brush Work
A boat cleaning brush works in the same way as other brushes. It scrubs dirt or grime off the surface with soap and water or other cleaning solutions.
In most cases, boat brushes will have three main parts. The pole or the handle is what you will be gripping when cleaning, which is often telescoping or extendable. Next to the pole is the brush head, and this is the one that holds the bristles, which will be doing most of the cleaning task. Some models have a built-in squeegee on the side for versatility.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Boat Cleaning Brush
Honestly, a cleaning brush is one of the most versatile tools any boat owner can have. However, while we have good words about these brushes, there are also some drawbacks.
Advantages
Below are some of the most compelling reasons to invest in a boat brush today.
- Eliminates Dirt and Grime: Whether it is algae on the hull or a wine stain on the seat, the best brush is a good investment for keeping your boat sparkling and spotless.
- Affordable: While you can use a hull rotary brush or a pressure washer when cleaning your boat, they are often expensive. I recommend brushes if you are looking for a cheaper alternative.
- Safe on Various Materials: Many of the boat brushes are tough on dirt but gentle on the boat. It will not damage the boat’s paint or gel coat.
- Clean Hard to Reach Areas: A long and telescoping handle is a common feature you will find in many boat brushes. They will let you work on hard to reach areas. You can even clean your boat without getting under the water.
Disadvantages
To be fair, let’s also talk about some of its drawbacks.
- Can Cause Surface Damage: Earlier, I have mentioned that boat brushes are safe on paint and similar materials. While that is the case, some bristles can be tough and may not be gentle on some materials when cleaning, such as acrylic or vinyl.
- Requires a Lot of Effort: With boat brushes, you need to do the boat cleaning manually. Some people are too lazy to do this, especially when the boat is large and frequent cleaning is necessary.
- Bristles Can Fray: If you aren’t careful and use a low-quality product, the common problem is that the bristles will end up fraying.
Types of Boat Cleaning Brushes
For the uninitiated, all boat brushes are the same. Truth be told, they are different in many ways. Below are the most common types available.
Soft Brush: Brushes with soft bristles are ideal when cleaning for a long time. Because they are soft, you won’t have to exert too much effort when scrubbing. This is also good for delicate materials to avoid surface damages. From glass to vinyl, you can be confident that using a soft brush will not cause damages. However, it does not work well for heavy dirt.
Medium Brush: For the best of both worlds, this is the ideal choice. It is gentle enough to prevent scuffs and scratches while also being semi-stiff, which will help remove dirt from your boat.
Stiff Brush: If you need to deal with tough grime or stain, stiff bristles are recommended. From acid washing to hull cleaning, the hard bristles make it effortless to remove even dirt that has already hardened through time. This is great for a boat bottom brush since the part exposed to the water is often hard to clean.
As an alternative to conventional brushes, microfiber cloth is worth considering. It is soft on the surface, which will make it a better option if you are cleaning glass and other delicate materials.
How to Choose the Best Boat Brush
With too many options for the perfect brush for cleaning boats, making the right choice isn’t easy. To help you narrow down the possibilities, below are some of the most important considerations.
Material
One of the first things to consider is the material used in the boat brush. The brush itself should be made of high-quality and dense fibers, which will not fray or disintegrate quickly.
For the handle, on the other hand, aluminum is a common material of choice. It is lightweight, making it easy to use. If it is too heavy, you can end up being uncomfortable.
Meanwhile, for the brush head, wood and plastic are the most popular materials. Wood is better as it is more durable, as long as it is treated to prevent damages that water and chemicals can cause.
The most important is for the material to be durable. It can be frustrating to have a cleaning brush with bristles easily falling off or handles that can quickly bend.
Length
If you have a large boat, you will benefit from having a long brush. This will make it effortless to clean the boat, especially the hard to reach areas.
For versatility, I suggest that you pick one that comes with a telescoping handle. This will let you customize the length depending on what is needed to complete a specific task. To add, it makes the brush space-efficient when it comes to its storage.
Size
The size of the brush head dictates its cleaning coverage. If it is wide or large, it will clean more in a single pass, which is recommended for a large boat. If it has a small brush head, on the other hand, cleaning a specific area might require multiple passes before you can get rid of dirt on the surface.
Grip
Aside from the length, another important consideration when it comes to the handle is the grip. This is directly related to your comfort, so it should have an ergonomic design.
To be ergonomic, it will be good if the grip is not too big or too small for your hand to wrap around it. More importantly, there should be foam or padding. This way, your hand won’t feel much of the force even when you are brushing aggressively.
Adaptability
By being adaptable, it means that you can use the cleaning brush with other boat products. For instance, it isn’t uncommon to find brush heads that are universally compatible with different handles. To add, you can also find some brush heads with a capability for replaceable bristles.
Portability
Size and weight are also important considerations in your search for the right boat deck brush. Your priority is to find a compact and space-efficient product that will be easy to bring and keep in your boat. For example, it is good to have a collapsible handle to significantly minimize the size of the brush when it is stored.
Price
For most people, price is the deciding factor when choosing a boat cleaning brush. However, I believe that you should not hesitate to spend more if this means enjoying better quality. Whether you are buying online or in a physical store, start by setting your budget to make it easier to trim your choices.
Care and Maintenance
To retain the peak condition of your boat deck scrub brush, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. Below are some of the most important things to do.
Keep the brush in a safe place when it is not used. Leaving it out in the open will expose it to heat, rain, and other external elements that can speed up wear.
Clean your brush after every use. Especially if you are using it as a boat bottom cleaning brush, get rid of algae and other traces of dirt. Place it on running water and apply soap to make the brush spotless before storage.
Pay attention to what you will use for cleaning. Chemicals, for instance, can have toxic components that can damage the bristles of the brush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before ending this short buying guide, allow us to answer a few questions you might have about boat cleaning brushes.
Who makes the best boat cleaning brush?
There is no single best way to answer this question. However, if you want to be confident about quality and performance, below are some of the most popular brands you need to know:
Shurhold: From detailing brushes to marine polishers, Shurhold is an unmatched brand. They have classic and combo brushes to match different cleaning needs. The company started in 1973 with the promise that cleaning should be easy, and this philosophy is evident in the boat brushes and other products they are selling.
Star Brite: Since 1973, Star Brite has been blending technology with performance through its cleaning products, including boat brushes. With a manufacturing facility in Alabama and headquarters in Florida, Star Brite has global operations, which can give you an idea of its reach and reputation.
Better Boat: For premium boat cleaning products that you can trust, Better Boat is an excellent option. It is a family-owned American company offering an unconditional refund if you are unhappy with the quality of the product. To qualify for the latter, however, you will need to purchase from an official seller.
Can I use my boat cleaning brush for cars/RVs?
Yes, you can use your boat cleaning brushes in cars and RVs. Many of the boat brushes are known for their versatility, and hence, you can use them on multiple surfaces without worrying that there will be damages.
To be sure, research the specifications of the brush and see what the manufacturer recommends. As a general rule, if the brush is too stiff or hard, do not use it on the surface or exterior of your car or RV. Otherwise, you are risking severe and costly damages.
Where can I buy boat cleaning brushes?
You can buy boat cleaning brushes online and offline. Some people opt to purchase directly from the manufacturer. Meanwhile, you can also purchase from popular e-commerce sites like Amazon and Walmart.
Regardless of where you are buying, the most important is never to decide in haste. Start by reading reviews to learn from the real-life experiences of other people. I also suggest that you compare prices to find one that is most suitable for your budget without compromising quality and performance.
What should you use along with a boat cleaning brush?
For most cleaning tasks, water and soap will be enough when using a boat brush. Choose a cleanser that foams well, which will make it more effective in removing dirt and grime on the surface.
It will also be useful to use a scented cleaner on the brush, especially when cleaning seats. This will leave a refreshing smell, which will give you a better time on the boat.
Be careful when using abrasives and chemical cleaners. They can damage the material of the boat and the bristles of the brush. Refer to the instructions from the manufacturer to have an idea of what you can use.
Which is better – boat cleaning brush or pressure washer?
The answer is that it depends. I cannot answer this question with certainty without knowing other things, such as what you will clean and the extent of cleaning that you will need to do.
If the boat is on the water and cleaning the hull, a brush is the best choice to manually clean under the boat. If the boat is on a dry area, such as a trailer, you can use a pressure washer.
In most cases, a boat brush will be enough, such as when removing common stains. If the dirt is too tough, it is best to use a pressure washer.
How often should you brush your boat?
The answer will vary depending on the extent or frequency of use and the specific parts of the boat that you will be brushing.
For the seat, deck, table, and other interior parts of the boat, it is best to brush the surfaces as soon as you encounter dirt. The longer you wait, the harder the dirt will be, and hence, it will be more challenging to remove.
For the hull, it is best to clean them at least twice a year. This should be a part of regular extensive cleaning to keep the boat in good condition.
How do you use a boat brush?
To use a boat brush, wet it first and add soap. Alternatively, you can fill a bucket with soap and water and submerge the brush. Once the bristles are wet, scrub the surfaces you would like to clean.
Brush in a single stroke and direction. For instance, start from the left and move to the right. Apply more pressure on areas with more dirt. Be gentle on surfaces made of easy to scratch materials.
Conclusion
In sum, whether it is for deck, floor, or boat hull cleaning tools, you can never go wrong with the right brush, including those we have recommended and reviewed above.
The best boat cleaning brush can make your life a lot easier! You do not have to struggle to remove even tough stains, especially in hard to reach areas. Choose a brush with high-quality bristles, and you can clean your boat like a pro, making it spotless!
I am passionate about water sports and technical fields, so combining both makes me interested in making contents about boat accessories. With my partner, we went on many trips and sports games together, which led us to think about how we can spread our joys and passions to many people.