9 best aluminum cleaner for boats

Aluminum cleaners for boats are specialized cleaning products designed to effectively clean and remove stains, oxidation, and other contaminants from aluminum surfaces on boats and marine equipment. These cleaners are essential for maintaining the appearance and longevity of aluminum components on boats. Here's what you should know about them:

  1. Purpose: Aluminum on boats, such as hulls, railings, masts, and pontoons, is exposed to water, salt, and environmental elements, which can lead to oxidation, discoloration, and staining. Aluminum cleaners are formulated to tackle these issues and restore the shine and appearance of the metal.

  2. Oxidation Removal: Oxidation is a common problem for aluminum surfaces exposed to the marine environment.Aluminum cleaners often contain ingredients that can effectively remove oxidation, including aluminum brighteners and acids.

  3. Stain Removal: Boat aluminum can develop stains from various sources, including water, rust, and other contaminants. Aluminum cleaners are designed to target and remove these stains without harming the underlying metal.

  4. Versatility: Many aluminum cleaners are versatile and can be used on a range of aluminum surfaces, including pontoons, boat hulls, outboard motors, and aluminum boat trailers.

  5. Easy Application: These cleaners typically come in liquid or gel form, making them easy to apply using a cloth, sponge, or scrubbing brush. Some products may also be sprayed on and rinsed off.

  6. Safety: It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions when using aluminum cleaners. Some products may contain strong chemicals, so wearing appropriate protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation is important.

  7. Rinse and Protect: After using an aluminum cleaner, it's advisable to thoroughly rinse the treated surfaces with clean water to remove any residue. Additionally, applying a protective aluminum wax or polish can help maintain the shine and protect against future oxidation.

  8. Compatibility: Always check the compatibility of the cleaner with the specific type of aluminum on your boat. Different alloys and finishes may require different cleaning products.

  9. Environmental Considerations: Some boat owners may prefer environmentally friendly or biodegradable aluminum cleaners that have less impact on the water and surrounding ecosystems.

  10. Brand Variety: Various brands manufacture aluminum cleaners for boats, and the choice may depend on personal preference, effectiveness, and environmental concerns.

Regularly cleaning and maintaining the aluminum components of a boat not only enhances its appearance but also prolongs the life of the metal. Aluminum cleaners are valuable tools for boat owners to ensure their vessels remain in top condition for years to come.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best aluminum cleaner for boats on the market
  

STAR BRITE 87764 Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer - Safely Clean Pontoon Boats, Jon Boats & Canoes, 64 oz.

STAR BRITE

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Star brite is the marine industry's leading manufacturer of waxes, polishes, cleaners, teak finishes, motor oils, fuel additives and more. Because Star brite is run by avid boaters who test every item on their own boats, only the latest technology and highest-quality ingredients are used.

  • Formulated to clean and restore stained or dull aluminum pontoon boats, Jon boats and canoes
  • Use Ultimate Aluminum Polish as step 2 when removing stains and restoring older boats
  • Convenient 64 fl. oz. size with sprayer for easy application

User questions & answers

Question: Lo puedo utilizar con estufa de aluminio
Answer: This product can be used on all bare, unpainted aluminum surfaces. Please refer to the How To video on www.starbrite.com or call (800) 327-8583 for more information.
Question: Will this clean cement from a black metal fence around pool
Answer: you need (4) 64oz bottles ?
Question: Does this work on aluminum fuel tankers
Answer: 6 1/2 width x 7 1/2 height
Question: How much is needed to clean 2 20' pontoons
Answer: I would expect the answers of 10" to a "foot" are correct. I'm very impressed with this bracket with a 8 h.p. 4 stroke Honda attached. I't.s robust enough to handle the weight and makes it very easy to raise and lower this size of outboard. It replaced an older 2 stroke bracket and is excellent for this class motor.

Product features

Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer

Star brite Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer is engineered to bring back unpainted aluminum surfaces that have become dull or stained.

Unlike other 'all surface' cleaners, this product is formulated specifically for use on aluminum and strips away grime, stains and oxidation without harming the metal.

Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer is an excellent choice for quickly cleaning and improving the appearance of all aluminum pontoon boats, jon boats, canoes and other unpainted aluminum surfaces that have lost their original luster.

Typical Weathered Aluminum

Pontoons are a lot of fun, but keeping them looking like new can be a real chore! Star brite has a complete line of cleaners and restorers for all your pontoon & boating needs. Plus, Star brite is a US company that manufactures Aluminum Cleaner and hundred of other cleaning products and tools right here in the United States. So we are always just a phone call or email away if you have any questions

Before & After

Restore your toon to like new condition with Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer. It's specifically for use on aluminum to strip away years of oxidation, grime and waterline/lime stains without harming the metal.

Before & After Jon Boat

Star brite Ultimate Aluminum Cleaner & Restorer works great on aluminum jon boats & canoes too. It makes any unpainted aluminum look brand new.

Polish & Protect

Don't forget to polish and protect your aluminum with Star brite's Aluminum Polish. It's specially formulated to preserve the finish of aluminum pontoon boats, canoes and jon boats with PTEF polymers that provide UV protection and help repel dirt and future stains

Aluminum Cleaner & Brightener & Restorer-1 Gallon (128 oz.)

Quality Chemical

Based on 609 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Highly concentrated, non-fuming, acid detergent with extra wetting agents for the absolute toughest of cleaning jobs, such as road film. Cleans and restores oxidized aluminum. Removes carbon, grease, oils, stains and diesel smoke. Easy to apply. Applications include truck trailers, aluminum wheels, vehicles, preparing aluminum for paining, and many more. For use on most aluminum surfaces, machinery, parts, trucks or trailers, pontoons. Cleans and brightens in one operation. Do NOT use on glass, polished aluminum, anodized aluminum or coated wheels.

  • A quick and safe method of cleaning and stain removal. Cleans and brightens aluminum and metal surfaces on your boat, RV and trailer
  • Removes oxidation, stains and discoloration. Excellent for removing road salt corrosion on your aluminum trailer.
  • Highly concentrated. Cleans and brightens in one operation.
  • Safe for use on most aluminum surfaces, machinery, parts, trucks or trailers, pontoons.
  • Contains corrosion inhibitors to keep rust from returning.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this product remove oxidation from powder coated aluminum
Answer: I would think so....but I've never tried. It's pretty good stuff.
Question: My car engine has oxidized due to salt sea air. Is this product safe to use on automobile engines
Answer: No, it is not flammable, but I would make sure the cap is secure (tape would be good) and double-bag it to avoid any possible spillage due to handling and air pressure changes.
Question: will this make aluminum white an chalky looking
Answer: Yes it should certainly help.
Question: can this be used to clean the aluminum overhang on houses
Answer: I used it actually on a brass sink and it worked wonders. Seems to put a protective finish on after it shines

Toon-Brite Aluminum Cleaner 1/2 Gal

Toon-Brite

Based on 234 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for the do-it yourself boater, Toon-Brite Pontoon & Aluminum Boat Cleaner removes scum, lime deposits, waterline stains, and oxidation. Simply spray on and rinse off!! Packaged in a1/2 gallon bottle concentrate (will make up to one gallon) with attached 3-finger trigger sprayer. Biodegradable.

64 oz.

  • Easily removes algae, dirt, grime, lime deposits, water stains and oxidation
  • Just spray and rinse off
  • For use on pontoon logs
  • Includes attached sprayer
  • Ships ground only

User questions & answers

Question: Just bought a used pontoon 28 ft typical cruddy water line also on the lower unit from the motor will it clean that as well
Answer: Yes, as long as there is a problem with your skateboard, we will definitely help you solve the problem, please don't worry.
Question: Description says 1/2 gallon, picture shows 1 gallon...which is correct
Answer: I’ve had mine for about 2 months and mine has that too but does not affect it... still runs great I was skeptical at first about it but so far no problems
Question: On the fence with buying this product. Has anyone determined why all the negatives relate to turning their aluminum white? If so how do you keep them from turning white
Answer: Hello the battery is 4400mAh. 25.2V
Question: How many gallons do I need to do both pontoon tubes
Answer: fine. has plenty of power.
Question: Will this product work on metal mobil home to clean
Answer: When the battery is low, the system is set to give an alarm to remind user that the skateboard needs to be charged.
Question: Does product kill grass? My boat is on blocks in a grassy area and I'd prefer not to kill the grass. Thanks
Answer: Hi, every dear customer. From 2018, We are providing 6-month warranty for every board we sell on Amazon. The 1 year warranty is invalid. Thank you for your kind understanding. If you meet any quality issue with the board within 6 months. Please feel free to contact us, we will try our best to help you. Besides, we also provide pain maintenance service if your warranty has been invalid.
Question: Has anyone used this as pre-painting cleaning solution for bare aluminum
Answer: I really haven't had a chance to use them yet but I have used the big polishing wheels and they have a similar edge and they work very well
Question: Anyone tried this on a diamond plate pickup tool box
Answer: I have a 17.6 Bay Boat and I use them on the smaller areas to get the polish , where a larger circular will not fit.

Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaner

Sharkhide

Based on 109 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is not your everyday cleaner. This is the real deal. This is a highly concentrated cleaner, it can be diluted as much as 1:10, or applied straight to get your desired results. This is a serious cleaning product. Be sure to always wear rubber gloves, and follows complete application instructions. Sold in Quart bottles "This stuff works great on my 40 year old aluminum fishing boat. It cleans the oxidation with one coat and minimal scrubbing. I let a section sit for about 10 minutes and then remove. After cleaning, I apply Sharkhide whick keeps the aluminum from oxidizing and adds additional shine. Be prepared to put on your sunglasses after application. I repeat this process every three years." -Tim J

  • Sold in 1qt(32oz) Bottles
  • Makes aluminum fast and easy to clean
  • Highly Concentrated

User questions & answers

Question: If sprayed on the pontoons while sitting on a black trailer, will it eat the paint of the trailer
Answer: Yes. I currently weigh 285 and haven't ran into any problems
Question: Would this work on an aluminum white horse trailer
Answer: The trucks are metal
Question: Is the runoff safe for driveways? Will it stain
Answer: Teamgee H20 is divided into two models, the mileage of the 7.5Ah battery is 18 miles, and the mileage of the 9.6Ah battery is 25 miles.
Question: How much cleaner is needed for two 25” diameter X 23’ long pontoons
Answer: yes

Metal Polish Metal Cleaner and Chrome Polish Marine Grade for Boats and Cars Aluminum and Stainless Steel

Better Boat

Based on 56 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our premium Metal Polish removes stubborn tarnish, rust, oxidation and corrosion from metal hardware, rails, ladders, cleats and the various appliances found in your home. It cleans, polishes and restores stainless steel, chrome, aluminum and marine metals making them gleam like new again! Our Metal Polish works great on the interior and exterior of your boat and all around your home. We proudly stand behind the quality of all our products! We are a family owned American business committed to making premium quality products. MADE IN USA

  • POLISHES CHROME & OTHER METALS TO A BRIGHT GLEAMING SHINE: Our premium marine polish revives the metals on the interior and exterior of your boat making them shine like new again! Our metal and chrome polisher removes dirt and build-up left behind by the elements. It cuts through deposits and grime left by saltwater, rain, algae and more! Our marine stainless steel cleaner and polish restores luster and shine and is a must-have in a boat cleaning or boat restoration kit.
  • REMOVES TARNISH, OXIDATION & SURFACE RUST: Our marine metal polish removes grime, stubborn tarnish and corrosion from metal hardware, rails, ladders, cleats and more. It cleans and polishes stainless steel, chrome and other marine metals restoring the original luster and shine! Use it all over your boat and home to clean, polish and revive metals. It works great as an aluminum polish , aluminum cleaner and restorer , aluminum brightener , stainless steel cleaner and stainless steel polish.
  • RESTORES STAINLESS STEEL, CHROME & MARINE METALS: Our premium marine stainless steel cleaner and polish is specially formulated to rejuvenate stainless steel and other metals. This metal polish cream removes dirt, build-up and grime from metals, restoring their original luster and beauty. Use this all purpose metal polish as a surface rust remover and aluminum brightner to reveal brighter and gleaming hardware. We stand behind the quality of our Marine Polish!
  • MADE IN USA & EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY: Better Boat offers a comprehensive line of premium quality boat care products. Developed by boaters for boaters, our marine-grade products are made to strict, tested, trade-secret standards. We offer all the tools needed to make caring for your boat easier so you can spend less time cleaning and more time on the water. Put our Marine Metal Polish to the test!

User questions & answers

Question: Will it work on vehicle rusted chrome bumpers
Answer: No idea! I got on this board because it was a good deal with good reviews for a an old dude who wants some fun. I was not looking at modifying it. Just use it as it is, stock. I can tell you that it has good wheel clearance as it is. If you want larger diameter wheels, you may have to get new, bigger/taller spacers. Handling may become iffy given the stock trucks. You will have to play it by ear. But moi? If u ask, I would leave it stock...as it was intended to b. Hope this helps. .
Question: How much sealer is needed for a 25" toon
Answer: Yes definitely! Cheap enough to beat up and just learn to balance.
Question: If I clean my pontoon boat on the asphalt driveway will this cleaner stain the asphalt
Answer: I would think so, the board really cruises over cracks and small pebbles on sidewalks.
Question: Does anyone have before and after pictures. I am concerned about what it says on the product bottle may produce an off white finish
Answer: The board surface of 41 inch drop through longboard is constructed with 9-layer natural Canadian maple, you don't need to worry about its weight bearing capacity.
Question: Will the protectant provide a barrier that prevents zebra mussels from attaching to an aluminum boat
Answer: No it does not rattle

JJV'S BEST ALU100-G Aluminum Cleaner (1 Gallon)

JJV'S BEST

Based on 127 reviews Check latest price

Product description

JJV's Best Aluminum Cleaner is a revolutionary product that is safe and environmental. It cleans and brightens your pontoon tubes from top to bottom without acids. Jut spray on and rinse off, then see the dramatic difference JJV's Best Aluminum Cleaner makes! Note: For use on bare aluminum only. Not for polished or anodized aluminum.

  • Cleans and brightens pontoon tubes from top to bottom
  • No scrubbing, just spray on and rinse off
  • Safe and environmentally-friendly; acid-free
  • Use on bare aluminum only; Not for polished or anodized aluminum
  • 1 gallon bottle

User questions & answers

Question: Anyone use this on aluminum pool screen enclosures
Answer: Yes, This is Cox compatible.
Question: Will this kill the grass if I clean my pontoons in the yard
Answer: This may be compatible with wow cable but it is best to ask your Internet service provider if they would allow this model to their internet system.
Question: How many quarts to clean 2 - 24' tubes
Answer: Yes, This is compatible with Cox.
Question: is this a acid base cleaner? do you need gloves abd gloggles to apply
Answer: Well, I rubbed my hand across the bottom and it is mostly flat. The riding surface is not completely flat which bothered me a tiny bit at first, but I go on long rides and don't have any problems or second thoughts about it. So, to answer your question it is very slightly convex on the graphic-side. On the grip side, it is slightly concave.

TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Etch Wash (Quart)

Based on 55 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Etch Wash is a combination cleaner, conditioner, and surface etching treatment for aluminum, galvanized, and other non-ferrous metal surfaces. A single application cleans, conditions, and etches to improve the bond of coatings like epoxies, primers, and glues. Finishes stick more tenaciously and last longer. Aluminum Boat Etch Wash is ready to use, applies easily with a brush or spray equipment, and works in just five minutes. Apply as needed to maintain a wet surface. Built-up oxidation will come by scrubbing lightly with a scrub pad. Keep the surface wet for 5 minutes, then rinse with fresh or ionized water, dry the surface completely and coat immediately (to prevent prepared surface from oxidizing). Prefer the look of shiny, uncoated aluminum? Aluminum Boat Etch wash also makes a great pretreatment for polishing. Just use as directed, rinse and dry completely, then polish.

Aluminum Boat Etch Wash is compatible with one- and two-part finishes, and can be used above or below the waterline. For example, apply TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Barrier Coat over a surface pretreated with Aluminum Boat Etch Wash, then overcoat TotalBoat AlumiPaint AF antifouling bottom paint specifically formulated for pontoon boats and aluminum fishing boats. Compare to Alodine and Alumiprep 33. All TotalBoat products are developed by boaters for boaters, to provide great value and great results. We know what works and what doesn't. 100% made in the USA.

  • Etching treatment for aluminum cleans, brightens and chemically etches the surface for proper adhesion
  • For use on bare aluminum, galvanized steel, and other non-ferrous metals (do not use on wood or fiberglass)
  • Ready-to- use formula removes contaminants, oxidation, and corrosion quickly and easily. Works in minutes!
  • Great for aluminum pontoon boats, fishing boats, duck boats, and other aluminum surfaces
  • Compatible with one- and two-part finishes. Non-flammable, chromate-free formula. Available in Quart and Gallon sizes.

User questions & answers

Question: How much surface area does a quart treat
Answer: Power supply is listed as 12V, 2.5A, which would be a max of 30W.
Question: How can you say "compare to alodine and alumiprep 33." those are two very different types of products. does your product clean or protect
Answer: Arris SB8200 is equipped with a Broadcom BCM3390 chipset, 128 MB / 16 MB of flash memory and 3 GB of RAM. Netgear has also equipped the CM1000 with a Broadcom BCM3390 chipset, 128 MB of flash memory and 256 MB of RAM.It’s nice to see that both Arris and Netgear have gone past the Intel Puma chipset line (especially the Puma 6) and have used a Broadcom-based chipset this time (this choice has removed any possible latency issues which plagued the previous models, both Arris SB6190 and CM700). http://www.mbreviews.com/arris-sb8200-vs-netgear-cm1000/
Question: Does this get diluted to use or just straight apply it
Answer: The 6 gbps is a theoretical top speed for Docsis 3.1. You are correct that this lan port only provides 1 gbps. This modem is currently useful for people with higher than 300 mbps internet connections via cable internet (however, it does work perfectly with slower internet connections as well). One great example is Xfinity's gigabit internet, which provides a download speed of 1 gbps, and this modem is perfect for that.
Question: Can i use this on the painted surfaces of my pontoon boat
Answer: You’ll need to go on Century Link website and see if it’s listed.

Sharkhide Aluminum Pontoon Boat Cleaner and Polish

RestorePontoon/BoatCarpetCentral

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

RestorePontoon and BoatCarpetCentral Aluminum Pontoon Cleaning Kit includes This Sharkhide Cleaning Package includes: Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaners - 1 Quart Sharkhide Aluminum Polish - 2 lb Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaner is not like the other "off the shelf" type aluminum cleaners you will find at retail outlets. Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaner is a highly concentrated blend of Acids, and cleaning agents that you dilute (with water) to suit the severity of your application. It can be applied anywhere from straight to diluted as much as 10:1 or more depending on the desired results. Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaner is best applied to dry aluminum with an adjustable tip sprayer. Set the adjustable nozzle to the finest mist possible. Mist a 6' to 8' section from the bottom up, let the foam work for a few minutes and rinse off. THAT'S IT! No scrubbing required. Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaner will not harm carpeted bunks, paint or decals. When you're done, that old dark streaked and stained finish will be gone and you're left with a clean, uniform, streak free off white finish. Sharkhide Aluminum Polish is specially formulated to combine the fast cutting properties of a coarse rubbing compound, with the fine polishing characteristics of a polishing rouge. Sharkhide Aluminum Polish can be applied by hand as well as with a variable speed-high quality buffer. Since aluminum varies in alloy and hardness, it's suggested to try different pads as well as different buffer speeds to find the best combination for your job. Another little trick we've learned is most alloys polish easier if they're acid washed first. For the best results, a better looking finish, and a longer lasting finish we recommend using Sharkhide’s Aluminum Pontoon and Boat Cleaning Kit which includes, Aluminum Cleaner, Polish and Protectant. If you have questions on how to use this product visit our site or call us at 888.383.7615

  • Sharkhide Aluminum Cleaners - 1 Quart
  • Sharkhide Aluminum Polish - 2 lb
  • Amazing Aluminum Cleaner
  • Used for any Aluminum Application
  • Can be used for Pontoons, Boats and more!

User questions & answers

Question: I was going to use this on the diamond plating that goes around my big truck, do i need to put on the protector as well
Answer: Doubt anyone can answer this honestly. I use Netgear's Nighthawk R7000 for glitch-free communication between modem and router.

Alliance Chemical Heavy Aluminator - Heavy Duty Aluminum Cleaner Solution - One Quart Spray Bottle- Strips Away Grime, Stains and Oxidation - 32 Fl Oz Bottle

Alliance Chemical

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Heavy Aluminator 

Cleans and brightens aluminum and metal surfaces on your boat, RV, trailer, aircraft, tire rims, and more!

Directions: For best results, clean out of direct sunlight and in cooler temperatures. Use 12oz minimum dilution for general cleaning. For best results, clean out of direct sunlight. For tough soils or very dull aluminum use 1 part Heavy Aluminator, 1 part water(1:1 or 50% dilution) for extreme cleaning. Rinse with cold water and preferably with a pressure washer. Repeat if necessary until all residue is removed. 

Caution: keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Do not mix with Bleach or other chemicals as hazardous chemical reactions may occur.

Danger: May cause eye and skin burns, do not get product on skin, eyes or clothing. 

Product is corrosive and contains alkali, and the severity of reaction may increase with duration of exposure. Wear safety goggles and rubber gloves when applying product in a well ventilated area. 

FIRST AID-----Eyes: immediately flush eyes with water, seek immediate medical attention. 

Inhalation: Seek fresh air immediately. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. 

Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Drink plenty of water and seek medical attention. 

Ships in one 32 fl oz bottle. 

Latest Reviews

View all