Boat Storage Prep For Owners in St. Louis

Hello again, Craig from Jax Wax St. Louis with your tip of the week. This week, we are talking about the importance of getting your boat, and the rest of your summer toys, ready for winter before you put them away. And here’s something a lot of folks don’t realize about us. We are not just an auto detail supply store. We also carry the Cap’n Jax marine line which is specifically formulated for boats, jet skis, side-by-sides, motorcycles, and RVs, too.

Whatever you’re storing, the idea is the same. Summer grime left on a boat or machine all winter turns into stains, oxidation, and mildew by spring. A little time now means a lot less work when the weather warms up.

Start with a good wash. Our Cap’n Jax Boat Wash is a pH-neutral, highly concentrated soap made for boats and RVs. It clings to the surface, rinses clean, and it’s marine safe. Put about 3 to 5 ounces in a foam gun or bucket, rinse with cool water first, then wash one section at a time with a clean microfiber mitt or brush. If you’ve had your boat in salt water, add our Salt Wash to the routine. It’s made to remove salt and help prevent corrosion on gel coat, vinyl, chrome, glass, railings, and even your trailer. Dry everything with a microfiber towel when you’re done.

Next, give the finish some attention. If your gel coat looks dull or chalky, Cap’n Polish removes light oxidation and swirls and leaves SiO2 protection behind. For deeper scratches, Cap’n Cut is the heavier step. Not everyone needs either one, and I’m happy to tell you honestly if you do.

Now protect it. Cap’n Jax Marine Detailer + removes hard water spots and adds a layer of protection to gel coat, fiberglass, chrome, glass, vinyl, and plastic, with UV protection built in. Spray it on one section at a time and wipe with a microfiber towel. If you want a quick carnauba finish instead, our Boat Wipe cleans and protects in one step and buffs to a high gloss.

Then go inside, because this is where mildew shows up. Vacuum out the dirt and debris first. Our Cap’n Jax Interior Cleaner is a heavy duty vinyl and fabric cleaner that removes mildew, dirt, stains, and grime from marine vinyl and upholstery. Spray, agitate gently with a brush, and wipe with a soft microfiber cloth, and test an inconspicuous spot first. Finish the vinyl and trim with Interior Detailer +, which leaves a barrier against fading, cracking, and discoloration from UV rays.

If you’re putting away a jet ski, side-by-side, motorcycle, or RV, the same routine works. Wash it, dry it, and protect it. Our Boat Wash is made for RVs, too. For paint, chrome, and metal, our Graphene Detailer or liquid carnauba wax adds protection, and Fabric Guard helps with fabric seats and tops.

One last thing. Make sure everything is completely dry before you store it, and cover it with something that breathes. A boat or machine sealed up damp is asking for mildew. For the engine, fuel, and battery, check with your mechanic or marina. We’ll keep you looking good on the outside.

We have been serving St. Louis for five years, and our promise is still Real Products for Real People. Thanks again from Jax Wax St. Louis. Stop in and see us at 3859 Lemay Ferry Road, or give us a call at 314-939-1130. Let us help you put your boat away right.