Just like any outdoor gear, your paddleboard needs some love after a fun day on the water. Here are some tips to wash and care for your board, ensuring it stays clean, odor-free, and ready for your next adventure.

Cleaning Supplies

You won’t need anything fancy to keep your board clean. Here’s what to gather:

• Mild dish soap (Dawn is a popular choice)
• Water in a bucket or hose
• Soft bristle brush (for hard boards with textured surfaces and deck pads)
• Rag (for inflatable, epoxy or fiberglass boards)
• Baby bottle brush (optional, for cleaning recessed areas)
• White vinegar (optional, for stubborn odors)
• Dog brush (for cleaning leash velcro)
• Magic Eraser (optional, for inflatables)

Cleaning Steps

1. Rinse with Fresh Water: Always start by thoroughly rinsing your board with fresh water to remove any sand, dirt, salt, or debris. You can use a hose or fill a bucket for rinsing.

2. Soap It Up: Fill your bucket with clean water and add some mild dish soap. Use a soft bristle brush to clean the deck pad, and textured surfaces for a good lather.

3. Target Stubborn Odors (Optional): For lingering odors, you can create a vinegar solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the smelly areas and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

4. Inflatable Boards: If you have an inflatable paddleboard, you can skip the bristle brush and use a damp rag with a mild soap solution. For tougher marks, some inflatable board owners recommend using a magic eraser, but be gentle to avoid damaging the surface.

5. Cleaning the Leash: Don’t forget your leash! Grass, sand, and other debris can get lodged in the velcro closure. Use a dog brush to gently remove any buildup without damaging the fabric.

6. Rinse Again: After cleaning with soap or vinegar solution, rinse the entire board thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaning residue.

7. Drying: Allow your board to air dry completely out of direct sunlight before storing it. Leaning the board upright against a wall or fence is a good way to promote air circulation and drying.

By following these simple cleaning and care steps, you can keep your paddleboard looking and smelling fresh for many paddling seasons to come!