HULL SPOTS
Q:
I’m a fanatic about my boat and wipe it down with tap water after each use to prevent water spots. I’ve been using a little white vinegar with the water, since the water spots are basic minerals and vinegar is a weak acid. But I wonder if the vinegar removes the wax or has other negative effects.
Doug Hissong
Cypress, Texas
A:
Vinegar is a useful, mild remover for boat owners. It may remove wax—test and see. It will remove uncured adhesives. I know of no bad effects on gelcoat, but keep it away from clear plastics and vinyl. Is it an aluminum boat? Enough vinegar might dull polished aluminum. But as long as you are applying it wet, and rinsing thoroughly and right away, you should not have a problem.