Whether you're restoring a boat from a unloved state, or simply keeping yours up to date with maintenance, these tips will have you head and shoulders above the rest

There are some simple aspects of restoring your boat that may surprise you when it comes to how easy they can make the process. Whether it's using certain household solutions as secrets to successful cleaning, or finding new inspiration for restoring upholstery, it doesn't take a lot to totally open your eyes and get you thinking of exciting places to search for more information.

Getting started

First of all, make a note of everything you have in the way of tools and equipment to do the job. It sounds like a pain, but it'll save searching out one particular item when you need it later or buying a duplicate only to find the original a week later.

Clean your act up

Before you do anything else, clean as much as you possibly can from top to bottom, being sure to thoroughly remove any organic material. Not only is this a good start anyway, but it will get you familiar with everything that needs doing. Make a list as you go. Also, it will separate the jobs that are superficial issues compared with others that get highlighted following a good clean.

BSS certification up to date?

Even if you put aside the Boat Safety Scheme certification for now, you'll need to ensure that maintenance is up to date and the engine has been looked after. Are all fluids at the correct level? Are their any belts or hoses that need replacing? Time for an oil change?

Sanding down

Buffing and sanding is satisfying. Nothing brings a boat back to life faster than a bit of tender care when it comes to the woodwork and other surfaces. Whether you're cleaning or restoring wood or gelcoat, make sure that you're going with the grain or the horizontal line of the hull.

Fabric restoration

Upcycling with some money-saving DIY and fabric hacks is key here. Whether it's down to sheer elbow grease and scrubbing, sensible soaking before heavy duty vacuuming, or reupholstering your soft furnishings yourself with some creativity an a bit of sewing skill, it's all worth a bit more effort than simply buying new cushions. And remember... for a cheaper alternative than most solutions, clean fabrics with white wine vinegar.

Look off the water for inspiration

If you're in need of some real innovation and clever ideas for space saving, additions and accessories, you're always better off looking away from the boating world. For example, caravans share many characteristics and appliances.

Both worlds are about comfortable living and space saving, with efficiency important for the development of clever ideas of where to store items for the easiest of uses. Take a look away from the obvious sources and you may be surprised.

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