If you care for them correctly, these freshly cleaned decks can continue looking fresh.

The care of teak decks seems to be a topic of debate in any boat yard. Everyone has a system that���s been tweaked over the years which they feel is the only way to clean teak decks. The truth is there are a host of cleaners that can do a good job if applied properly. I do not, however, recommend applying any sort of coating or oil to your decks. Left natural, teak is one of the best nonskids available. Oil will create a slicker surface and trap dirt. So, our concern is how to keep natural decks clean.

Most cleaners on the market do the job fairly well. If your teak decks are dull and weathered, but otherwise are in good shape, the first and most important step of restoring them is a good cleaning. I recommend a powder cleaner. Use this in conjunction with a 3M Scotch Brite or a similar cleaning pad.

It is important to avoid using a brush with hard bristles. This common mistake will expose the grain of the teak and eventually give it a rough look, leading to more extensive restoration. I recommend using the 3M pad on a deck brush attachment known as a Doodle Bug. This is a real backsaver and is available at most marine stores.

The powder needs to be diluted in a bucket of water according to the manufacturer���s directions, then applied to the wet decks. Let this stand for about 10 minutes before scrubbing. You will see the dirt begin to lift out of the decks. As you rinse the boat, be sure to follow the dirt with a hose to avoid a full hull cleaning.

After the decks are scrubbed follow upwith a brightener. These are usually in liquid form and will need to be diluted as well. Because of the high acid content of the product, be sure all gelcoat is wet and do not allow the brightener to sit on the gelcoat or any painted surface for a prolonged period. Apply the brightener to the decks with a new 3M pad and let it stand for several minutes. (Be sure to wear a pair of latex gloves to avoid skin irritation.) Again, when you rinse the decks, hose the hull, as well, including painted surfaces such as the waterline. The brightener will bleach the decks, and the result will be decks that look like new.

Once the decks are looking new again, they should be cared for on a regular basis. Besides hosing your boat down after each outing, you will need to clean the decks at least every two to three months. This can be done with a gentler cleaner like Spic-N-Span. Of course, a lot of this depends on your boat's climate and how serious you are about keeping dirt off your decks.

Mike Floyd has been involved in the boat maintenance industry for nearly 20 years. He currently owns Atlantic Yacht Rigging and is the North American distributor for Grand Banks parts.