Washing Awlgrip

[MM5AHO]

A new coat of Awlgrip above the waterline this year and I'm already thinking of cleaning it! Well actually, while berthed in a marina for a while, the neighbour mentioned that he only uses Awlwash, and previous owner of his boat had said to stick to that and not use anything else, as other stuff might spoil the finish. That's about what Awl recommend too.

But Awlwash isn't easy to find. I see some available on eBay from USA for £160 a bottle!!

But does anything else actually work without causing a problem?

 

[Momac]

You can buy it in the UK
https://www.boatpaint.co.uk/acatalog/AWLWASH-Wash-Down-Concentrate.html
.

 

[CCJ]

A new coat of Awlgrip above the waterline this year and I'm already thinking of cleaning it! Well actually, while berthed in a marina for a while, the neighbour mentioned that he only uses Awlwash, and previous owner of his boat had said to stick to that and not use anything else, as other stuff might spoil the finish. That's about what Awl recommend too.

But Awlwash isn't easy to find. I see some available on eBay from USA for £160 a bottle!!

But does anything else actually work without causing a problem?

washing up liquid does me, which paint system is yours

 

[Marine Reflections]

A new coat of Awlgrip above the waterline this year and I'm already thinking of cleaning it! Well actually, while berthed in a marina for a while, the neighbour mentioned that he only uses Awlwash, and previous owner of his boat had said to stick to that and not use anything else, as other stuff might spoil the finish. That's about what Awl recommend too.

But Awlwash isn't easy to find. I see some available on eBay from USA for £160 a bottle!!

But does anything else actually work without causing a problem?

There is the polymer coating (if applied) that harsher cleaners might compromise.

Considerations are just no alkalies and no acids, hydrophilic rinsing, peace of mind to use what the manufacturers recommend, it's a friendly cleaner by all accounts.

 

[macd]

Considerations are just no alkalies and no acids, hydrophilic rinsing, peace of mind to use what the manufacturers recommend, it's a friendly cleaner by all accounts.

There are acids, of course, and there are acids. A slug of vinegar in the wash is highly effective in cleaning Awlgrip. It's also specifically approved:
"Use distilled white vinegar and hot water to remove stubborn salt stains. Washing with Awlwash after use of vinegar is recommended."

http://www.awlgrip.com/support-and-advice/tips-for-maintaining-topcoats.aspx

 

[KellysEye]

Try using water only and see if that works.

 

[Caladh]

Use Baby Shampoo

 

[macd]

But Awlwash isn't easy to find. I see some available on eBay from USA for £160 a bottle!!

More than a little ironic considering Awlgrip is Dutch-owned.

 

[Momac]

Use Baby Shampoo

Good suggestion.
Stardrops is a good mild detergent.
https://www.wilko.com/multi-purpose-cleaners/stardrops-all-purpose-cleaner-750ml/invt/0080402
.

 

[Luise]

I've a steel Linssen which came from the factory with Awlgrip paint finishes, I tried the "usual suspects" to keep it pristine, at first using up the products (Starbrite etc.) left over from previous GRP boats.

And then I bit the bullet and bought some Awlwash from Boatpaint, not so expensive if you buy the gallon can. I would NEVER go back. You don't need as much of it to get a lather as other shampoos so it works out quite economical to use, leaves a brilliant finish when rinsed and wiped down with a chamois, almost as if the boat had been polished.

I don't think you'll regret giving it a try.

Peter