How to Clean the Stains off of Your Surfboard

With proper storage, waxing and use, surfboards rarely stain. However, a rough day on the waves, a long ride in traffic or exposure to curious pets can cause unsightly blotches on your board's finish. To treat stains thoroughly, you'll first have to remove your surfboard's wax coating. After stain removal, remember to reapply wax before your next outing.

Things You'll Need

  • Wax comb
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Turpentine
  • Borax powder
  • Scouring sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove your board's fins before starting the cleaning process.

    • 2

      Scrape off your surfboard's wax with a wax comb, available at most surf shops. Scrape in smooth strokes in one direction down the body of the board. Remove as much wax as possible. Roll the excess wax into a ball and dispose of it.

    • 3

      Saturate a clean, lint-free cloth with turpentine. Wipe the entire surface of the board in a circular motion to remove any excess wax or residue.

    • 4

      Create a borax and water paste on the scouring side of a dishwashing sponge – don't use steel wool or extremely rough scouring pads, as they may damage your board's finish. Scrub the stains with the sponge, applying pressure as needed. Rinse the area of the stain and repeat if necessary.

    • 5

      Give the entire surface of the board a wipe down with the non-scouring side of the sponge and the borax paste.

    • 6

      Rinse the board completely with clean water and buff it dry with another clean, lint-free cloth. Reattach the fins when your surfboard is completely dry.