How to Clean your Dock Box

You want your dock box to look as good as your boat, so don’t completely ignore it over the course of the boating season.  It helps to hose it down and wipe it down a few times a year just to get the dirt and spiderwebs off the box.  The smooth surface of the dock box makes wiping it down quick and easy.  For tougher dirt and stains that may occur (those darn seagulls), we recommend using a mild dish detergent like Dawn or an eco-friendly boat cleaning product like Simple Green Marine.  Avoid the use of cleaning products with ingredients that should not end up in the water under the dock. Keep water quality and wildlife in mind.   

We would recommend completely emptying your dock box at least once a year and completely cleaning the inside surfaces as well.  Then is also a good time to dispose of any unneeded items.  It’s also worth reviewing your marina’s rules and being conscious of items that shouldn’t be stored in dock boxes like flammable paints and cleaners.  These can not only create a hazard but also lead to staining should they leak inside your dock box.  Once done with cleaning the inside, allow it to air dry before returning your items to the dock box.  Note that Trionic Corp dock boxes come with a drain hole pre-drilled.  If the plug remains in the hole, you may consider removing it to allow for any excess water to drain from the box during use. 

When cleaning a dock box, you should avoid using abrasives that can mar the finish of the dock box.  Those include cleaning products with abrasives, as well as scrapers or steel wool pads.  Damaging the finish on the dock box can result in a less attractive box, and the damaged areas can also retain dirt more so than a smooth finish.

During the cleaning process, you should also check the hardware on the box.  Tighten any loose nuts on the lid retention cables and hinges.  In the event the cables or hinges are damaged, you can order replacement hardware to repair the dock box quickly and easily in minutes. 

Even if you are not storing items of value in your dock box, we recommend keeping a lock or a simple loop through the lock plate.  This can range from a keyed or combination padlock that provides great security for your items to a simple inexpensive shower curtain ring or even a zip tie during the off-season.  This can prevent the lid from being blown open during a storm and damaging the box in extreme conditions. 

If you take care of your dock box, your dock box will take care of you by providing years of use and utility.  It only takes a few minutes and will improve the appearance of your dock.