In your boat, exactly how would you use a dirt catcher — and why? This tool is a plastic trap that you can insert into your clean-up bucket to hold your boat cleaning or maintenance tools. The grate in the trap allows dirt to fall to the bottom of the bucket while keeping your tools from sitting in the dirt.
This makes it easier to wash your boat safely and clean your tools after you’re finished working with them. Here’s a detailed look at how and why you should use a dirt catcher in your vessel.
What Does a Dirt Catcher Do?
When you wash your boat, you’ll want to avoid scratching the surface to keep it looking new and attractive. However, one of the most common causes of scratching on your boat’s surface is the dirt and grime that gets trapped in your cleaning equipment.
Sponges and brushes will collect debris as you start using these tools to wash your boat. If you store all of your equipment in your bucket, that debris will cling to your tools. As you rinse your equipment over a dirt catcher, however, the debris will get flushed through the grate.
The dirt catcher lets you keep your sponges, brushes, and other equipment separate from the grime that you remove from your boat’s surface. Your cleaning equipment will stay cleaner and softer, so you can continue washing your boat without damaging it.
The Benefits of Using a Dirt Catcher
There are several benefits of using a dirt catcher that make it a useful tool in washing or maintaining your boat. Essentially, this tool offers an easy and effective way to help you keep your equipment and tools cleaner as you service your vessel.
Durability
All dirt catchers consist of thick, sturdy plastic to support the weight of your equipment. In addition to supporting that weight during each use, the dirt catcher will last longer. You’ll be able to use the same dirt catcher for many years before you’ll need to replace it.
Ease of Use
Anyone can easily use a dirt catcher. Dirt catchers have finger holes that make the devices easy to grasp and hold, so installing or removing the item is simple. In addition, you won’t need much strength to pull the dirt catcher out of the bucket.
Versatility
You can use a dirt catcher in any standard five-gallon bucket. You’ll be able to use the same dirt catcher in multiple buckets, or you can buy several dirt catchers to use in a few different five-gallon buckets. If you have a large array of equipment and tools, it may make sense to use more than one bucket, each with its own dirt catcher.
Using a Dirt Catcher
Using a dirt catcher is fairly straightforward. The bottom of the plastic grate has fins that prevent it from sitting flush on the bottom of the bucket.
This makes it easy to set the guard in the bucket while leaving a gap for dirt, debris, and sediment. As you rinse off your equipment and tools, the dirty water and debris get flushed through the grate and settle on the bottom of the bucket.
After you’re finished using the dirt catcher and you have cleaned your equipment for the last time, remove the dirt catcher and rinse it with a hose. Make sure to rinse all of the dirt and debris from both sides of the unit. Let the dirt catcher air dry completely before storing it.
Commonly Asked Questions
Here are a few answers to common questions about the use of a dirt catcher.
How Many Dirt Catchers Are Necessary?
The best practice is to have two buckets and to install a dirt catcher in each bucket. Use one bucket strictly for washing your equipment, and use the second bucket for rinsing. This ensures you’ll thoroughly remove dirt from your equipment and keep your tools clean.
Why Do Dirt Catchers Come in Different Colors?
Different colored dirt catchers allow you to separate your wash and rinse buckets. Your black dirt catcher will tell you that you’re using that bucket for washing your tools. Similarly, you’ll know that you’re using the blue dirt catcher for rinsing.
Why Not Make a Homemade Dirt Catcher?
While you can build your own dirt catcher, you’ll probably spend more on the materials to build it than it would cost to buy a premade version. Additionally, your homemade dirt catcher may not be as effective or durable.
Don’t Service Your Boat Without a Dirt Catcher
Once you’re familiar with the purpose of a dirt catcher, it’s easier to understand the advantages of having one. Overall, investing in this simple yet useful product will help you protect the beauty of your boat for years to come.