How to Clean LakeEze Ladders and Accessories Without Damaging the Finish

How to Clean LakeEze Ladders and Accessories Without Damaging the Finish

Your LakeEze ladder and accessories aren’t just dock additions—they’re engineered for effortless lakeside living and built to last. With premium materials like marine-grade aluminum, high-strength glass-filled nylon, and UV-resistant Sunbrella® fabric, every product is designed to withstand sun, water, and everyday use. With minimal effort, your LakeEze gear will maintain its beauty and perform flawlessly, so you can enjoy waterfront living, worry-free.

Why Quality Materials & Finishes Matter

Our advanced finishes and thoughtfully selected materials resist corrosion, fading, and wear—even in the most challenging waterfront environments.

Meet Your LakeEze Materials

  • Marine-Grade Aluminum. A core material across all LakeEze products, including ladder frames, Stow & Go systems, and the Dock Box frame, is our heavy-duty 6061 T6 marine-grade aluminum, priced for its exceptional strength, lightweight feel, and superior corrosion resistance in both fresh and saltwater environments.

  • Glass-Filled Nylon Steps. Found on the LakeEze ladders, FlexSteps, and Stow & Go, these high-strength, UV-resistant, non-skid perforated steps reduce drag for easier lifting and secure footing.

  • EVA Foam. The Swim Stool Seat Topper is crafted from non-skid, UV-protected EVA foam for superior comfort and grip, even when wet.

  • Stainless Steel and Brass Hardware. Selected for maximum durability and rust resistance, our stainless steel and brass fasteners/fittings ensure your LakeEze accessories withstand all conditions, delivering multi-season reliability.

  • Sunbrella® Fabric. Our Dock Box cushions are upholstered in premium Sunbrella® fabric, renowned for their resistance to fading, water, stains, mold, and mildew. Overstuffed with soft, fast-drying polyfill, these cushions are comfortable and come in a variety of color options.

  • Zinc Anodes (Saltwater Kit, Optional). Available in our Saltwater Add-on Kit, these sacrificial zinc anodes provide galvanic protection for aluminum components in saltwater environments, significantly slowing corrosion and extending the life of your accessories.

Cleaning Your LakeEze Dock Ladder and Accessories

General Care Principles

Rinse all products with fresh water regularly and clean with mild, eco-friendly detergent using soft brushes or cloths. After rinsing, simply allow your LakeEze products to air dry—our marine-grade step composition is engineered to thrive in marine environments and can withstand sun or water exposure without staining or fading. Avoid wire brushes, metal tools, harsh chemicals, and abrasive pads. Every 2–3 months, inspect all mounting hardware and weight-bearing components, especially on your ladder safety accessories, for signs of corrosion or fatigue.

Product-Specific Care

1. LakeEze Ladder

Routine Cleaning

  • To clean algae, dirt, or discoloration on your LakeEze Ladder, use a soft-bristle brush and a mild detergent, such as Dawn Dishwashing Liquid. For persistent stains or finish discoloration, gently restore the coating by lightly scrubbing with a Scotch Brite pad in circular motions.
  • Avoid using wire brushes, steel wool, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the surface and potentially harm your waterfront environment. Whenever possible, choose eco-friendly cleaning products to protect the lake or waterways near your dock.

Saltwater Protection

  • LakeEze ladders are manufactured from corrosion-resistant aluminum, with premium stainless steel hardware and brass nuts. While these materials resist rust and corrosion, all metals oxidize over time. Saltwater environments accelerate corrosion faster than freshwater. To protect your ladder and prolong its lifespan, always rinse the ladder with fresh water after each saltwater use and dry it completely before storage. For enhanced corrosion protection, use the LakeEze Universal Zinc/Saltwater Add-On Kit. This kit installs a sacrificial zinc washer on your ladder components, which corrodes approximately 100 times slower than aluminum, creating a durable shield by preventing moisture from reaching the metal beneath—even if the coating is scratched or exposed.

Storage & Use Best Practices

  • Always store your LakeEze Ladder in the upright (“stow”) position, resting securely on the dock when not in use. This prevents algae, barnacles, and dirt buildup on both the ladder and effectively protects your boat or kayak from collecting rainwater and debris inside.
  • The ladder is designed for easy lifting—simply rotate it out of the water to keep it in top condition between swims. Complete removal from the dock isn’t necessary or recommended for standard seasonal care.
  • Never allow the ladder to rest on the lake or pool bottom, which can damage the finish and affect safety.
  • For additional security and stability during storms or extended absences, consider securing the handrail to the dock with a bungee cord or tie-down.

Maintenance & Lubrication

The LakeEze Ladder features patented EzePull technology, load-tested for 28,000+ cycles and springs rated for 10,000+ cycles—meaning years of daily family use with minimal wear. If lifting becomes difficult or the ladder produces groaning noises, routine lubrication of the springs is recommended to maintain smooth and effortless operation:

  1. Use marine grease, white lithium grease, or graphite powder for best results.

  2. Apply lubricant via the spring housing side openings using a straw or needle applicator—no disassembly is required, and this procedure does not void the warranty; it is encouraged as part of regular maintenance.

  3. After applying, raise and lower the ladder several times to work the lubricant into the spring assembly.

  4. Repeat as necessary to sustain optimal operation.

Regular greasing extends the ladder’s lifespan and ensures many trouble-free years of use.

Routine Inspections

For ongoing safety and performance, conduct a monthly check-up of your ladder that includes:

  1. Ensuring all bolts and hardware are tight and secure.

  2. Inspecting for any signs of wear or damage, replacing parts as needed.

  3. Removing debris from the glass-filled nylon perforated steps to maintain their non-slip surface.

  4. Verifying the ladder inserts smoothly into the water and returns to its upright position without obstruction.

The LakeEze Ladder’s modular design allows for easy servicing and part replacement if components wear out or get damaged. This contributes to the ladder’s long-term value and ensures it can be enjoyed for many years.

2. FlexSteps

Routine Cleaning

FlexSteps require minimal maintenance. Simply rinse them with fresh water periodically to remove everyday dirt and debris. For tougher grime, use a mild soap and a soft brush to gently scrub each step’s surface. Avoid using abrasive pads, wire brushes, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish and are not recommended for use near the water. Whenever possible, choose eco-friendly cleaning products to help protect your lake environment.

Seasonal Storage & Removal

FlexSteps are designed for convenience and all-season durability. If you wish, the FlexSteps can be easily unbolted and removed from the dock for off-season storage or repositioning—this is optional and not required for regular care. FlexSteps are built to withstand year-round waterfront conditions, so you can leave them installed without worry. If you do remove them, store them in a dry location and rinse thoroughly before reinstalling.

Replacement Parts

FlexSteps are engineered for longevity, but if you ever need replacement treads, mounting hardware, or other components, LakeEze offers replacement parts to keep your steps safe and sturdy for years to come.

4. Dock Box

For your Dock Box, keep drainage holes clear to allow for trapped water to empty, and wipe down the box with mild soap and water. For the Sunbrella® cushion, brush off loose dirt, blot spills immediately, and spot clean with lukewarm water. For a deep clean, first remove the entire cushion from the dock box by unsnapping the buttons around the exterior. Then, unzip the canvas cover, remove the cushion insert, and machine wash only the cushion cover on a delicate cycle. Store the cushion indoors during extended non-use to keep it in top condition.

5. Swim Stool

The LakeEze Swim Stool’s seat is crafted from Gatorstep’s closed-cell EVA foam for comfort and durability. To clean, sweep away debris and spills regularly. For routine cleaning, use a mild soap solution (1 tbsp. of Dawn dish soap per gallon of water) as recommended by Gatorstep’s cleaning instructions. Rinse well after washing. This method also applies to the aluminum frame. When not in use, especially during winter or extended absences, remove the Swim Stool from the water and store indoors or on dock post mounts to prevent buildup, fading, or accidental damage. For salt water use, always rinse thoroughly with fresh water after each use and dry completely. Use the LakeEze Universal Zinc/Saltwater Add-On Kit for enhanced corrosion protection. Additional EVA foam seat toppers are available from LakeEze.

6. Stow & Go & Ramp Rack.

To keep your Stow & Go and Ramp Rack looking their best, refer to the general care instructions as noted above. 

  • Stow & Go: After use, especially in saltwater, always rinse the Stow & Go thoroughly with fresh water and dry completely. When not in use, always secure the Stow & Go in the upright (“stow”) position above the water. This prevents buildup of algae, barnacles, and dirt on both the system and your watercraft, and helps avoid rainwater accumulation inside your kayak or canoe. The Stow & Go is specifically designed for easy raising and lowering, making it simple to stow your kayak safely out of the water and out of the elements. For added corrosion protection in saltwater environments, use the LakeEze Universal Zinc/Saltwater Add-On Kit.
  • Ramp RackWhile removal isn’t strictly required during the off-season, we recommend bringing the Ramp Rack indoors or storing it in a dry location to prevent rainwater from getting into small cracks, where freezing could cause the aluminum to warp or bend. If you choose to leave the Ramp Rack on your dock, secure it with a lock or tie-down to prevent theft or storm damage.

Where to Find More? Explore our Resources & Manuals for detailed care guides, video instructions, and troubleshooting tips.

LakeEze Ladders and Accessories—Easy Care, Expert Support

Engineered for lasting performance on the water, your LakeEze dock ladders and accessories are surprisingly easy to maintain. Regular wipe-downs with eco-friendly soap and thorough rinsing are all it takes to preserve your ladder and accessories’ premium finish and lifespan. Have questions about caring for your specific LakeEze product? Call (864)581-3469 for expert advice. Shop the full collection and give your dock the best in innovation and quality.