The cleaner sponges are made of melamine foam with a microscopically fine structure. The foaming process during production creates an extremely fine, open-pored foam. This has a purely mechanical effect like micro-abrasive paper: the tiny edges of the foam structure loosen dirt particles through gentle friction. The tiny pores act like very fine sandpaper and mechanically remove dirt from the surface. The user moistens the sponge with water and rubs it over the soiled area. The manufacturer claims that the system works on polyester, glass, stainless steel and plastic. We have tried it out.
Skrobber works on teak and gelcoat
A dirty teak step could be cleaned well, albeit not completely, with the small version of the Skrobber sponge. Some pressure is also required and the process must be repeated. The cleaning sponge also works well on gelcoat and, as promised, without chemicals. The user moistens the sponge with water and works the dirty area several times. Dirt is loosened and bound in the water, which is then rinsed or wiped away. The telescopic handle (infinitely adjustable from 18 to 128 centimetres) to which the manufacturer's special 9 x 18 centimetre sponge is attached with Velcro helps with cleaning. It takes some getting used to that the handle head is not movable but has a fixed angle. The sponges, especially the smaller ones for manual use, loosen quite quickly and sometimes tear when used hard.
Risk of scratching present
The mechanical effect can attack sensitive surfaces. The manufacturer recommends a test on an inconspicuous area. The sponge can cause scratches on painted or polished surfaces. According to the manufacturer, the product is suitable for gelcoat surfaces, which we can confirm with a random sample.
Overall, the Skrobber system appears to be a sensible alternative or at least supplement to conventional cleaners and is particularly suitable for quick, short use in smaller areas. The Skrobber products are ideal for cleaning the cockpit coaming or the foredeck area. Without cleaning agents, the chemicals discharged into the harbour water are reduced, but the dissolved components of the melamine sponge are introduced.
Product variants and prices
Skrobber offers four product variants. The hand sponges cost 12.45 euros per pack. The refill set with three replacement sponges costs 21.45 euros. The basic set contains a telescopic handle with sponge holder and costs 49.95 euros. The starter set combines telescopic handle, holder and replacement sponges for 79.25 euros instead. The melamine foam is softer than conventional scouring sponges and wears off during use. How long a sponge lasts depends on the degree of soiling and the surface. The material wears out more quickly on rough surfaces such as non-slip flooring.
Conventional melamine sponges cost around 1 to 2 euros each in DIY stores and have a comparable cleaning effect. The difference lies in the size and the attachment to the telescopic handle. The Skrobber sponges are larger and fit into the special handle holder.
Technical data
- Material: melamine foam
- Hand sponges: 12,45 Euro
- Refill set (3 pieces): 21,45 Euro
- Basic set with telescopic handle: 49.95 euros
- Starter set: 79.25 euros (regular price 83.55 euros)
- Suitable for: Polyester, glass, stainless steel, plastic
- Manufacturer: Skrobber BV, Nijkerkerveen, Netherlands
More about boat cleaning
Fridtjof Gunkel
Deputy Chief Editor YACHT
