Comparing Salts Gone vs. Salt Away: Which Is the Better Option?

Saltwater environments, whether on the open sea or salted winter roads, wreak havoc on boats, vehicles, and equipment. Corrosion from salt can degrade metal, damage finishes, and reduce the lifespan of costly investments. For boaters, anglers, and vehicle owners, salt removal products like Salts Gone and Salt Away are popular solutions to combat this issue. Both promise to dissolve salt and protect surfaces, but which one is the better choice? This article provides an in-depth comparison of Salts Gone and Salt Away, exploring their effectiveness, ease of use, impact on protective coatings, and value for money. Drawing from user experiences, scientific insights, and practical applications, we’ll help you decide which product suits your needs.

Understanding Salt and Corrosion

Before diving into the comparison, it’s essential to understand why salt is so corrosive. Sodium chloride (NaCl), the primary component of salt, is an ionic compound that, when dissolved in water, separates into sodium (Na⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻) ions. These ions facilitate electrochemical reactions, particularly on metal surfaces, leading to rust and corrosion. Salt also retains moisture, making it difficult to remove completely with water alone, especially in crevices or on dried surfaces. This is where specialized salt removal products come in, designed to dissolve salt crystals, break their ionic bonds, and rinse them away effectively.

Overview of Salts Gone and Salt Away

Salts Gone

Salts Gone is a pH-neutral salt removal product developed and manufactured in the USA. It’s marketed as a versatile solution for boats, fishing gear, vehicles, and waterfront properties. Its key selling point is its ability to remove salt without stripping wax or ceramic coatings, making it safe for frequent use on delicate surfaces. Salts Gone uses a chelation process, which involves binding to sodium and chloride ions to neutralize and rinse them away. It’s available in various sizes, including quarts with built-in sprayers and gallon jugs, and can be applied via a hose-end dispenser or spray bottle.

Salt Away

Salt Away, a well-established brand, is widely used in marine and automotive applications. It contains sulfamic acid as its active ingredient, which dissolves salt and mineral deposits effectively. Salt Away is often praised for its ability to flush salt from engine cooling systems and clean boat exteriors. It’s available in concentrate form, typically sold in gallons, and is applied using a proprietary mixing unit or sprayer. However, some users note that its acidic nature may affect wax coatings over time, and its dispensers have a reputation for fragility.

Key Differences Between Salts Gone and Salt Away

Feature	Salt Away	Salts Gone
Primary Use	Salt removal & corrosion prevention	Salt removal, pH-neutral formula
Effectiveness	Highly effective at dissolving salt	Effective, with added wax protection
pH Level	Acidic (can strip wax)	pH-neutral (safe for wax & ceramic coatings)
Price	~$40/gallon (makes 100+ gallons)	~$60/gallon (more expensive)
Dispenser Quality	Often criticized for leaking	More durable applicators reported
Best For	Engines, trailers, heavy salt buildup	Boats with wax or ceramic coatings

Effectiveness: How Well Do They Remove Salt?

Salts Gone

Users consistently praise Salts Gone for its ability to remove heavy salt buildup, particularly on boat engines and dark-colored hulls. One boater noted that after a 12-hour fishing trip, a quick rinse with Salts Gone eliminated visible salt deposits on black engines, leaving them spotless. Its chelation process ensures that salt is fully dissolved and rinsed away, reducing the risk of residual corrosion. Salts Gone is also effective on fishing reels, trailers, and vehicle undercarriages, where salt tends to accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. For automotive use, users report excellent results in removing road salt and brine, especially when applied with a foam cannon or lift for thorough coverage.

Salt Away

Salt Away’s sulfamic acid-based formula is highly effective at dissolving salt and mineral deposits. Boaters report that it works wonders on crusty salt crystals, particularly when flushing outboard or inboard engines. One user described running Salt Away through their jet engine until the solution cleared, confirming its ability to clean internal cooling passages. It’s also used on boat hulls, trailers, and tow vehicles, with users noting a significant reduction in salt-induced corrosion when applied regularly. However, some argue that plain water can achieve similar results with prolonged rinsing, though Salt Away speeds up the process and tackles stubborn deposits more effectively.

Comparison: Both products excel at removing salt, but their mechanisms differ. Salts Gone’s chelation process is gentler and designed for frequent use, while Salt Away’s acidic formula is more aggressive, making it ideal for heavy buildup. For engines and internal components, Salt Away’s proven track record gives it a slight edge, but Salts Gone is equally effective for exterior surfaces and sensitive equipment like fishing reels.

Impact on Wax and Protective Coatings

Salts Gone

A standout feature of Salts Gone is its pH-neutral formula, which does not strip wax, ceramic coatings, or lubricants. This is a significant advantage for boaters who invest in protective coatings to maintain their vessel’s appearance and value. Users report that water continues to bead on their boats even after repeated Salts Gone applications, indicating that the wax remains intact. This makes it a preferred choice for those who wax their boats infrequently or rely on ceramic coatings for long-term protection. Additionally, its neutrality ensures it won’t degrade grease in fishing reels or other mechanical components.

Salt Away

Salt Away’s acidic nature (pH around 2-2.2 due to sulfamic acid) can strip wax over time, though the extent depends on frequency of use and wax quality. Some users claim they’ve used Salt Away for years without noticeable wax degradation, especially if they re-wax their boats twice a year. Others, however, report a decline in water beading after regular use, suggesting that Salt Away may gradually remove protective coatings. For engines and non-waxed surfaces, this is less of a concern, but for hulls and polished hardware, users may need to reapply wax more frequently.

Comparison: Salts Gone is the clear winner for preserving wax and coatings, making it ideal for boats and vehicles with high-end finishes. Salt Away, while effective, requires more vigilance to maintain protective layers, especially in harsh environments like South Florida, where frequent waxing is standard.

Ease of Use and Dispenser Quality

Salts Gone

Salts Gone is easy to apply, with options for a hose-end sprayer, foam cannon, or manual spray bottle. The included nozzle allows users to adjust the flow and dilution ratio, ensuring efficient use. However, some users report issues with dispenser durability, noting that the mixing units can break or leak over time. One user mentioned switching to Salty Captain, another salt removal product, due to a more robust dispenser. Despite these concerns, Salts Gone’s straightforward application process makes it accessible for both marine and automotive use.

Salt Away

Salt Away is typically applied using its proprietary mixing unit, which connects to a hose and dilutes the concentrate automatically. While effective when functioning, the dispenser is a common point of criticism, with users reporting frequent breakages and leaks. One boater replaced their Salt Away dispenser multiple times over 25 years, highlighting a persistent design flaw. Alternatives, such as inline fertilizer feeders, have been suggested for more durable application. For engine flushing, Salt Away requires careful attention to ensure the solution fully circulates without being rinsed out prematurely.

Comparison: Both products suffer from dispenser durability issues, a common complaint in user forums. Salts Gone’s adjustable nozzle offers slightly more flexibility, but neither brand has perfected the mixing unit. For ease of use, Salts Gone’s versatility across spray and foam applications gives it a slight edge, especially for automotive users.

Price and Value for Money

Salts Gone

Salts Gone is often described as expensive, with a gallon retailing around $60-$80, depending on the vendor. However, it’s highly concentrated, with a single gallon capable of making up to 100 gallons of solution when diluted properly. This makes it cost-effective for regular use, especially for boaters or vehicle owners who apply it frequently. A quart with a sprayer costs around $20-$30, offering a more affordable entry point for smaller applications. The premium price is justified by its pH-neutral formula and ability to preserve coatings, reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Salt Away

Salt Away is moderately priced, with a gallon typically costing $40-$50. Like Salts Gone, it’s a concentrate that yields a large volume of solution (up to 100 gallons when diluted). The lower price point makes it more accessible, but the cost of replacing faulty dispensers (around $15-$25 each) can add up. Users also note that West Marine’s Salt Off, which some claim is identical to Salt Away, is slightly cheaper but may run out faster due to dilution differences. For budget-conscious users, Salt Away offers strong value, especially for engine flushing and heavy-duty applications.

Comparison Table: Pricing and Specifications

Feature	Salts Gone	Salt Away
Price (1 Gallon)	$60-$80	$40-$50
Price (Quart)	$20-$30 (with sprayer)	$15-$20
Dilution Yield	Up to 100 gallons	Up to 100 gallons
Active Ingredient	Chelation-based (proprietary)	Sulfamic acid
pH Level	Neutral	Acidic (pH 2-2.2)
Dispenser Cost	$10-$20 (replacement)	$15-$25 (replacement)
Best For	Wax preservation, frequent use	Engine flushing, heavy salt buildup

Comparison: Salt Away is more budget-friendly upfront, but Salts Gone’s higher cost is offset by its coating-friendly formula, potentially saving money on waxing or recoating. Both offer excellent value due to their high dilution ratios, but dispenser replacement costs are a consideration for both.

Applications Beyond Boating

While both products are primarily marketed for marine use, they’re increasingly popular for automotive applications, particularly in regions with salted winter roads. Here’s how they stack up:

Salts Gone

Salts Gone is highly effective for removing road salt and brine from vehicle undercarriages, wheels, and body panels. Users apply it with a foam cannon or lift for thorough coverage, noting that it leaves a clean, spot-free finish. Its pH-neutral formula ensures it won’t strip wax or sealants, making it safe for regular use on cars and trucks. One user reported using it on a 4Runner, achieving excellent results on the undercarriage without affecting the paint.

Salt Away

Salt Away is also used on vehicles, particularly trailers and tow vehicles exposed to saltwater. Its acidic formula excels at dissolving road salt, but users must rinse it thoroughly to avoid streaking or wax damage. Some apply it to undercarriages and wheel wells, followed by a high-pressure rinse. While effective, its use on painted surfaces requires caution due to its potential to strip coatings.

Comparison: Salts Gone is better suited for automotive use due to its coating-safe formula and versatility with foam cannons. Salt Away is effective but less ideal for frequent use on waxed or coated vehicles.

User Experiences and Community Insights

Online forums, including boating and automotive communities, provide valuable insights into user preferences:

• Salts Gone: Users appreciate its ease of use and wax preservation, with many switching from Salt Away after dispenser issues or wax concerns. One boater called it “amazing” for removing salt from rods and reels, while another bought it in 5-gallon pails for regular use. However, its higher price and occasional dispenser issues are drawbacks.
• Salt Away: It has a loyal following, particularly among boaters in Hawaii and other saltwater-heavy regions. Users value its effectiveness and affordability, but dispenser fragility is a recurring complaint. Some argue that fresh water is sufficient with enough rinsing, though most agree Salt Away speeds up the process.
• Other Products: Alternatives like Salty Captain and BluThru were mentioned, with Salty Captain praised for its durable dispenser and coconut oil-based finish. Star Brite’s Salt Off, rumored to be identical to Salt Away, is a cheaper option but may dilute faster.

Scientific Perspective: Do These Products Work?

Critics question whether salt removal products are necessary, given that salt is water-soluble. However, dried salt crystals and high-mineral tap water (common in coastal areas) reduce the effectiveness of plain water rinsing. Salts Gone’s chelation process and Salt Away’s sulfamic acid both enhance salt dissolution by breaking ionic bonds or lowering surface tension, allowing water to carry salt away more effectively. The inclusion of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) in Salt Away is debated, as it’s unlikely to bond to surfaces in a moving water stream, but it may reduce water’s surface tension for better rinsing. Salts Gone’s pH-neutral formula avoids harsh chemicals, making it safer for long-term use.

Chart: Effectiveness of Salt Removal Methods

Method	Speed	Thoroughness	Impact on Coatings
Plain Water	Slow	Moderate	None
Water + Soap	Moderate	Moderate	May strip wax
Salts Gone	Fast	High	None
Salt Away	Fast	High	May strip wax

Note: Speed and thoroughness based on user reports and product mechanisms.

Practical Tips for Using Salts Gone and Salt Away

1. Salts Gone:
   • Dilute according to the label (typically 1:100 for general use).
   • Apply with a hose-end sprayer or foam cannon for even coverage.
   • Allow the solution to sit for 1-2 minutes on heavy salt deposits before rinsing.
   • Store indoors to prevent freezing in cold climates.
2. Salt Away:
   • Use the mixing unit for precise dilution (1:100 for most applications).
   • For engine flushing, run until the solution is clear, then let it sit for a few minutes before shutting off.
   • Rinse thoroughly on waxed surfaces to avoid streaking.
   • Consider an inline fertilizer feeder for a more durable applicator.
3. General:
   • Rinse with fresh water first to remove loose salt and debris.
   • Apply salt removal products after every saltwater exposure or road salt encounter.
   • Re-wax boats and vehicles annually (or biannually in harsh climates) to maintain protection.

Conclusion: Which Is the Better Option?

Choosing between Salts Gone and Salt Away depends on your priorities:

• Choose Salts Gone if you prioritize preserving wax or ceramic coatings, need a versatile product for both marine and automotive use, or prefer a pH-neutral formula for frequent applications. Its higher price is justified by its coating-safe properties and effectiveness on sensitive equipment.
• Choose Salt Away if you need a budget-friendly, heavy-duty solution for engine flushing or tackling severe salt buildup. Its acidic formula is highly effective, but you’ll need to monitor wax degradation and dispenser reliability.

Both products outperform plain water and soap for salt removal, particularly in crevices and on dried surfaces. For optimal results, try both to see which suits your boat, vehicle, or equipment best. Regular use of either product, combined with proper maintenance, will extend the life and appearance of your investments, keeping corrosion at bay.

Final Recommendation: Salts Gone edges out slightly for its wax-preserving formula and versatility, making it the better all-around choice for boaters and vehicle owners who value long-term protection. However, Salt Away remains a strong contender for those prioritizing affordability and engine-specific applications.

Happy Boating!

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