Compost - Countertop Collection Pail

Ace Hardware

Your local hardware store

Gardeners' Supply Company

Steel, Ceramic and Copper are good. 

Holes on the lid are important so the organic contents within can breathe. 

Compost

An eco-conscious marina will collaborate with local compost initiatives, and make compost drop off available to both seasonal and transient boaters.  If compost isn't already available, pitch in by doing the research and present it to management.  For example in Newport, R.I. see here.

3 lb compostable bags should always be stocked in your boat's galley, and available for sale in the marina office. 

Baking Soda

Your local supermarket.  For a large box check the hardware store or order online. 

Stainless Steel can be polished with a baking soda paste, or remove spots with the vinegar. Boat Fiberglass Care

If you have a stubborn stain on fiberglass (or, more correctly, gelcoat) try using baking soda paste there as well.

Grimy Sinks Try bringing the sheen back to your sink by scrubbing with baking soda. If you need to get a little more aggressive, try adding some salt for brushed finishes.  Drain Pain Baking soda is good here. For general maintenance, pour some down your drains and rinse with hot water. This will help to flush odor-causing residues from the plumbing and even helps knock the scum out of your shower sump. And if you develop a clog, try this before going with harsh drain openers: Start heating a cup of vinegar in the microwave. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by the cup of vinegar. Let this sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water. Trash Containers Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the container before putting the liner back. This will help neutralize odors. Microwave Madness

Heat a cup of vinegar until it starts steaming. The acid and heat will loosen food that might have spattered while cooking and can be finished off with some warm, soapy water and a towel. Salt Stains Away In addition to salt being a good scouring agent, you might be able to prevent stains from a wine or other beverage spill. Just dump the salt directly on the stain and let it absorb it. Vacuum with a wet/dry vac and reapply if necessary. Fresh Carpet

To eliminate odors and help remove dirt particles, sprinkle corn starch or baking soda directly on the carpet. Let it sit for at least half an hour and vacuum. Simple and effective!

Before this starts to read like a “Hints from Heloise” column, I’ll let you get to your earth-friendly cleaning, but if you want more hints like these, there’s no shortage of them. Simply get online and do a search for “natural cleaners” or “cleaning with (vinegar, salt, baking soda, etc.).” You’ll be presented with more tips for great cleaning!

Toilet Paper

Compo Boat & RV Toilet Paper

Thetford

Biodegradable--dissolves quickly for marine sanitation systems. 

Salt

Your local hardware store or supermarket. 

Try bringing the sheen back to your sink by scrubbing with baking soda. If you need to get a little more aggressive, try adding some salt for brushed finishes.

Vinegar

Your local supermarket. 

The most versatile cleaner can be concocted like this: Get a clean spray bottle. Pour equal parts white vinegar and water in it.  Spray. It cleans glass and other surfaces and also disinfects. Try adding some lemon juice for a pleasant scent. If you keep a bottle handy in the galley and wetbar, you have a simple, effective solution at hand.