Here are some tips for cleaning your boat in a "Chesapeake-friendly" fashion and some links to other resources:
- Plastic surfaces, stainless steel, aluminum, and decks can all be cleaned with vinegar in various states of dilution. Vinegar’s pH level makes it fairly acidic, which removes lots of water deposits.
- Fiberglass stains can be cleaned with a paste of baking soda and water. Mix just enough water into the baking soda to make it the consistency of peanut butter. Using a sponge or soft cloth lightly rub the mixture into the stain. This great fiberglass cleaner can be used for onboard showers and heads, also, or even at home.
- Copper fittings need a little acidity and abrasion. A paste of lemon juice and salt rubbed lightly onto the fitting will make it lustrous.
- Windows and mirrors are easily cleaned with a solution of vinegar, lemon juice, and warm water. Use warm or hot water for quick evaporation to reduce streaking. Fill a spray bottle with this solution, and wipe it down with your reusable microfiber cloths.
- Chrome can be brightened using apple cider vinegar. Pour it onto your reusable soft cloth, and gently rub it clean. After it’s clean, a little olive oil wiped on lightly can make your chrome gleam. Don’t use baby oil for this application as it’s a petroleum product.
Find more here.
Find tips for boaters from Maryland's Clean Marina Program here.
Find a Clean Boating Fact sheet from Virginia's Clean Marina Program here.