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Life on Board 4 min read
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Doing Dishes on a Charter Boat

Doing dishes on a boat is more than just a chore โ€” it's a shared responsibility that can impact everything from water usage to crew morale. With limited freshwater reserves and space, it's essential to approach dishwashing thoughtfully.

Doing dishes on a boat is more than just a chore โ€” it's a shared responsibility that can impact everything from water usage to crew morale.

With limited freshwater reserves and space, it's essential to approach dishwashing thoughtfully.

The Challenge

On a charter boat, you have limited fresh water, limited space, and a crew that may have very different standards of cleanliness. This combination can create friction if not managed proactively.

The Two-Basin Method

The most water-efficient way to wash dishes on a boat: 1. Scrape: Remove food scraps into the trash (not overboard) 2. Wash: Use a small amount of fresh water and biodegradable soap 3. Rinse: Use salt water for the initial rinse, then a small amount of fresh water for the final rinse 4. Dry: Air dry or hand dry immediately

Biodegradable Soap

Use only biodegradable, phosphate-free soap. Regular dish soap can harm marine life if it ends up in the water.

Establishing a System

The key to avoiding conflict over dishes is to establish a clear system before you leave the dock: - Who washes after each meal? - What's the standard for "clean enough"? - Where do dishes go when they're done?

A rotating schedule works well for many crews.

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