There have been a few discussions on the site here recently in regards to fighting mildew. Conditions for mildew growth have been prime over the last month with obviously warm temperatures combined with late afternoon and evening showers that allow conditions to remain damp for extended periods. Sure there are many harsh chemicals on the market that will eradicate mildew however many of them cannot be used without damaging fabrics in particular (canvas, life jackets, and seat cushions.) Vinegar/water mixture or full strength vinegar for tough mildew will safely remove from most surfaces.
Here are a few other items to keep vinegar handy for in or around the boat:
- Spray on the skin after a jelly fish bite to sooth the stinging.
- Use in the laundry to remove stains on white T-shirts left from sunscreen.
- Put on battery terminals to remove corrosion.
- Use straight or combine with baking soda to brighten stainless and other hardware.
- Use to soothe sunburn.
- Wipe GPS and depth finder screens down to remove dirt and salt and keep them from fogging.
- If your tool box has gotten wet or submerged, remove tools and soak in vinegar overnight to remove rust.
- Have issues with coons, rats, cats getting in your boat? Soak some rags in vinegar and place in or around the boat, most 4-legged critters don?t like the smell.
- Have musty smelling console or cabin? Mix some vinegar, ammonia, and baking soda with water and wipe down. Let dry completely and the odor should be eliminated.
These are just a few uses of this natural chemical that can be used to safely clean and restore.
Tight lines and happy cleaning?
Captain Tim Pickett
CharlestonFishing.Com</font id=“blue”>