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You don't always need a wonder product. You might already have just what you need on board.
Photo: Stacey Nedrow-Wigmore
Take A Load Off
Shore-power cords are heavy, and a plug that fits poorly into the shore-side receptacle could become disconnected while you're away from the boat. Ensure that it's plugged in correctly and securely, then tie a thin length of rope around the cord close to the plug with a rolling hitch or other suitable knot, securing the other end of the line to the top of the shore-power pedestal, pole, or other anchoring point to take some of the weight off the plug.
Photo: Stacey Nedrow-Wigmore
Thar She Blows
The air conditioning on my boat recently stopped working when a jellyfish got sucked into the water intake and lodged in the hose. After closing the seacock, I removed the hose from the inline water strainer. Holding it vertically so that the end was above the outside waterline, I reopened the seacock and cleared the obstruction with a few puffs from my inflatable dinghy pump. I then reclosed the seacock and reattached the hose.
Photo: Stacey Nedrow-Wigmore
Pearly Brights
Is your boat's stainless not looking its best? Fear not: Use toothpaste. Rub a little straight from the tube onto the dull metal, then buff with a microfiber towel dampened with a little freshwater. Voila! Bright, shiny stainless with a minty-fresh scent. Some abrasive toothpastes (like those for whitening) can scratch, so experiment in an inconspicuous area first.
Photo: Mark Corke
Slick Stain Remover
Got an oil stain on your fiberglass boat that you just can't get out? Spray the area with WD-40, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean rag. You can use the same technique on upholstery and carpet, too. After spraying the WD-40 onto the affected area, blot with clean paper towels, and then spritz the area with warm water mixed with a little laundry detergent. Blot with a clean, dry towel. Test in an inconspicuous area first to check for colorfastness or other issues.