10 Storage Tips & Tricks For Yacht Stews

It never fails to be exciting for yacht crew to learn new storage hacks for onboard, no matter how many you think you know. Marién, the founder of Yachts Mermaids is back to share her ‘Top 10 Storage Hacks for yacht stews’.

Yacht Crew - 10 storage hacks for yachts
Let’s start with the basics. The first step is to ensure your storage spaces are neat and free of clutter. Think of it like this: Before you unload groceries, you have to create space for them to go in the fridge and pantry, which leads us to storage tip no.1…

Hack #1

Use Old Products First

Take an inventory of all your items (keep it updated), and don’t purchase new products until the old ones are empty. One of the big storage mistakes crew, especially HODs do, is wanting to change all the onboard products. And yes, sometimes you know of a product that will give you better results. But purchasing new items will create a massive storage issue, as now you will have things that you are not using, taking up space.

You may think that a good solution is to toss the other items away, but the truth is that if you are good at your job, you know that looking after the owners’ assets is essential, and this translates to not spending money where it is not needed. But; you will be applauded if you decide to use what is onboard until it is finished. And if you need help creating inventories learn more about the MKSB templates.


Hack #2

Try Bulk Storage

So let’s say that you have already used all the products onboard and are ready to bring in new ones. One of the best ways to save space, money and be more sustainable at sea is buying in bulk instead of buying a single-use plastic bottle each time. These days many companies are supplying the maritime industry in this way. Try out Marién’s fave, the Ecostore, who can help you set up a refill station onboard whether you are on deck or interior; they got you covered. They also have refill store stations worldwide; if you are in Europe, get in contact with Superyacht Eco, the official distributor of Ecostore in this area.


Hack #3

Say Goodbye To Cardboard 

Get rid of all cardboard boxes. Why? Because they serve as a shelter, enabling roaches to hide, live, and breed. And secondly, because they take too much space. Remember always to label what’s inside the bag and add the expiration date if necessary before you toss the cardboard, and don’t forget to keep the instruction manuals if available. For example: On cereal, bags write the name and the expiration date.


Hack #4

Use Storage Bins

Let’s talk about storage bins. Plastic storage containers are the best item to store and organize specialty items such as theme nights, owners’ clothing and toiletries, and keeping extra drinks in place on the deck. They come in different sizes and shapes, allowing you to keep things dry and tidy. Utilizing clear bins is ideal because you can see what’s inside; of course, still label them as it will make it easier for everyone to find the correct box easily.


Hack #5

Go Collapsible

As you know, storage spaces onboard sometimes have odd shapes and heights; this is where utilizing collapsible bins is a great idea; plus, when you don’t need them, you can put them away without taking too much space. This is a win-win situation. And don’t forget to go collapsible with buckets, microwave lid, funnels, laundry baskets, etc.


Hack #6

Think Outside the Box

It is essential to look at all the available spaces, including the walls, to organize and store items. Hanging things instead of stacking them on the floor or inside a bin can save a lot of space. So get creative and think outside the box!


Hack #7

Invest In Vertical Hangers 

Cascading hangers are the best solution for those tiny crew closets that sometimes we even have to share. Instead of taking up valuable space on the closet rod by hanging items individually, vertical hangers allow you to hang one over the other without causing creases. This is also an excellent solution for those guests that pack their suitcases for a year’s vacation.


Hack #8

Use Visible Storage Jars

If you want to make space in the pantry or the laundry, using visible storage jars or containers is a great way to achieve that. Reusable containers can store dry goods for both the short and long term. They are available in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to select the correct size container for the amount of product you need to store. Using them will also allow you to buy in bulk and have a place to store them properly. Remember to label everything and add an expiration day when needed.


Hack #9

Swap Detergent Bottles for Sheets

Yes, laundry detergent sheets work! While the idea of a detergent in a sheet may seem strange, they are just as effective as a powder or liquid detergent. Plus, they save you so much space. Here are some detergent sheets to consider: Beyond Plastic, Breezeo, ECOSNext, and Sheets Laundry Club.


Lastly, #10!

Store Items Accordingly To Their Use

When organizing and storing items, it is crucial to consider when and how often an item will be used. Always keep the things you don’t use often further away and ensure the things you will need repeatedly are on the front. That’s why reorganizing between seasons is ideal to set up the storage spaces successfully for the next one. A messy, disorganized yacht can cost you more than just your inner peace. If you don’t have a proper ‘home’ for all items, you spend more time trying to put things away when you’re cleaning up and waste time looking for items when you need them.


If you find these storage hacks for yachts useful, check out www.yachtsmermaids.com/inspiration for more tips and tricks.


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