Boat smell

[johnalison]

They do nothing like what a proper desiccant dehumidifier will pull out. Mine was doing almost 20 litres a week when I first got the boat! Now it smells brand new.

Agreed, but they have their uses. I used to put one in the cockpit locker where the battery charger was sited as this didn’t connect with the rest of the boat which I dehumidified. They were also useful on my old Sadler 29 where mains power was less available and I took all the soft stuff home.

 

[Rhylsailer99]

Yes that and fit some computer fans to circulate and expel

It smelt fresher when my heads extractor fan was reversed so it blew air inside the boat. Since replacing the new one extracts and the only was fresh air can get in is through the engine bay.

 

[Momac]

I will have another go at trying to remove the smell. I think it is impregnated into the foam cushions and outer material. Every time I take something off the boat like my bag that was left on for a week comes back smelling of boat.

I don't get any diesel smell . But nor are there any fuel leaks.

Maybe try removing the upholstery for a week or two and see whether that makes any difference to the odour on the boat.
As said some products may be good at absorbing odours eg bicarbonate of soda or white vinegar or the like which may be left on board in a dish or saucer ,
For carpets I suggest the following product although i have not used it against diesel odour. I also use steam cleaner on carpets .


I use a dehumidifier over the winter months and this doe s keep the boat interior smelling fresh but I have not used it for an odour control as such.

 

[PabloPicasso]

After myself and 3 other blokes sailed to the Isle of Man last year there was a boat pong that was not there before we left.

Cured eventually by meticulous cleaning of the heads, and pouring a couple of buckets of soapy hot water through the heads floor.

The bilge sump filled with the most disgusting water, which was removed. Repeated until water was clear and fresh.

Pong was gone, thankfully.

 

[kieron riley]

The best product to mask the smell is sandalwood it user to be in toilet duck but not sure if it still is , I’m told chatter boats used to put it in the bilges of there boats . To kill all odours

 

[oldgit]

A flow of fresh air freely and cheaply available with a cunning built in device called a H-A-T-C-H usually found on most boats.
Most have a clamp position where it can be locked slightly open, a porthole or two left ajar helps.