7 Tips for Keeping Your Boat Clutter-Free

As a boater, you know how important keeping your vessel free of clutter is. Not only does clutter make it difficult to move around and find what you need, but it can also compromise your safety.

In fact, clutter increases your risk of slipping, tripping, and falling on board. However, we all know how hard it is to part with our boating gear. That’s why we’re sharing some tips and must-have double-duty products to help keep your vessel clutter-free, keep your decks clean and organized, and stay safe while boating. 

Keep an inventory of your gear.

Be sure to inventory your boat gear annually and remove unused or redundant items you do not use regularly. 

Doing this not only eliminates clutter and items you don’t need but helps you take stock of what you have and what may need to be replenished.

Decluttering is the first step of winterizing. If you are ready to winterize, click here for some essential tips!

Example of professionally shot boat listing hero image taken at dusk
Smart storage solutions will help keep your boat clutter-free and safe!

Choose multi-purpose items.

When evaluating your boating gear, look for items that can serve multiple purposes.

For example, instead of packing separate plates, bowls, and cups, choose a set of nesting dishes that can be used for all three purposes. Also, instead of bringing a separate fishing rod and grill, could you consider purchasing a fishing rod that doubles as a grill? Multi-purpose items save space and make your boating experience more efficient. 

 

Use your vertical space to your advantage.

Install cargo netting along the interior walls of your boat above the main deck and in the cabin.

Cargo netting is an ideal storage solution for a boat. It is cheap, versatile, lightweight, and simple to install and adjust. 

Use wall mounts and hooks.

If you’re short on storage space, make use of your boat’s walls and ceilings.

Install wall mounts and hooks to keep items off the deck and out of the way. Consider using a rail mount for your dinghy, a vertical mount for your fishing gear, or suction cup hooks for your kitchen utensils. Wall mounts and hooks keep your boat clutter-free and tidy while providing easy access to your gear. 

Aerial photo of Pursuit motor boat running in open water taken during golden hour lighting
Built-in storage on your boat can be a lifesaver! 

Store items in collapsible containers.

Collapsible containers are perfect for storing items that aren’t used regularly.

When they’re empty, collapse them to save space. When you need to use them, expand them to their full size. You can use collapsible containers to store clothes, food, and other gear items. You can even store them on deck, as they’re designed to withstand the elements. 

Choose gear designed for small spaces.

When you’re shopping for boating gear, look for items that are specifically designed for small spaces.

For example, choose a compact portable grill instead of purchasing a bulky traditional grill that can be stored in a small locker. Likewise, instead of buying a standard kayak, consider purchasing an inflatable kayak that can be packed down to a small size when not in use. 

Get creative with storage solutions.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your storage solutions.

Consider using a hanging shoe organizer to store smaller items like sunscreen, bug spray, and fishing lures. Use milk crates to create stackable storage for larger items like life jackets and docking lines. The possibilities are endless for finding unique storage solutions for your boat. 

Keeping your boat clutter-free doesn’t have to be a difficult task. You can keep your decks clear and functional by choosing multi-purpose items, using wall mounts and hooks, storing items in collapsible containers, choosing gear designed for small spaces, and getting creative with storage solutions. Not only will your boat look better, but you’ll also be able to find what you need quickly and easily. So, don’t wait any longer; try these tips and double-duty products today!  

As you are decluttering and find you don’t have the space you need, it may be time for an upgrade. If that is the case, start here and get ready for Instant Beatification with the team at Boats for Sale!