For the stews: Your 101 guide to yacht care
This post is to make your life easier. Because who doesn't want that, right? Being a stew onboard a superyacht can be challenging, and it requires an eye-watering high level of service and attention to detail needed at all times. As one of your primary responsibilities is maintaining the yacht's cleanliness and organization, I have put together some essential tips and advice for this.
Beds & Heads
The cabins are your responsibility as a stew, and you must have them impeccable for guests at all times. So, what does that mean:
Beds
When guests are on linen needs to be changed regularly, guest and trip dependent. Ensure you follow the care instructions when washing and drying. Use stain removers when necessary.
Keep it looking nice at all times, and fluff those pillows!
The turn-down service of an evening includes re-making the bed, dimming the lights, drawing curtains/blinds, neatly arranging guest belongings, and ensuring there is water available - small chocolate treats can be an extra touch!
Heads
Regular and deep-cleaning of the toilets, sinks, showers, baths, and floors.
Ensure that all heads are always stocked with toilet paper and toiletries - check your inventories and re-stock whenever needed.
Odor control is important onboard in the heads to keep them smelling fresh for guests - avoid using overpowering fragrances that may irritate guests. Keep it neutral!
All in the detail
The level of attention needed as a stew is high, very, very high! You need to pick up on absolutely everything. Whether that be specks of dust, unwanted fingerprints, or, god forbid stains - anywhere. When cleaning the yacht's interior, you must be armed with the best-detailing weapons - think, Q-tips, dusters, a vacuum, cleaning products, rags, microfibres, and even, when necessary, toothpicks. Dust and dirt really do get everywhere.
When to use each product
It is vital to use the correct products on specific surfaces; if you use the wrong product, it could cost a lot to repair. It is really important to pay attention to detail and take the time to care for each surface and material properly - not only will it help maintain the yacht's interior, but it also ensures the safety of your job!
Products for certain surfaces
Wood - Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges that can damage the finish.
Fabrics & upholstery - Vacuum surfaces regularly and treat stains as soon as possible with a stain remover that is safe for the specific material. Always follow care label instructions when washing anything!
Glass & mirrors - Use a glass cleaner (or, simply vinegar!) and a lint-free cloth to clean windows, mirrors, and glassware. Avoid using paper towels or abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface.
Stainless steel - Use a specific stainless steel cleaner and a soft cloth to clean and polish. Baking soda and vinegar is a great combination for stainless. Avoid using abrasive sponges or steel wool that can scratch the surface.
Marble & granite - Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth to clean marble and granite surfaces. An organic mild soap and warm water works well on these surfaces. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.
When it comes to products, you should always use ones that are safe for our oceans and ourselves. Cleaning products have a lot of toxicity lurking in them, so if you are using ones with strong chemicals in ensure you wear the right protective clothing. But, using eco-friendly alternatives where you can is best because let's face it, our cleaning products and residue are basically being poured into our oceans.
If you want the superpower of the superyacht world for eco-friendly cleaning, it is definitely vinegar and alcohol! But, whatever product you use always to ensure you read the manufacturer’s label for best usage.
And, whenever you buy eco-friendly products, make sure you are reading the labels to see what is in the ingredient list - sometimes, they can be greenwashed, and they aren't as good as they are marketed as. Ecoworks Marine offers an amazing, truly eco-friendly, range of products for both interior cleaning and laundry.
Lastly, when it comes to cleaning products, it is helpful to have a handy stew caddy in useful corners of the yacht. Keep them well stocked with everything you need and it will save you from having to run around for a microfibre or toilet cleaner when you need it most!
Laundry time
For a stew, there is no way to get around laundry duties! It is an essential daily task, and whether you have the origami folding of underwear down to fine art, there are still some essential things never to forget when dealing with laundry; I have included the most important below:
Colors, colors, colors - sort them! And items - e.g don't wash delicates and towels together
Always wash certain items separately, like the galley rags and engineer's overalls
Treat stains with proper stain product
Check the label
Never overload the washing machine
Don't use too much detergent, and try always to use eco-friendly
Don't use fabric softener on towels
Try not to use the dryer at very high temperatures - never put wool or delicates in the dryer
To maintain and clean all the laundry equipment and area
I love connecting with past and present yacht crew, so if you'd like to chat more about all things yachting feel free to reach out!
