Many cleaners used on boats contain toxic chemicals that can enter the Lake George during boat cleaning and harm the Lake’s storied two-story fishery and other aquatic life. Eco-friendly boat cleaning practices include the following:
- Do not use detergents containing ammonia, sodium hypochlorite, chlorinated solvents, petroleum distillates or lye.
- Wash your boat frequently with a sponge and plain water to avoid the buildup that calls for harsh cleaners.
- Use phosphate-free, biodegradable and non-toxic cleaners. Though much less harmful, these cleaners can still cause damage to local aquatic life and should be used only on land when possible.
- Wax your boat – a good coat of wax prevents surface dirt from becoming ingrained.
- Regular use of your boat is one of the best ways to keep the bottom clean.
- Do not scrape the hull of your boat on our own. Take your boat to a marina with an approved boat cleaning facility.
Remember: It is unlawful for any person to discharge or allow the discharge into Lake George or its tributaries any foul, noxious or deleterious solid or liquid waste including boat cleaners and detergents.
Eco-Friendly Boat Cleaning Products
The best way to keep toxic chemicals out of the water is to not use them at all.
| Toxic Product |
Safer Alternative |
| All-Purpose Cleaner |
Mix one cup white vinegar with two gallons water. |
| Aluminum Cleaner |
2 Tablespoons cream of tartar in 1 quart hot water |
| Ammonia-Based Cleaners |
Vinegar, salt, and water |
| Bleach |
Borax or hydrogen peroxide |
| Bronze Cleaner |
Lemon juice and baking soda or equal parts of flour and salt with enough vinegar to make a paste. |
| Chrome Cleaner/ Polish |
Apple cider vinegar to clean; baby oil to polish. |
| Fiberglass Stain Remover |
Baking soda paste. |
| Floor Cleaner |
One cup vinegar in 2 gallons water. |
| General Cleaner |
Baking soda and vinegar. Or lemon juice combined with borax paste. |
| Head Cleaner |
Put in baking soda and use a brush. |
| Mildew Remover |
Paste using equal parts of lemon juice and salt or white vinegar and salt. |
| Rug/ Upholstery Cleaner |
Sprinkle on dry cornstarch and then vacuum. |
| Scouring Powders |
Baking soda or salt. Or rub area with one-half of a lemon dipped in borax, then rinse. |
| Stainless Steel Cleaner |
Baking soda or mineral oil for polishing, vinegar to remove spots. |
| Varnish Cleaner |
Wipe with 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup water solution |
| Window Cleaner |
Mix 2 tablespoons vinegar in one quart of water or rub glass with newspaper. |
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You Can Make A Difference In Lake George Water Quality Right Outside Your Door! Contribute Now
All the money raised by the Lake George Association goes to projects and programs that benefit the Lake and the watershed, protecting Lake George water quality now and in the future.
