We have just purchased our first new sailboat - a Hunter 36. With what should or shouldn't the head be cleaned, and can you give any advice in keeping it fresh smelling and working properly?
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This is the Right Place, Sandi
The first thing I'd do is order Peggie's book. (See link below.) It has reference material that's invaluable and she goes through what not to do, that is contrary to a lot of assumptions we might have and many of the available product offerings. There are really few mariners that have a clue regarding your question, but Peggie has done a lot to add to the numbers. I'm sure she'll give you some starting hints here, but go for the book. Congrads on your new boat! Rick D.
The first thing I'd do is order Peggie's book. (See link below.) It has reference material that's invaluable and she goes through what not to do, that is contrary to a lot of assumptions we might have and many of the available product offerings. There are really few mariners that have a clue regarding your question, but Peggie has done a lot to add to the numbers. I'm sure she'll give you some starting hints here, but go for the book. Congrads on your new boat! Rick D.
What Rick said 
However, a few starting clues..
NEVER use any household chemical bowl cleaners, or ANY cleaning products containing bleach, pine oil, Lysol or any other solvents. A marine toilet and a household toilet have NOTHING in common but the bowl and their intended use. "Flushable" at home does NOT mean flushable aboard. Most things that a household toilet can easily swallow will choke a marine toilet. The ONLY things that should go down a marine toilet are body waste and a LIMITED amount of quick-dissolve toilet paper...ANYthing else is likely to result in a clog. If you don't have a manual for your toilet, get one...most are available for download from the mfr's website. If you start to experience back pressure or back flow when you flush, STOP FLUSHING!! That's an indication that something is wrong...so don't use the toilet or attempt to pump out the tank until you find out what IS wrong. Ask questions FIRST--BEORE you do anything or try to solve a problem or change anything. It will save you a lot of wasted effort and prevent problems of your own making. Enjoy your new boat!
However, a few starting clues..NEVER use any household chemical bowl cleaners, or ANY cleaning products containing bleach, pine oil, Lysol or any other solvents. A marine toilet and a household toilet have NOTHING in common but the bowl and their intended use. "Flushable" at home does NOT mean flushable aboard. Most things that a household toilet can easily swallow will choke a marine toilet. The ONLY things that should go down a marine toilet are body waste and a LIMITED amount of quick-dissolve toilet paper...ANYthing else is likely to result in a clog. If you don't have a manual for your toilet, get one...most are available for download from the mfr's website. If you start to experience back pressure or back flow when you flush, STOP FLUSHING!! That's an indication that something is wrong...so don't use the toilet or attempt to pump out the tank until you find out what IS wrong. Ask questions FIRST--BEORE you do anything or try to solve a problem or change anything. It will save you a lot of wasted effort and prevent problems of your own making. Enjoy your new boat!
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