Why do sailors swab the decks?
Why do sailors swab the decks? Sailors swabbed the deck — and not just to keep it clean. The saltwater helped keep down mildew on the wooden boards and kept them swollen to reduce leaks. The crew's toilet was a hole at the bow or head of the ship.
Do sailors still swab the deck?
Some sailors do. Aboard ship, the Deck Division is responsible for cleanliness - chipping away rust, then priming the bare area and lastly painting it with topcoat. There are also sailors who swab the decks.