Fold out counter

[Set2sea]

I am wondering how many people use the fold out counter to the left of galley sinks. I am toying with the idea of removing and making a teak trash receptacle in its place. I suppose it's a personal choice, as I am cooking and preparing meals, I like having trash within arms reach. Thus far, one of the two sinks has been the receptacle and I would like to get away from that.

[Steve W10]

Obviously that's a person preference, but I've found the only time I actually remember to use it is after my counter is full of crap, and I'm thinking "damn, I wish I had more counter space!".  Then that extra little square foot puts a big smile on my face.

[patrice]

Hi,
We actually use it very often.  While preparing meals, it is being used.
When doing the dishes, we put a 'dish mat' and put the cleaned dishes on it while cleaning the rest.

For the trash can, we have one with a top lid that is being put under the nav table.  When we prepare meal, we just put it by the end of counter, close by when needed.

[Set2sea]

Patrice, that sounds like a good system you have. I use under nav station for the beer cooler; when running down from the cockpit, I don't like digging in the ice box for a beer.

[Kevin Henderson]

Crazy... but your question just inspired an idea.

What if you keep the little fold out counter as it is.  Cut a hole in the center of the fold out counter and on the underside, devise a means to hang one of those plastic grocery bags (or even a small container).  Then when you are prepping in the galley and need to get rid of trash, you can pop open the lid to the trash (or leave it open) and toss it out of the way.  Then when you need the additional counter space, simply leave the removable lid in place. Best of both worlds possibly. 
Just my take on the idea