How to Clean a Soft Top

Convertible owners need to regularly clean and maintain their soft tops to prevent stains and damage that would shorten the life of the top. Bird droppings, sap, grease and acid rain are among the hazards that can hurt your soft top, whether it's a vinyl or a canvas top.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Garden hose with spray nozzle
• Medium or soft bristle nylon cleaning brush
• Convertible top shampoo
• Convertible top protectant
• Microfiber towel

1. Park your car in a shady spot or clean it very early or late in the day when it will not be exposed to direct sunlight. You do not want the sun's heat to dry the shampoo before you are finished cleaning.

2. Spray water over the entire top.

3. Lightly apply a non-detergent auto shampoo designed for convertible tops over the entire top. If the top is very dirty, let it sit for up to 15 minutes, making certain it doesn't dry out.

4. Scrub the entire top with the nylon brush, making sure you do not miss any areas.

5. Thoroughly rinse the top until there is no more foam.

6. Blot the soft top dry with a microfiber towel or move the car to a sunny location and allow it to air dry.

7. Apply a coat of the protectant according to the manufacturer's instructions. A protectant will preserve the color and texture of vinyl tops.

8. Wipe the vinyl window clean from the inside with a damp microfiber towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a circular or back-and-forth action when scrubbing the top. Clean the top each month. Remove bird droppings immediately. Only use cleaners and protectants that are designed for soft tops.
• Do not use cloth, sponges or a lamb's wool mitt because they will leave lint on the soft top. Do not use any car shampoo that adds shine. Do not neglect your cleaning schedule. Stains cannot be reversed on soft tops. Do not use anything on the vinyl window that could scratch it.

References

• Raggtopp.com
• Convertible Top Care Detailing 101