How to Properly Care for Canvas and Clear Vinyl/Isinglass
Your boat top and canvas enclosures can really add to your boating enjoyment. Who hasn’t been glad to shut out the bugs in the spring or enjoy some shade from the sun, thanks to a canvas enclosure like a cockpit cover, camper top, or convertible top? Here are some pointers to help you treat the canvas fabric and sections of clear vinyl, isinglass, Plexiglas, or strata glass for years of trouble-free use.
How to Care for Your Canvas Enclosures and Clear Vinyl
• Keep all canvas and clear vinyl clean so dirt, roof particles, etc., can’t accumulate and become embedded. Brush off loose dirt (use soft cloth on clear vinyl parts), then hose down and clean with a mild solution of natural soap in lukewarm water (we recommend Brite Wash®).
• Rinse with fresh cold water after each use, especially in saltwater areas.
• Handle the clear vinyl carefully – it will scratch easily. To keep it soft and flexible, apply a UV-screening agent with a microfiber towel (we recommend Serious Shine®).
• The most common mistake is rolling up wet canvas enclosure panels for storage. This causes fog and stains on the window panels. Make sure the canvas panels and Eisenglass are fully dried before rolling up for storage. Do not fold.
• When unfastening the canvas, unsnap it as close to each button as possible to prevent damage to the fabric. Never yank the canvas from one edge to remove it. Take care of zippers – don’t use force and be especially gentle at the start of the zipper. If the snaps or zippers are difficult to use, apply a stick lubricant. We recommend Snap-Stick® to avoid the damage that gels or sprays can cause to the surrounding canvas.
• Always remove canvas enclosures for trailering to avoid damage.
• Prevent mold by storing in an area that’s dry and well ventilated.
Cleaning Canvas
Brush off loose dirt, then hose down and clean with a mild solution of natural soap such as Brite Wash® in lukewarm water. If your canvas requires deeper cleaning, the technique will depend on the type of canvas. Never dry clean or put in your washing machine.
Cleaning Clear Vinyl
• First flood the area with water to rinse off dirt. Next, use your hand with the water to feel and dislodge any caked dirt or mud. Then, use a soft, clean microfiber towel with a non-abrasive soap or detergent. Finally, blot dry with a clean, damp microfiber towel.
• Never use a dry cloth or duster. Glass-cleaning solutions are also a no-no.
• Never use solvents containing acetone, silicone spray, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, fire extinguisher fluid, dry-cleaning fluid, or lacquer thinner.
• Remove fine scratches with yacht Brite Pro Polish®, followed by Yacht Brite Serious Shine®.
