Published on: 13/07/2017 Updated on: 20/02/2025
How to wash the soft top and apply protective waterproofing treatment
"Soft tops" are usually made of strong and durable fabrics but, like all surfaces of a car, they need specific care to preserve their properties over time. Today specific products are available that are very effective and do not alter the original characteristics.
Some simple tricks can be helpful in keeping the fabric of the "soft top" in excellent condition over time. First of all, remember never to reseal the fabric soft top if it is damp and very dirty, as this can lead to abrasions and mildew stains that are difficult to remove later.
Always wash the soft top gently and paying great attention to its longevity: the materials from which fabric soft tops of classic cars are made, such as zippers and seals, are not designed to withstand strong jets of water and air, and if subjected to high pressures, they could deteriorate prematurely. Again, our "old lady" is delicate and should be treated very gently!
6 EASY STEPS FOR GENTLE BUT DEEP CLEANING
1) We wash the soft top regularly and gently, using specific products such as Hp12 cleaner: it has high degreasing power
and should be combined with a soft-bristled brush. Cleaning must be done from the outside to the inside, with linear movements.
2) Many 1950s softtops had leather edging: to return them to their original color, we use hp12 degreaser and Wendy's melamine sponge
3) Once the soft top has been brushed with hp12, let's rinse: use a weak jet of water that will serve to remove any foam and dirt left on the surface. Caution: never direct a violent jet of water toward the soft top, as the fabric and seals may be damaged.
4) When the top is dry, proceed with the Idrostop waterproofing treatment that will make the fabric water and oil repellent. Spread the product in vertical movements
and then horizontally at a distance of 20 cm. Allow to dry
for at least 24 hours.
5) The plastic/PVC rear window can shine again
with Regénera View polish, which is applied with a soft microfiber cloth and circular motions, removing all lines, scratches and dullness. After applying the product, we remove the excess with the 1Shine microfiber cloth.
6) There, now the top is in perfect shape: clean and protected! We recommend that you use a neutral detergent such as Shampoo Power for subsequent washes. This is a good habit that will help you keep the canopy clean longer while respecting the Idrostop protection you applied previously.
You can find the products used in the video in our shop:
https://www.auto-spa.it/
PRODUCTS USED
● 1 Hp12 degreaser 500ml - https://www.auto-spa.it/impermeabilizzante-auto-capote.html
● 1 Hydrostop for waterproofing treatment - https://www.auto-spa.it/impermeabilizzante-interni-tessuti-auto-idrostop.html
● 1 Regénera View - https://www.auto-spa.it/regenera-view-polish-policarbonato.html
● 1 1Shine microfiber cloth - https://www.auto-spa.it/panno-microfibra-carrozzeria.html
● 1 Wendy melamine sponge - https://www.auto-spa.it/spugna-per-lavaggio-auto-wendy.html
● 1 water hose with hand shower
● 1 soft bristle brush
