Convertible top cleaners. Which one?

[Skrambler]

Hello All. Trying to make a choice as to what product to use to clean the top on my 39 Plymouth convertible. No saying that the top is really "dirty", but, it does show some darkening where the top folds when you have the top down. I am certain that is is full of garage dust, too once I begin the washing process. It is a tan top, if that makes any difference in the product I should purchase.

Also, any tips on applying and removing the cleaner (brushing, not brushing, sponging)?

 

Thanks Guys!

[desoto1939]

I am assuming that you have a cloth top on the car. What ever product you do decided to use I would first test it on a section of the top that is not seen or on a section that is some what hidden to make sure it does not harm the top. 

 

I would also try to find someone that does automotive upholstery and tops to see what they might suggest.

 

I can not suggest a product since I have a hard top but some of the other guys might have a product that they use.

 

Rich Hartung

[BobT-47P15]

Sometimes something simple like a bucket filled with warm water and some dishwashing liquid is good

for cleaning such things.  Use a medium stiff bristle brush.    

 

If you use a spray cleaner like Mean Green or others, it might mike a light spot where sprayed.  

 

Otherwise  you might check the internet in general for cleaning tips for canvas items.

[greg g]

I would suggest you go to whatever big chain auto parts stores you have in your area and look in the cleaning/detailing shelves you will find that the major players, mothers, Maguire's, gold eagle, turtle wax likely all have a product, or kit for that specific purpose.

[greg g]

As to your concern about removal of cleaner, when I used to work on carpets, upholstery, and soft tops at a dealership, we used a wet vac to pull as much moisture/solvent out as possible. It pulls the soil out as well.

[Jerry Roberts]

There have been previous posts on a product called TUFF STUFF sold at Walmart and O'Reillys Auto Parts stores . It worked like magic on some interior fabric shown in photos . 

[Skrambler]

Thanks Guys for your input.

I suppose that I am attempting to side step a mistake by "cleaning" my top. Not that it is real dirty, it is not, but more of a collection of dust and pollen that I am thinking about removing. I simply do not want to make it look streaky, or blotchy. I may be better to simply leave it as is. Just looking for comments from those that have soft cloth top cars.