Canvas cleaning question
Posted by RikkiLostMyNumber@reddit | sailing | View on Reddit | 4 comments
Hey all! My dodger is at home waiting for me to clean it. I don't want to use anything that will dissolve the waterproof coating applied to this thing. Does anyone have a go-to for getting birdshit off this canvas? TIA!
earlgrey4483@reddit
Covermaker here - any cleaning, other than just rinsing with fresh water, will strip the DWR (water repellent) finish from the fabric so you're going to need to retreat it. Typically a standard dilution of boat soap or detergent is the best thing to use with a soft bristled brush. Most fabrics can even be spot cleaned with a diluted solution of bleach for stubborn stains and mildew but best to identify your particular fabric and refer to manufacturers directions. Things to remember- wet and rinse the area surrounding the dodger too to avoid any staining. Do not brush or scrub any window panels. Follow the instructions of the reproofing spray (typically they're applied to wet fabric).
RikkiLostMyNumber@reddit (OP)
Thank you! May I ask - what can I use to clean the isinglass? I'n afraid of scratching it. I was thinking of baby shampoo, but what can safely wipe this stuff? Surely not microfiber cloths?
jonnohb@reddit
My sailmakee recommended a castor oil soap like Dr Bronner's. He said a true soap (not a detergent) will bind to the dirt and pull it out where as a detergent will deteriorate the fabric guard. I was also told 303 fabric guard to re-up the water repellent.
texasrigger@reddit
The sailrite website has instructions for cleaning canvas and sail cloth from a variety of messes. If you compromise the water proofing, the manufacturers of sunbrella recommend the 303 fabric guard to re water proof it. Eventually you have to do that no matter what, the water proof properties don't last forever no matter what.