Curtain Package and Windscreen
Canvas
One of the best ways to keep Sunbrella brand fabrics looking good and to delay the need for deep or
vigorous cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help
prevent dirt from becoming deeply imbedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent
vigorous cleanings. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years.
When it's time for a thorough cleaning, Sunbrella fabrics can be cleaned while still installed on your boat.
It is important to observe the following:
•
Brush off loose dirt.
•
Hose down.
•
Prepare a cleaning mixture of water and mild soap (Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite - no
detergents). Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never more than 100 degrees.
•
Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
•
Allow soap to soak in.
•
Rinse thoroughly.
•
Air dry. Never apply heat to Sunbrella fabrics.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a
diluted chlorine bleach/soap mixture
for spot cleaning of mildew,
roof run-off or other similar stains. Prepare a special cleaning mixture:
•
Four ounces (half cup) of chlorine bleach.
•
Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of mild soap.
•
One gallon of water.
•
Clean with soft bristle brush.
•
Allow mixture to soak for up to 20 minutes.
•
Rinse thoroughly.
•
Air dry.
•
Repeat if necessary.
Re-treating the Fabric - Sunbrella fabrics are treated with a fluorocarbon finish to enhance water
repellency. This finish is designed to last for several years, but must be replenished after a thorough
cleaning. Based on test results, Glen Raven recommends
303 High Tech Fabric Guard™
as the
preferred re-treatment product for Sunbrella fabrics. Fabrics should be retreated after thorough cleaning
or after five years of use. Check with your local Sunbrella dealer or distributor for additional information.
For more information, visit the Sunbrella website at www.sunbrella.com for specific recommendations.
Isinglass (Windscreen Material)
When maintaining the Isinglass material, maintenance means "rinsing" with cold water and trying not to
rub the dirt into the Isinglass. Never "Dry" dust the Isinglass panels. Any rubbing acts like sandpaper to
plastic so keep rubbing to a minimum. Always use lots of cold water and a very very soft cloth when
rubbing is required. Do not use paper towels or Terri-cloth towels. Try not to use any cleaning solutions,
as most will cause yellowing and cracking.
When you have to store the panels of your windscreen and curtain package, always “roll up” the material
to prevent
creases
. Do not fold the Isinglass as this will permanently damage the Isinglass material. Do
not roll up the panels when wet, as the material will turn white or fog up. Dry the panels off first using a
very very soft cloth before rolling them up. A few hours in the sun will get rid of the whiteness or
fogginess in most cases.
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