If you're driving a convertible in Winnipeg, your soft top faces harsh weather—winter salt, UV rays, frequent rain, and dust. Without proper care, fabric or vinyl tops can fade, crack, or even develop mildew. This guide walks you through how to clean, protect, and maintain your convertible top so it stays looking great and lasts longer.
Types of Convertible Tops
There are two main kinds of soft convertible tops, and each needs different care:
- Vinyl Tops — They have a smoother surface and are less absorbent than fabric. But they still suffer from fading, cracks, and stiffness if neglected.
- Fabric (Cloth) Tops — Usually made from canvas or acrylic fibers. They absorb water more, can stain more easily, and are more vulnerable to mildew and moisture damage.
Before you start cleaning, make sure you know which top you have, so you choose products and methods safely.
How to Wash a Soft Convertible Top in Winnipeg
- Start with a rinse
Use a gentle hose or a pressure washer on a very light setting to rinse off loose dirt, pollen, salt, and road grime.
- Choose a cleaner made for convertible tops
Use a cleaner specially formulated for vinyl or fabric tops. Ordinary car soaps might strip protective coatings or leave residues that attract dirt.
- Work in sections with a soft brush
Gently scrub small areas using a soft‐bristle brush. A brush made for convertible tops helps—soft enough to avoid damage to stitching or fabric, but effective enough to lift contaminants.
- Rinse thoroughly
Make sure you remove all cleaner. Leftover product can lead to spotting or even mildew.
- Dry completely
Let the top dry fully before putting it down (if it’s retractable) or folding, especially when it’s humid or rainy. Moisture trapped in folds or seams can cause mildew.
Protecting Your Convertible Top
After cleaning, protecting the top is the next crucial step:
- Apply a protectant made for convertible tops—something that offers UV protection, helps repel water, resists mildew, and keeps the material flexible.
- Frequency of application depends on exposure. If your car is parked outside a lot (Winnipeg summers can be harsh, and winters especially damaging), reapply every 6–8 weeks.
- For vinyl tops, ensure the protectant doesn’t leave a greasy film, and for fabric tops ensure it can penetrate without staining.
Maintenance Tips for Winnipeg Weather
Winnipeg’s climate means you’ll need consistent upkeep. Here are extra steps to protect your top:
- Inspect weekly — look for bird droppings, debris, tree sap, or salt. These things degrade fabric and vinyl fast.
- Avoid automatic car washes that use spinning brushes—these can damage soft tops.
- Parking matters — whenever possible, park your convertible with the top up, and use covers if you have them. Avoid folding the top when it's damp.
- Dealing with winter — Keep the top clean and protected all winter long. Salt and freezing water are harsh on any soft top.
- Air it out — after heavy rain or snow, open windows a bit or let air circulate to avoid trapped moisture.
Why Proper Care is Worth It
- Keeps your convertible top looking like new, preserving resale value
- Prevents costly issues like cracking, mildew, or needing replacement
- Maintains seal integrity, helping to avoid leaks and drafts
- Helps with UV protection, which is especially important with Manitoba’s sun exposure
Conclusion
For drivers in Winnipeg, proper soft top care isn’t optional—it’s essential. With regular washings, appropriate protectants, and weekly inspections, you can significantly extend the life of your convertible top and keep it in top condition for all seasons.
Need help? At Crystal Auto Styling Inc., we specialize in caring for all kinds of convertible tops—vinyl or fabric. Contact us today for a professional clean, protective treatment, or advice tailored to Manitoba’s climate.
