If you own a truck with a soft tonneau cover, chances are you’ve experienced the hassle of cleaning it. A dirty and neglected tonneau cover can quickly become dull looking, unsightly, and less effective in doing its job of protecting your cargo from the elements. If your truck’s hard- or soft-top doesn’t meet these demands anymore then welcome to our tutorial on how to clean a soft tonneau cover!
Here we’ll show you the steps for restoring your cover back to like-new condition while helping ensure that it will look great and protect future hauls throughout its entire lifetime.
So lock in your seatbelt as we take off into this comprehensive guide so that by the end of this article, you’ll be an expert at keeping your cargo safe from dust, dirt, weather damage – all while boosting the looks of your pickup truck!
How To Clean A Soft Tonneau Cover
Before we dive into the specifics, remember that proper cleaning equipment and materials are key in the process of cleaning a soft tonneau cover. Always use a specialized tonneau cover cleaner as regular cleaning solutions might be too harsh and may damage the material.
Begin with a thorough rinsing. Use a garden hose to wet the entire cover, starting from the top and working your way down. This pre-cleaning rinse helps remove any loose dirt and debris which could otherwise scratch the cover during the scrubbing process.
Next, apply the tonneau cover cleaner. Spray it evenly across the surface, making sure every part of the cover is coated. The cleaner will break down embedded dirt and grime, making them easier to remove. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes, but don’t let it dry out.
Now, it’s time to scrub. Using a soft bristle brush, gently scrub the cover in a circular motion. This helps remove stubborn dirt without scratching the material. Rinse off the cleaner thoroughly, ensuring that no residue is left on the cover.
Once the cover is clean, consider applying a protectant. This step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for maintaining the cover’s appearance and durability. The protectant not only adds a nice shine to the cover, but also provides a protective barrier against harmful UV rays, weather damage, and pollutants.
Finally, allow the cover to air dry completely before closing it. This prevents the growth of mold and mildew which can deteriorate the material over time. Remember, a well-maintained soft tonneau cover not only enhances the look of your truck but also prolongs its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
See more: How To Clean Truxedo Tonneau Cover
What Should We Use to Clean Soft Tonneau Cover
When it comes to cleaning your soft tonneau cover, it’s essential to choose the right materials. As mentioned before, a specialized tonneau cover cleaner is a must. These types of cleaners are designed to be gentle on the cover’s material while effectively removing dirt and grime. Be wary of using regular cleaning agents as they could potentially damage the cover.
Quality soft bristle brushes are the ideal tool for scrubbing the tonneau cover. They provide just enough abrasiveness to remove stubborn dirt without scratching or damaging the surface. Avoid using hard bristle brushes or any other rough cleaning tools which could leave marks or cause tears.
For rinsing the cover, a garden hose with adjustable pressure is your best bet. It provides enough force to wash away the cleaner and any loosened dirt without being too harsh on the material. Avoid power washers which can be too powerful and could damage the cover.
A tonneau cover protectant is also a valuable tool in your cleaning arsenal. It acts like a sealant, providing a protective barrier against harmful UV rays and weathering. It also gives your cover a nice shine, enhancing the overall look of your truck.
Finally, make sure to let the cover dry completely before closing it. This can be done by leaving the cover open to air dry. Avoid using heat to dry the cover as it could cause the material to shrink or warp.
In conclusion, cleaning a soft tonneau cover requires the right tools and materials. With a specialized cleaner, soft bristle brush, garden hose, protectant, and proper drying, your cover will be clean, shiny, and ready to protect your cargo for many more hauls to come.
FAQs
Over the course of owning a soft tonneau cover, several questions may arise related to its maintenance. Questions often range from the best cleaning practices to the preservation of its quality. Here, we’ve compiled some common queries that should help you out.
Can I use household cleaning products to clean my soft tonneau cover?
No, it’s not recommended to use household cleaning products as they might be too harsh for the material of the tonneau cover. These products can potentially damage the cover, making it dull and less efficient.
Instead, use a specialized tonneau cover cleaner designed to be gentle yet effective in removing dirt and grime. These cleaners have been specifically formulated to preserve the integrity of the cover’s material, prolonging its life and appearance.
Do I need to apply a protectant after cleaning my tonneau cover?
Yes, applying a protectant after cleaning is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. A tonneau cover protectant acts like a sealant that provides a protective barrier against harmful UV rays, weather damage, and pollutants. Not only does it enhance the look of your cover, giving it a nice shine, but it also helps maintain its durability, ensuring your cover lasts for an extended period.
Is it safe to dry my soft tonneau cover using a dryer or heat?
It’s not advisable to use heat to dry your soft tonneau cover. Heat can cause the material to shrink or warp, leading to a decrease in its effectiveness and lifespan. Instead, let the cover air dry completely before closing it.
This method prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which can deteriorate the material over time. Always remember, a well-maintained tonneau cover not only enhances the look of your truck but also extends its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your soft tonneau cover is not just about maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your truck. It’s also about preserving the functionality and durability of the cover itself. Adhering to proper cleaning practices will greatly extend the lifespan of your cover, ensuring it stays in tip-top shape for many more hauls to come.
Choosing the right cleaning materials is fundamental in this process. Avoiding household cleaners and opting for specialized tonneau cover cleaners can make the difference between a well-maintained cover and one that quickly deteriorates. Similarly, using a soft bristle brush for scrubbing and a garden hose for rinsing can prevent unnecessary damage to your cover.
Applying a protectant after each cleaning session is also key to preserving the cover’s quality. This simple step can protect your cover from harmful UV rays and weather damage. Remember to let your cover air dry completely before closing it to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Ultimately, your soft tonneau cover is an investment. By dedicating a little time and effort to its maintenance, you can ensure your investment pays off in the long run, saving you money and keeping your truck looking sharp.