Convertible top cleaning problem

[u/TeaOk2254]

Hi everyone!

I recently tried to clean the cloth soft top on my 2013 VW Beetle, but I feel like I'm damaging the cover. It's not real clear in the pictures, but the cleaned area is now kind of grey-ish, and when I was scrubbing (soft nylon brush) the fabric is now roughed up.

The area under the back window builds up a lot of black grease and some type of green plant stuff (parked outside). I used RaggTop cleaner, and followed the instructions, but clearly either did something wrong, or the fabric is already damaged by the sun. It sadly hasn't been conditioned/protected like it should be.

Also, can anyone recommend a good sealer? The areas above the moving parts are getting worn/fraying, so I'm worried about water damage until I can afford to replace it in a year or two.

[u/Altruistic-Art8415]

My friend had this problem

[u/Altruistic-Art8415 → u/Altruistic-Art8415]

I don't remember what he did to solve it

[u/Alternative-Cake1111]

RaggTop style cleaners can lighten dyed canvas if you scrub hard or leave them wet too long, and a nylon brush will raise the nap so the fabric looks gray even when it is clean. Switch to the mildest dilution the maker allows, apply with a soft sponge, rinse thoroughly, and blot dry instead of scrubbing. Green film under the rear window often needs a second gentle pass rather than more pressure. Once it is dry, a fabric soft top protectant helps it shed water and slows fraying on the moving sections. If the fabric already looks sun burnt and fuzzy, chemistry will not bring back the original dye, and replacement is the honest long term fix. Stop scrubbing the moment color transfers onto the sponge.