General Care
All Tuff Skinz products are treated to resist the growth of mildew. However, it should not be folded and stored while wet. Dirt and animal droppings which can support growth of mildew and result in fabric staining, should be removed periodically by recommended cleaning methods.
Periodic reapplication of Tuff Stuff Water Repellant & UV Protectant, should be done. Frequency should be at least once a year and/or after every cleaning. Doing this will help the fabric’s longevity.
The pigmentation in Tuff Skinz fabrics should not migrate onto upholstery vinyls. If some surface rub-off should occur, it can be removed with vinyl cleaner of mineral spirits. In areas where vigorous movement of the fabric against a hard surface will occur during use, use of a buffer strip is recommended.
Recommended Cleaning Method
The described cleaning procedure can remove the majority of stains generally encountered on our covers. Typical stains can occur from oils, dirt, bird and animal droppings, dust smears, food, grease, and uncoordinated boat guests (LOL).
We recommend using soap and NOT a detergent. Anything that says “soap” and not “detergent” can be used. If you are dealing with a stubborn stain or dirt and you need to use a detergent we have had success using a 10% solution of Mean Green via a spray bottle. Just remember to take extra care when applying the post treatment water repellent and test on your printed decals first.
Hand Soaking & Deep Cleaning
- Use a container large enough to avoid crushing or creasing the fabric. If you cannot find a container large enough for your cover, follow the below steps performing them on a section of the cover that can comfortably fit and repeat until all sections are clean.
- Fill a large container with warm water between 100-120˚F. Dissolve 1 cup of mild soap and 2 cups baking soda.
- Soak the stained material in the cleaning solution for 3-5 hours. Avoid crushing or creasing of the fabric.
- Gently swirl or agitate the material every half hour.
- At the end of the soaking period, visually inspect for remaining stains. The mild scouring action of baking soda and a mild soap should loosen most stains. If necessary, use a soft bristled brush to scrub in a light circular motion around any remaining stains
- If necessary, repeat the above steps to remove any remaining stains.
- After removal of all stains, use a multiple rinse cycle to thoroughly clean all soap from the fabric. Rinse once with warm water and three times with cold water. Visually inspect to ensure all soap has been removed, if not, continue with a cold rinse cycle until only water remains.
- Now is the perfect time to rejuvenate your cover by spraying it with our Tuff Stuff Product.