Cleaning
One of the best ways to keep the material looking fresh
and new, and to delay the need for deep or vigorous
cleaning, is to hose off fabrics with clear water on at least
a monthly basis with clean water. This practice will help
prevent dirt from becoming deeply imbedded in the fab-
ric, and it will eliminate the need for more frequent and
more vigorous cleanings.
In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be need-
ed approximately every two (2) years.
The fabric can be cleaned while still in the boat. When
cleaning, it is important to observe the following:
• Always use a natural soap—never detergent.
• Water should be cold to lukewarm, but never more
than 100 degrees.
• Air dry only. Never apply heat to the fabric.
Begin by brushing off loose dirt, and then hose down the
material. Prepare a cleaning mixture of water and a mild,
natural soap that is free of detergents. Use a soft-bristle
brush to clean, allowing the soap to soak in. Rinse thor-
oughly and allow the fabric to thoroughly air dry.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine
bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof
run-off and other similar stains. Please keep in mind that
chlorine bleach will not change the color of the fabric,
but chlorine bleach will eventually break down the ber
of any fabric. Therefore, this cleaning method should be
used as infrequently as possible.
The cleaning mixture should be mixed as follows:
• Four ounces (one-half cup) of chlorine bleach.
• Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of natural soap.
• One gallon of water.
Clean with a soft-bristle brush and allow the mixture to
soak no longer than twenty (20) minutes. Rinse thoroughly
and allow to completely air dry. Repeat if necessary.
If the top or boat cover is suitable in size for a washing
machine, these steps should be followed:
Use only natural soaps—no detergent.
Wash and rinse in cold water.
Air dry. (Never put the fabric in a dryer.)
As part of the nishing process, the material has been
treated with a uorocarbon nish, which enhances wa-
ter repellency. This nish is designed to last for several
years, but it must be replenished after a thorough clean-
ing. Based on test results, the manufacturer recom-
mends 303 High Tech Fabric Guard™ as the preferred
re-treatment product.
After cleaning and air drying, apply 303 in a thin, even
coat. When it has dried, apply a second thin, even coat.
These two (2) light coatings are more effective in restor-
ing fabric water resistance than a single heavy coating.
Keep in mind that 303 High Tech Fabric Guard™ will
work only as well as it is applied. This means that the
fabric must be free of dirt and detergents or the Fabric
Guard will wash away with the dirt particles.
Fabrics should be retreated after thorough cleaning or
after ve (5) years of use.
Enclosed Head
An option on some models is the enclosed, portable
head. This convenience should be emptied on-shore
within an acceptable holding tank, septic system or sew-
er. It should never be emptied within the boating body of
water or on-shore, except in an approved receptacle!
After thoroughly cleaning with a mild detergent, add
a neutralizing chemical made especially for portable
heads, such as that found in RV centers. The chemical
will help deal with potential odors that might otherwise be
foul. Even with the use of this neutralizing chemical, the
head should be cleaned after each outing.
Slick Boot
The optional Slick Boot should periodically be disman-
tled, cleaned and the wand thoroughly rinsed. The Slick
Boot material can sometimes become gelled, particularly
in colder weather.
2008 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 13-3
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