Bimini Top Care & Maintenance
Protect your investment by following these care tips.
- Check all screws and fittings regularly and tighten as needed.
- Be sure the hold down straps are tight. There should be no slack in the hold-down straps when attached to the eye straps on the gunwale.
- When trailering, fold down the bimini top and stow in the storage boot.
- Do not exceed 35 MPH with the bimini top deployed. Be aware of wind speeds.
- To keep your canvas looking its best, regularly brush off any loose dirt with a soft brush and rinse with lukewarm water (100° F maximum). To clean, a solution of lukewarm water and mild natural soap such as Ivory™ may be used. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry. The use of detergents is not recommended as it may diminish the water repellent finish on certain fabrics and invite the growth of mildew. Never machine wash, dry clean or iron the canvas. To spot clean stubborn soil or stains, a solution of 1/4 cup mild natural soap and 1 cup of bleach per gallon of lukewarm water may be used. Mist the soiled area and clean vigorously with a sponge, soft brush or clean towel. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry. We also recommend the use of 303® Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner to safely remove dirt and difficult stains.
- Regular exposure and cleaning can diminish the water repellency of certain bimini top canvas over time. The water repellent finish used on most bimini top canvas allows water to bead and run off similar to that of a waxed car. When water beading diminishes, we recommend the use of 303® Marine Fabric Guard after a thorough cleaning to restore the water repellency of your canvas.
Read our Mildew Prevention and Treatment guide (PDF)