Washing sail covers

[Capt_Scarlet]

I have just bought a second-hand sail cover and it is a bit grubby.

Subject to my wifes approval, is it likely to be machine washable?

It is navy blue canvas-type material (looks like most other sail covers) and I was told it was acrylic.

Thank you.

 

[ccscott49]

I washed mine just recently, just check the stiching is in good nick, then wash as usual, medium heat, (handhot) spin and hang out to dry, mine came up like new! I'd go to a laundrette though, just in case something breaks, you would never live it down, removal of all brownie points, if not parts of your anatomy!! By er indoors!

 

[Hardley]

Lay it out on some concrete area and scrub with hot water and Fairy Liquid or simular. Rinse well.

 

[Thresher]

Soak it first in 'Biotex', that's been given good reviews here in the past for this job.

 

[steve6367]

Yes just washed mine - re did a lot of the stitching - washed again - treated with Fab Seal and put back on the boat. Looks good and the water beads off nicely now.

I did it on 30 with a slow speed spin to avoid any shrink / damage.

 

[alex_rhind]

Before you bung the cover in the washing machine take the time to check the stitching, repairing and overstitching any frayed or frazzled parts. It will save work later.

Do up any zips and the Velcro bits, and consider bunging in an old towel with it to help scrub the brute.

There is some suggestion that biological detergents degrade polyesters and acrylics, so I use soap flakes. This is what I do with halyards and warps - they get put into a knotted pillowcase.

(Might add I don't own the poor washing machine!!)

 

[Shanta]

Washing machine should be fine, 30'C max and natural soap. Check the stitching first as has been already said.