Clean Sunbrella Marine Canvas

Sunbrella fabrics are made to last through years of fun with family and friends. Sunbrella fabrics stand up to life on the water, but an important part of maintaining long-lasting performance is regular care.

When it's time for a thorough cleaning, Sunbrella fabrics can be cleaned while still on a boat or, size permitting, they can be removed for cleaning dock side.

General or Light Cleaning

To clean Sunbrella fabric while still on a boat, follow these simple steps:

• Brush off loose dirt.
• Hose down.
• Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap or use our Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner or a cleaner such as 303^® Multi-Surface Cleaner.
• Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
• Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
• Air dry.
• May not require retreatment depending on the age of the fabric.

Download Sunbrella Marine Canvas Cleaning Instructions PDF

If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew. For roof run-off or other similar stains, a strong degreaser may be required. See our Cleaning Guide for specific recommendations.

Heavy Cleaning for Stubborn Stains and Mildew

Sunbrella fabrics do not promote mildew growth, however, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric. To clean stubborn spills:

• Prepare a solution of 1 cup of bleach and one fourth cup mild soap per gallon of clean water.
• Allow mixture to soak into fabric for up to 15 minutes.
• Blot stain with a sponge or clean towel. Note: This step should be avoided when cleaning the coated side (back side) of Sunbrella Plus, Supreme, or Clarity.
• Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
• Air dry.

Note: Use caution when cleaning the coated (back side) of Sunbrella SeaMark with the recommended bleach solution. The coated side of the fabric should only be sprayed with the recommended bleach solution and rinsed thoroughly.

Oil-Based Spills

Immediately apply an absorbent such as cornstarch directly on the oil-based spill. Let sit for 10 minutes and remove the excess using a straight edge or ruler. This helps remove the spill and prevents it from being pressed into the fabric. Then proceed with the general cleaning process. For tough stains, use Sunbrella Extract™ Oil Based Stain Remover or treat with a strong degreaser and rinse thoroughly.

Specific information on spill cleaning is available in our Cleaning Guide.

Retreating Sunbrella Fabrics

Sunbrella fabrics are engineered to provide long-term performance. After repeated thorough cleanings, or extended use and exposure, you may choose to refresh your fabrics with an appropriate retreating agent. We recommend Sunbrella Restore™ Fabric Protector & Repellent or 303^® Fabric Guard™, available in the United States, and Tex’Aktiv, available internationally.

Applying a Retreatment:

• Clean Sunbrella fabric, using one of the cleaning methods.
• Allow Sunbrella to completely air dry.
• Apply retreatment in a well-ventilated area following instructions on the container.

Professional Cleaners

You may have access to professional cleaners. In evaluating the services of a professional cleaner, you should inquire about a their experience in working with Sunbrella fabrics and knowledge of cleaning and retreatment requirements.