Do you own a convertible? Are you having a hard time maintaining its soft rooftop? If yes, this article about the best convertible top cleaners is for you.
Convertibles are among the most delicate rides that need extra care. The care does not only indicate its interior but exterior too.
Many convertible owners complain about having a hard time cleaning the soft rooftop. Cleaning it with high-pressure running water or just soap is not entirely safe.
The soft rooftop is the main identity of your convertible. If you use too harsh cleaning agents, it can ruin the surface. And if you are only about water, it can lead to dirt & debris accumulation in the long run.
So, what to do? Well, for starters, you can look for exclusive products for cleaning a soft rooftop of a convertible.
There are different kinds of products available in the market. We know most of you can do the task single handle, but a little help can go a long way.
Today, we bring you our list of the nine best convertible top protectants in 2023. We have thoroughly reviewed each product so that you do not end up with something you don’t want.
So, let us get started and help you find the most efficient convertible soft top cleaner fulfilling all your requirements.
9 Best Convertible Top Cleaners And Conditioners With Buying Guide
Compared to other automobiles, convertibles require special care to keep them in the best condition. You can not use anything random you find to clean it, especially the top.
You must consider the fabric top for the cleaning task. Like other vehicles, your convertible top is exposed to bird droppings, road dirt & grime, UV rays, and more.
Thus, you should be extra careful while cleaning as it can damage your expensive ride.
Here we have listed the best nine convertible top protectants of 2023. You can explore & compare them to find the most suitable one for you.
Image | Product | Features | Price |
Our Pick
1
|
Chemical Guys Stain-Repellent Long-Lasting Cleaner & Protectant Kit |
||
2
|
Meguiar’s UV-Resistant Biodegradable Soft-Top Cleaner |
||
3
|
303 Products Odorless Convertible Top Cleaning & Care Kit Restoring Water Repellency |
||
4
|
Bestop 1121500 Three-In-One Biodegradable Vinyl Care Kit |
How To Decide Which Product Is Ideal For Your Ride?
With so much variety in cleaning products finding the ideal one can be a real pain. This is why many buyers either give up or go for the first product they can find.
However, making such a rash decision will only harm your ride. We understand many choices can be overwhelming.
Thus, we bring you a few factors or features that you must look for when buying a car rooftop cleaner. Look for a product that offers all the mentioned crucial features, and you will be good.
– Type Of Your Convertible Top
The first thing to consider is the type of your car’s top. Check if it is fabric or vinyl made.
This differentiation is necessary as a product compatible with vinyl might not work with fabric & vice versa.
So, begin your search with a product compatible with your convertible’s roof type.
– Color
Black is a universal color for most convertible tops. However, brown, white, red, & others are prominent too.
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Thus, look for a product that works well with the color of your rooftop. The wrong choice can lead to color fading and ruin your overall ride style & quality.
So, either go for an exclusive product for your colored rooftop or a universal one with a safe application.
– Multipurpose
There are products that either only clean or only protect. And then some do both.
For cleaning your convertible’s fragile rooftop, you need a product that not only gets rid of dirt & debris but also leaves behind a protective layer.
So, it is better to go for such a multipurpose product than to buy multiple products for the tasks.
– Quantity
People generally buy convertibles to experience roofless driving. However, you will be shocked to know how often they are used by the owners.
So, it is better to divert your attention to its cleaning. You can buy one or more bottles of the cleaner based on the size of your rooftop & level of its dirt state.
– Fragrance
Whether buying a product with fragrance or without fragrance is a personal choice. Some people enjoy after cleaning smell while some don’t.
You can choose either one. However, look for products with light fragrances if you want one. Strong smells can make you nauseous & in some cases unbearable to sit in the car.
– Chemical Composition
Most cleaning agents for cars are made with chemicals. Although there are natural ones in the market still chemical-based ones are prominent.
A product can have both safe & harmful chemicals in its composition. Always avoid using a product with harsh or dangerous chemicals as they can be hazardous to you & your ride.
– UV Protection
Your rooftop is going to have its fair share of exposure to the sun. Every car owner knows that the maximum damage a vehicle experiences is from the sun.
And rooftops being non-metallic, can fade over time due to harmful sun rays. To avoid such a thing, it is better to look for a product that offers UV protection.
– Water Resistance
The most common time when convertibles are covered with rooftops is when it is raining. Frequent exposure to heavy rain can lead to water getting in.
However, you can prevent it by applying a layer from a product that can repel water.
So, instead of buying different products for water protection, look for the best convertible top sealer with water-resistant properties.
This way, you keep your interior safe as the water will not scatter on the roof. Instead, water will form beads and repel away from the surface.
– Ease Of Usage
A product will be worth the money if you can use it without any hassle. Thus, look for a product that comes in a handy bottle.
It should be easy to carry around and spray or pump out the product.
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In addition, the product should be fast working as no one has hours for the product to set and work.
Fast application with fast drying is what you should strive for.
Do’s & Don’ts Related To Convertible Top Protectant
The first thing about buying and using any product is that you must learn about all the related dos and don’ts.
You might find a product intriguing, but going to internal details can tell you if it is beneficial for you or not.
Here we have listed some crucial points that will help you handsomely with your search for a top cleaner for a convertible.
- For a convertible with a vinyl rooftop, avoid buying products containing vinegar, alcohol, or ammonia.
- If your convertible has a fabric rooftop, using a product with citrus, bleach, silicone, or any glossing agents will be a bad idea.
- It is better to do the cleaning in the shade or in your garage. Never opt to do it in direct sunlight.
- Never apply the cleaning agent on a wet roof. Ensure the rooftop is completely dry.
- Some cleaners can be harsh to apply with bare hands. So, it is better to wear gloves while cleaning.
- A few cleaners might harm the other surfaces of your car. Either avoid using them or be extra careful while using them.
Explore 9 Best Convertible Top Cleaners Of 2023 To Buy Online
To help you with your purchase to find a product that can help you maintain the soft rooftop of your convertible, we have reviewed the nine best ones for 2023.
We have explained everything in detail with crucial features, advantages, and disadvantages.
A few products offer the properties of only cleaner while others are protectant, cleaner & conditioners too.
So, go through each product and find yourself the affordable and best suitable product in no time.
1. Chemical Guys Stain-Repellent Long-Lasting Cleaner & Protectant Kit
- Brand- Chemical Guys
- Weight- 2.3 pounds
- Form- Spray
- UV resistant
- Non-toxic
- Leave behind a protective layer
- Stain repellent
- Compact & portable
- Can last up to months
- Compatible use on fabric, synthetic, & vinyl surfaces
- Safe to use with all colors
- Easily removes dirt & other stains
- Easy to use
The first product on our list of best convertible top sealers is the Chemical Guys cleaner & protectant kit. This product will not only clean your convertible rooftop but also leave behind a protective layer.
The best thing is that this cleaner is compatible with all kinds of convertible tops. Whether you have fabric, vinyl, or synthetic, this Chemical Guys cleaner is all you will need.
Apart from its protection layer property, there is also a stain-repellent feature working well against tree sap, bird droppings, water spots, road grime & debris.
You can use your convertible top without worrying about dirt, stains, and UV rays. In addition, it is safe to use on all colors and even prevents discoloring or fading.
This cleaning product comes in a handy spray bottle. It is easy to use & the protection layer can last for months.
Furthermore, it will not harm other surfaces of your ride like windows, finish, chrome, and others.
This product’s only drawback is that it might require multiple applications for better results. In addition, it is not water-resistant.
2. Raggtopp Silicone-Free Universal & Vinyl-Only
- Brand- Raggtopp
- Weight- 2.4 pounds
- Form- Spray
- Come in a pack of two: Cleaner & Protectant
- The cleaner is for universal use
- Protectant is vinyl safe only
- Silicone-free
- Does not harm the exterior with paint, chrome, glass, or plastic windows
- Easily get rid of stubborn stains & accumulations
- Environmental friendly & biodegradable
- Do not leave any residue behind
- Come with a brush and cloth too in the package
If your convertible’s rooftop is vinyl-made, go for a premium vinyl cleaner and protectant kit from Raggtopp.
The product comes in a pack of two bottles, a brush, and a cloth. One is a cleaner while the other one is a protectant.
But the thing to notice is that the cleaner is for universal use, but the protectant is vinyl-only.
The spray application makes it easy to use. The best part is that this cleaner can help you get rid of nasty & stubborn stains without any hassle.
This cleaning & protectant kit is environment-friendly & biodegradable, meaning no negative impact on you or your ride.
You can use this product for both personal and professional use.
3. Meguiar’s UV-Resistant Biodegradable Soft-Top Cleaner
- Brand- Meguiar’s
- Weight- 1.1 pounds
- Form- Spray
- Biodegradable
- Does not leave a white residue or artificial gloss
- Come with UV protection
- Affordable
- Safe to use on all colors
- Easy to use
- Made in the USA
If you are under a budget crunch but still want the best quality convertible top cleaner, this Meguiar product is for you.
This cleaner will help you remove tough stains & other contaminations like bird droppings, hard water, oil, and mildew.
You can use this product on both fabric and vinyl convertible tops. The best part is you do not need to apply elbow grease for effectiveness.
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The application is quite it. Spray on the surface and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. A little application goes a long way.
In addition, this cleaner is safe to use in a variety of different colors like tan, white, and black.
The only drawback is that this cleaning agent produces a lot of foam which might require rinsing. Also, it is recommended to use a soft brush or microfiber cloth for better results.
4. 303 Products Odorless Convertible Top Cleaning & Care Kit Restoring Water Repellency
- Brand- 303 Products
- Weight- 2 pounds
- Form- Liquid
- Odorless
- Does not leave behind any residue
- Restores oil & water repellency
- Protects against staining & soiling
- Easily cleans tough stains
- It can be used on the wet surface
- Increase the life of your top
The cleaning and care kit from 303 is another excellent option you can go for. You get a cleaner and a protectant in the kit.
The cleaning agent is highly effective and can help you get rid of stubborn stains from your top in no time. It is safe to use on vinyl & fabric roofs.
The second one is a fabric guard that will enhance the overall look of your convertible roof, making it look much newer.
Both solutions are water-based and contain no harmful chemicals or components. In addition, they hold some basic water-resistant properties, making it easy for you to tackle rain & moisture.
Furthermore, this car top cleaner is odorless and does not leave any nasty smell or residue behind.
5. Surf City Garage 3-In-1 Convertible Top Protectant
- Brand- Surf City Garage
- Weight- 1.5 pounds
- Form- Liquid
- Three-in-one product- cleaner, protectant, conditioner
- Offers UV resistance
- Non-toxic
- Repels dirt & dust
- Safe to use on various types of convertible tops
- Specifically formulated for convertibles, truck bed covers & cars with vinyl tops
- Easy usage
- Made in the US
If you are looking for a convertible top cleaner and conditioner for vinyl, this Surf City Garage product is for you.
This product is cleaner, protectant, and conditioner. It is specially formulated for convertibles, truck bed covers, and cars with vinyl tops.
This cleaning agent will not only help you get rid of stubborn stains and make your top clean but also remove any stiffness & rigidity.
The 109 top cleaner can easily handle dirt, debris, road grime, and other outdoor elements hurting your rooftop. In addition, it protects against harmful UV rays.
Lastly, the name may suggest vinyl cleaner, but it is safe to use on fabric tops too.
6. Bestop 1121500 Three-In-One Biodegradable Vinyl Care Kit
- Brand- Bestop
- Weight- 3.1 pounds
- Form- Spray
- All in one kit
- Safe to use on fabric & vinyl
- Leaves no residue behind
- Biodegradable
- Environment-friendly
- Non-toxic
- Deep cleans
- UV resistant
- Can be used on plastic windows
Bestop is well known for making products for Jeeps. However, their 1121500 kit is an exception that works wonders on any vinyl or fabric soft-top roof.
The kit comprises three individual products: a cleanser, a protectant, and a window cleaner.
All three products are non-toxic and biodegradable. They have low pH, and anti-oxidant, and are residue-free, making them safe to use on your ride.
This is the kit you need if you want to deep clean and get rid of all those old stains that are hard to clean.
The UV-resistant property ensures the safety of your soft top & makes sure it does not fade away.
Furthermore, the versatility of this product allows you to use it on the interior of your ride. However, use it only on seat covers & vinyl interior & exterior only.
7. Griot’s Garage With Dye-Free Formula
- Brand- Griot’s Garage
- Weight- 1.42 pounds
- Form- Liquid
- Dye-free formula
- Works exceptionally well in removing tree sap, bird droppings, pollen, dirt, grime & more
- Leaves no residue behind
- Safe to use on vinyl & fabric tops
- Helps in maintaining your top’s factory appearance
- Leaves behind a fresh fragrance
If you want a product that delivers results than mere advertising, the convertible top cleaner by Griot’s Garage is your dream come true.
This cleaner is one of the best you can buy in 2023. It is safe to use on fabric tops and balanced enough to clean but not harm.
In addition, you can also use it on a vinyl top. It will ensure your top does not crack or break. You get a better finish with complete care.
This product is both cleaner and protectant. It not only helps you get rid of stubborn stains but protects it from dirt, dust & other contaminations.
8. RaggTopp Biodegradable Non-Toxic Convertible 2-In-1 Kit
- Brand- Raggtopp
- Weight- 2.4 pounds
- Form- Liquid
- Fast-acting formula
- Biodegradable
- Environment-friendly
- Non-toxic
- Come with both cleaner and protectant
- Can restore the color of your faded roof
- Easy to use
- Several coats might be required for a filthy roof
- Safe to use on fabric & vinyl surfaces
Another RaggTopp product that made it to this list of best convertible top cleaners is this two-in-one convertible kit.
Whether you maintain your convertible well or a lazy cleaner, this cleaner & protectant combo will take good of your ride.
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The product is highly efficient. It safely cleans & protects your convertible top to the manufacturer’s specification.
The cleaner easily removes dirt, grime & other contaminations and restores your top’s appearance. The protectant provides a guard against soil, dirt, and even UV rays.
This product is popular due to its longevity. With one kit you are good to go for months.
However, remember for an extremely damaged or neglected rooftop, it might take several coats of conditioner.
Lastly, you do not get any cloth or brush with the bottles. You may have to purchase them separately.
9. Blue Magic Fast Drying Convertible Top Cleaner With Trigger With Multipurpose Use
- Brand- Black Magic
- Weight- 1 pound
- Form- Liquid
- Quick-drying formula
- Safe to use on both vinyl & fabric tops
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Offer mediocre shine
- Multipurpose
- It cleans, brightens, & protects your roof
The 707 convertible top cleaner with the trigger by Blue Magic is ideal for buyers looking for a multipurpose product. You can use it on the rooftop of your ride, boat curtains, truck bed covers & more.
If you are suffering from your convertible rooftop getting brittle due to extreme sun exposure, this cleaner works well in preventing that.
Not only this, this is an effective product for maintaining your ride. Its fast-drying formula ensures you instant usage of your ride after cleaning.
It is a good choice for a vinyl convertible roof. The odor is not bad, and will not affect your health in any manner.
This product is strong enough to easily remove long-standing stains & other contaminations.
Furthermore, this product is highly effective but might require more than one coat to get better results.
Lastly, the spray bottle is not durable, and the product does not offer good shine compared to some other products in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best convertible top protectant?
A good product is one that always delivers more the required. A good convertible top protectant protects your roof from more than one issue.
It should offer good UV resistance, water resistance, and dirt & grime resistant. Some protectants can even be used as cleaners.
Check out our top nine picks of convertible top protectants:
- Chemical Guys Stain-Repellent Long-Lasting Convertible Top Cleaner & Protectant Kit
- Raggtopp Silicone-Free Universal & Vinyl-Only Protectant Kit
- Meguiar’s UV-Resistant Biodegradable Soft-Top Cleaner
- 303 Products Odorless Convertible Top Cleaning & Care Kit Restoring Water Repellency
- Surf City Garage 3-In-1 Convertible Top Cleaner, Protectant & Conditioner
- Best 1121500 Three-In-One Biodegradable Vinyl Care Kit
- Griot’s Garage Convertible Top Cleaner With Dye-Free Formula
- RaggTopp Biodegradable Non-Toxic Convertible 2-In-1 Kit
- Blue Magic Fast Drying Convertible Top Cleaner with Trigger With Multipurpose Use
Which is the best fabric convertible top cleaner and protectant?
If you are thinking about a product that not only helps you clean but also assists in protecting the soft rooftop of your convertible, then “Chemical Guys” is your friend.
The convertible top cleaning & protecting kit is all you will ever need. This product is long-lasting, stain-repellent, non-toxic, and UV resistant.
In addition, it leaves no residue. You get a protective layer over your roof that can last for months. Its compact size makes it easy to use & store.
Lastly, it is safe to use on fabric, synthetic, & vinyl surfaces and all kinds of colors (light or dark).
However, this is not water-resistant. So, think carefully if you live in a region with frequent rain showers.
Can I use a convertible top cleaning agent on a wet surface?
The usage of a product differs from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some products are safe to use on wet surfaces, while most of them are instructed to use on dry areas.
So, before you use or buy any product, read its usage instructions carefully. It is because sometimes the wrong usage can ruin your top & cost you unwanted expenses.
Can I go for DIY methods for cleaning my car roof?
You can choose any method you find easy and feasible. You can find different DIY solutions online to get started if you want.
However, if you do not have much time and want to ensure good results from the beginning, going for established experts is a good call.
A product that is trusted by thousands of other buyers is safe to spend your money on.
Can a convertible top cleaner restore the color of the soft top?
A cleaner can help you get rid of various contaminations and offer a good shine & protective layer. However, they are not built to help you restore the faded color.
There are a few products that can do such a task, but a hundred percent results are a myth.
Furthermore, cleaners with strong chemical compositions not used properly can lead to the bleaching of your soft top color.
So be focused when making the purchase.
Conclusion
Buying the best convertible top cleaner is one of the easiest & affordable ways to maintain your soft rooftop.
We hope our list of the nine best products of 2023 helps you with your search for an ideal product.
So, which cleaner & protectant did you like the best?