Our covers are made from Sur Last™ a 100% solution-dyed
polyester (USA Made!) fiber with a urethane coating, which provides
excellent water repellency, and mildew resistant. This construction allows Sur
Last™ to be easily maintained. If you follow a few simple care and cleaning
steps, the fabric will look good and maintain its fine qualities for many years.
Important Background:
Because SurLast™ fabrics are woven, they are also breathable. It's also
important to know that Sur Last™ fabrics are treated with a fluorocarbon finish,
which enhances water repellency. This finish requires replenishment after
vigorous cleaning.
Polyester fabric will not support the growth of mildew. Mold and mildew needs
"food" to grow on and polyester isn't desirable substance for mold. Dirt or dust
on the fabric is a perfect "food" for mildew growth, which makes regular
cleanings important. There is no set time for when fabric should be cleaned, and
the local environment has a great deal to do with determining cleaning
frequency. Cleaning is required less frequently in a dry environment than in a
humid one with heavy foliage. Sur Last™ being a polyester actually has a finish
applied to the fabric to detour mold and mildew growth but does not make it mold
proof. Keeping fabric free of dirt is important to detour mold growth.
Cleaning:
One of the best ways to keep Sur Last™ fabrics looking good and to delay the
need for deep or vigorous cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis
with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply
imbedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous
cleanings. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to
three years.
Sur Last™ fabrics can be cleaned while still on a frame or a boat or, size
permitting, they can be removed for cleaning in a washing machine.
When cleaning Sur Last™ fabrics, it is important to observe the following:
1. Brush off loose dirt and hose it down.
2. Prepare a cleaning mixture of water and mild, natural soap (no detergents).
3. Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
4. Allow soap to soak in.
5. Rinse thoroughly and 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 your Sur Last fabric
but chlorine bleach eventually breaks down the fiber of any fabric and this
method should be used little as possible.
Prepare a special cleaning mixture:
Four ounces (half cup) of chlorine bleach.
Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of natural soap to one gallon of water.
Clean with soft bristle brush and allow mixture to soak for up to 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and Air dry.
Repeat if necessary.
If 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 Sur Last™ fabrics in your dryer
Re-treating the fabric:
As part of the finishing process, Sur Last™ fabrics are treated with a
fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This finish is designed to
last for several years, but must be replenished after a thorough cleaning. Based
on test results, Sur Last™ recommends 303 High Tech Fabric Guard™ as the
preferred re-treatment product for Sur Last™ fabrics. Fabrics should be
retreated after thorough cleaning or after five years of use. Check with your
local Upholstery dealer or distributor for more information. :
Applying 303 High Tech Fabric Guard™
303 should be applied to Sur Last™ fabrics after each thorough cleaning, which
typically removes the original fluorocarbon finish and reduces the fabric's
water resistance. After cleaning the fabric, allow it to air dry completely and
then apply 303 in a thin, even coat. After allowing the first coat of 303 to air
dry, apply a second thin, even coating of 303. Two light coatings are more
effective in restoring fabric water resistance than a single heavy coating. The
15-ounce bottle provides coverage of up to 50 square feet of lightweight fabric.
Please keep in mind that 303 will only work as well as you apply it. This means
that your fabric must be free of dirt and detergents or it will wash away with
the dirt particles.
With proper care and cleaning, you can expect excellent service and long life
from Sur Last™ fabric!
