Soft-top care: How to clean and look after your convertible soft-top properly

A ofttop is exposed to the sun, dirt and the elements every day. To ensure the fabric remains supple and provides a reliable seal for a long time, it needs regular and proper care. In this guide, KHM explains what really matters, what mistakes you should avoid and how you can keep your softtop in top condition for many years with a few simple steps.

The most common mistakes when looking after a softtop

Many problems aren’t caused by driving itself, but by bad everyday habits. For example, leaving a convertible parked outside all the time isn’t good for its longevity. Of course, doing so now and then won’t do any harm, but if a soft top is left unprotected in the sun or under trees for weeks on end, this can significantly shorten its lifespan. UV radiation dries out the fabric, whilst pollen, tree sap or bird droppings leave stubborn stains; prolonged dampness encourages mildew and mould. A garage or a carport are your best options here.

Equally underestimated is the fact that a soft top should not be left open for longer than necessary. This isn’t a problem whilst driving or during short stops. However, if a convertible’s soft top remains open for hours or even days and is left in the soft-top compartment, creases will form which can be more difficult to smooth out later. In addition, dust and dirt can accumulate. PVC rear windows, in particular, are sensitive to such conditions. If the soft top is opened and folded whilst still damp, the trapped moisture can lead to mould growth.

Another important point to bear in mind is how to handle the soft top in cold weather. When the temperature drops into single figures, PVC panels become brittle and may break. Opening or closing the soft top in these conditions can then cause tears. Ice scrapers or harsh de-icing sprays should also not be used, to avoid damaging the fabric or the panels.

How to look after your softtop properly – the KHM professional guide

A high-quality fabric soft top does not need constant, intensive care. In fact, too much care often does more harm than good. Many owners want to look after their vehicle, but then resort to harsh cleaning products or clean it much more frequently than necessary. A gentle approach is the better way here. A soft top needs attention when dirt is visible or when water no longer beads off properly during the next rain shower.

Reacting quickly when dirt appears is one of the best care tips of all. Fresh dirt can be removed easily, whilst dried-on stains penetrate deeper into the fibres and require much more effort to clean. A quick glance at the soft top before every journey is often enough to nip the problem in the bud.

Choosing the right place to carry out the maintenance is also important. If you clean your soft top in direct sunlight, you run the risk of the cleaning products drying too quickly and leaving residue on the fabric. A shaded spot ensures that the cleaning can be carried out gently and carefully.

When it comes to actually cleaning the soft top, the key is to be gentle, thorough and patient. A soft natural-fibre brush, lukewarm water and a special soft-top cleaner are ideal for the job. Apply the cleaner evenly and work it in using light pressure. Vigorous scrubbing or hard brushes will damage the material and may roughen the fabric. Once all residues have been thoroughly rinsed off, the soft top should be left to dry completely before it is closed again or treated with a water-repellent.

When waterproofing is advisable

Many people believe that a convertible top needs to be waterproofed regularly. However, this is a misconception. New fabric soft tops have excellent water-repellent properties straight from the factory. It is only after several years that this natural protective layer begins to wear off. A good way to test this is to observe how the water runs off after the next rain shower: if it beads up and runs off cleanly, there is no need for treatment. If, on the other hand, dark puddles form or the water clings to the surface, a high-quality waterproofing treatment may be advisable, particularly if the vehicle is frequently parked outdoors.

We explain in detail how to apply a waterproofing treatment correctly in our separate article on waterproofing car tops cabrioverdeck-impraegnieren-anleitung, which provides a step-by-step guide to what you need to bear in mind.

What should you do about stubborn stains or mould?

Mould stains usually occur when a soft top is folded back whilst still slightly damp and left in that state, or when the fabric is left in a cool, poorly ventilated environment for a prolonged period. In such conditions, mould spores can spread particularly easily, leaving the typical dark discolouration.

Mild mildew stains can often be removed effectively using specialised cleaning products or gentle fabric cleaners. It is important to allow the cleaner to work for long enough and then rinse the fabric thoroughly to ensure no residue remains. Take care to avoid using substances that are too harsh, as these can damage the fabric. Drying the item thoroughly once more in a well-ventilated place also helps to prevent the stains from reappearing.

However, if the mould has penetrated deeper into the fabric, or if the soft top appears to be older, more delicate or heavily worn, conventional household and cleaning products usually reach their limits. In such cases, professional deep cleaning is recommended, during which the material is treated gently but much more thoroughly. This not only removes the mould itself, but also refreshes and protects the fibres, ensuring that the soft top remains durable overall.

When cleaning is no longer enough

Even the best soft top will wear out eventually. If the fabric becomes rough, the seams start to fray, the material absorbs moisture or the soft top develops permanent creases, even thorough cleaning and regular maintenance will no longer be enough to ensure it continues to function properly and provide protection in the long term.

This raises the important question of whether a repair is still worthwhile or whether replacement is the better and more long-term solution. Minor damage such as loose seams, isolated leaks or mechanical problems can only be temporarily resolved as a form of emergency repair. However, in cases of severe material wear, widespread moisture penetration or age-related material fatigue, a new soft top can not only improve the vehicle’s appearance but also significantly enhance comfort, safety and the vehicle’s resale value.

An expert assessment helps to provide a realistic evaluation of the soft top’s actual condition and to make a financially sound decision.

Conclusion: If you look after your convertible top properly, you’ll enjoy it for many years to come

Convertible tops are hard-wearing, and many high-quality fabrics will last for decades. To ensure they remain in good condition, there is no need for excessive maintenance or constant waterproofing. If you take care of your convertible top’s basic needs – regular, gentle cleaning, protection from extreme weather, careful handling in cold conditions and occasional checks to ensure water runs off properly – you will enjoy it for many years to come.

If you’re unsure whether your soft top is still in good condition or is already showing the first signs of wear, you can contact KHM at any time. We’ll be happy to advise you on possible repairs, material issues or replacing a soft top, and help you find the best solution for your convertible. You can easily reach us by email at