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Jeep Wrangler JK: How to Wash Your Soft Top

Cleaning the soft top on your Jeep Wrangler is easy. Here's how.

By Charlie Gaston - December 1, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-present).

Let's face it. Every part of a vehicle needs some TLC every now and then. In many cases, you'll need to visit a specialist or employ specialized tools to complete the job, but not when it comes to cleaning the soft top on your Jeep Wrangler. This durable material is easy to maintain, but should be washed every few weeks to protect its beauty, durability and functionality. Using a good brush and a high quality soft top fabric cleaner, you can clean your soft top easily and cheaply in minutes. Or, if you choose, you can simply head down to your local car wash, but you'll spend much more in doing so.

Materials Needed

  • Soft top fabric cleaner
  • Soft top protectant
  • Scrub brush
  • Water
  • Soft top cleaning and care kit (optional)

Step 1 – Go for quality

While you might be tempted to use a window cleaner or other generic automotive cleaner on your soft top, it's highly recommended that you don't. For the best, we recommend using a high quality fabric top cleaning and care kit. BesTop (cleaner and protector) and 303 (protectant only) are the go-to brands for the Jeep Wrangler. Either purchase an individual soft top cleaner with an accompanying protectant, or purchase a full kit to enjoy the greatest savings.

Figure 1. BesTop is a highly reviewed product.

Step 2 – Wash your soft top

Using a scrub brush, clean your soft top starting from one end and moving to the next. Add additional product for especially muddy or dirty areas, paying special attention to areas where mud has become dry or dirt has become embedded into the pours of the fabric.

Step 3 – Visit a local car wash

Of course, you can always opt to visit a car wash if you don't want to buy the cleaning materials or get your hands dirty. While you will notice loud noises and strong vibrations when driving your Jeff Wrangler through a car wash, the soft top will not become damaged or buckle under the pressure of the harsh spray. It's not necessary to visit a specialty car wash facility or return to your local Jeep dealer for professional assistance. Simply visit a local car wash facility, allow the machines to do their job, and then drive away without needing to do anything else.

Featured Video: 2012 JK Wrangler Soft Top Car Wash

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