If you require a quick answer, the best soft top cleaner is the Autoglym 255003, which comes complete with a cleaner and protector for all-round soft top maintenance. However, if you only require a cleaner, the Meguiar’s G2016 is the best alternative that can be used upon all convertible roof tops.
In order to rate the soft top cleaners within this article, we based our recommendations upon testing, research and a number of factors. The factors that we considered included the supplied contents within the kit, compatibility with convertible roof fabrics, ease of application and value for money.
Table of Contents
Soft Top Cleaner Comparison
| Soft Top Cleaner | Kit | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Autoglym 255003 | Cleaner & Protector | 500 ml |
| Meguiar’s G2016 | Cleaner | 473 ml |
| Renovo International | Cleaner | 500 ml |
| Turtle Wax All In One | Cleaner & Conditioner | 500 ml |
| Auto Finesse Rag Top | Cleaner | 500 ml |
| Protex Care Kit | Cleaner & Waterproofer | 500 ml |
Compared to standard metal roofs, convertible soft tops require far more maintenance in order to maintain a stylish appearance. A dedicated cleaner is highly recommended as they safely power through even the most stubborn of dirt.
Below is a list of the best soft top cleaners that are easy to use and highly effective on a range of convertible tops.
The Best Soft Top Cleaner
1. Autoglym Soft Top Clean & Protect Kit
By far the most popular soft top cleaner and protector on the market is the Autoglym kit and it’s designed for natural and synthetic fabric roofs. In terms of the cleaner, the brand states that it easily removes stubborn dirt and green algae whilst restoring the roof to its original colour.
Other features of the Autoglym 255003 Kit include:
- Cleaner and protector kit
- Supplied with an applicator
- Suitable for natural and synthetic fabrics
- Easy to apply both formulas
- Made in the UK
Overall, the Autoglym Soft Top Kit is the ultimate maintenance bundle that’s designed to restore your roof to a “like new” condition and help to preserve it during the winter months. Considering that you get two bottles and a high quality applicator, it also offers great value for the money too.
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2. Meguiar’s Convertible Top Cleaner
Another popular soft top cleaner that’s produce by a reputable brand is the Meguiar’s Convertible Cleaner, which the brand states is suitable for all convertible tops.
In terms of using the formula, rinse the roof beforehand with water to remove loose debris and then spray the cleaner liberally. Once the roof is covered, use a suitable wash mitt to agitate it thoroughly and then rinse it clear with water.
Other features of the Meguiar’s Convertible Cleaner include:
- Guaranteed safe and effective
- Removes contaminants and stains
- High quality trigger spray bottle (473 ml)
- Biodegradable formula
The Meguiar’s Convertible Cleaner is the ultimate formula for tackling any convertible roof in need of a thorough clean. If you would also like to protect the roof straight after, the brand also offer a Weatherproofer Spray to accompany the cleaner. However, the expensive price tag when compared to the Autoglym alternative may put some people off.
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3. Renovo Fabric Soft Top Cleaner
Although Renovo may not be a well-known brand among most detailing enthusiasts, they actually produce some of the best rated soft top maintenance products on the market. Their fabric soft top cleaner is a great example that’s ideal for regular cleaning of your soft top for maximum freshness.
Other features of the Renovo Fabric Roof Cleaner include:
- Water based formula
- Designed specifically for fabric soft tops
- 500 ml bottle
- Made in the UK
The Renovo Soft Top Cleaner is a highly rated option that’s easy to use and very effective at removing algae and other tough dirt. For the best results, it’s recommended that you use an appropriate brush for agitating the cleaner into the dirt.
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4. Turtle Wax All In One Kit
One of the cheapest complete soft top maintenance kits that’s actually worth buying is the Turtle Wax All In One. It comes with both a cleaner and conditioner that are easy to apply and suitable for all types of convertible roof tops.
Other features of the Turtle Wax All In One Kit include:
- 2 x 500 ml spray bottles
- Long lasting water repellent finish
- Easy to apply both formulas
- Suitable for all fabric roofs
- Requires a brush for application
Overall, the Turtle Wax All In One is the best value soft top cleaner and protector kit on the market that actually works. As long as you follow the instructions on the bottle, you will be able to restore the roof back to its original condition after a single application of both formulas.
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5. Auto Finesse Rag Top Hood Cleaner
The Auto Finesse Rag Top is a deep cleansing shampoo formula that’s been developed and tested by professional detailers. Whether you are tackling stubborn dirt, mould or moss, this soft top cleaner easily removes all the dirt and provides the roof with a new lease of life that lasts.
Other features of the Auto Finesse Rag Top include:
- Made in the UK
- Removes ground in dirt
- Suitable for all convertible tops
- 500 ml spray bottle
- Easy to apply
Overall, the Rag Top Cleaner by Auto Finesse is an excellent all-round option that’s affordable and highly effective. Whether you use it once a year or regularly, it’s easy to apply and won’t disappoint.
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6. Protex Convertible Soft Top Care Kit
One of the most expensive kits that comes complete with a cleaner, waterproofer and brush is by the Protex brand. It’s designed to provide a deep clean of any convertible roof and seal the restored finish from weathering.
Other features of the Protex Care Kit include:
- Cleaner and waterproofer
- Suitable for all convertible roofs
- Supplied with an applicator brush
- Detailed written and video instructions
- Made in the UK
Although expensive, the Protex Soft Top Care Kit comes with everything you need to maintain your car’s convertible roof. If you have never cleaned a soft top before, the brand even have very detailed video instructions so that you can achieve the best results from your first go with the products.
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How We Tested & Rated The Soft Top Cleaners
As we’ve owned a number of convertible cars over the years, we’ve gained plenty of experience using a range of soft top cleaners. As you can see in the photo, we dealt with a neglected convertible roof that the previous owner said he had never cleaned before. When cleaning it, the cleaner quickly turned brown after agitating the formula with a brush. However, the end result was very satisfying and the soft top cleaner was certainly worth the money.
As well as testing multiple cleaners, we also based our recommendations upon plenty of research and a number of factors. The factors that we considered included the supplied contents within the kit, compatibility with convertible roof fabrics, ease of application and value.
Conclusion
All of our recommendations are suitable for all convertible tops and are highly effective when used with a brush. It’s important to note that some cleaners many only be suitable for certain types such as canvas, cloth, mohair or vinyl tops. Therefore, before purchasing any of the recommendations above, ensure you read the compatible roof materials.
