Sail Cleaning

[Mikle Spilde]

I'm fixing up a Reinell 26 which has been neglected for many years. The mainsail is in good shape, but needs to be cleaned. I would like to do this myself as there are other aspects of the boat resurrection which are going to require some cash outlay. Does anyone have suggestions on the best way to clean a sail - type of soap, etc. Anything I specifically should or should not do. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

 

[Don Evans]

Ivory Snow Flakes, Garden Hose and a Deck Brush

You won't get them to pristine condition but you may whiten them a bit. Roll the sail out on the lawn, and go at it with the soap flakes and brush. Hose off the soap after your scrub. For deeply imbedded stains you could try some spot remover made for synthetic fibers, but go easy with it. For an experts opinion, phone a local sail loft and chat up the owner for their tips on cleaning. Good luck.Don

 

[Dan Ulrich]

Bathtub

Mikle:I just dumped a cup of liquid Tide in the bathtub and soaked the sails overnight. A couple of rinses by emptying the tub and re-filling and draining etc. and they looked good as new!

 

[Martin Stephani]

Sent my sails to Sail Care in Ford City, Pa. They were dirty, soft and in need of repair. They did a fabulous job on the repairs and cleaning, and also process the dacron to restiffen them -- almost like new. An expense was involved, but I was thrilled with the results.

 

[dave]

how much did it cost, what is their address and will they put in rub strips on the main to protect against the spreaders?

 

[Bob Camarena]

SailCare Website

I, too, recommend SailCare. They have a website.