A soft top gives you versatility and open air freedom, its a favorite among off roaders and daily drivers. But over time the material gets stiff and hard to manage. Softening your Jeep soft top will make it easier to install, remove and fold. In this guide we’ll go over the steps to soften a Jeep soft top so it will last and be easy to use.
Jeep soft tops are made of durable material that can withstand the elements. But sun, wind, rain and cold can make the material stiff and less flexible. Softening the soft top will not only make it easier to manage but also maintain its looks and durability. This guide will walk you through the steps to soften your Jeep soft top.
Steps to Soften a Jeep Soft Top
1. Clean the Soft Top
Before you start the softening process you need to clean your Jeep soft top. Dirt and grime can interfere with the softening agents and make the fabric harder.
Materials:
- Mild soap or soft top cleaner
- Soft brush or sponge
- Water
Instructions:
- Rinse: Rinse off any loose dirt and debris from the soft top with water.
- Apply: Mix mild soap with water or use soft top cleaner. Apply to the fabric with a soft brush or sponge.
- Scrub: Scrub gently in circular motions don’t scratch the fabric.
- Rinse: Rinse off the soap or cleaner with water, make sure no residue is left behind.
- Dry: Let the soft top dry completely before moving on to the next steps.
2. Condition the Soft Top
Conditioning the soft top will restore its flexibility and softness. Use a high quality fabric conditioner specifically designed for Jeep soft tops.
Materials:
- Fabric conditioner (for soft tops)
- Soft cloth or sponge
Instructions:
- Apply: Apply the fabric conditioner to a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rub: Rub the conditioner into the fabric in circular motions, cover the entire soft top.
- Let it Soak: Let the conditioner soak into the fabric for the recommended time (usually on the product label).
- Buff: Buff the surface of the soft top with a clean dry cloth to remove excess conditioner.
3. Heat it up
Heat will soften the fabric, make it more flexible and easier to manage. Be careful not to overheat.
Materials:
- Hairdryer or heat gun (low heat)
- Soft cloth
Instructions:
- Warm Up: Use a hairdryer or heat gun on low heat to warm up the fabric. Move the heat around so you don’t scorch any one spot.
- Flex: While warming the fabric, flex and bend the soft top to loosen the fibers.
- No Direct Heat: Don’t hold the heat too close to the fabric.
4. Store
Proper storage will prevent the soft top from becoming stiff again. Always store your soft top in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and extreme temps.
Instructions:
- Fold Nice: When removing the soft top, fold it nice so you don’t get creases and wrinkles.
- Soft Top Storage Bag: Store the soft top in a storage bag designed for Jeep soft tops to keep it dust and debris free.
- No Heavy Objects: Don’t put heavy objects on top of the stored soft top.
5. Maintenance
Maintenance is key to keeping your Jeep soft top soft. Add these to your maintenance schedule.
Instructions:
- Clean Often: Clean the soft top often to prevent dirt and grime buildup.
- Condition Every Few Months: Condition the fabric every few months to keep it soft.
- Inspect for Damage: Inspect the soft top regularly for wear or damage and fix it ASAP.
Conclusion
Softening your Jeep soft top makes a big difference. By following these steps—cleaning, conditioning, heat, storage and maintenance—you’ll keep your soft top flexible and easy to use. This will not only make your driving experience better but also keep your soft top looking and functioning great for years to come.
