Cleaning the canvas???

[jcquads]

Got a 1999 19'  Aerolite Aero Cub.And it has some mold on the canvas.What is the best stuff to use to get the mold off?
Thanks

[tlhdoc]

I don't know what type of tenting your camper has, but to get mold/mildew off you usually need to use a bleach solution.  I would contact the manufacturer and ask what they recommend.

[Chiisai]

I think I would stay away from the bleaches.  The big handbook that came with my popup says to first brush as much of the mold off of the canvas with a soft bristle brush, then apply/wash with a solution of 1 Tablespoon ammonia, 1/4 cup Hydrogen Peroxide, and 3/4 cup water; rinse with water and let dry.

I work for a chemical solvent company; my boss (along with the warehouse manager) tells me that bleach will ruin the vinyl on the canvas tents (it breaks down the structure of the vinyl much like bleach breaks down rubber in elastic).

If in doubt, I would try to secure a care and maintenance book for your popup or contact the dealer/maufacturer for precise instructions on removing mold from your specific popup.

I don't know what type of tenting your camper has, but to get mold/mildew off you usually need to use a bleach solution.  I would contact the manufacturer and ask what they recommend.

[flyfisherman]

Starcraft (who use Aqualon), recommend for the canvas cleaning itself, Tilex, X-14 or 1/4 cup of Clorox per gallon of warm water. Then to be sure and rinse thoroughly as bleaching compounds not rinsed completely can cause thread deterioration.

Been doing the "trick" for mildew on my Starcraft since 2000 and the canvas is still doing fine.



Fly

[tlhdoc]

I think I would stay away from the bleaches.

If you notice I stated that I did not know what the tenting is and recommended contacting the manufacturer.  My tenting is Sunbrella and bleach is what is recommend.  It may not be what is recommended for your tenting, but it is often the only thing that will totally get rid of mildew.

[BigJohn]

I had a similar problem, and found that the Mr. Clean, sponge cleaner did a wonderful job, doesn't have bleach in it and was effortless to use. We also used it on our awning to take of all the various stains from weather, roll-up, leaves and other stains. We've had heavy rains the last couple of days, and no leaks on the bunk cover, which is a Sunbrella.....JMHO

I might add, the awning looks brand new.... :U