Top Notch 9

The described cleaning procedure can remove the majority of stains generally encountered on outdoor fabrics (awnings, boat covers, etc.). Typical stains can occur from oils, dirt, bird and animal droppings, dust smears, food, or grease. Keyston Bros recommends using a soap and not a detergent. Soaps and detergents are similar in that they both contain substances called surfactants that make water wetter. Surfactants, or surface active agents, reduce the surface tension of water so that dirt, grease and grime dissolve and wash away more easily. Soaps and detergents are made from a fat or oil combined with a caustic substance such as lye. The primary difference is that soaps are made from naturally occurring animal fats or vegetable oils, while detergents are surfactants derived from synthetic sources, such as petroleum. Typically, detergents work better on stains that are harder to remove. The issue is that when using a detergent, because of the surfactants, it will be very difficult to completely remove the residue causing the effectiveness of any post treatment water repellent to be greatly reduced. Anything that says “soap” and not “detergent” can be used. If you are dealing with a stubborn stain or dirt and you need to use a detergent, Keyston Bros has had success using a 10% solution of Mean Green via a spray bottle. Just remember to take extra care when applying the post treatment water repellent.