How to Clean & Maintain Ripstop Canvas
Ripstop canvas is tough, but it lasts longest with a little regular care: shake off dry dirt, wash gently in cold water, dry fully before storing, keep it cool and off the floor, and reproof it once water stops beading on the surface.
Ripstop canvas is a firm favourite across South Africa – used in everything from bakkie covers in Bloemfontein to rooftop tents in the Western Cape.
Known for its tear-resistance and durability, ripstop canvas fabric is perfect for our country’s tough conditions. Whether it’s for canopies, gazebos, lapa blinds, awnings, tents, trailer covers, bike or car covers – even custom-made solutions – the strongest canvas still needs a little care.
Here are 5 expert tips to clean & maintain ripstop canvas in South Africa, so it lasts for years.
1. Shake It Off – Dry Dirt First
Before you wet anything, give your ripstop canvas a firm shake and brush-down to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. South African dust – especially in regions like Mpumalanga, the Northern Cape, or the Free State – builds up fast and, if left untreated, can embed itself into the weave and become difficult to remove once wet. A stiff-bristled brush (not a wire brush) or a soft broom works well for larger items like awnings or bakkie covers.
Pay particular attention to folded edges and corner seams where grit accumulates. If the item has been stored, check the underside as well – check for any debris before cleaning. For small items like bicycle covers or camping bags, turn them inside out and shake thoroughly.
2. Clean Ripstop Canvas with Cold Water – No Harsh Chemicals
Once loose dirt is removed, rinse the canvas with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water – heat can affect coated fabrics and reduce the effectiveness of the waterproof treatment. For stubborn marks, mix a small amount of mild liquid soap with cold water, and apply with a soft-bristled brush using gentle circular motions. Always work one section at a time and rinse thoroughly before moving on.
Do not use bleach, solvents, petroleum-based cleaners, or strong detergents – these strip the protective coating that makes ripstop canvas water-resistant. Avoid pressure washers too: they force water through the coating and into the weave, which accelerates deterioration. For mildew spots – common in coastal and high-humidity areas like Durban or Nelspruit – use a specialist canvas cleaner or a dilute white vinegar solution, rinse well, and dry fully in the sun.
The strongest canvas still needs a little care.
3. Dry Completely – Even Fungal-Resistant Canvas Needs Care
After rinsing, hang your canvas in a shaded, well-ventilated area to dry naturally. Direct sunlight is fine for drying, but prolonged UV exposure over many seasons gradually reduces tensile strength – so if drying lightweight covers or decorative pieces, minimise direct sun time. Heavier-duty items like truck tarps and shelter covers tolerate more sun exposure during drying.
Never fold or pack away damp canvas. Even though Smart Ikhaya ripstop canvas incorporates anti-fungal protection, sustained moisture trapped in a fold will eventually create conditions for surface mildew – particularly in humid coastal areas. If mildew appears, treat it immediately: brush off the surface spores outdoors, clean with dilute vinegar, and dry thoroughly before storage. Canvas with a musty smell but no visible mildew can often be refreshed with a full outdoor air-out on a warm, breezy day.
4. Store Smart – Dry, Cool, and Off the Floor
Correct storage is as important as correct cleaning. Once completely dry, fold loosely – avoid sharp creases along the same fold line every time, as this creates permanent crease lines. Store in a breathable canvas bag, a dry ventilated bin, or on a hanging rack. Do not store directly on a concrete floor – concrete draws moisture upward and can cause damp patches even when the canvas feels dry.
Keep stored canvas away from heat sources (geysers, hot water pipes, wall heaters) as prolonged heat degrades the waterproof treatment. Rodent-proof your storage area where possible – rats and mice can cause significant damage very quickly. For long-term storage (more than a few months), a light application of canvas protector spray before folding provides additional UV and water resistance.
5. Reproofing When Needed – Stay Waterproof
All water-resistant fabrics lose some of their DWR (Durable Water Repellency) over time – particularly after repeated cleaning and extended UV exposure. You will know your canvas needs reproofing when rain starts to soak into the surface rather than beading and rolling off cleanly. This is normal – it does not mean the canvas is damaged, only that the protective treatment needs refreshing.
Use a canvas waterproofing paste or spray specifically formulated for synthetic ripstop canvas. Apply evenly to dry, clean canvas, allow to cure as per the product instructions (usually 24 hours), and test with a light spray of water before returning the canvas to use. For heavy-use applications like truck tarpaulins, bakkie covers, and camping tents, reproofing once a year – ideally before the rainy season – keeps the canvas performing at its best through the full South African summer.
We supply ripstop canvas by the linear meter, with no minimum order required. Order just what you need for your repair, replacement or next project.
Order Ripstop Canvas in South Africa
Looking for high-quality ripstop canvas?
- Nationwide delivery – from Cape Town to Durban and all the bits in between and around.
- No minimum order quantities – reduce waste & cost
- WR-coated ripstop available on request
- Expert advice on the right weight & finish for your project
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