How to keep your convertible interior looking great

As premium sports cars, convertibles offer drivers a sporty yet sophisticated vehicle option, ideal for driving with the top down on sunny days. One problem with a convertible, however, is that harsh sunlight and inclement weather can damage the interior. Luckily, you can easily protect the inside of your convertible with a few simple steps.

Method 1 of 3: convertible top maintenance

Necessary materials

• Car shampoo (formulated according to the material type of your outerwear)
• Convertible top protector (designed according to the material type of your top)
• Microfiber towels
• Plastic cleaner (for vinyl window top)
• Soft bristle brush

One of the easiest and best ways to protect a convertible's interior is to make sure its roof stays in good condition. A leaky top, or one that goes down all the time, can cause the interior to deteriorate as a result of damage to the outside elements, including rain and sun. Remember to properly clean the convertible top and keep it closed when the vehicle is not in use or in bad weather. You should clean the convertible top regularly – at least once a week or while washing the rest of the car – to keep it in the best possible shape.

Step 1: Wash Convertible Top. Start by rinsing the top with water while it's closed.

This helps to loosen and remove any large areas of dirt and debris.

Step 2: Shampoo the Convertible Top. Then apply a mild car shampoo.

Make sure it is for the material of your outerwear, be it vinyl or fabric.

Avoid car shampoos that enhance shine, as they are meant to be used on the body of your car, not convertible roofs.

You can also remove stubborn stains, dirt and debris with a soft bristle brush.

Step 3: Spray the cleaner. After cleaning the convertible top with a cleaning agent and a brush, rinse it off.

Once all the shampoo has been rinsed off, let the top dry.

Step 4: Spray on convertible top protective film.. This helps ensure that the upper is protected from the harsh rays of the sun and won't crack.

You should apply the convertible top protective film at least once a month to ensure maximum protection.

Method 2 of 3: Keep your interior clean

Necessary materials

• Cleaner (designed for your car's interior material)
• Air conditioning (designed for the interior material of your car)
• Microfiber towels
• Soft bristle brush
• vacuum

In addition to keeping the convertible top clean and in good condition, you should also clean the interior of your vehicle regularly. Cleaning your car's interior keeps it clean and smells good, and helps protect it from damage. Clean the inside of your car at least once a week or whenever you wash the outside of your car.

Step 1: Clear out the trash. Clean up any trash at least once a week.

This will prevent unpleasant odors in the vehicle interior and prevent dirt and debris from accumulating.

Step 2: Wipe down all surfaces. Wipe surfaces such as seats, dashboard, console and doors with a damp microfiber cloth.

Leather surfaces are fine as long as the microfiber towel isn't too wet.

Step 3: Apply cleaner to the inside. If necessary, apply a cleaner to the interior surfaces.

You may not need to do this every week, depending on how messy your interior gets.

Step 4: Shake out the rugs. Remove and shake out floor mats.

Floor mats prevent dirt and debris from getting onto the carpet.

Step 5: Vacuum the car. While the mats are off, take the opportunity to vacuum the carpet and other surfaces such as the seats.

Functions: Make it a habit to vacuum your car when you clean it every week. This prevents dirt and debris from getting into the carpet, making it harder to remove in the long run.

Step 6: Apply Conditioner. Depending on the material of your interior, apply the appropriate conditioner.

Many conditioners provide UV protection and can prevent cracking of surfaces such as vinyl and leather. Just remember to clean the surfaces before applying the protector.

Method 3 of 3: Buy a sun visor

You can also use a sun visor to keep the sun's rays from damaging the interior surfaces of your convertible. With the top up and the sun visor in place, few rays can get in and cause any damage.

Step 1: Unfold the sun visor. Your first step is to fully open the sun visor while sitting in the front seat.

Most sun umbrellas fold up and are held in place with elastic straps.

Step 2: Install the sun visor. Attach the bottom of the sun visor to the bottom of the windshield.

Then lift up the sun visor. When positioned correctly, it should have a section that fits into the rearview mirror.

Step 3: Lower the sun visors. Finally, lower the sun visors on each side.

Sun visors should hold the sun visor in place.

To remove the sun visor, simply reverse the above instructions.

Protecting the interior of a convertible car is simply cleaning the convertible top and the inside of the car regularly, applying the appropriate protective equipment, and using devices such as a sun visor to protect against UV rays. If you ever have a problem with your convertible top, you can always go to a mechanic for quick and helpful answers.