The other type of convertible top is made of thick vinyl. Vinyl is a plastic product composed mostly of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and made flexible with the addition of plasticizers. The vinyl top may look like a canvas material, but upon close inspection, you can see that the "canvas" is simply an impression stamped into the vinyl when it is manufactured. It is normal for the plasticizers to gradually dry out over time, causing the material to crack and eventually split. With proper care, however, this process can be slowed significantly.

Both types of tops are faced with a myriad of potential contamination sources, including acid rain, heat, ultraviolet rays, smog, tree sap, bird droppings, salt, tar, dirt, grease, grit, and mold. A consistent finding in my research on care of convertible tops is the importance of regular and proper cleaning, which helps to remove the contaminants that can damage the material, as well as regular application of an appropriate protectant, which helps to prevent the contaminants from reaching the material in the first place. You must use the right chemical for the surface of concern.

Vinyl Top Cleaner utilizes a unique "colloidal" action to lift and suspend oil, grease and dirt. It does not contain soap, detergents, toxic organics, phosphates, nitrates or caustics. Vinyl Top Cleaner is extremely effective and extremely safe and leaves no residue like most cleaners.

Aerospace Protectant adds years to the life of your vinyl top. Specifically developed for aerospace and aviation applications, "303 Aerospace Protectant" is the Worlds most effective UV screening product. Unlike other "protectant" products,  Aerospace Protectant leaves a beautiful like-new, non-oily, anti-static finish that does not attract dust. Surfaces stay cleaner, reducing maintenance.