Half the fun of owning a Jeep, convertible, or off-road vehicle is taking the top off or removing parts of it to let the breeze flow through your hair. For all you Jeep lovers out there, going without the doors on and only a bikini top might be a lot of fun in the summer, but we doubt you'll be keeping that setup in the winter.
Regardless of why you need to change up your vehicle’s top, it's important to store your soft top properly, especially if you’re storing it for the winter or another long period. We take you through how to safely store your soft top long-term.
Clean Your Soft Top Before You Store Your Soft Top
Before you even store your soft top you need to make sure it's clean. The last thing you want is salt, dirt, or other types of debris damaging the soft top over time. Fortunately, at ExtremeTerrain we offer cleaning kits that will help you wash away grime.
We also recommend sealing your soft top before you store it. Most cleaning kits from brands like Bestop will include window cleaners, sealant, and other products that will help you keep your soft top secure during the storage process. Sealing your soft top is important because it prevents debris from accumulating on the surface, which improves its lifespan during storage.
Cleaning the windows and top is important, but don't forget about the hardware. Zippers, clasps, and other accessories also need a little bit of love. Lubricant options for zippers will keep them moving smoothly to prevent damage to the material, and we advise against using them in freezing temperatures to avoid damage.
Cover Your Soft Top
It's important to cover your soft top when you store it. There are plenty of cover options you can choose from, along with storage bags you can put parts of the soft top in. Plus, you can store the soft top while it's on your Jeep if you use an all-weather cab cover. Tighter options are also available, like cab covers, so there are plenty of storage solutions if you need to leave your vehicle outside.
That said, we also recommend covering your vehicle if you plan on keeping it in your garage. While garages will shield your top from the elements, dust, insects, and other types of debris can still get on the top and damage it. In these cases, a traditional cover or even a trail cover are both viable options.
Store Your Soft Top Somewhere Climate-Controlled
Cleaning your soft top and keeping it safe with a cover are helpful but the icing on the cake is temperature and climate control. If possible, storing your soft top in a place that has less than 60% humidity is ideal. While you can't control the weather that Mother Nature throws your way, you can use a dehumidifier or humidifier to keep your soft top storage area between 40 and 60% humidity.
You also want to avoid storing your soft top in a place where it will freeze and thaw. Unfortunately, this will stretch the material and lead to hardware failure. For these reasons, the ideal temperature range to keep your soft top safe is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Upgrade Your Soft Top
Whether your soft top is beat up, or you’re dealing with an outdated top on a 1990s Wrangler, maybe it's time to upgrade your soft top. A new soft top made with premium materials will last longer than some of the canvas or cloth tops from a decade or two ago. Plus, who doesn't love an excuse to treat themselves and their Jeep with a new accessory?
While you might have to pay a little extra upfront, you'll find that it's worth the investment because you won't have to replace the top as often. This applies to mesh tops, OEM-style tops, and all other types of Jeep, Bronco, and convertible soft tops.
Safely Store Your Soft Top Long-Term with Help from ExtremeTerrain
Soft tops are made with durable materials that are built to withstand the elements, but that doesn't mean you should always expose them to them. If you want to safely store your soft top for the long term make sure you keep it clean, cover it, and store it in the right place.
If you ever need cleaning kits, covers, or even storage bags, always choose ExtremeTerrain. We make it easy to filter through options for soft tops and our sales techs will help you find the parts you’re looking for. Order online today for convenient shipping options you won't find anywhere else.
