[bolger] Cleaning sails
Hi, still (not) learning how to respond to other e-mails...
James Fuller asked about putting his sail in the washing machine. Page
380 of the Sailmaker's Apprentice says not to do that, or you get "a
lifeless, weakened bag". He suggests a 24 hour soak in a large tub of
fresh water with mild detergent such as Ivory Flakes, agitated
periodically with a paddle. The scrub spots with a soft brush, don't
back the sail with anything abrasive like laying it on concrete while
you scrub.
Occasional bleaching is okay, using domestic bleach such a Clorox,
mixed with 10 parts cold water. Time suggested for soaking is 2 or
more hours, extra time doesn't seem to make much difference.
Advises against bleaching nylon or coloured sails. All sails should be
thoroughly rinsed after.
Note this is all out of the book -- I've not tried it.
Jamie Orr
James Fuller asked about putting his sail in the washing machine. Page
380 of the Sailmaker's Apprentice says not to do that, or you get "a
lifeless, weakened bag". He suggests a 24 hour soak in a large tub of
fresh water with mild detergent such as Ivory Flakes, agitated
periodically with a paddle. The scrub spots with a soft brush, don't
back the sail with anything abrasive like laying it on concrete while
you scrub.
Occasional bleaching is okay, using domestic bleach such a Clorox,
mixed with 10 parts cold water. Time suggested for soaking is 2 or
more hours, extra time doesn't seem to make much difference.
Advises against bleaching nylon or coloured sails. All sails should be
thoroughly rinsed after.
Note this is all out of the book -- I've not tried it.
Jamie Orr