Submitted on September 27, 2005 by Howard Staley

Question: I have a Catalina 36 with North Genoa and Main. The Genoa has become very dirty with what appears to be mildew. The cleaning service said they cannot clean it because the sail cloth is made of NorLam and the laminate would separate. How can I clean this sail, or to whom can I send it for cleaning? The sail itself is in excellent condition.

Thank you,
Howard Staley

Answer: Hi Howard, the cleaning service gave you good advice. You are better off cleaning the laminated sails by hand, rather than subjecting them to soaking or agitating cleaning procedures. You can go at the mildew areas with diluted household bleach. Try a solution of 30 parts water and 1 part bleach. Wipe it on the mildew area with a sponge and scrub with a soft brush. Then rinse it with a lot of clean water.

Regards,
Dan Neri

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