Cleaning-Waterproofing boat cover

[Iambjm]

I have one of those generic canvas boat covers which has gotten quite dirty. What are some cleaning and waterproofing tips?

[sparcebag]

It should'nt be scrubbed too much! canvas is water resistant because the fibers swell when wet,scrubbing removes & destroys fibers.I lay mine flat spray with mild bleach solution and use a medium bristle brush on real dirty spots rinse well,then repeat process with a mild soap & water mix,rinse 2Xs hang to dry,Make sure its REAL dry or mildew starts then it'll never come out (stains) NO water proofing it will stop fibers from getting wet and swelling,there are canvas treatment products.I've never used them. After researching this last fall extensivly to remove mildew.After I finished all the bleach & mild soap I took it to laundrymat & used big machine 1 wash cycle then 1 whole cycle without soap,Its cleaner but the mildew stains are yet there just not as bad.