Do you want to know which Ultramar products to use before and after applying Canvas & Cotton Protector? Here you can read the correct order and why this sequence is important for long-lasting protection.
Which Ultramar products do you use before Canvas & Cotton Protector?
Canvas & Cotton Protector is always the final step – the protection step.
Before that, use:
- Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo – to clean the cotton fabric.
- Power Cleaner – only if necessary, for deeply embedded stains or stubborn contamination.
- Canvas & Cotton Protector – to restore water repellency.
This order is essential. Protection only bonds properly to clean and completely dry cotton fabric.
Why is cleaning important before waterproofing cotton?
Cotton is an absorbent material. Dirt, dust and old residues can sit deep inside the fibres.
If you waterproof without cleaning first:
- The product may absorb unevenly
- The protection may not last as long
- Contaminated areas may remain visible
A clean surface ensures that Canvas & Cotton Protector can penetrate the fibres evenly.
When should you use Power Cleaner before Canvas & Cotton Protector?
Use Power Cleaner when regular cleaning is not sufficient.
This applies in cases of:
- Deeply embedded stains
- Stubborn contamination
- Difficult-to-remove discoloration
Power Cleaner does not replace the shampoo. It is a targeted second step. After use, rinse the fabric thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before applying the protector.
Do you need to reapply protection after every cleaning?
This depends on the condition of the existing protection layer.
Cleaning can reduce water repellency. After the fabric has dried, always test:
- Place a few drops of water on the fabric.
- If the water beads on the surface, reapplication is not yet necessary.
- If the water soaks in, it is time to reapply protection.
After intensive use or thorough cleaning, reapplying protection is often recommended.
Why does waterproofing work better on clean cotton fabric?
Waterproofing works by penetrating the fibres.
If the fibres are contaminated, absorption is reduced. This can result in less even and less durable protection.
Clean and completely dry fabric ensures:
- Better absorption of the product
- More even results
- Longer-lasting protection
What should you use after applying Canvas & Cotton Protector?
After applying Canvas & Cotton Protector, no additional product is needed.
Allow the fabric to dry completely in open air. Only fold or store it once it is fully dry.
Do not apply additional coatings or other products over the waterproofed surface.
What do you need for complete maintenance?
For full maintenance of cotton tent fabric, use:
- Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo
- Power Cleaner (if needed)
- Canvas & Cotton Protector
Ultramar offers maintenance bundles that combine these products in the correct order. Bundles are often more cost-effective than purchasing products separately.
Cotton requires a relatively large amount of waterproofing product. Make sure you have enough before starting. Running out during treatment is inconvenient and can affect the final result. It is better to choose a slightly larger packaging size. Extra product is useful for touch-ups or future maintenance.
In short
Canvas & Cotton Protector is always the final step in maintaining cotton fabric. First clean with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo, use Power Cleaner if necessary, and then apply protection.
By following this fixed order, you ensure even and long-lasting protection for your tent or canvas fabric.
Ultramar helps consumers clean, maintain and protect boat covers, tents, convertible roofs, plastic windows and other outdoor materials themselves, using PFAS-free maintenance products that are easy to use at home and based on a proven three-step maintenance process.

