Looking for a cleaner or protectant for your tonneau cover surface? A truck can haul all day long and get dirty at the end of the day. It is essential to clean the tonneau cover from time to time. Therefore, I made a comprehensive guide on the 11 Best Tonneau Cover Protectants, which you can use without worrying about damaging the truck bed cover.
A tonneau cover is a great way to protect the truck’s bed in two possible ways; from the harsh outer elements and prey’s eyes. Truck bed covers shield the truck’s bed so that no dirt and dust come inside. Plus, it helps to improve fuel efficiency by decreasing wind drag.
The importance of protectant in cleaning the tonneau covers is not ignorable. Because it does not allow excess dirt to touch the bed surface, and safety from the weather condition is ensured. In this way, I set down tonneau cover protectants that are best for cleansing the top layer of it.
Our Top Recommendation
Truck bed covers protectants and cleaners use to throw away all the dirt, dust, and grime that accumulate over the top surface from time to time. It is essential to keep the tonneau cover in its best condition. Hence, there are following our top recommendation regarding the best tonneau cover protectants.
- 303 Aerospace Protectant – best tonneau cover cleaner and protectant
- 303 Automotive Protectant – best tonneau cover treatment Easy Application
- LEER Tonneau Cover & Truck Bed Cover Protectant – tonneau cover protectant spray Great Resistance
Review of the Best Tonneau cover Protectant
If uncared of, the tonneau cover gets damaged. To maintain its condition, several protectants and cleansers on the market claim to cleanse the bed top surface without damaging the tonneau cover.
On that account, I have utilized a few protectants to check its claim, and guess what? They wonder about their fantastic job. For that reason, I will propose a review of the best tonneau cover protectant.
303 Aerospace Protectant
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: 303 Aerospace products
- Add protection: yes
- Chemical basis: water-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Durability: more than one month
- SPF: 40
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: plastics, rubber, and vinyl surfaces
- Item weight: 8.8 pounds
- Product dimensions: 15 x 10.75 x 10.37 inches
- Shelf life: up to 2 years
Unboxing: I have installed a soft vinyl tonneau cover over my truck’s bed. Due to camping, it got dusty and looked old and crummy. To make it look good and pleasant, I ordered 303 Aerospace Protectant and received my parcel. To unbox, I came by a gallon of protection.
The product 303 AP claims that it helps to retain the previous polished and new look of your tonneau cover and allows a sleek and satin finish. It is designed to remove excess dirt and unwanted marks over the tonneau cover.
I grabbed the bottle and added some droplets to the clean microfiber cloth to give it a satin look. Ensure that you already clean the surface of the tonneau cover with soap or any detergent. It has a water-based formula that does not stick or give any greasy and oily look. Instead, it dries quickly, within 4-6 hours, allowing a matte finish with a superior appearance.
It works against fading, UV rays, discoloration, and peeling. 303 AP protectant keeps the first and dust away from the tonneau cover.
However, this product takes time to dissolve, so you have to work along it. Dampen the surface with a clean microfiber cloth after applying the protectant. Ensure that the moisture absorbs into the surface of the tonneau cover evenly.
One important feature I like is that it is made with eco-friendly and non-toxic formulas and does not harm the environment. Further, it is manufactured without silicone, ammonia, alcohol, or petroleum distillates.
The only disadvantage I can think of is that this product has a limited lifespan. If you own a truck and must drive in the rain or snow, I’m sorry to inform you that a little downpour will make your tonneau cover appear lifeless and unattractive yet again.
Unboxing & Application:
Pros
- It is effortless to use.
- Give ultimate protection against UV rays and stains.
- Allows a matte finish to the tonneau cover.
- It is odorless and non-toxic.
- Does not leave any residues.
- It feels light on pockets.
Cons
- Does not allow long-lasting durability.
Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Weiman
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: water-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: leather, stainless steel, granite
- Item weight: 3 pounds
- Product dimensions: 11.09 x 8.46 x 2.32 inches
- Shelf life: up to 2 years if the canister is unopened
Unboxing: Tonneau covers made with soft fabric are most common among truck owners. However, they ask for proper maintenance and cleaning. Therefore, I ordered a Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner for my TruXedo TruXport soft tonneau cover. The product came in a spray bottle, which is excellent.
Let me tell you about the product in detail. This protectant has a lemony fragrance and a creamy formula. It has a trigger spray which makes usage easy peasy.
In addition, Weiman cleaner is formulated with natural oils, which are safflower, avocado, sesame, and minerals oils. All these oils help retain the previous look of the tonneau cover.
Before hosing this spray over the tonneau cover, I ensured there was no dirt or dust. Because there are chances of the dust sticking instead of cleansing if a tonneau cover has mud over the top surface.
I gently wiped the surface with a clean towel when I hosed the spray on the tonneau cover. Allow the solution to let it dry completely until it cleanses and buffs to shine. It leaves a shine on the truck bed cover that looks good. Also, it does not make the tonneau cover greasy and sticky.
It cleansed the surface and spread a glossy sheen look. Moreover, this product contains UVX-15, which is exposed to sunlight and gets damaged by fading, cracking, and drying.
Weiman leather cleaner and conditioner helps restore the tonneau cover’s dull and crummy look as it cleans the embedded dirt.
Unboxing & Application:
Pros
- Helps replenish the actual look of the tonneau cover.
- It is waterproof.
- The spray mechanism is easy to operate.
- Does not leave behind a residue.
- Formulated with 4 natural oils.
- Non-flammable and contains an 8.3 value pH.
Cons
- It may offer a short effect of shine.
Fiebings Mink Oil Paste For Smooth Leather And Vinyl Condition And Protect
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Fiebings
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: oil-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: leather, vinyl
- Item form: container
- Item weight: 8 ounce
- Product dimensions: 6 x 6 x 4 inches
- Shelf life: last for years
Unboxing: Keeping your tonneau cover protected and cleansed from dust and dirt is crucial. In this way, I ordered Fiebings Mink Oil. I received the parcel and opened it. It came in a container/jar.
It is suitable for vinyl and fiber canvas materials. Moreover, it protects both hard and soft tonneau covers as well as brightens up the surface to a new and polished look. Besides, it protects the cover and prevents it from getting damaged due to cracking.
This product has a UV resistance formula, which helps to restore the actual look of the tonneau cover. In other words, if you apply this Fiebings Mink oil over the surface, you will notice the quick newness and smoothness.
It contains oil which resists water from accumulating on the water’s surface and prolongs the cover’s life. Further, it smoothens the surface and prevents the cover from cracking and getting damaged.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- It preserves the original and new look of the tonneau cover.
- Allow smoothness and shiny finish.
- This product repels water from staying over the cover.
- Keeps the cover protected from the scorching heat.
Cons
- It does not allow a matte finish.
- Might leave some white streaks.
Chemical Guys HOL_996 Convertible Top Cleaner and Convertible Top Protectant Kit
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Chemical Guys
- Adds protection: yes
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: fabric, soft vinyl
- Item form: spray bottle
- Item weight: 2.3 pounds
- Product dimensions: 10.91 x 8.11 x 6.69 inches
- Shelf life: up to 2 years if the canister is unopened
Unboxing: I always keep my tonneau cover securely with this product. Once I found my tonneau cover dull and faded from environmental stress. In order to set it into its original polished look, I grabbed protectant spray and found it finished. Then, I visited Amazon, found Chemicals Guys, and ordered this baby.
Upon unboxing, I received two bottles; one is a UV protection stain blocker. The second bottle is a stain remover surface cleaner. Additionally, It comes along with a microfiber cloth and a brush.
This is the ultimate formula to regain the factory appearance of the tonneau cover when it gets dull and faded. It has a harmless and non-toxic formula that is safe for any soft fiber material. The UV formula protects the cover from getting discoloration.
Similarly, its ultimate stain-repellent feature keeps the cover in new condition. Further, it prolongs the life of the truck bed cover with the convertible top.
All you need to do is clean the surface of the tonneau cover before applying it. Then wait for it to completely dry. Next, hose the spray and let it soak.
Chemical Guys help to retain the factory look. It protects the cover against road dust, tree sap, water spots, and other environmental components.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- It repels moisture.
- This cleanser is easy to use.
- Restores factory look.
- Works and is suitable for all colors.
- Cancel all the dirt and stains.
- It comes along with a brush and microfiber cloth.
Cons
- It only goes for a short time.
- Does not suitable for a fiberglass tonneau cover.
- Several coats are required.
Meguiar’s G2016 Convertible Top Cleaner
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Meguiar’s
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: oil-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: vinyl and fabric convertible tops
- Item form: spray
- Item weight: 1.1 pounds
- Product dimensions: 4.2 x 1.9 x 10.8 inches
Unboxing: Owing a tonneau cover is all fun until it loses its color and becomes dull due to dirt and grime accumulating over it. I went to a mechanic, who suggested a top cleanser for my top cleaner. I ordered Meguiar’s G2016 convertible top cleaner and received it. It came in a spray bottle.
The Meguiar’s cleaner is an excellent choice for your vinyl and fabric-made tonneau covers. It claims to regain the previous shiny look of your cover. Ensure you wet the surface and hose the spray to clean your top. Next, grab a brush and gently rub it over the surface to take out the dirt.
Further, rinse the top with lukewarm water to wash away all the foam the cleaner makes. Also, when you wash the top, it ensures the quality of the cleaner and how water-repellent it is.
It contains biodegradable material, which removes stubborn water stains, mildew, bird dropping, and oil. It works so well that a minimal spray creates bubbles and foam.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- Only works on fabric and vinyl tops.
- Handy application with a spray bottle.
- Prevent stains and grime from accumulating over the top.
Cons
- Leave some residue left behind.
303 Automotive Protectant
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: 303 Automotive
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: oil-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: plastic, vinyl, and rubber
- Item form: spray bottle
- Item weight: 1 pound
- Product dimensions: 3.9 x 1.8 x 11 inches
- Shelf life: up to 2 years
Unboxing: Ordering 303 Automotive Protectant for my soft tonneau cover. Received my parcel after a couple of days and opened it. The sealing packaging was terrific, and it came in a spray bottle.
303 Automotive Protectant is a redesigned version of the world-famous 303 Aerospace Protectant. One of the most versatile detailing solutions you’ll ever buy is 303 Automotive Protectant. This unique composition protects vinyl, rubber, and plastic interior and external surfaces from UV rays.
To apply, make sure your cover is clean already. I hosed this spray over the top of your tonneau cover and used a microfiber cloth to distribute the formula. It has SPF 40, which allows the highest UV protection on the cover.
I found this product stain-resistant. It cleansed the top of my tonneau cover with its excellent formula. Plus, it helps in restoring the factory look of my tonneau cover.
For maximum UV protection, you must apply it after every 3-5 weeks. This formula is not greasy and oily, unlike many other protectants that leave greasy residues. In Fact, it allows a matte finish to the top that does not look shiny, slick, and sticky anymore.
303 Automotive Protectant works against cracking and fading and repels dust and grime.
Pros
- Keeps the tonneau cover looking newer and long-lasting.
- Provide UV protection.
- Prevent the cover from cracking and fading.
- It gives a non-shiny satin look to the top.
- The spray bottle is easy to use.
- The price is low.
Cons
- This product is not air dry.
TriNova UV Protectant Spray
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: TriNove
- Adds protection: yes
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: vinyl
- Item form: spray bottle
- Item weight: 1.3 pounds
- Product dimensions: 10.59 x 4.76 x 2.87 inches
- Shelf life: up to 2 years
Unboxing: My tonneau cover is constantly exposed to outer components like scorching heat, rain, and wind storm. In order to keep the cover protected from UV rays, I ordered TriNova UV Protectant Spray and received my parcel.
It works multi-purpose as it protects the cover from the sun and restores the actual formation of color and finishes simultaneously. This product has a balanced pH level that resists the cover from fading and tanning. This is the reason TriNova has become popular on the market.
It removes dirt and oil from the top surface and helps increase the cover’s durability and longevity.
This product does not leave any white strakes behind. Since it comes in a spray bottle, you do not have to put the extra effort while applying this cover.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- Restore the color and luster of your tonneau cover.
- It is easy to apply.
- This product keeps your truck bed cover as shiny and new as the day you bought it.
- Prevents stains from appearing and prevents dust from accumulating.
Cons
- It is not easy to remove excess spray from the top.
Protex World Convertible Soft Top Canvas Waterproofer 500 Milliliter
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Protex
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: oil-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: canvas
- Item form: bottle
- Item weight: 1.21 pounds
- Product dimensions: 8.19 x 4.92 x 2.99 inches
Unboxing: Keeping your tonneau cover protected and cleansed from dust and dirt is crucial. I ordered Protex World Convertible soft top canvas waterproof protectant and cleaner to protect it.
The Protex soft top restoration process lightly dampens the surface of the top tonneau cover. To apply, use a clean paintbrush. Avoid spilling the product directly onto the surface. Take a bowl or any container to decant the product. Ensure you do not apply the formula to other vehicles’ paintwork.
Further, use a brush to scrub the cleaner. It gradually loosened out the dirt and grime. Rinse the foam with cold water and let it dry for 3 hours. Remember, do not dry it in direct sunlight as it stops the cleaner from working.
This product stops the growth of green mildew and removes everyday contaminants such as bird droppings, road salts, and mold.
Unboxing and application:
Pros
- It restores the faded top of the canvas tonneau cover.
- Allows a soft and even finish to the top.
- Repels water.
- Smooth and creamy application.
Cons
- The cleanser takes time to dry.
LEER Tonneau Cover & Truck Bed Cover Protectant
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: LEER
- Adds protection: yes
- Chemical basis: oil-based
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: vinyl, fiberglass, rubber, plastic
- Item form: spray bottle
- Item weight: 1.38 pounds
- Product dimensions: 11.97 x 4.65 x 2.72 inches
- Unboxing: Ordered this LEER truck bed cover protectant for my Gator’s Recoil tonneau cover. I received the parcel the next day and opened it. The product came in a spray bottle which was terrific.
This product is suitable for most surfaces of the tonneau cover, such as fiberglass, plastic, rubber, and vinyl. For application, clean the surface before spraying the protectant. It cleanses the surface in no time.
It allows UV protection to the cover and keeps it from fading and cracking. LEER protectant retains the factory look of the tonneau cover by removing all the stains and dirt.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- It brightens the top surface.
- Prevent the cover from cracking and fading.
- Does not leave any residue behind.
- Keep protecting the cover from UV damage.
- This product allows a matte finish.
Cons
- It requires a lot of layers to get the perfect finish.
Duragloss 301 Automotive Tonneau Cover
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Duragloss
- Adds protection: yes
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: vinyl
- Item form: bottle
- Item weight: 8 ounce
- Product dimensions: 6.7 x 2 x 0.4 inches
Unboxing: To give my tonneau cover a glossy effect, I ordered Duragloss 301 Automotive cleaner and protectant. I received my parcel and opened it. It came in a spray bottle.
This cleaner has a UV resistance sunscreen formula that resists rays and protects the cover from fading. Unlike other protectants and cleansers, this Duragloss allows a glossy look to my cover, which appeals to everyone’s eye toward my truck.
When I sprayed this protectant over my vinyl-made tonneau cover, it enhanced its composition as well as made it brighten. Make sure to let it dry before applying the second coat. Otherwise, it makes a double layer which looks terrible.
This product makes the top water resistant. So you do not have to worry about hauling your truck in the rain. Your gear will remain safe with this protectant.
Application:
Pros
- The cover is water repellent and UV protectant.
- It is handy to use.
- Reduce stains.
- Help to clean the vinyl-made tonneau cover.
Cons
- Not suitable for fabric tops.
Wolfsteins Tonneau Cover Care Kit
Key Features and Specifications
- Brand: Wolfsteins
- Adds protection: yes
- Contain UV absorbers: yes
- Darkening effect: yes
- Layerable: yes
- Suitable for: vinyl
- Item form: spray bottle
- Item weight: 2.44 pounds
- Product dimensions: 8 x 2.25 x 9.75 inches
Unboxing: Wolfsteins is exclusively formulated to clean and protect your top vinyl surface. I ordered this beauty Care Kit and received my parcel. It came in a reusable bag.
How do I apply this spray onto my tonneau cover to make it new and clean? I just simply hosed the spray and let it sit for a while. After that, I grabbed a soft bristle brush and rubbed the surface gently to take out all the stubborn dirt and grime.
This protectant kit perfectly maintains the top layer without damaging the other paint areas. Further, it contains no toxic, anti-oxidant, or bleach formula, leaving a streak and damaging the vinyl surface.
Wolfsteins premium tonneau cover vinyl protectant provides a UV-resistant formula. Additionally, it resists dust, dirt, and grease accumulating over the tonneau cover.
Further, it contains no silicone, oil, or petroleum distillates that harm your truck’s cover. It has a long-lasting formula.
Unboxing and Application:
Pros
- It has a low pH and bleach-free formula.
- It repels dust, grime, and grease.
- Does not contain silicone and petroleum distillates.
- Overspray will not affect the vehicle’s other parts.
- No streaks or white residue left behind.
- Allows a darkening effect.
Cons
- It does not go with other materials of the tonneau cover.
Buying Guide
Regarding tonneau cover maintenance, the top is the most usually overlooked component. Cleaning and preserving a convertible top differs from person to person. Whether you want basic roof cleaning or an extra layer of weather protection, stand-alone treatments or whole kit are available.
The perfect convertible top cleaner should be simple to use, water resistant, capable of removing stains, and offer enough overall protection. This buying guide will cover everything you should think about before purchasing a convertible top cleaner.
Water Resistant
Undoubtedly protectant cleanses the surface and gives protection to the cover. Still, it is under discussion whether a protectant is 100% waterproof or not. They allow the water to get inside the cover and wet the gear. So it is essential to know how much a protectant is watertight before purchasing it.
Ease of Use
Everyone wants a protectant that dissolves easily and quickly when it comes to ease of use. However, a few tonneau covers take time to dissolve and make excess foam. They require more time for rinsing off the cover.
UV protected
Soft top tonneau covers quickly get discolored due to ultraviolet rays. Therefore, buying a specially designed spray for this purpose is essential. Further, dark-color tonneau covers are also more prone to fade over time. Their maintenance is a crucial task for every motorist.
Fragrances
Avoid buying any bleach-mixing protectant formula for your tonneau cover. Always go for a natural aroma protectant or cleaning product.
Toxic and non-toxic Ingredients
Always buy a protectant that has eco-friendly and less harmful ingredients. Moreover, these protectants are not dangerous to your health. It is essential to wear gloves before applying the protectant. Another critical factor is to ensure you use it outside or in a well-ventilated room.
Color
It is better to opt for a universal cleanser that matches all colors. Regardless, if you can not afford the universal protectant color, ensure the cleanser you buy matches your tonneau cover color.
Things to Avoid While using Protectant and Cleanser
Not all cleaning agents are suitable for use on autos. If you’re looking for a convertible top cleaner or protectant, the following items should be avoided:
- Avoid using bleach, lemon, silicone, or glossing products on a fabric and vinyl top.
- Avoid using ammonia, ethanol, or vinegar if you have a vinyl roof.
- When using a cleaning or protectant, never expose yourself to direct sunlight.
- It’s recommended not to use these goods outside when it’s windy since they may get sprayed with dirt or take longer to dry.
- Ensure the top, whether fabric or vinyl, is completely dry before applying the agent.
- Several cleaners are caustic to paint, steel, and other surfaces, while others are gentler. Anything else that could come in contact with your top should be kept away from these goods.
What can I put on my tonneau cover to protect it?
Applying 303 ASP to your truck bed cover should be done gently to avoid wetting up the vinyl. It will offer to shield it against UV radiation, air pollution, acid rain, and other pollutants.
Conclusion
There are multiple options regarding cleaning and protecting the tonneau cover top. However, not all are the best and offer long-lasting formulas. Therefore, I have mentioned the 11 Best Tonneau Cover Protectant, which removes all the stains and dirt in seconds and allows a smooth matte finish.
Joshea Mark is a trucker with a wealth of experience and a keen eye for quality. He has spent countless hours on the road and knows firsthand the importance of having a reliable tonneau cover to protect his cargo. That’s why Joshea is so passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.
At Best in Tonneau Covers, he reviews the latest and greatest covers on the market, compares different brands, and writes buyer guides to help truckers like himself make informed decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the world of trucking, Joshea’s insights and advice are sure to be valuable. His writing is authentic and personal, reflecting his years of experience and his genuine desire to help others.