any tips on sail cleaning?

[William]

I have been painting and refininshing the hull and spars but what can I do about my sails? The dacron is in good shape with no tears or patches but there are several rust stains. they are also faded to more of a parchment color than white. I don't want to replace them but I would like to get them cleaner without damaging them. any suggestions out there?

[DaveD]

I have the same issue.

Someone who is a sailor of bigger boats said that lemon juice can fix that. You might want to ask Uncle Google though.

I am actually looking to replace my sails this year (maybe), but that's more expensive than lemon juice.

[DaveD]

OK, I asked Uncle Google for you and I found this:
http://billdietrich.byethost8.com/SailMaintenance.html

Welcome to the site William.

[William]

Thanks I will give it a try

[DaveD]

How did they come out?

[William]

I got lazy and decided to make it an off season project. I'll be trying it out this winter.

[DaveD]

Good call.

[William]

My first attempt at cleaning rust stains with lemmon juice had poor results. I think I did not let it soak long enough. I might try the oxcalic acid if they have it at the local hardware store.

[JeffSchneider]

I know this is an old thread but I came across the same problems. My numbers have bled and made a messy rusty spot on the sail and overall there is a dirty look to the main and jib. I found this brochure from a local sail maker near me. Hope this helps - http://www.doylesails.com/downloads/DoyleSailCare.pdf