Storing and looking after
Chapter
06
23
should then be dried in a well-
ventilated room (but out of the sun).
If the glider is not thoroughly rinsed,
there may be permanent damage to
the material.
Sand and salt air
In many cases, sand and salt air cause
the lines and fabric to age much more
rapidly. If you often fly near the sea, the
glider should be inspected more
frequently than normally required.
Cleaning
If you do have to clean the glider, use
only lukewarm fresh water and a soft
sponge. Use a weak soap solution for
stubborn stains, and then rinse it out
carefully and thoroughly. Leave the
glider to dry in a place which is well-
ventilated and in the shade.
L
PLEASE NOTE
Do not use chemicals, brushes,
rough cloths, high-pressure cleaners
or steamers to clean the glider, as
these can damage the fabric coating
and weaken it. The glider becomes
porous and loses braking strength.
Do not under any circumstances put
the glider in the washing machine.
Even if washing powder is not used,
the glider would be badly damaged
by the mechanical action of the
machine. Do not put the canopy into
a swimming pool - chlorine will
damage the fabric. If you have no
choice but to rinse the glider, e.g.
following a landing in the sea, gently
wash it down inside and out with
fresh water. Frequent rinsing
accelerates the aging process.
