318ic convertible owners - maintenance questions

[Cobra Jet]

Since the convertible top is fabric, what is your method for cleaning it when washing the car?  I would imagine that a cotton sponge would leave little cloth doodads or fiber sheddings all over it...  If using such a sponge (cotton), do you just brush off the leftover cotton fibers once the top has dried?

Do you use a special top cleaner or do you just clean it with the normal car wash liquid?

Do you use any products to "protect" the top if the vehicle is being used as a daily driver?

What is the best product to use on the rear plastic window to prevent the plastic window from discoloring, becoming brittle?  What product do you use for removing fine scratches or for restoring the window's clarity?

Do you use any products on the top's rubber seals or weather stripping to keep them from drying out over time?

Is there a way to align the top better if the L & R door windows slightly snag the side of the top upon closing the doors?

[ducatipaso]

I personally use compressed air to blow all of the dust and junk out of the top, then wash with a wool mitt and mild soap. Rinse VERY thoroughly and air dry.

NEVER wipe the rear window when it's dry. I also blow this off before cleaning with mild soap/water. I gently wipe down with a soft cloth to dry and keep the surface clean using meguiar's clear plastic cleaner and polish.

[ducatipaso]

regarding your windows, you can align the rear windows somehow, but i've never pursued this.

my car also gets slightly hung up at the top edges, so I often time leave them down just a hair before opening and closing. my car is not driven in the rain much (if ever).