Sunscreen and Boat Seats: How to Avoid Damage

Sunshine and boating – two things that go hand in hand. Naturally, sunscreen comes into play. But here's the kicker: sunscreen and boat seats? Not a great combo.

Sunscreen is one of the worst substances to get on vinyl, and this applies to all boats – pontoons, deck boats, speed boats, yachts – you name it. Avobenzone, found in most sunscreens, is particularly bad for the fabric. It can strip away the topcoat of the vinyl, exposing your seats to further wear and tear. Over time, this can cause the vinyl to crack and peel, shortening the lifespan of your boat’s interior. Not only this, but it can leave some nasty stains that are tough to remove.

We know a lot of you are sunbathers and like to get your tan on. Tanning oils, like sunscreen, will cause damage to your vinyl seats. They can leave stains that seep into the material, leading to discoloration over time. Even more so, the chemicals and oils in tanning products can cause the vinyl to break down, reducing the lifespan of your seats. 

But don’t let this information steer you away from wearing sunscreen. The sun can do some serious damage to your skin. Even if you’re just wearing SPF 15 – it makes a world of difference. The SPF will block out those bad rays and still allow the good ones to give you a nice summer tan. Check out our blog on our sun protection tips here.

1. Apply before getting on the boat: The best way to protect your boat's seats is to apply sunscreen or oil before you even step onto the boat. This allows the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin, reducing the chances of it rubbing off onto the vinyl seats.
2. Avoid spray-on sunscreen: Spray-on sunscreens are convenient, but they can easily get onto your boat's seats and other surfaces. The fine mist can settle on the vinyl and cause damage. Stick to lotions and apply them carefully to avoid contact with your boat's interior.
3. Try to find sunscreen without avobenzone: Not all sunscreens are created equal. Look for sunscreens that do not contain avobenzone. These products are less likely to cause damage to vinyl surfaces. Mineral-based sunscreens, which typically use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are good alternatives.
4. Lay towels down: An easy way to protect your seats is by placing towels down before sitting. This creates a barrier between your skin and the vinyl, keeping any sunscreen from making contact with the seats.
5.  Wipe down seats periodically: Regularly cleaning your seats can help remove any sunscreen that might have transferred onto the vinyl. Use a gentle, marine-grade cleaner. A product like 303 Marine Cleaner is a great option. It's effective at cleaning and also provides UV protection for your seats. You can find it on Amazon here.
   
   By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your time on the water without worrying about damaging your boat's seats. It's all about finding the right balance between protecting your skin and preserving your boat's interior. So, slather on that sunscreen (before you hop on board, of course), grab your shades, and get ready for some great time on the water. 
   
   Here’s to sunny days and perfectly preserved boat seats. Happy boating, everyone!