How to Remove Sunscreen from Car Interior

Sunscreen + Summer + Cars = Stains?

Returning from a sunny day at the beach only to find greasy white streaks on your leather seats or plastic console can really ruin a great day. Sunscreen is essential for skin, but it can be a menace for your car interior. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to remove sunscreen stains without damaging your car's surfaces.

Let's walk through how to get sunscreen off your car interior—whether it's leather, vinyl, fabric, or plastic—with tips for prevention and products that make the process easy and satisfying.

Why Sunscreen Stains Your Car Interior

Sunscreens often contain oils, silicones, and avobenzone. This UV filter can react with iron particles or water to leave orange or yellow stains, especially on leather and plastic.

Left untreated, sunscreen can:

1. Discolor or dry out the leather
2. Leave sticky residues on plastic and vinyl
3. Soak into fabric seats and cause long-lasting marks

What You'll Need to Remove Sunscreen Stains

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

1. Microfiber towels (2–3)
2. Soft detailing brush
3. A safe, multi-surface interior cleaner
4. Optional: interior coating for leather and vinyl protection
5. Warm water and a small spray bottle

All-in-one interior kits from AutoManiacs come with cloths, brushes, and applicators—saving you the hassle of hunting for separate tools.

How to Remove Sunscreen from Leather Car Interior

Step 1: Blot the Stain Gently

Use a clean microfiber towel to blot any visible sunscreen. Do not rub—it'll push the oils deeper into the leather.

Step 2: Apply Interior Cleaner

Spray a leather-safe product onto the towel (not directly onto the leather). Wipe the stained area using circular motions.

Step 3: Lightly Agitate

Use a soft detailing brush to loosen any sunscreen embedded in textured or perforated leather. Be gentle—this isn't scrubbing grout!

Step 4: Rinse and Wipe

Dampen another microfiber towel with warm water. Wipe the area again to remove remaining product and residue.

Step 5: Protect with an Interior Coating

Apply a small amount of interior coating to preserve your seats, add UV protection, and restore their soft matte finish.

How to Clean Sunscreen Off Vinyl, Plastic, and Dashboards

Step 1: Remove Surface Residue

Wipe off any visible sunscreen with a dry towel.

Step 2: Clean With an Interior Cleaner

Apply an interior cleaner to a microfiber towel. Wipe in even strokes across the stained area.

Step 3: Use a Detailing Brush (If Needed)

If the stain is in textured plastic (like air vents or dashboards), lightly agitate with a soft brush.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Use a lightly dampened towel to rinse and finish with a dry cloth.

How to Get Sunscreen Off Fabric Seats

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Use a dry towel to absorb excess sunscreen.

Step 2: Pre-Treat with DIY Spray

Mix warm water and a drop of dish soap. Lightly mist the area, then blot again.

Step 3: Use a Safe Interior Cleaner

Spray the interior cleaner on the stain and blot with a microfiber towel. Use a soft brush to work in gently if needed.

Step 4: Air Dry

Blot until damp but not wet. Keep doors open or windows down for airflow.

Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Sunscreen

1. Don't use glass cleaner or alcohol on leather — it dries and cracks the surface
2. Don't scrub aggressively — sunscreen can be lifted, not forced
3. Don't leave it overnight — sunscreen gets harder to remove the longer it sits
4. Avoid saturating fabric seats — moisture buildup can lead to mildew

How to Prevent Sunscreen Stains in Your Car

1. Apply sunscreen outside your vehicle and let it absorb first
2. Keep a microfiber towel in the glove box
3. Use seat protectors during beach trips or long drives
4. Quickly wipe down surfaces after high-sun days

Final Thoughts

Removing sunscreen from your car interior doesn't have to be a panic moment. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can lift the mess and protect your interior in under 15 minutes.

If you're new to car care or just want a smarter way to keep things clean, AutoManiacs offers beginner-friendly kits with everything included, so you can get pro results without a learning curve.