How to Clean a Sunscreen Applicator (and Why It Matters)

Sunscreen applicators are designed to make sun protection easier, less messy, and more enjoyable, especially for families with young kids. But like anything that touches skin regularly, they do need a little care to keep then clean and working properly.

If you’ve found yourself wondering how to clean a sunscreen applicator or asking whether sunscreen applicators are hygienic, you’re not alone. With simple, regular cleaning, a sunscreen brush can remain a safe, effective, and easy way to apply SPF for the whole family.

Are Sunscreen Applicators Hygienic?

Yes, when they’re used and maintained as intended.

A common myth we see is that sunscreen applicators don’t need cleaning because they “only hold sunscreen.” In reality, sunscreen contains oils and active ingredients and is often applied outdoors in heat, sand, sweat, and water. Over time, residue can build up just like it does on makeup brushes or other reusable tools.

Using your applicator correctly is the first step. If you’re new to SUNNYBOD™, you can see exactly how it’s designed to be used on our
👉 How to Use the SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Applicator page.

Why Cleaning Your Sunscreen Applicator Is Important

Cleaning your sunscreen applicator isn’t about being overly cautious, it’s about keeping it working as intended.

Regular cleaning helps sunscreen dispense and apply smoothly and reduces the chance of buildup and contaminants over time. This is especially important when using thicker or zinc-based SPF formulas. Many customers tell us they’ve tried other roll on and sponge based applicators that clog or struggle to dispense thick zinc sunscreens. SUNNYBOD™ was designed to handle these formulas well, and proper care helps maintain that performance.

A Common Mistake: Leaving Sunscreen in the Heat

One of the most common mistakes we see isn’t skipping cleaning, it’s leaving sunscreen in hot environments.

This applies to all sunscreen, whether it’s in a bottle or inside an applicator. Prolonged heat exposure, such as leaving sunscreen in a hot car, can affect texture, performance and efficacy. SUNNYBOD™ is travel friendly and ideal for reapplication on the go, but it should always be stored the same way you’d store your regular sunscreen: out of direct heat whenever possible.

Why SUNNYBOD™ Is Designed to Be Cleaned

SUNNYBOD™ was intentionally created to be refillable, fully cleanable, and compatible with any liquid SPF. Everyone has different sunscreen preferences and sensitivities, and we wanted a product that allowed families to use the SPF that works best for them but  without greasy hands or mess.

The internal pump system pushes product out cleanly, leaving minimal residue behind in the canister. This makes the applicator easier to clean, reduces product waste, and keeps application feeling smooth and comfortable.

If you’d like a closer look at how the brush works and why it’s designed this way, you can explore the
👉 SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Applicator Brush on our website.

How to Clean a Sunscreen Applicator

How to Clean a Sunscreen Applicator

To keep your SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Brush working at its best, we recommend rinsing it after each use and giving it a more thorough clean weekly.

Cleaning the Brush Body

When cleaning the brush body:

1. Remove the lid and unscrew the brush head from the base.

2. Push the pump button to release the inner canister, then unscrew its lid.

3. Using an antibacterial makeup brush cleanser (or mild dish detergent), clean all parts with the provided cleaning brush.

4. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if needed to remove all residue.

5. Allow every part to dry completely before reassembling.

Use gentle cleansers and avoid harsh solvents or high-alcohol products on the body — those can affect long-term durability.

Cleaning the Brush Hair Head

1. Add antibacterial brush cleanser to a silicone cleaning bowl (or follow the specific instructions on your cleanser).

2. Wet bristle tips with tepid water.

3. Swirl gently to work up a lather and release old sunscreen.

4. Rinse until the water runs clear.

5. Shake out excess water and pat dry in the direction of the bristles.

6. Lay the brush head flat until completely dry.

For occasional sanitising, some people use a 70% isopropyl alcohol brush cleaner on the brush head. 

For more care-related questions, our 👉 FAQs page  covers common product and cleaning queries.

How Often Should You Replace a Sunscreen Brush Head?

For hygiene reasons, we recommend replacing your brush head monthly. This is similar to how makeup brushes or toothbrush heads are maintained, especially when used daily on children’s faces.

Many parents find it helpful to keep a spare brush head on hand so one can be drying while the other is ready to use. You can find replacement heads here 👉 Sunscreen Applicator Brush Head Duo. To make cleaning easier, use a 👉 Silicone Brush Cleaning Bowl, designed to gently lift sunscreen from the bristles during weekly cleans.

Final Thoughts

SUNNYBOD™ was created to make sunscreen easier, less messy, and more enjoyable for kids and adults alike. With simple care and regular maintenance, your sunscreen applicator will stay fresh, comfortable, and ready for everyday sun protection.

A clean brush feels better, applies more smoothly, and helps make sun safety part of an easy daily routine, just the way it should be.

Ready to Make Sunscreen Easier?

Explore our game changing refillable sun  applicators — made for homes, schools, sports programs, daycares, camps, and busy families everywhere.

👉 Shop SUNSCREEN APPLICATORS