Sun Safety: What to Refresh Before Spring

It might still be winter — but the sun some days will have other plans.

Those cool mornings might trick you into thinking UV isn’t a problem yet, but here’s the truth: spring UV levels start rising well before the temperature does. And in Australia, that can mean serious sun exposure as early as August.

One minute you're still wearing jumpers on the school run — the next, you're packing hats for daycare and wondering if last year's sunscreen is still okay to use.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably shoved the sun gear into a basket sometime around Easter... and haven’t looked at it since. But before we hit full-blown spring mode, it’s worth doing a quick refresh — because sun protection only works if it’s ready to go.

This is your gentle nudge. Not a big to-do list. Just a few easy checks that can make all the difference — for you, and for your little ones.

Let’s dive in. 👇

 

☀️ 1. Check your sunscreen stash

Yes, sunscreen expires. Most have a 2–3 year shelf life, but heat and time can break them down faster — especially if they’ve been rattling around in the car or bottom of the nappy bag.

✔️ Check the expiry date
✔️ Give it a shake
✔️ Replace anything chalky, watery, or weirdly separated

👒 2. Try on the hats

Kids grow fast. Like, really fast. The hat that fit perfectly last summer might now sit like a tiny tiara — or worse, they won’t keep it on because it’s uncomfortable.

✔️ Check the fit (especially around the chin strap and crown)
✔️ Make sure it’s UPF 50+
✔️ Look for anything floppy, stretched, or faded

🕶️ 3. Inspect those sunnies

Polarised lenses can get scratched and loose over time. If your little one wears them daily (or throws them daily…), it’s worth checking they’re still doing their job.

✔️ Are the lenses scratched or peeling?
✔️ Do the arms feel loose or tight?
✔️ Are they still UV400 rated?

🧴 4. Book your own skin check

I’ll never stop saying this — get your skin checked. Especially before spring and summer roll in. It’s quick. It’s non-invasive. It could save your life.

(If you missed my story, I shared it here — spoiler alert: I almost didn’t go. I’m so glad I did.)

🧺 5. Prep your sun-safe station

One of the best habits we’ve started in our house? A little “sun station” by the door. Hats, sunnies, sunscreen — all within reach, so there’s no scrambling as you’re heading out. It’s honestly been a game-changer, and guess what! we've also got one in the car too! You can never have enough hats, sunnies and sunscreen lying around. 

🌼 What We’re Loving for Spring

If you’re due for a refresh, we’ve got you covered:

🧢 Fraser 5-Panel Hats – lightweight, stay-on design, now restocked
🕶️ UV400 Kids Sunnies – flexible, polarised, built for real-life wear
🧼 Quick-Dry Towels – perfect for park days, beach days, daycare bags

→ Shop our Full Range here! 

💛 Final thoughts

Sun safety doesn’t have to be overwhelming or ugly. It just has to be intentional.

As a mum, and as someone who’s walked the melanoma road, I’ll always be the one tapping your shoulder: “Hey, have you booked your skin check? Have you checked the hats?”

Not to scare you — but to remind you that we can do this. We can protect our little ones. And we can do it with confidence, colour, and a whole lot of ease.

So go check the basket. Shake the sunscreen. Try on the hats. Let’s head into spring feeling prepared — not panicked.

With love and sun-safe vibes,
Kara x