There’s nothing quite like a relaxing day at the beach — the surf, the sun, and the soft sand between your toes. But dealing with sand that seems to get everywhere can be the downside of this fantastic experience.
This article lists practical hacks to help you keep the sand at bay during your beach summer vacation. But first, why does it stick to your belongings?
Why does sand stick to things?
It tends to stick to your belongings because of its physical properties and how it interacts with other surfaces. First, its grain shape and texture tend to stick to you and your belongings. Typically, its grains are small, rough, and have irregular shapes. These properties create tiny nooks that allow sand to get caught on surfaces.
Moisture is another factor that contributes to sand’s sticking properties. Water acts as a binder, causing its grains to stick to each other and on surfaces. So, when it becomes damp, it becomes more sticky.
Lastly, its particles can become electrically charged when they rub against surfaces. This static charge can cause it to stick to nearby objects or your body.
How to keep sand at bay while at the beach
1. Invest in a beach mat
One of the easiest ways to keep sand at bay is to carry a large beach mat or blanket to the beach. Lay it out before you settle down, and this lounging area will help you keep it off your belongings. Also, go for a waterproof mat to shake off the sand when it’s time to leave.
2. Rinse off before leaving the beach
If the beach has showers or freshwater sources, take advantage of them before you leave. A quick rinse will help you remove sand from your body and avoid tracking it to your car or home. Also, shaking your towel and other items will help you reduce the amount in your bag or car.
3. Use baby powder
As mentioned, sand has a high affinity to water, and getting rid of it while wet is difficult. Baby powder or talcum powder is an ingenious solution to remove it from your body. The powder will absorb moisture from your body, making it easier to dust the sand off.
4. Use a mesh bag
Mesh bags are a godsend when carrying toys or other beach items. Unlike a tote bag, mesh bags allow the grains to fall through as long as the items are dry. This dramatically reduces the amount of sand you carry home.
5. Carry a portable hand vacuum or lint roller
To de-sand before you head home, you can use a small hand vacuum or lint roller to quickly remove it from your beach gear before entering your car or accommodation.
6. Establish a sand ‘no-go’ zone
Before entering your home, you can set up a designated area outside or a specific room indoors where everyone can leave their sandy items, such as shoes, beach toys, or towels. This way, you prevent it from finding its way indoors.
7. Pack wet wipes
A supply of baby wipes or wet towels can be handy at the beach. You can quickly use them to get sand off your hands and feet before touching other items. This helps you avoid transferring it to other items.
8. Carry a mesh chair
Generally, chairs are better than blankets or towels to keep sand away. But traditional beach chairs with fabric seats also attract sand easily. So go for foldable mesh chairs that allow the grains to fall through, keeping your seat sand-free and comfortable.
9. Use ziplock bags
Small items such as keys, lip balm, or sunscreen can quickly be covered in sand when left lying around. To avoid this, carry them in resealable ziplock bags. These bags not only keep your belongings sand-free, but they also make it easier to locate them.
Resealable bags or water-resistant pouches can also help you keep your phone and other electronics dry.
Leaving sand at the beach
A trip to the beach should be a joyous and rejuvenating experience. From using baby powder to investing in a good mesh bag, you can make your trip even better by leaving sand where it belongs — at the beach. So relax, soak up the sun, knowing you have the tools to keep it off your items.
