FAQs
The first time you use your Zinnia Sun Shade, you may have some questions. To help you through the process, we’ve provided careful instructions and videos on this page.
For any inquiries not addressed on this page, feel free to email us at info@zinniasunshades.com.
SUN PROTECTION
HOW DOES SHADE COMPLEMENT TOPICAL SOLUTIONS FOR SUN PROTECTION?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, simply wearing sunscreen may be insufficient protection—especially during the middle of the day, when UV rays are strongest. Shade is an important complement to sunscreen, allowing you to safely spend more time outdoors. Click here to read more about shade’s essential role in sun protection.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UPF + SPF?
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is used for fabrics, indicating how much UV radiation—both UVA and UVB rays—can penetrate a fabric to reach your skin. Our UPF 50+ fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s rays, significantly reducing your exposure. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is used for cosmetics, indicating how much time it takes for UV-exposed skin to redden.
PITcHING + CARING FOR YOUR SUN SHADE
HOW DO I SET UP MY ZINNIA SUN SHADE?
Consider the current position of the sun and wind. Zinnia shades are most stable facing into the wind. Spread the UPF 50+ fabric canopy flat on the ground, extending the tie-downs. Stake the rear tie-downs into the ground (using two of the plastic pegs), following the arc of the fabric. Then, stake down the front ties loosely (using the remaining two pegs), as they will need to be readjusted. Insert each aluminum tent pole into one of the pole sockets under the two peaks of the fabric canopy. Lifting the canopy with the tent poles, pitch the sun shade by angling the poles slightly forward. Adjust the front tie-downs using the pegs, until the canopy structure is taught and secure. Take pride in your pitch, and enjoy the view!
HOW DO I BREAK DOWN MY ZINNIA SUN SHADE TO TURN IT INTO A BAG?
Remove and fold up the aluminum poles and pull the plastic pegs out of the ground. With the fabric canopy now lying flat, reach into the ends of the mesh back pocket and pull inside tabs to invert. First, gather the canopy fabric and stuff evenly into the bag (as you would for a sleeping bag). Then, slide the poles into the bag (one per side), followed by two plastic pegs per side. Notice that the flap with the instructions on it has two internal pockets—these can be used to hold the ends of your poles and pegs in place. Snap the pocket shut and fold in half, transforming your Zinnia into a shoulder bag with the provided straps.
HOW DO I LINK MULTIPLE ZINNIA SUN SHADES TOGETHER?
Each Zinnia Sun Shade has two peaks with pole sockets. To link multiple Zinnias together, pitch your first tent. Then overlap the adjacent peak of your second tent with that of the first, and tie the two together using the straps attached to the back of each peak. Then, take the rear tie-down of the second tent, and extend the side panel across the back of the first tent, securing the tie-down with a peg. Then, use a third pole to prop up the remaining peak of the second tent and secure the remaining tie-downs. Repeat the process with as many Zinnia Sun Shades as you like.
HOW SHOULD I CLEAN MY ZINNIA SUN SHADE?
Your sun shade can be machine washed and hung to dry. We recommend using a laundry bag, to avoid the snagging of any straps or toggles in your washing machine. Alternatively, you can hose off your tent outside.
TIPS FOR USING THE TENT PEGS:
If you insert the plastic pegs on an angle (rather than straight into the ground), it will be both easier to push them into the ground and to maintain a tight pitch.
SHIPPING + RETURNS
SHIPPING INFORMATION
Domestic Shipping
Free shipping by UPS Ground on all orders shipped within the United States. For express shipping requests, please email info@zinniasunshades.com.
International Shipping
Shipping by UPS Freight to your doorstep. Charges and estimated arrival will be calculated based on your location.
RETURN POLICY
Returns are available for “like new” items within 30 days of purchase. To complete your return, we require a receipt or proof of purchase. Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your item and whether we have accepted or rejected your return. If approved, your refund will be processed and automatically applied to your original method of payment within 7 days. To initiate a return, please email info@zinniasunshades.com.
WHOLESALE ORDERS
Email aj@zinniasunshades.com for wholesale inquiries. Thank you in advance for your partnership!