It’s a common complaint of boaters worldwide: Anything on the boat that requires snap-in fasteners—be it carpet, seat cushions or canvas covers—is eventually going to be a pain in the ass to actually snap in. If you’re dealing with difficult snaps on board, there are a few home remedies cooked up by boaters over the years. Here are three household items to help you succeed with the snaps.
Crayons
The Trick: If you have kids or grandkids, this remedy is free. Choose a light-colored crayon and rub it gently on both inside the receiving snap and on the inserted stub. The crayon wax will act as a dry lubricant, helping to make the connection and also allowing it to hold. It’s a good temporary solution to get your snaps to work as well as to hold in place.
The Stick: Melted crayon on nonskid or canvas is a bad situation. Be judicious with your crayon use. Be sure to stow them in a sealed bag in a compartment, as they will melt if it’s too hot.
Price: $0.99 for 24-pack; amazon.com
Petroleum Jelly
The Trick: Common household Vaseline is good for more than just dry skin or chapped lips. It can work to help lube your cushion snaps and also protect from salt corrosion and oxidation. Use the tiniest of dabs on the tip of the stud and inside the receiving snap, then push together. Wipe away any excess before it has the chance to spread and gum up your interior.
The Stick: A small dab from the head of a Q-tip is all you need. Any more than that can leave globs on your canvas, vinyl or nonskid.
Price: $3.75 for a 3.75-ounce jar, amazon.com
Read Next: Three Tools for Drying Your Boat
Furniture Polish
The Trick: Another household items that most people already have in their cleaning supplies, Pledge acts as a lubricant for the snaps and also helps prevent corrosion and oxidation. Spray a small amount on the male and female snap components. The lemony scent might also help to disguise any mildew or fishy aromas that could be lingering on your canvas or cushions.
The Stick: It’s a wet product so it could cause slipperiness on your nonskid or your cushions if you apply too liberally.
Price: $4.99; amazon.com
