UV rays can be very harmful to baby skin, especially when exposed for a long period of time without protection. Car journeys can often be problematic as the cool air inside can trick you into thinking they aren’t being harmed by the sun’s rays.
A tinted side window does not protect from harmful UV rays so shades for a baby is an essential purchase for every parent that plan on driving with their baby.
We’ve taken a look at the sunshades currently available on the market and curated a list for you of the best to consider and as much of a variety as possible. We hope you find the perfect car sun shade for you in this selection.
Car Sun Shades for Baby Reviews
Contents
- Car Sun Shades for Baby Reviews
- 1. JELLYBABABABY Window Shades
- 2. Kinder Fluff Baby Sun Shade
- 3. Sfee 2 Pack Car Sun Window Shade
- 4. Dreambaby Stretch-To-Fit Adjustable Car Shade
- 5.PEYOU [4 Pack] Car Window Shades
- 6. Scribbies Car Window Sun Shade with Stickers
- 7. Disney Princess Car Window Sunshade
- 8. Calish Sun Shades (3 Pack)
- 9. Gruffalo Sun Shade
- 10. First Steps Pack of 2 Printed Car Window Sun Shades
- Car Sun Shades Baby Buyer’s Guide
- Car Sun shades For Baby FAQs
- The Bottom Line
Here is a curated list of what we found to be the finest value for money sunshade car products and varied items on the market.
1. JELLYBABABABY Window Shades
This is a double-layered cotton cloth that wraps around the window and care frame tightly, covering the entire rear side window with 100% coverage. It’s easy to put on and looks great and does the job perfectly.
It keeps harmful UVs away and keeps the rear cool from the sun’s rays.
The only downside is that it can take damage on the outside and get wet because the material is exposed etc but this is nitpicking. It may not fit on extra-large vehicles such as luxury saloons (Jaguar XJ, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8) and massive people carriers (Chrysler Grand Voyager). It has no patterns, either.
You really can’t find a better sunshade than this, really, as it doesn’t need any suction cups, doesn’t stop you from rolling the windows up and down and is cheap as chips.
2. Kinder Fluff Baby Sun Shade
The Kinder Fluff sunshade is one of the strongest sunshades on the market with 80 gsm of coverage as opposed to 55 gsm which is the average, according to Kinder Fluff.
It uses static to attach to the window which is convenient and leaves no marks. The size of the product is 20’x12′ and will fit pretty much any vehicle side window.
It’s cheap to buy and has been reviewed thousands of times on Amazon and elsewhere with the vast majority being overwhelmingly positive towards this product. It is just transparent black, though, with no patterns.
It offers a fantastic level of UV blocking but it does not cover the whole window, however, this is not that important as direct sunlight is the problem. An absolute bargain.
- 😍 Darkest Possible-The only brand with certified semi-transparent sunshade offering highest protection
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3. Sfee 2 Pack Car Sun Window Shade
For something different to what we’ve seen so far why not take a look at the Sfee retractable sun blinds. It looks like something you’d have in the house but it’s simply a UV blocking sunblind which pulls downwards in a straight line and stays in place with suction cups.
When not in use it retracts back up and it’s completely out of the way. We find this to be one of the best overall because it’s a really strong UV rays blocker but is the best of both worlds between the window shade covers and the PVC sun shades.
It’s not the best looking and doesn’t quite hand vertically or flush to the window but it’s excellent for actually doing its job and it’s very cheap in most cases.
- Maximum UV and Sun Protection：The car sun shade is made of premium higher density fabric mesh that ensure your vision is not obscured. Also, the mesh could prevent you from sunshine exposure to block 98% harmful UV rays, reduce the sun’s glare and heat. Not like other cheap plastic shade, our car window shade make you feel cool in car. Protect your baby from the sun effectively. It's the best choice for your baby, pet and yourself.
4. Dreambaby Stretch-To-Fit Adjustable Car Shade
The Dreambaby Stretch-To-Fit Adjustable Car Shade is a favourite and a type of sunshade you don’t see often being used. It is a stretchy bit of material for the user to be able to cover as much of the rear window as they would like. The dimensions are 33 x 46cm up to 46 x 69cm.
It’s made from 100% polyester and provides the required amount of UVA blocking. When not in use it folds away much easier than most sunshades making it incredibly convenient and easy to use.
It’s cheap, effective and can be used over and over again. We honestly think this is the least hassle out of any car sunshades to be honest and should not be ignored before you purchase.
- Dimensions - Adjustable to fit nearly any shaped window and stretches to fit windows up to 46 x 69 cm.
5.PEYOU [4 Pack] Car Window Shades
The PEYOU [4 Pack] Car Window Shades for Baby is a double-layered oval sun shade which is applied to the window via a static layer which provides 50 gsm of UV blocking which stops 97% of the harmful rays.
It’s easy to put on and compatible with any car. Included are 2 pack black sunshades(51 * 30.7 cm) and 2 pack giraffe sunshades(43 * 35 cm) to fit most rear windows.
It’s not the strongest at 50 gsm but any more than that is overkill for most uses. This product has charmed its way in due to the pattern above all else as most of these static based sun shades are plain boring.
- 【2020 Upgraded New 4 PACK Universal Car Sun Shades for Kids】It comes with 4 pack universal car sun shades with two different dimension including 2 pack black sunshades(51 * 30.7 cm) and 2 pack giraffe sunshades(43 * 35 cm) to fit most of cars' window and one carrying bag which save storage space in car and you could easily carry it to anywhere you wanna go.**Please find our after-sales service e-mail and get an interesting Travel E-book. Please contact us if you didn't receive such an e-mail.**
6. Scribbies Car Window Sun Shade with Stickers
Scribbies have made the effort to provide more than just the sunshade (which is serviceable, blocks UV rays, gives privacy) by giving your little one stickers and a colouring book which they can then attach to the sunshade.
The aim of this is to provide parents with another way to entertain and distract a baby during a short or long journey. Even if they don’t want to do that they still have a cool monster design to make sure the car is fun in the back. The design will not block your blind spot.
Dimensions are 43cm x 36cm and will fit pretty much any car.
It uses suction cups to attach to the window which is easy to put on and off but does stop you from being able to run down the window fully and get the benefits.
Overall, this is a different take on what is pretty much the same product as any other and to be fair Best For Mums really appreciates this effort.
- KEEPS THE SUN OUT OF YOUR KIDS' FACE & EYES - Gives you total piece of mind! Driving your car and your kids in the back are uncomfortable when the sun shines in their faces? Our sun shades block out enough sun for your kids to really enjoy the ride and keep them cool! And YOU can drive relaxed knowing that your kids are happy and protected from harmful UV rays. Backed by our 100% Skribbies Happiness Guarantee.
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7. Disney Princess Car Window Sunshade
For the little princess in your life, there’s no better sunshade than the official Disney branded n. Design aside, as you can see from the image, these shades are top quality and protect your child from the harmful rays of the sun.
They attach with built-in suckers which are reliable and have a strong attachment. You may find yourself with a slight pink hue but that’s not such a bad thing if you’re son or daughter is into Disney princesses and everything feminine.
8. Calish Sun Shades (3 Pack)
A fantastic budget option is the Calish sun shades which offer 80 gsm of protection and blocks UV rays for under a tenner.
There are 3 layers which stack on top of each other with the largest dimension being 52cm x 32cm which will fit most cars.
No suction cups or adhesives needed and when they’re on they’re fireproof, weatherproof and rip-proof which means these are probably the only sun shades you will ever need.
These are an absolute steal and if you’re really not bothered about the pattern then why buy anything else?
- More Protection - Our car window shade is larger (20.1 *12.2 inch) and can block most of the sun and offer more protection for your kids or baby. This can protect your baby and passengers from skin irritation and bright sunlight.
9. Gruffalo Sun Shade
If your child is into the Gruffalo then this is worth looking into. If the parents are into a cost-effective and basic solution which gets on with job then this is ideal for you.
There’s not much else to say about the product as it’s pretty much as you’d expect but the organ cover and Gruffalo face is a nice departure from the boring black sun shades we’re all used to. Your Gruffalo loving child will be impressed.
Attaches with suction cups.
- Pack of 2 Gruffalo Sun Shades
10. First Steps Pack of 2 Printed Car Window Sun Shades
Our final review is the absolute cheapest set of sunshades you can get which still do the job of protecting UV rays from harming your child’s skin.
It’s alphabet and numerically designed, which is nice, but let’s face it the best feature of this product is the exceptional price of under £2!
Many have reported that it’s a bit of hit and miss with the suction cups but if you’re on an extreme budget or even if you want to bulk buy then these are ideal.
- Easy to fold for travel
Car Sun Shades Baby Buyer’s Guide
With every product guide we create there will always be a buyer’s guide to help readers get the best product for their needs. We’ll also dive extensively into the product and explore what it is, what are the benefits of having one and features to look out for.
Please let us know your feedback in the comments!
What is a car window sunshade for babies?
A car sunshade is a piece of material which attaches to rear windows to block sunlight coming in and to add privacy. There are a few different types of sun shades but the end goal is the same, the only difference is how they are applied to the vehicle.
With more and more research emerging about the harmful effects of the sun, especially on a baby’s skin, sun shades have never been as popular as they are today.
Do I need a sunshade?
Not all products we review are essential but sun shades for your car are definitely one of them in our opinion. Here’s a few reasons why you need to invest.
Blocks UVA rays
This is the number 1 reason why you need to purchase. Only the windscreen of a vehicle blocks UVA rays which means your baby is vulnerable to them from the side of the vehicle at all times.
Taken from the NHS website – “Take extra care to protect babies and children. Their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin, and damage caused by repeated exposure to sunlight may also lead to skin cancer developing in later life.”
The biggest threat to a baby’s skin from the sun is UVA. UVA is the name for a spectrum of light produced by the sun and is the main threat when it comes to skin damage in a car as all glass protects from the harder UVB. You can’t feel UVA like you would with UVB but it does go deep beneath the skin which causes a myriad of problems, such as:
- Skin cancers
- Immunity suppression
- Melanoma
- Cataracts
As the NHS mentioned, the effects may not appear right away and may even emerge in later life. Babies and children who are repeatedly exposed to UVA without protection in the car are likely to develop some kind of problems.
This may not be much of an issue with very short journeys but long trips in the car pose a clear danger. The Skin Cancer Foundation also reiterate how important UV protection is during a car ride.
Therefore, a car sunshade is an essential purchase if you intend to drive with their children.
Adds privacy
Unless you have tinted windows or privacy glass then there’s no privacy in the back from prying eyes and it can often get uncomfortable when in traffic. This is particularly desirable if breastfeeding mothers want to stop the car for a quick feed on a journey.
Types of car sun shade
There are a few ways to apply a shade to a car window, such as:
Suction cups
A piece of fabric, often PVC or a mesh, which attaches to the car window glass with suckers. A popular way to apply a sun shade but can be frustrating if they are of low quality.
Wraparound material
The entire glass can be attached over the glass and the passenger frame which blocks the entire window with UVA blocking material. Not the most popular but it is effective. The sun shade is exposed on the outside, which some people may not like but they are typically weatherproof and strong.
Static mounting
More modern sun shades can be applied with a special static producing material which almost magically applies to the glass which provides convenience and a cleaner glass when not in use afterwards.
Roller
These shades can roll down and retract when not in use and provide a rectangular cover for your baby.
Window cling
Lastly, some shades attached to the top of the glass and are kept in place when the window is closed back up.
What to look for in a car sun shade for children
Not all children’s items are made the same, as we all know. Here are some features you should pay particular attention to before you make that all-important purchase today.
Blocks UV rays
If it doesn’t block UV rays, don’t buy it. Simple as that. 99% of them will so it’s not really something you’re ever likely to encounter but it is something that needs to be double checked before you purchase.
Fits your car
If you have a ‘normal’ car then this isn’t really something you will need to worry about but if you drive a vehicle with extra small or extra-large rear windows then measure the window before making a purchase. Small city cars such as the Citroen C1 or Smart ForTwo may need smaller covers whilst larger vehicles such as people carriers and 4x4s may need larger ones although smaller ones will still be fine as long as they’re positioned correctly.
Fun patterns
Definitely not essential and some parents may prefer blank shades as to not distract but it’s important to think about whether you want a patterned one or not before you buy one.
Third-party reviews
Lastly, do not just take our word for it – read up on third party reviews to see if the general consensus from verified purchases also agree that it’s a good product and worth the money.
Car Sun shades For Baby FAQs
Do sunshades really work?
Yes. sunshades really do work and will protect your child from harmful UV rays during a journey.
Are sun shades safe for babies?
Yes, in most cases they are specifically designed with babies in mind as their skin is not as developed as adults and are more vulnerable to the harmful side of the sun.
Do sunshades for car keep your car cooler?
Not really. The temperature of a car rises on hot days and the heat can be trapped inside. The best way to keep a car with air conditioning, climate control or simply opening the windows.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that car sun shades are a must for parents travelling with young children in their cars. There is scientific evidence on the impact UV rays can have on a child and it’s not worth the risk for a product that is so cheap.
We feel that we have curated the best there is to offer and a good variety to suit all tastes and requirements.
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