Types of Car Sun Shades
There are four main styles of sun shades on the market to choose from. Choosing a style that works best for you and your baby will strongly depend on the type of vehicle you drive, window coverage goals, and price point.
- Collapsible sun shades have a wire frame that “pops out” to the full size when removed from packaging. They typically adhere to the window by static cling, magnets, or suction cups. They can be easily removed and stored when not in use.
- Curtain sun shades work the same way as a window curtain. They can be pulled lengthwise along the window for desired coverage.
- Roller sun shades, also known as the pull down sun shade, adheres to the top of the car window. The shade can be pulled down partially, all the way, or left up when not in use.
- Door frame sun shades slip over the top of the door frame allowing use of the window while in place. It is held in place by the car door.
Benefits of Using Car Sun Shade
There are three main benefits of using a car sun shade on your windows. Whether you are looking for UV protection, heat reduction, or privacy, we’ve outlined the benefits below.
- UV Protection
- Heat
- Privacy
- Sun shades offer an extra layer of privacy. They prevent, to a certain degree, people from looking into your car when walking or driving by.
Safety Considerations
You may be wondering if car sun shades are safe for babies? Ultimately, yes they are safe. However, you want to keep these considerations in mind.
- PVC
- PVC contains chemicals that may have adverse health effects. Exposure to PVC often includes exposure to phthalates and chlorine. If you are looking to avoid sun shades made with PVC materials you will want to stay away from the static cling options.
- Choking hazard (suction cups)
- Any small plastic object is a choking hazard for children. If using a sun shade with suction cups, opt for the larger suction cups.
- Visibility
- Visibility is extremely important for the driver. You want to make sure that no matter which sun shade you choose, you are able to safely see out your car windows while driving.
- Weight
- Any accessory you put in your car has the potential to become a projectile in the event of a crash. To reduce the chance of injury, choose a lightweight product that’s less likely to cause injury.
Things to Consider
Lastly, there are some things you will want to consider when choosing the best car sun shade for your baby. Finding the best car sun shade for your baby will largely depend on the vehicle you drive and finding the right fit.
- Shape of car window
- Car windows come in all different shapes and sizes. You will want to keep in mind the size of the window you are looking to cover. Some shades will work better for different vehicles.
- Installation
- With numerous ways to attach a sun shade you will want to consider which one will work best for your vehicle.
- Storage
- When it comes to most items for our kids, storage is a big consideration. How easily does the sun shade store and how much room does it take up? Will you leave the sun shade up permanently or do you want one you can remove? These are some things to consider.
- Usability of car window
- Depending on your driving habits you may want to continue to use the car window. Some sun shades will take away this function while others will not.
wow, these are awesome!!! We don’t have babies but a friend of mine just delivered her first…Will flip her your post, thank you.
Thanks for sharing!
I’ve never thought of looking into these, thank you for the detailed explanations
They are a great option for any passenger in your car.
There are so many options for keeping baby nice and cool in the car. I’ll be honest, as a kid we had these and i LOVE THEM. I would 100% recommend investing in just tinting you car windows too, makes life easier.
I agree. Tinting windows is the best. Not always affordable for everyone though.
Oh, I wish I had these when my twins were little. These would work as gifts for moms to be.
I never thought of them as gifts for moms to be. I like that idea!
These are all great products. I can’t tell you how many times I struggled with trying to find a decent sun shade for my kids when they were babies.
Finding one that fits your car is definitely the challenge. Not all windows are the same.
The pros and cons listed on all of these help so much. I’ve been looking for a shade for my back window for my toddler. Definitely a lot to consider
Glad you found them helpful!
Great reviews. We have disney themed ones that are great
Oh, I love Disney!