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One of the most exciting, thrilling, and nerve racking moments is the day you leave the hospital with your newborn baby. Whether it is the first time you secure them in their car seat or during another outing, you will quickly realize you need a car sun shade.
It is important to protect your baby from harmful sun rays and sun in their eyes. When choosing the best car sun shade for your baby there are a few factors you will want to consider. We have compiled a list of the best car sun shades on the market.
If you’re in a hurry below is a snapshot of all the sunshades reviewed. More thorough reviews are further down in the post.
Enovoe Car Window Sun Shade
- 97% UV protection
- Lifetime replacement
- Easy installation
- Can purchase 2 or 4 shades for multiple coverage
Kinder Fluff Car Window Shade
- Shades are certified for blocking UV rays
- Easy installation
- Static cling technology
- Pouch for storage
Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch Sun Shade
- Stretches to accommodate larger windows
- Can still use window
- Safe view mesh material
- Attaches to car door with magnets
ggomaART Car Side Window Sun Shade
- Fits bigger vehicles
- Completely blocks harmful UV rays
- Can still use window
- Shades slide to adjust as needed
Zatooto Car Side Window Sun Shade
- 12 month warranty
- Completely blocks harmful UV rays
- 16 magnets for secure installation
- Can still use window
Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Car Window Shade
- Easy to use and retractable shade.
- Dual attachment system via clips or suction cups.
- Heat alert system
Dreambaby 2 Count Sun Shade
- Extra wide width for larger cars
- Self retracting button on top that rolls entire shade up
- Mesh material offers diver visibility
GoldFlower Universal Car Side Window Sun Shade
- Full window coverage
- Can still use window
- Double mesh for full UV protection
- Easy installation
TFY Universal Car Side Window Sun Shade
- Full window coverage
- Can still use windows
- Easy installation
- Can stretch from 25 to 45 inches in length
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
- Car windows effectively block UVB rays, but allows UVA rays to pass through. Exposure to UV rays can cause health problems over time
- Skin cancer
- Premature aging
- Eye problems
- Weaken immune system
- Car windows effectively block UVB rays, but allows UVA rays to pass through. Exposure to UV rays can cause health problems over time
- Heat
- Research conducted by Jan Null of San Francisco State University found that on a 72 degrees fahrenheit day the interior temperature of a car can reach up to 119 degrees within an hour. A sun shade can help reduce the interior temperature of the car. Warning: a child should never be left unattended in a car.
- 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.
The Best Car Sun Shade of 2020 Reviewed
With so many options, it can be hard to know the best car sun shade for you and your baby. Below is a selection of top rated sun shades broken down by type.
COLLAPSIBLE SUN SHADES
Enovoe Car Window Sun Shade
The Enovoe car window sun shade offers three size options (19×12”, 21×14”, and 25×16”) that are designed to fit most vehicles. Made from a high quality mesh the material is lightweight and blocks over 97% of harmful UV rays. These shades maintain drier visibility while protecting your baby and passengers from sun glare.
Using a static-cling technology, these shades do not adhere by suction cups or adhesives. They are easily removed and can be stored in the included storage pouch. The best part of these car sun shades is that they come with a lifetime no-hassle, no-questions asked, free replacement should any issues arise.
PROS
- 97% UV protection
- Lifetime replacement
- Easy installation
- Can purchase 2 or 4 shades for multiple coverage
CONS
- Unknown if the shades contain PVC
- Can’t roll down window
- Oblong shape does not provide full window coverage
Kinder Fluff Car Window Shade
The Kinder Fluff car window shade includes two transparent shades and two semi-transparent shades. They measure 20×21 inches in size. Made from a nylon mesh they are certified at blocking 99.79% UVA and 99.95% UVB rays.
Using a static-cling technology these shades can easily be overlapped and adjusted as needed. A pouch is included for storage when not in use.
PROS
- Shades are certified for blocking UV rays
- Easy installation
CONS
- Unknown if shades contain PVC
- Can’t roll down window
Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch Sun Shade
The Munchkin Brica magnetic stretch sun shade measures 14 x 28 inches and can stretch to fit large windows. For smaller windows extra material can be gathered in the included hoops-to-hooks. Made from safe-view mesh material these screens block out harmful UV rays.
The shades include five magnets that easily attach to any metal door frame. The shade can be easily removed for storage or when transferring to other vehicles.
PROS
- Stretches to accommodate larger windows
- Can still use window
CONS
- Limited visibility for driver
- Magnets will only work with metal door frames (To test for compatibility, use a household magnet along the inside of the car door frame along the window. If the magnet sticks to the surface, the shade is compatible!)
CURTAIN SUN SHADE
ggomaART Car Side Window Sun Shade
The ggomaArt car side window sun shade measures 27 x 18.5 inches. The larger size gives these shades the ability to cover side windows in most mid-size sedans and SUVs. Made from a polyester fabric material, most sunlight is blocked keeping the backseat cool while traveling.
The shade includes five strong magnets that can be mounted to the steel frame of the car door. For extra security, four suction cups are also included to attach to the car window. The shades slide open like a curtain offering the ability to adjust as needed. A built in strap can also be used to tie back the shades.
If suction cups are not used, the window remains fully functionable. These shade options offer fun character pictures for your kids to look at during the drive.
PROS
- Fits bigger vehicles
- Completely blocks harmful UV rays
CONS
- Zero visibility for driver out window
- Magnets will only work with metal door frames (To test for compatibility, use a household magnet along the inside of the car door frame along the window. If the magnet sticks to the surface, the shade is compatible!)
Zatooto Car Side Window Sun Shade
The Zatooto car side window sun shade consists of two shades. Each shade measures 18.8 inches tall and can extend up to 33 inches long. The shade is made of environmentally satin fabric with no odor. Can choose black or blue for color.
Sixteen magnets are included to securely mount the shade to the steel frame of the car door. The shade can easily be removed, folded, and stored when not in use.
PROS
- 12 month warranty
- Completely blocks harmful UV rays
- 16 magnets for secure installation
- Can still use car window
CONS
- Zero visibility out window for driver
- Small magnets could pose choking hazard if they fall out of shade
ROLLER SUN SHADE
Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Car Window Shade
The Munchkin Brica sun safety car window shade includes two shades. These shades measure 15×19 inches for maximum window coverage. Material is made of a safe view premium mesh that provides superior visibility while filtering out harmful UV rays.
These shades offer a dual attachment system for a customized fit for your vehicle. You can choose between adjustable swivel window clips or suction cups.
With a one-push retract button these shades allow for easy rollup or roll down. Features a White Hot patented heat alert system that turns white when the car is too hot to ensure a comfortable ride.
PROS
- Easy to use and retractable shade.
- Dual attachment system via clips or suction cups.
- Heat alert system
CONS
- Suction cups will occasionally need to be re-stuck to the window due to temperature changes in the car.
- Clips prevent the window from being able to roll all the way up.
Dreambaby 2 Count Sun Shade
This two pack of shades by Dreambaby unrolls to 19.5 inches long and 21 inches wide to accommodate larter windows. Made from a mesh material they offer visibility and protection from harmful UV rays.
These shades can be installed by suction cups or clips that hook over the window. Easy removal allows for convenient storage. Includes a tiger and zebra design that is visibly from both sides of the car shade.
PROS
- Extra wide width for larger cars
- Self retracting button on top that rolls entire shade up
CONS
- Suction cups will occasionally need to be re-stuck to the window due to temperature changes in the car.
- Clips prevent the window from being able to roll all the way up.
DOOR FRAME SUN SHADE
GoldFlower Universal Car Side Window Sun Shade
The GoldFlower universal sun shade includes two shades that can accommodate up to 45 inches of window for 100% coverage. Material is a high-stretch nylon mesh cloth. The double mesh sun shade blocks out harmful UV rays.
This shade offers easy installation. Open the car door, slip shade over the door like a sock, and close the car door. Shade is held in place when the car door is closed. Easily remove shade from door frame and store when not in use.
The biggest benefit of this shade is that you can still use your window. Freely roll windows up or down to enjoy the breeze with no direct sunlight.
PROS
- Full window coverage
- Can still use window
CONS
- Limited driver visibility with full window coverage
TFY Universal Car Side Window Sun Shade
The TFY sunshade comes in a two pack. Each shade can accommodate windows from 25 to 45 inches in length and 20 to 46 inches in height. The material is a lightweight dual mesh stretch fabric.
This shade slips over the top half of the open car doors and are held in place once doors are closed. These shades are easy to remove from the door frame and store when not in use.
PROS
- Full window coverage
- Can still use windows
CONS
- Limited driver visibility with full window coverage
- Dual sides are different materials. One is mesh and the other is a denser microfiber stretch fabric that limits air circulation when the window is open.
FINAL THOUGHTS
When you start searching for the best car sun shade for your family, keep some of these important factors in mind. First, decide the type and size that will fit your car window the best. Next, make sure the installation method works with your vehicle. Lastly, choose the shade that will offer the best protection for your little one.
Looking for more gear for your little one? Head over to our Gear Guides Section to see more comparisons.
Krissy lives in California with her family of three that make up “The Hadicks.” With a passion for research and helping others, The Hadicks was developed as a resource for other parents and parents-to-be!
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!