Image: MomJunction Design Team
Taking your baby outside and ensuring that they relax and have a good time will benefit them by giving them a dose of sunlight, which is good for their health. However, not all babies might like it or be sensitive to the sun’s rays. Here is when you will need the best stroller sunshade. The stroller sunshades can offer complete protection to your little one from the sun’s rays and privacy while strolling outdoors. They are made of breathable and waterproof fabric. The design extends the stroller canopy and protects the baby from even rain, wind, and insects.
If you are searching for an extension that you can mount on your little one’s walker, then this post has got you covered. We bring you a list of some tried-and-tested stroller sunshades that are a trusted choice of many parents. But, before that, check the precautions to follow while using these stroller sunshades.
Safety Measures To Follow While Using Stroller Sunshades
It is necessary to keep the below points in mind while using a stroller sunshade.
- Make sure the sunshade is breathable.
- It should block direct sunlight from touching your baby’s skin.
- In full-covering sunshades, it might get dark inside the stroller. So, make sure your baby is comfortable with it.
- Check on the baby from time to time when they are under the sunshade.
- Make sure you secure the sunshade properly, and it is out of the baby’s reach.
- Wash the sunshade frequently.
Top Picks
10 Best Stroller Sunshades
1. Best Breathable:Snoozeshade Stroller Sun Cover
The Snoozeshade stroller sunshade fits all single bassinets and strollers with hoods and helps your baby enjoy undisturbed sleep even on the move. This baby stroller sunshade helps protect your baby’s sensitive skin from the harmful rays of the sun and shields them from wind, chill, light rain, and flying insects. This stroller sunshade is recommended for babies aged up to six months.
This versatile sun cover is one of the best, as it can be installed easily over a stroller and bassinet or used as a canopy and to cover your baby’s legs from the scorching sun. It is made of breathable fabric so that your baby stays cool and comfortable, making it one of the best stroller sunshades for hot weather. You may learn more about a tester’s experience with using this product in this review video.
Pros
- Fits strollers and bassinets
- Breathable mesh fabric
- Front zipper for easy access to the baby
- Easy to install
- Lightweight and portable
- Multipurpose
Cons
- Might trap heat
- May not fit all strollers
2. Best Easy-To-Install:Manito Sunshade For Strollers and Car Seats
This sunshade for strollers is made of premium spun fabric that is soft and stretchy, making it compatible with both strollers and car seats. It protects your baby from UPF 50+ sun rays and is easy to install. You can secure the sunshade using hooks and buckles. This stroller shade measures 21.6 x 29.5in to fit most of the strollers and car seats.
The Manito sunshade comes with a sturdy metal frame that can be pulled and pushed forward when not in use. You can choose from 15 different colors. This review video helps you know more about the product.
Pros
- Oversized sunshade offers protection from UPF 50+
- Easy to install
- Can adjust to multiple angles
- Soft and stretchy fabric
- Easy to carry
- Side mesh for extra protection
- Generous size to fit both strollers and car seats
Cons
- May not fit on convertible car seats
- Does not cover your child’s whole body
"Its wide canopy effectively shields against the sun without trapping heat, which is essential for my little one's comfort. Also, it's sturdy and stays in place throughout the journey."
Quick tip3. Best Chemical-Free:SnoozeShade Sunshade For Strollers
This product from SnoozeShade is ideal for baby and toddler strollers and is said to fit almost all single strollers with a canopy. This stroller sun cover is made of soft, stretchy mesh fabric that is breathable and chemical-free and blocks up to 97.5% UV rays. The integrated zip-up sleep panel helps your little one to sleep on the go. It covers the whole stroller to give 360° protection from sun, wind, and dust. Moreover, the mom-approved stroller complies fully with CPSIA and CPSC safety standards.
This stroller sunshade is lightweight, easy to install, and ideal for vacations, picnics, or beaches, making it one of the most functional stroller sunshades for beach or park outings. The front panel opens up with a zip for easy access to your baby while taking a nap or sitting up inside the stroller.
Pros
- Safety-tested product
- 360° coverage
- Breathable and soft mesh fabric
- Zip-up sleep panel
- Easy access to the baby
- Machine-washable
- Easy to install
- Snooze panel to help the baby sleep
- Front storage pocket to store the front panel
Cons
- May not fit all strollers
- Some light might come in
"Though the darker shade tends to absorb a bit of heat, its breathable fabric makes sure it doesn't bother my little one when he's taking restful naps. The access zipper is a solid plus for quick check-in without disruption."
Snoozeshade Stroller Sun Cover Best Breathable | Manito Sunshade For Strollers and Car Seats Best Easy-To-Install | SnoozeShade Sunshade For Strollers Best Chemical-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black with green trim | Navy | Silver |
| Weight | 8.5 ounces | 300 Grams | 13.1 ounces |
| Dimensions | 2.6 x 7.3 x 8.54 inches | - | 8.66 x 5.91 x 1.97 inches |
| Material | - | Spandex | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,345 | 1,097 | 390 |
| Price | $29.99 | $28.99 | $49.99 |
4. Best Lightweight:Bayan Stroller Sunshade
The versatile Banyan stroller sunshade can be attached to strollers, car seats, and outdoor cribs to protect your precious baby from the sun, insects, and harsh winds. It is made of soft, breathable fabric that is tested and approved by CPSC, making it one of the safest sun shields for your everyday strolls. The mesh fabric measures 33 x 37in and is designed to fit most strollers, car seats, and cradles.
You can easily attach this to the top of your baby stroller and secure it at the back using the drawstrings. This mesh stroller sunshade can be folded and easily stored in your baby’s diaper bag, making it useful when taking your baby on a stroll to the park.
Pros
- Versatile design
- Easy to install
- Lightweight and portable
- Breathable fabric
- Easy to pull off from the bottom to access the baby
Cons
- May not block the sunlight completely
- Might rip off after a few uses
"The versatility of this sunshade has exceeded my expectations. It fits various strollers and wagons and provides decent protection against sun and bugs without compromising ventilation or visibility. Also, it's a breeze to store after use."
Point to consider5. Best Flexible:IntiMom Sunshade for Infant Car Seats and Strollers
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 1,367 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
You can take your baby out for a stroll in the park without disrupting their afternoon nap. The IntiMom sunshade for strollers is said to block SPF 30+ UV rays and is designed to fit most strollers and car seats. This stroller sunshade measures 21.7 x 24.8in and can be used as an extension of the stroller’s canopy.
Place the sunshade on the stroller’s canopy and secure it using the strings for installation. The permeable mesh fabric of this UV-protective stroller shade is soft and breathable, which offers ample air circulation and keeps your baby cool. It comes in regular and large sizes.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Easy to install
- Strong hooks to keep it in place
- Flexible stroller can be folded with the sunshade on
Cons
- Quality may not be up to the mark
- No easy access to the baby
"I appreciate this sunshade's easy clip-on feature; it makes the on-the-go readjustments a breeze. Also, the material's sun-protective nature is a boon for those nap times at any sunny spot."
6. Best Foldable Design:Per 2-in-1 Baby Stroller Sunshade
This Per 2-in-1 stroller sunshade is made of lycra with 210 lining hem and a small hole net and measures 24.80 x 16.14in when open. The full-length net design offers extra shade and protects your baby from mosquitoes, insects, and wind.
The elastic edge makes it easy to install and fit strollers with an installation place perimeter of less than 240cm. This works best while taking your baby out for a stroll in the park, as the full coverage mosquito net keeps your baby protected, and the movable sunshade can be pulled and folded back when not in use.
Pros
- Can be used as a mosquito net and a sunshade
- Easy to install
- Foldable design
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not fit all strollers
"This sunshade and bug net combo has been a handy accessory for my stroller-bound little one. It's compatible with all the models we have used so far, and most importantly, it tucks away neatly when not in use."
Do remember7. Best Wind Protection:Per Baby Stroller Sunshade
This unique stroller sunshade is said to offer UPF50+ protection and wind protection along with ample shade, making it one of the best sun canopies for strollers. The Per baby stroller would come in handy while going on a stroll in the park or a beach vacation with your baby. It is designed to fit most stroller models and is made of high-quality lycra, which is lightweight and durable.
This mommy-approved breathable stroller sunshade comes as an extension to the canopy and is easy to install. Just place it over the canopy and secure it at the back using the strings provided. The material is also waterproof, and the sunshade is designed to cover the baby from all the sides.
Pros
- Breathable and lightweight
- Easy to install
- Side mesh windows for proper air circulation
- Flexible stroller can be folded with the sunshade on
- Universal fit
Cons
- Sunlight might come in through the side mesh windows
- Quality may not be up to the mark
"The best thing about this sunshade is its practical design�it quickly attaches to our stroller and can be adjusted to different angles. The fabric and frame are pretty durable, too, and it has made those trips with my baby comfortable."
8. Best Water-Resistant:Spring Fever Baby Stroller Sunshade
If you are looking for a stroller sunshade that offers protection through all the three seasons, then try the Spring Fever stroller sunshade. It is designed to cover the whole stroller and is said to offer resistance from wind, water, and dust. The safe and effective stroller sunshade is made of non-toxic and eco-friendly material with breathing holes to keep your baby safe and comfortable.
The front view window of this portable stroller sunshade has a shading fabric so that your baby can sleep comfortably if they want. The mesh windows on both sides provide easy access to the baby, while the front also offers a good view from inside. It is available in blue, violet, and red.
Pros
- Offers complete coverage
- Water- and wind-resistant
- Dual zippers for ease of operation
- Front view panel with a shade cover
- Two storage pockets at the back
- Side windows for easy access
Cons
- Might get warm
- May not fit all strollers
"This sunshade is an asset for both sunny and windy days. It is a cozy haven, shielding my little one from the elements. Though it lacks instructions for adjustments, I still find it manageable and easy to maintain."
9. Best Clip-On System:Skip Hop Stroll and Go Sunshade Stroller Cover
If you often take your little one for a stroll in the park or to the grocery store, this stroller sunshade from a trusted brand might come in handy to keep your baby protected. Your baby can sleep comfortably under this stroller sunshade, as it protects them from wind and dust. Made of mesh fabric, it covers the whole stroller to give your baby complete protection.
The clip-on system gives this stroller a unique fit and holds the sunshade in place when not in use. This clip-on stroller sunshade comes with a roll-up peekaboo window with a mesh covering that helps you monitor the baby.
Pros
- Offers a universal fit
- Adjustable clips to fold the sunshade when not in use
- Breathable mesh fabric
- Full coverage of the stroller
Cons
- Some light may enter through the cloth
10. Best 360° Rotating Tube:YLYYCC Baby Stroller Sunshade
If you are looking for a unique stroller sunshade or your toddler is already sitting up in the stroller, then try this umbrella-type baby stroller sunshade from YLYYCC. With a length of 40in and an open umbrella diameter of 34in, this sunshade protects your baby from sun and rain.
This stroller sun umbrella, trusted by parents, can be attached to the stroller’s handle with the help of a clamp; the connecting tube is flexible and rotates the umbrella at 360°. When not in use, you can easily dismantle it by unscrewing the umbrella from the clamp.
Pros
- Covers a large area
- Waterproof
- Portable and lightweight
- Secure clamp to hold the umbrella in place
- 360° rotating tube
Cons
- Needs repositioning based on the stroller’s direction
- May be hard to assemble and take off
"I find this stroller umbrella pretty useful for light sunny days. It does a great job of shading my baby while providing enough air circulation and visibility."
Benefits of a Stroller Sunshade
Here is why you might need a stroller sunshade for your little one:
- Offers better protection than a canopy
- Multipurpose and can be used for car seats, carriers, etc.
- Protects the baby from sun, wind, insects, and dust
- Gives privacy, so that the baby doesn’t get disturbed while napping
- Blocks sunlight to give them a cozy spot to rest while enjoying the outdoors
[ Read : LuvLap Joy Baby Stroller Review ]
How To Choose The Right Stroller Sunshade?
Buying a stroller sunshade could be overwhelming when you have a plethora of choices. Here is a buying guide to help you choose the right one for your baby.
- Full coverage or half: Some stroller sunshades only cover up to the baby’s belly and above, while some cover the whole stroller. Choose one based on your baby’s age and comfort. While those offering complete coverage provide better protection, they may make the interiors stuffy.
- Ease of installation: The stroller sunshades can either be attached using Velcro straps or strings. While the Velcro straps are easy to install, they may not last long. Choose the one that is best for your stroller.
- Fit: Make sure you choose a sunshade that fits your stroller. Look for universal stroller sunshades for versatile use. Usually, sunshades with clip-ons, hooks, and string are said to fit most strollers.
- Ventilation: Although the main purpose of the sunshade is to block sun rays, wind, and dust, it should not suffocate the baby. Choose a stroller sunshade made of breathable materials or one that has permeable mesh windows for proper air circulation.
- Protection: Look for stroller sunshades with SPF protection to safeguard your little one from harmful UV rays while on the go. Consider stroller sunshades with see-through panels that allow you to keep an eye on your little one for their safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should baby strollers be covered?
Covering the baby stroller with a cloth could be risky as it can increase the temperature around the baby, thus making them feel uncomfortable and hot (1). That’s why, instead of rudimentary methods like covering, it’s comparatively better to use sunshades for baby strollers.
2. Are snooze shades safe?
Snooze shades made of mesh or other breathable materials that facilitate proper ventilation while providing UV protection without trapping heat can be used. However, keep checking the baby and the pram’s temperature frequently when using a snooze shade (2).
3. How do I keep the sun out of the baby’s eyes in the stroller?
Using a canopy-type sunshade on the stroller can protect your baby’s eyes from the sun to a certain extent. Also, try to adjust the pram’s angle, keeping the trajectory of the sunlight in mind, if possible.
4. How hot is too hot for kids?
As a thumb rule, avoid going outside when the sun is the strongest; that is, between 11 am and 5 pm. When indoors, try to maintain the room temperature between 24℃ to 26℃ (3).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna loves to review all things related to baby products. In this post, she has rounded up a list of the best stroller sun shades that offer protection to your baby when outdoors. She has chosen these products after comparing several products and considering the user reviews and ratings. Vibha has also included a brief description of each product and mentioned the pros and cons to help you choose an ideal product for your baby. Furthermore, she tells you about the benefits of stroller sunshades and precautions to take when using one.
The Bottom Line
Investing in a stroller sunshade may never go wrong as it protects your little one from the scorching heat, rain, wind, and insects. In this article, we have listed some of the best stroller sunshades available on the market. Before picking one for your child, consider pointers like washability, water resistance, high UPF, and ease of installation. Further, the sunshade must be lightweight, made using breathable mesh, and compatible with your child’s stroller. Our favorite picks include the Snoozeshade Stroller Sun Cover, which offers comfort and has versatile compatibility, and the SnoozeShade Sunshade, made of chemical-free fabric that protects the baby from UV rays. We hope the above list will help you make an informed decision.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Stroller Sunshade?
Stroller sunshades provide essential protection from harmful UV rays, keeping your little one cool and comfortable during outdoor adventures. These convenient accessories are a must-have for every on-the-go parent. Check out the following infographic to learn about the factors to remember to ensure you pick the right stroller sunshade.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- How Covering a Stroller Can Put Your Baby in Danger Even If the Cloth Is Thin:
https://brightside.me/inspiration-family-and-kids/how-covering-a-stroller-can-put-your-baby-in-danger-even-if-the-cloth-is-thin-799063/ - Is It Dangerous To Cover Your Pram? – How To Keep Your Baby Safe In The Heat:
https://onlinefirstaid.com/dangerous-cover-your-pram/ - Babies And Children In The Heat:
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat/Pages/babies-children-hot-weather.aspx - How to keep your baby safe from the sun.
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/news-events/news/keeping-babies-safe-from-the-sun-sunscreen-sunsmart
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.
Read full bio of Vibha Navarathna
Read full bio of Poulami Nag
Read full bio of Rohit Garoo
