Overview
As any Australian parent knows, sun protection for their toddlers is of utmost importance. We apply sunscreen to ourselves, put on hats, and try to keep the kids in the shade. What does one do when driving? The large windows of the car let through a lot of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage a child’s delicate skin and eyes. This is where a baby window shade emerges as their knight in shining armour. It serves as an easy yet hugely effective way to protect little ones from real threats.
The Invisible Threat: Understanding UV Rays
UV radiation is an invisible type of energy from the sun. Although some exposure may be necessary to enable vitamin D production, excess exposure results in sunburn, early skin ageing, and even the predisposition to skin cancer in the future. Babies and young children are especially vulnerable, as their skin is thinner and more sensitive than that of adults. Their eyes are also more susceptible to this kind of damage.
Why Standard Car Windows Aren’t Enough
It is usual for the windscreen of a car to be treated in such a way that most of the UVB rays are blocked; however, the side and rear windows are not protected to the same extent. In this case, a child sitting in the back can still receive a considerable dose of UVA, plus some UVB radiation streaming through the windows. Accumulation of exposure can take place over years, which increases the risk of sun-related damage.
Baby Window Shades: Your First Line of Defence
Baby window shades are usually designed and created for physical barriers that act to reduce sunlight penetration as well as UV radiation that reaches your child. They were built from highly protective materials that block specific percentages of UVA and UVB rays. Hence, baby passengers spend a more comfortable time in an even safer environment.
More Than Just Sun Protection: Added Benefits
Beyond UV protection, baby window shades offer a few other handy perks:
- Reduced glare: Like for grown-ups, sun glare can become a cause of irritation and even danger for babies. It causes discomfort, crying, and possible distraction for the driver. Shades are helpful to dull strong sunlight, ensuring a more comfortable and secure journey.
- Temperature control: By blocking out sunlight, the shades can help even the rear of the car cool on hot days. This can considerably affect your baby’s comfort, not letting them become overheated and cross.
- Privacy and security: Shades can help ensure privacy for the little one, especially during napping times in the car. It can also subtly help ward off prying eyes, thereby giving some extra protection.
Choosing the Right Baby Window Shades
When selecting baby window shades, look for options that:
- Offer high UV protection: Check product literature for protection provided from UVA and UVB rays, trying to acquire sunglasses that block at least 99% of the ultraviolet light.
- Provide good coverage: The shades should be large enough to cover all the way to the window and be snugly fitting.
- Easy to install and remove: Focus on designs that will not give you a headache whenever you are putting them on and off.
- Safe and durable: Choose shades made from non-toxic materials that are built to last. Avoid shades with small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Drive along with a relaxed mind for the safety of your Aussie battler. Visit our collection of high-end baby window shades and experience hassle-free journeys!
