Sunny days may be difficult to predict in the UK, but being prepared when you’re out and about with a baby parasol for your pram or pushchairis a must for protecting your tot’s delicate skin.
As well as wearing some baby sunscreen or waterproof baby suncream, babies should be kept out of direct sunlight and their temperature must be constantly monitored to avoid overheating. Covering your child’s pram with a blanket, cloth or any cover that prevents the air from circulating can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is why a parasol (or sunshade) is recommended instead.
What to look for when buying a baby parasol
Material: You'll want to check that the material used to make the parasol provides UV protection and how much. This is especially important as babies under six months can't wear sunscreen. Children over six months should still wear sunscreen even while using a parasol.
Fit: All of the parasols included in this guide are universal, meaning they will fit any prams or buggies but this is not always the case for other options available to buy. Be sure to double-check the product descriptions to check your choice will fit your specific pushchair.
Adjustability: You'll most likely need to readjust your parasol when you change directions or when the sun moves to ensure your baby is still covered from the sun so look for a parasol where you can set the position easy to guarantee 360° protection.
The best baby parasols
If you're in need of a baby parasol, we've got you covered. Here are seven of the best on the market to choose from.
1. Universal Parasol
View offer
Featuring an adjustable clamp and flexible shaft so it can be adjusted to almost any angle, this parasol offers UV protection of UPF50.
Is it universal: Yes
2. Baby Pram Parasol with Adjustable Clamp
View offer
Choose from three colours with this baby parasol which has an angle adjustment button helping it to bend 360 degrees and be adjusted in any direction. Made from 98 per cent UV-resistant material, it can fold into a small hand-held umbrella so it can be used on its own.
Is it universal: Yes
3. RIOGOO Baby Pram Umbrella
View offer
Available in black or grey, this parasol has UV 50+ Protection fabric to protect your baby wherever you go. The flexible spring shafts and fixture hinges allow you to set the position of umbrella easily and you'll also receive a free umbrella handle, so the parasol can used as a normal sun umbrella.
Is it universal: Yes
4. Clair de Lune Universal Pushchair Sun Parasol
View offer
Suitable for use with most strollers, pushchairs and prams, simply attach the Clair de Lune parasol to the F-clamp using the 'click clip' and attach. The flexible mid-section allows you to easily adjust the parasol depending on where the sun is, shielding your baby from the rays.
Is it universal: Yes
5. Universal Baby Parasol
View offer
There's a whopping 10 different colours to choose from with this baby parasol, ranging from hot pink to lime. With waterproof and UV SPF 50 protection, the quick release clamp provides easy attaching and release while the clamps rubber pads prevents any slipping or scratching on the frame of your buggy or pushchair.
Is it universal: Yes
6. Cosatto Stroller Parasol
View offer
For something a little out there, what about this unicorn parasol from Cosatto? Also available in eight other fun designs, it offers UPF 100+ protection. With 11 rotate positions from the clamp, and a further two directional adjustments on the arm of the parasol, you can create the optimum coverage whatever position the sun is in.
Is it universal: Yes
7. SnoozeShade Original
View offer
An alternative to a baby parasol, the SnoozeShade is a much loved bit of kit by parents everywhere. Blocking 99 per cent of the sun's UV rays (UPF50+), it can be used as a canopy to block overhead sun as well as a blackout blind to help your child sleep. It attaches easily and securely to all single prams, carrycots and pushchairs thanks to the stretchy straps and sides.
Is it universal: Yes