The sun beating down through my back windows used to drive me crazy. Every summer, my kids would complain about the glare, and the backseat would turn into an oven while we were parked. I went looking for an easy fix that would not break the bank. This 2pcs Car Rear Side Window Sunshade UV Protect Shield Mesh Prevent Mosquito Sunshine Privacy Protection Foldable Curtain review covers what happened when I finally tried these cheap mesh covers.
What are these window shades?
These are basically elasticized fabric socks that slip over your entire car door frame. Unlike those cheap suction cup shades that fall off every five minutes, these wrap around the outside of the window. You get two pieces in a pack, and they are designed to block the sun while still letting a breeze inside if your window is rolled down.
I found them on AliExpress because I wanted something budget-friendly. Shipping took about three weeks, which is standard for them, but the free shipping helped justify the purchase.
How do they actually perform?
The biggest benefit is the mesh material. It keeps the sun out but lets air flow through, which is great when you are sitting in the car waiting for school pick-up. Since the mesh covers the window opening, it acts as a screen to keep mosquitoes and bugs out.
Installing them is simple since they are made of a stretchy material. You just pull them over the top of the door frame like a sleeve. Because they wrap around the outside, they stay put even when you are driving on the highway.
Honest pros and cons
I want to be clear about what you are getting for your money. These are not luxury car accessories, but they do the job for a low price.
- Pros
- The elastic fit is universal enough for most standard sedan windows.
- They really do keep the car cooler by blocking direct sunlight.
- You can roll your windows down without letting bugs inside.
- They offer a decent amount of privacy so people cannot see your stuff in the backseat.
- Cons
- The fabric can obstruct your view of the side mirror if not pulled tight.
- It is annoying to remove them when you need to go through a drive-thru or pay a toll.
- They do not fit perfectly on oddly shaped or very large SUV windows.
- The material can snag on sharp edges of the door frame if you are not careful.
- You will wait a few weeks for delivery since they ship from overseas.
Who should use these shades?
If you have kids or pets in the back seat, these are a total win. Parents will love that the sun is not hitting their baby in the eyes. If you often park your car in the sun and need to vent the windows without worrying about insects, this is a smart purchase.
You should skip these if you drive a very large truck or a vehicle with non-standard window shapes. They also might be frustrating if you frequently use drive-thru windows, as you have to reach out or pull the mesh aside. These are meant for people who prioritize function over a fancy look.
What other buyers are saying
I talked to a few other people who tried these shades to see if my experience was typical. Most agree that the value is high.
One buyer mentioned, These shades are a lifesaver for long road trips. My kids actually slept because the sun was not in their faces. Another user noted, They look a bit funny from the outside, but they work way better than the suction cup versions I used to buy at the auto store.
My final verdict
I have been using these for a few months now and they have held up well. They are definitely not the prettiest thing you can add to your car, but they are incredibly useful. For the price, you really cannot complain about the quality.
If you can handle the wait for shipping and do not mind the DIY look, they are worth every penny. You get a cooler car and fewer bugs in the cabin, which makes them a solid choice for any budget-conscious driver. Just remember to check your window size before you click buy.
