Heat-busting Car Side-window Heat Shield

While you can usually find front-windshield heat shields at many stores this time of year, it's harder to find side window shields... yet the sun still shines in the side windows and if you park your car all day you may end up in the hot seat.

Thankfully you can make a heat shield in a few minutes, with materials you likely have at hand:

• Reflective heat-insulating packaging (If not available, you can buy a package of "Reflectix" or similar aluminum heat-proofing wrap at your local hardware store.)
• A piece of cardboard about as large as your side window
• Duck tape
• Scissors or box-cutter

Step 1: Sizing

With the square end of the heat shield at the base of the window, mark the top edge of the window in pen and cut it out!

Step 2: Un-floppify It

The panel will be a bit floppy (floppies are useless in this day and age!) so you'll need a piece of cardboard or posterboards to make it more solid. If the cardboard has a bend in it, position it so that it won't fall down.

Cut the shape a little above the reflective material.

Step 3: Test It Out, and Final Trimming/fitting

With the square end in the square end of the window, slide it in so it just touches and sticks in the side window. Trim to fit more exactly (the cardboard, not the car door!)

When it fits as you expect it to, duct tape the cardboard to the reflective material on both sides. You'll want to apply it in about 6-12 inch strips where edges are curved.

Important note - These work great for keeping your car seats cooler, but still do not leave children or pets out in the burning hot weather!

Do not keep this in the window while driving! You would not be able to see that car next to you... or the policemen who pulls you over for obstructed vision.