Best Shade Cloth of 2026

Darin Boyd Avatar
Darin Boyd
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Shade cloth is a versatile material that is commonly used in outdoor settings to provide protection from the sun's harmful rays. Made from high-density polyethylene, it is a durable and lightweight fabric that is able to block out up to 90% of UV rays. Shade cloth comes in a variety of colors and densities, allowing users to choose the level of shade they need for their specific application. It is commonly used in agriculture, landscaping, and construction, as well as for outdoor events such as weddings and festivals. With its ability to provide shade and protection, shade cloth is a valuable addition to any outdoor setting.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shade&Beyond 90% Sun Shade Cloth Cover #TOP 1
Shade&Beyond 90% Sun Shade Cloth
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp Cover #TOP 2
Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp
ftb score rating icon 9.8
winemana 70% Black Shade Cloth Cover #TOP 3
winemana 70% Black Shade Cloth
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shade Cloth

#TOP 1

Shade&Beyond 90% Sun Shade Cloth

SBGN081270-GM-CH
Mocha
0 8' X 1 2'
Shade&Beyond 90% Sun Shade Cloth Cover
Shade&Beyond 90% Sun Shade Cloth with Grommets, 8' X 12' Pergola Shade Cover Canopy, Mesh Tarp Sun Screens for Patio, Outdoor, Garden, Backyard, Mocha

The Shade&Beyond Shade Cloth offers 90% UV protection, making it perfect for creating a comfortable outdoor space. It helps you escape the sun's harsh rays while keeping your belongings safe from damage. Made from durable high-density polyethylene, this shade cover is designed for long-lasting use, ensuring it withstands wear and tear. Its lightweight and breathable fabric allows for maximum airflow, keeping the area cool. Installation is a breeze with grommets placed every two feet, enabling you to set it up quickly on various structures for immediate shade.

What We Like
Excellent sun and wind protection
Durable, strong material
Easy installation options
Weatherproof and long-lasting
Provides privacy
What We Don't Like
Limited size options

Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp

6.5*10
Black
55%-6.5FTx10FT
Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp Cover
Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp with Grommets for Plant Cover 6.5x10ft Patio Canopy Garden Pergola Greenhouse Car Barn Kennel Black

The Cool Area 55% Sun Shade Cloth Mesh Tarp is made of high density polyethylene fabric material that is tear-resistant and lightweight with a shading rate up to 55%. It is easy to install with aluminum buckles and can be fixed anywhere with zip-ties or ropes. It is widely used in outdoor areas such as pergolas, swimming pools, greenhouses, and kennels to provide a comfortable and shaded area in summer.

What We Like
Durable material construction
Effective sun and wind protection
Versatile for plants and livestock
Easy to install with grommets
Reduces indoor and outdoor temperatures
What We Don't Like
Some material may feel lightweight
Minor sagging in airy fabric
#TOP 3

winemana 70% Black Shade Cloth

4SCWFEG-40
Black
10 FT x 20 FT
winemana 70% Black Shade Cloth Cover
winemana 70% Shade Cloth 10x20 FT - Durable UV Blocking Mesh Tarp for Garden, Patio, Greenhouse & Chicken Coop - Sun Shade Cover with Grommets for Plants, Dog Kennel, Outdoor Use

Winemana 70% Black Shade Cloth is a high-quality mesh tarp that blocks 70% of the sunlight and resists rays while allowing air to flow through. Made from lightweight yet durable high density polyethylene, it is designed with lock-stitch knitting technology, taped edge, and reinforced corners for extra strength and durability. With grommets located along the entire reinforced edges, it is easy to hang and set up. This multi-purpose shade cloth is perfect for greenhouses, plant cover, livestock housing, poultry buildings, hoop structures, barns, kennels, patios, and more.

What We Like
Easy installation
Reinforced corners and grommets
Effective sun and heat protection
Improves plant and garden health
Good value for size
What We Don't Like
Some grommets may detach
Material can be a bit flimsy
#TOP 4

Cool Area Sunblock Shade Cloth

MGNYW013-22
Black
55%-6.5FTx10FT
Cool Area Sunblock Shade Cloth Cover
Cool Area 55% 6.5x10ft Sunblock Shade Cloth Cover Mesh UV Resistant Net for Garden Flower Plant Greenhouse, Black

Cool Area Shade Cloth is a versatile and convenient solution for protecting your plants and outdoor spaces from the sun's harsh rays. With its special woven hole design, this shade cloth blocks 55% of the sun while still allowing air and water to pass through. This means you can water your plants directly without affecting their photosynthesis. Installation is a breeze with the included zip-ties or rope, and no tools are necessary. Whether you need shade for your garden, greenhouse, patio, or even a dog kennel, this shade cloth is the perfect choice. Keep your plants and outdoor areas cool and protected with Cool Area Shade Cloth.

What We Like
Effective sun protection
Easy to install
Durable material
Good air circulation
Lightweight and versatile
What We Don't Like
Some stitching concerns
Occasional minor defects
#TOP 5

Shade&Beyond Outdoor Roller Shades 8x8 Cordless

SBRC060803G-PJ
Gray
96"W x 96"H
Shade&Beyond Outdoor Roller Shades 8x8 Cordless Cover
Shade&Beyond Outdoor Roller Shades with Splicing Design, 8' W x 8' H Cordless Patio Roll Up Blinds, Exterior Shade Cloth Roll for Porch, Gazebo, Pergola, Balcony, Gray

The Shade&Beyond Cordless Roller Shades offer a smart design with a split tube connected by aluminum joints, making it easier to transport and preventing sagging for a neat look. Made from durable 220 GSM HDPE fabric, these shades block up to 90% of harmful UV rays, helping you stay cool and maintain privacy. Installation is simple with all necessary parts included, plus a clear online video and a pre-cut template to save you time and effort. The cordless manual crank lets you adjust the shade height smoothly and safely, making it perfect for homes with kids and pets.

What We Like
Easy installation
Blocks sunlight and heat
Durable quality
Customizable size
Good value
What We Don't Like
Assembly instructions unclear
Fabric may appear thin
#TOP 6

IMSGVIFO 90% Shade Cloth Sunblock Mesh Tarp

IMSGVIFO
0011
black
5x10FT
IMSGVIFO 90% Shade Cloth Sunblock Mesh Tarp Cover
IMSGVIFO 90% Shade Cloth, Chicken Coop Shade Cover, Sturdy Sunblock Mesh Tarp with Grommets for Patio Plants Greenhouse Kennel Porch Pergola Sun Protection Neting Cover, 5x10FT

The IMSGVIFO Shade Cloth offers excellent sun protection with its 80%-90% shading capability, helping you create a cool and comfortable outdoor space while protecting your plants from harsh sunlight. Made with durable, tear-resistant, and UV-resistant materials, this shade cloth ensures long-lasting use even in tough weather conditions. Its sleek design with reinforced edges not only provides stability but also adds a neat look to your garden, patio, or pergola. Versatile in use, you can easily cover gardens, greenhouses, patios, or even animal enclosures like chicken coops, making it a practical and attractive solution for sun protection.

What We Like
Easy installation
Durable material
Effective sun protection
Temperature reduction
Multi-purpose use
What We Don't Like
Limited lifespan
Somewhat delicate
#TOP 7

HOLAA 90% Shade Cloth 3x6ft

HOLAA
A-10
Black
3X6ft (0.9x1.8m)
HOLAA 90% Shade Cloth 3x6ft Cover
90% Shade Cloth,3x6ft Tear Resistant Sun Shade Net with Reinforced Grommet,Durable Garden Shade Tarp Cover for Greenhouse,Plant Cover, Chicken Coop,Patio and Pergola,Black

The HOLAA 90% Shade Cloth helps you protect your outdoor spaces by blocking most of the sun’s harmful UV rays while still letting you see through it. Its breathable design lets air flow freely, so you stay cool without feeling trapped or overheated. Made from strong, tear-resistant material, this shade cloth is built to last through tough weather, saving you from frequent replacements. Plus, its reinforced corners and edges make it easy to secure tightly, so it stays in place even on windy days. This makes the HOLAA 90% Shade Cloth a reliable and comfortable choice for your garden, patio, or greenhouse.

What We Like
Excellent heat and sun protection
Durable and sturdy material
Lightweight and easy to install
Affordable price
Allows water to pass through
What We Don't Like
Possible size discrepancies
May tear after extended use
#TOP 8

Mklsit Garden Shade Cloth

SC4010X20
Black
10ft x 20ft 40%
Mklsit Garden Shade Cloth Cover
Mklsit Garden 40% Shade Cloth, 10 x 20 FT Shade Mesh Tarp with Reinforced Brass Grommets, Black Outdoor Sunblock Shade Cloth Cover for Plants, Greenhouse, Patio, Chicken Coop, Tomatoes Sun Shade Net

Mklsit Shade Cloth is a 10 x 20 FT sun shade cloth that provides 40% shade coverage, blocking up to 70% of sunlight and filtering harmful UV rays. Its breathable mesh tarp structure allows cool air to circulate freely while pushing out hot air, creating a comfortable environment for plants, your family, or pets. The upgraded design features delicate copper grommets that prevent deformation, ensuring uniform stress distribution. The six lock-stitch edge design and reinforced edge treatment enhance durability and resistance to rips, tears, and fraying. Made from 100% UV stabilized high-density polyethylene fabric, this shade cloth is lightweight yet durable, making it suitable for various shade applications. It is easy to install with evenly located brass grommets every 20 inches along the reinforced edges. Mklsit Shade Cloth is perfect for greenhouses, gardens, patios, chicken coops, and more.

What We Like
Effective sun protection
Easy installation
Noticeable temperature reduction
Durable for most weather
Multiple shade percentages available
What We Don't Like
Possible chemical smell
Occasional sizing inconsistencies
#TOP 9

Artpuch 90% UV Block Pergola Shade Cloth

ATGN101270
Mocha
1 0' X 1 2'
Artpuch 90% UV Block Pergola Shade Cloth Cover
Artpuch 90% Sun Shade Cloth, 10 x 12 FT Pergola Shade Cover Canopy with Grommets, Sun Screen Fabric Tarp for Patio, Outdoor, Garden, Backyard, Mocha

The Artpuch Pergola Shade Cloth is made from strong, heavy-duty 200GSM HDPE material that stands up well to outdoor conditions. This fabric lets rainwater pass through, so you won’t have to worry about water pooling or the cloth sagging. It blocks 90% of harmful UV rays, helping keep you and your outdoor furniture safe from sun damage while making your space cooler and more comfortable. Plus, it offers privacy by partially blocking views without cutting off air flow, creating a cozy, semi-private area perfect for your balcony or backyard. This shade cloth is versatile and reliable for many outdoor uses.

What We Like
Wind and rain protection
Enhanced privacy
Easy installation
Durable and strong material
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Bungee cords may break in strong wind
#TOP 10

ZOZIJIU Garden Shade Cloth with Grommets

B101
Black
6.5ftX3ft
ZOZIJIU Garden Shade Cloth with Grommets Cover
Shade Cloth - Garden Shade Mesh Netting with Grommets Outdoor Sun Shade Cover for Pergola Patio Plants Greenhouse Chicken Coop Black Shading Rate 70% -90% (6X3FT)

The ZOZIJIU Garden Shade Cloth offers excellent UV protection, helping you reduce heat and glare while creating a cool, shaded space for your plants, pets, or outdoor areas. Made from high-density polyethylene, this lightweight yet durable mesh allows air and water to pass through, promoting healthy plant growth and ventilation. Its reinforced corners and aluminum grommets every 5 feet make hanging the cloth easy and secure, preventing tears and ensuring long-lasting use. This versatile shade cloth can protect your garden, greenhouse, patio, or even your pets from harsh sunlight and overheating, making it a practical addition to your outdoor setup.

What We Like
Effective sun protection
Durable and well-made material
Versatile for multiple uses
Easy installation with grommets
Allows air and light through
What We Don't Like
Material slightly thinner than expected
Grommet holes alignment minor issue
Buying Guide Image

The Right Shade Cloth for You

What is Shade Cloth?

Shade cloth is a type of fabric that is specifically designed to provide shade from the sun. It is commonly used in outdoor settings, such as gardens, patios, and playgrounds, to protect plants, people, and animals from the harmful effects of the sun's rays.

Why is Shade Cloth Important?

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause a variety of health issues, including sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Shade cloth can help to protect against these risks by blocking out up to 90% of the sun's harmful UV rays. Additionally, shade cloth can provide relief from the heat on hot days, making outdoor spaces more comfortable and enjoyable.

Types of Shade Cloth

There are several different types of shade cloth available, each with its own unique properties and benefits. The most common types of shade cloth include:

  • Knitted shade cloth: This type of shade cloth is made from interlocking loops of yarn, creating a flexible and breathable fabric. It is often used in horticulture and agriculture to provide shade for plants.

  • Woven shade cloth: This type of shade cloth is made from tightly woven fibers, creating a more durable and stable fabric. It is often used for outdoor construction projects, such as building shade structures or enclosing outdoor spaces.

  • Shade netting: This type of shade cloth is made from a mesh of fibers, creating a lightweight and porous fabric. It is often used in gardening and horticulture to provide shade for plants and to protect against pests and wind.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shade Cloth

When choosing shade cloth, there are several factors to consider, including:

  • UV protection: The primary purpose of shade cloth is to provide UV protection, so it is important to choose a fabric that is specifically designed to block out harmful UV rays. Look for shade cloth that is rated for a high level of UV protection, such as 90% or more.

  • Material: The material of the shade cloth will affect its durability, breathability, and overall performance. Knitted shade cloth is flexible and breathable, while woven shade cloth is more durable and stable. Shade netting is lightweight and porous, making it ideal for use in gardens and horticulture.

  • Size and shape: Shade cloth is available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it is important to choose a fabric that is the right size and shape for your specific needs. Consider the size and shape of the area you want to shade, as well as the size and shape of the shade structure or enclosure you will be using.

  • Color: The color of the shade cloth can affect its ability to provide shade and UV protection. Darker colors, such as black or navy blue, are better at blocking out the sun's rays, while lighter colors, such as white or beige, are more reflective and can help to reflect heat.

Conclusion

Shade cloth is a versatile and effective tool for providing shade and UV protection in outdoor settings. By considering the factors discussed above, you can choose the right shade cloth for your specific needs and ensure that you are adequately protected from the sun's harmful rays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can be used instead of shade cloth?

If you don't have shade cloth, you can use alternative options such as an old white sheet, floating row cover, window screen, or a piece of lattice. These DIY alternatives can help reduce the amount of heat that reaches your plants by blocking sunlight.

2. What color shade cloth works best?

White shade cloth is ideal for creating a cooler environment for your plants as it reflects light and heat away from them. On the other hand, black shade cloth is more suitable for blocking excess light and keeping the temperature lower at night.

3. How much will 40% shade cloth reduce temperature?

A 40% Aluminet Shade Cloth, which offers better heat and light reflection, can reduce temperatures by approximately 5-10 degrees. The reflective nature of this material helps bounce off heat and light, resulting in a more significant temperature reduction compared to other types of shade cloth.

4. Is 50% shade cloth too much?

For vegetables, a shade percentage of 30-50% is usually ideal, while 80-90% shade is suitable for sheltering people. Most plants thrive with a maximum of 40%-60% shade, so 50% shade cloth should be within the recommended range.

5. What are the disadvantages of shade cloth?

One disadvantage of using fabric as a shade structure is its lack of durability compared to more permanent solutions. Fabric shade structures need to be set up and taken down each year, and they should be removed before heavy rain or storms to prevent damage.

6. Can I use sheets as shade cloth?

Yes, you can use old bed sheets or window screens as a temporary shade cloth. Fasten them to wooden stakes and position them several inches away from the plants to avoid retaining heat.

7. Can you see through 70% shade cloth?

A 70% shade cloth, like Coolaroo 70% UV Block Screening Shade Fabric, allows enough light through to provide privacy while still allowing a view from the outside. It is also suitable for protecting items kept outside.

8. Is 70 shade cloth good for plants?

For most vegetables, it is recommended to use a shade cloth with a percentage no more than 40-60% during the summer. Tomatoes may benefit from a 50% shade cloth, while succulents and other light-sensitive plants may require a 60-70% shade cloth.

Editor's Notes

During our shade cloth research, we found 24 shade cloth products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 93,431 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shade cloth list. We found that most customers choose shade cloth with an average price of $15.56.

The shade cloth are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shade cloth, including Shade&Beyond, Cool Area, winemana, IMSGVIFO, HOLAA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 187 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Darin Boyd Avatar

Darin Boyd runs a small pest control business in Texas, and he is a regionally renowned pest control expert. His areas of expertise include pest control, gardening and outdoor gear. He is willing to share some practical tips on how to protect plants and vegetables from pests.

Shade Cloth Comparison Table

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Brand Shade&Beyond Cool Area winemana Cool Area Shade&Beyond IMSGVIFO HOLAA Mklsit Artpuch ZOZIJIU
Item Weight 3.76 pounds 1 pounds 2.32 pounds 12.6 ounces 8.73 pounds 0.45 Kilograms 0.23 Kilograms 0.94 Kilograms 185 Grams 0.21 Kilograms
Color Mocha - Black - Gray black Black Black Mocha Black
Material High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) - High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) - High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Mesh High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Polyethylene (PE)
Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant - Water Resistant - Not Water Resistant Waterproof Not Water Resistant Not Water Resistant Waterproof Waterproof
Size - - 10 FT x 20 FT - 96"W x 96"H 5x10FT 3X6ft (0.9x1.8m) 10ft x 20ft 40% 1 0' X 1 2' 6.5ftX3ft
Special Feature Includes Planters - UV Resistant - Cordless Durable - - Commercial Portable, Soaker, UV-Blocking
Mounting Type Post Mount - Post Mount - Outside Mount Post Mount - - Post Mount Post Mount
Style Garden - 70% - - Classic - - Garden Rectangular shade cloth
Model Name GN05 - 4SCWFEG - - Sunshade cloth - - GN101270 B101
Installation Type Tie - Tie - - Tie - - Tie Tie
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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