Umbrella Damage

Clifton Umbrellas - FAQ & TIPS & TRICKS

Clifton offers a wide range of umbrellas, from classic walking length models to micro mini 'pocket size' umbrellas, tailored for everyday and seasonal use.

Depending on usage, Clifton umbrellas have different warranties available, varying by type and brand. While Clifton umbrellas are built to withstand typical weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances beyond standard wear and tear can occasionally cause them to malfunction.

Below is an FAQ along with tips and tricks on how to extend the life of your umbrella.

Walking Length Umbrellas

Walking length umbrellas are the classic umbrellas known for their timeless design and sturdy construction. They typically feature a straightforward mechanism with a runner that slides smoothly along the shaft. This type of umbrella is favoured for its reliability in protecting against rain and sun alike, making it a versatile companion for everyday use.

Walking length umbrellas have 2 metal pieces on the shaft. These metal pieces can be pushed in under certain conditions:

Pressure applied from the top, such as being stepped on or having heavy objects placed on them, or due to improper storage methods.

This issue can occur with wooden shaft umbrellas as the metal can dig into the wood, becoming stuck or piercing through it.

To resolve this issue, carefully pull out the metal piece(s) using pliers.

Tips & Tricks:

  1. The release button on the umbrella's runner (the sliding piece on the shaft) is used to close the umbrella. Pressing this button collapses the umbrella's ribs.
  2. To open the umbrella, simply slide the runner up and lock it into place at the metal piece. Avoid sliding the runner while pushing the button, as it will not lock the umbrella open.

Automatic Open and Close Umbrellas

Automatic umbrellas are folding models often designed for travel. Derived from classic folding umbrellas, automatic open and close umbrellas are designed for seamless use, making them ideal for travellers and anyone needing quick access.
These umbrellas open by pushing a button; the runner automatically moves through the shaft to lock in place. Contrary to popular belief, they do not fully retract to the handle when closing; instead, they collapse the ribs and canopy. To fully close the umbrella, the user must manually pull the runner back to the handle and lock it in place.

Tips & Tricks:

  1. After use, manually pull the runner back to the handle to fully close and lock the umbrella.
  2. Avoid manually pulling down the umbrella without first pressing the button to release the runner's lock. Failure to do so may damage the mechanism, preventing the umbrella from automatically locking when next opened.

Manual Open Umbrellas (Folding)

Unlike automatic folding umbrellas, manual models operate similarly to walking length umbrellas. The runner of manual umbrellas must be manually slid through the shaft to lock it in place.

Tips & Tricks:

  1. Do not press the button while sliding up to open, as it will not lock in place with the metal piece.
  2. Press the button only when closing the umbrella to collapse the ribs and canopy.
  3. When closing, gently pull the runner back to avoid scratching the shaft, which could cause it to become stuck during opening and closing.

Ribbed Umbrellas (Mini)

Clifton offers a variety of mini umbrellas designed for minimal travellers. Due to their size and construction, these umbrellas require extra care. The shaft features a small hole for its locking mechanism.

Tips & Tricks:

  1. If the runner doesn’t click into place, gently wiggling it can help align the locking mechanism.
  2. Avoid holding the release button while sliding the umbrella open, as it may prevent the umbrella from staying open.
  3. Mini umbrellas may be slightly more difficult to fold due to their size and ribs. Use fold marks as a guide to carefully fold the closed umbrella into place.

Closing & Storing Umbrellas

The method of closing and storing umbrellas significantly affects their longevity and functionality. Here are tips for storing Clifton umbrellas to maintain their optimal condition:

  1. Avoid storing umbrellas in cramped spaces, as pressure can damage the ribs and locking mechanisms.
  2. Understand the type of umbrella to properly handle its unique mechanism, whether automatic or manual, to avoid mishandling.
  3. Folding the umbrella correctly is crucial:
    • Use fold marks to guide the fabric into place.
    • Slide the runner gently down to the handle.
    • Tuck the tips inside the handle to prevent snagging.
    • Use your palm to hold the closed umbrella in place.
    • Apply gentle pressure and twist the umbrella slightly to secure the fabric.
    • Secure the umbrella with its Velcro closure before placing it back into its pouch.
  4. For better storage, consider placing folding and mini umbrellas in the water bottle pouch of a bag to prevent pressure on other items like laptops.

These guidelines will help ensure your Clifton umbrella remains functional and in excellent condition for an extended period