Mythbusting: Is It Really Bad Luck to Open an Umbrella Indoors?

Over nearly 80 years in business, we've heard it all-especially when it comes to umbrella superstitions. Perhaps the most famous one? That opening an umbrella indoors is bad luck.


But where did this belief come from? And more importantly: is there any truth to it?


Let's open this myth up. Indoors.

Where Did the “Bad Luck” Superstition Come From?

The idea that opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck likely dates back to ancient Egypt, where umbrellas were used to shield royalty from the sun. And opening one in a shaded space, like indoors, was considered an insult to the sun god.


Next, we fast-forward to Victorian England, where umbrellas often featured metal spokes and spring mechanisms. These umbrellas were clunky and dangerous, and popping one open inside the home could break a family heirloom or put an eye out. So the superstition likely gained more momentum as a practical safety warning.

So… Is It Actually Bad Luck?

Let's get this straight: there's no scientific evidence that opening an umbrella indoors has any effect on your luck. Unless your bad luck is breaking a lamp or scaring your cat.


In fact, opening your windproof umbrella indoors might be necessary to let it dry (as discussed in a previous post, "How Do I Care For and Maintain My Umbrella?") or test out its features-especially if you just got a SHED RAIN Vortex V2 or one of our new UV protection umbrellas with UPF 50+.


Conclusion?
Historical Myth: Verified ✅
Scientific Validity: Busted ❎

How to Safely Open an Umbrella Indoors

If you do need to open your umbrella inside (no judgment), here are a few tips:

  • Make sure there's space (we recommend at least a 3-foot radius).

  • Aim the tip of the umbrella away from fragile items or people (including yourself).

  • Let it air-dry before closing it again or storing it in a sleeve or bag.

  • Use the auto-open/manual-close function, like that of our Compact Auto Umbrella, for easy control.

At SHED RAIN, we'd never want to bring you bad luck. We're here to provide style, quality, and weatherproof confidence. Whether you're stepping out into a storm or testing your gear in the foyer, we believe umbrellas are tools, not omens.


And hey, if superstition still has you second-guessing, we've got plenty of self-standing umbrellas and umbrella hangers, so you never have to test the Egyptian sun god again.