When it comes to keeping your car seats clean and protected, seat covers are a great choice. Some, such as the highly-rated Weather Tech Seat Protectors, are designed to be stain-resistant and waterproof while also offering a snug fit, so you can feel confident that your seats are safe. Parents and pet owners, in particular, may benefit from seat covers that ward off sticky fingers and spills while keeping the interior looking new.
The material of your seat cover will play a big role in the way that it performs, so it’s important to consider what kind of protection and style you want. For example, if you’re in search of a cover that can handle heavy use and stains, vinyl is an excellent option as it’s tough and easy to sanitize. A popular alternative to vinyl is neoprene, which uses the same synthetic rubber that’s used in wetsuits and offers similar protection against sweat, mud, and other types of damage. It also dries quickly, so it doesn’t show visible scuff marks as easily as some other fabric covers.
For a more luxurious look, you can opt for leather covers that offer warmth and a traditional aesthetic. However, they’re not a good fit for everyone as they tend to be less breathable and may absorb more heat than other materials. Some models are even more expensive than other types of covers. A cheaper alternative to genuine leather is synthetic, or faux, leather. A set of these can be a good fit for many vehicles as they’re often designed to look like the real thing, but there are some pitfalls. For one, many sets aren’t designed for a precise fit and can end up with wrinkling and bunching.