The upholstery in your car’s seats takes a beating. Sunlight causes it to fade, liquid spills are inevitable, and stains are bound to occur (especially if you carry kids or pets). A seat cover provides an inexpensive way to give your seats some extra protection while enhancing the look of your interior.
The best seat covers are waterproof, breathable, and made from a durable material that’s easy to wipe down. Cloth covers are a popular choice, and many are padded for extra comfort. Others are crafted from fabric like the neoprene used in wetsuits, which is durable and able to wick away moisture. Neoprene covers are also available in a variety of colors, so you can find one that complements your car’s interior.
A full-coverage seat cover covers the back and sides of your front or rear seats, providing additional protection from mud, snow, and rain. It can also enhance the appearance of your vehicle, and you’ll find options with fun logos that allow you to tailor your ride to your personality. For example, Popular Mechanics recommends the TigerTough Universal Full-Coverage Car Seat Cover, which comes in black with red piping or camo to match your vehicle’s color scheme and has a lifetime warranty.
When shopping for a seat cover, check your car owner’s manual to ensure that it’s compatible with your vehicle’s features. For example, late-model cars with integrated side airbags require a cover that allows the airbag to deploy. You’ll also want to make sure that the cover doesn’t interfere with your vehicle’s heated or ventilated seating, as some thicker covers can block air flow.