The seat cover protects your vehicle’s upholstery from spills, stains and grime. It also slows down the deterioration of your car interior and improves its resale value. Seat covers are available in a variety of styles and materials. The fabric you select is a critical factor in the performance and durability of your seats. Polyester is an economical choice that resists wear and tear from children, pets and regular use. Leather is more expensive but offers a luxurious look and feel. It is a good choice for luxury vehicles or those that travel frequently.
Choosing the right seat covers will make your ride more comfortable, protect the value of your car and express your style preferences. Choose a set that matches your vehicle’s color scheme for an integrated look or pick one with an attractive pattern for a customized appearance. You can even find seat covers that are designed to ward off pet hair, sticky fingers and spills.
Most seat covers are trilaminates, with a face fabric, a foam layer and a scrim backing. The face fabric provides an attractive appearance, while the foam layer offers comfort and support for the driver or passengers. The scrim backing is used to control stretch properties and abrasion resistance (Fung & Hardcastle, 2000).
A quality seat cover should be soft, durable, light in weight and elastic. It should also be breathable and not absorb heat, which may cause sweating and discomfort for passengers. The best seat covers are made of polyester and neoprene. The former is a fabric that’s often used in wetsuits and offers a waterproof and dustproof finish. It is also machine-washable, reducing the amount of time spent cleaning.