A seat cover protects a vehicle’s factory upholstery from dirt, stains, and spills that can mar the interior. Many are designed to be easily cleaned, either by wiping down with a cloth or washing in a laundry machine, so that they will look good as new. Some are quilted or constructed of other materials to provide a degree of comfort. They may be patterned or printed to add style and personal expression.
A wide variety of fabrics are used to make car seat covers, including polyester, cotton, and velours. Most cover the seat fabric with a foam lining, which improves comfort by providing cushioning, insulation, and support to the body. Foam linings are available in a range of thicknesses, from three to eight inches, to match a variety of seating positions and occupant weights.
The sturdiness of a seat cover is determined by its ability to resist mechanical loads and temperature changes. High quality seat covers must also resist deformations and permanent distortions. These are caused mainly by the variations of load on the seat and by the elasticity of the material.
The performance requirements of seat covers are often very demanding, especially for car seats. This is because of the complex shape of these structures, the need for high-quality seams and fit on the seat, and the necessity of combining a high level of safety and comfort. The most important requirement is the ability to achieve consistently high quality seams and a good fit on the seat even after repeated use.