A seat cover can help you hide worn or ripped seats, protect the resale value of your car and make your vehicle look newer. The best cover will provide a good fit, be durable and comfortable to sit in. It will also be easy to clean. Some materials are machine-washable, while others may require hand-washing and air-drying.
A good seat cover is a trilaminate consisting of a face fabric, foam layer and scrim backing (Fung & Hardcastle, 2000). The face fabric provides an attractive appearance that lasts throughout the life of the seat; the foam layer offers a soft feel, cushioning support and waterproofing; and the scrim backer controls stretch properties and dimensional stability (Sen, 2008).
While many people choose leather or faux leather covers for their aesthetic appeal and durability, these can be hot and sticky in summer. Some covers offer a ventilation feature that helps prevent this.
Neoprene is another popular choice, as it is tough while remaining soft to the touch and water-resistant. It can also be used as a substitute for real leather. It is less expensive than real leather, but not as durable.
A universal seat cover fits most vehicles, so you can usually install it without needing professional help. According to Popular Mechanics, you should be able to wash these covers in the washer, but always check for specific instructions. If you can’t find those, washing them by hand with a mild soap is the safer option.