A seat cover adds a protective layer over your car seats to prevent spills, wear and tear, and UV damage. They are available in a variety of materials to match your car interior and your personal style, from camouflage to Hawaiian print. Some are custom-designed to fit specific seats, but most are standard sizes that should fit in most vehicles.
Some fabrics are more durable than others. For example, canvas is a favorite among trades vehicles and work trucks because it’s fully waterproof and designed to withstand rough treatment. It can be rough on the skin and a bit uncomfortable for a family car, though.
Neoprene is another common choice for work vehicles and people with active lifestyles. Made from wetsuit material, neoprene is soft, comfortable and flexible enough to stand up to a day in the sun and a few spills.
Another popular fabric is cotton, which is breathable and absorbs moisture. It’s also easy to clean, and most covers are machine-washable. According to Popular Mechanics, cotton seat covers are a good option for people who want to keep their cars looking new but don’t need the durability of leather or vinyl.
Another inexpensive option is this Black Panther faux leather seat cover, which blends well with real leather upholstery and is a popular choice for those who have faded or worn leather seats. However, it doesn’t hold up to long-term use, and most users find that it starts to stretch after a few months.