Which covers to choose for your car?

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Seat cover design and construction have advanced significantly over the past decades. In the past, the phrase “car seat covers” meant ill-fitting covers that kept slipping off. Luckily, thanks to new design and manufacturing techniques, modern car seat covers can be custom-fitted to fit any individual vehicle. Thanks to modern materials, high-quality cases retain their shape even with intensive use.

In this article we will look at why install seat covers, what is the difference between individual and universal options, and which ones to choose.

The content of the article:

Why install covers?
Individual or universal covers?
How to evaluate covers when choosing?
Material
Size
How much do seat covers cost?
Instructions for installing seat covers
Car care for car covers

Why install covers?

Car seats are the part of the interior that is most susceptible to wear and tear. Their condition is the first thing a potential buyer notices inside the car. Damaged, worn upholstery will reduce the final value of the car.

Good car seat covers will protect your seats from stains, unpleasant odors, pet hair, sweat, various liquids, damage, and fading from the sun (UV radiation). They will protect the upholstery so you don't have to clean or replace it, and the car will have a higher resale value.

Some drivers prefer to leave the interior in its original form. However, sometimes car seats require protection. For example, if you have a pet or small children, you need upholstery protection.

A set of stylish, modern premium covers can literally transform the interior of your car. The salon will be easy to maintain. A simple wipe down is usually sufficient.

You can remodel the interior, taking into account your aesthetic requirements.

How to sew car seat covers: step by step

The advantage of sewn covers over purchased ones:

Cost savings. Purchased ones will cost at least twice as much.
Choice of fabric, color scheme, individual design.
Acquiring new skills. Possibility of using them in the future.
No customization, manufacturing strictly according to the required parameters of your car.

Tools and materials:

textile;
a set of scissors (for fabric, for finishing);
keys, screwdrivers;
adhesive solution;
hair dryer;
tailor's pins;
chalk, marker, pencil;
sewing machine.

Sewing from old covers

If we are talking about reupholstering car seats, then it is necessary to dismantle the old ones in order to make the necessary pattern.

To do this you should:

Turn off the electrics.
Unfasten the fittings and fastenings.
Pull out the connectors.
Remove the old fabric carefully, avoiding tears.
Smooth out.
Using the shape, make a pattern on paper.
Cut the new material, taking into account an increase of one centimeter on each side per seam.
Sew the seams from the wrong side.
Turn right side out.

Prepare the interior for the installation of covers: thoroughly treat all surfaces with a degreasing solution, after removing dust and rust.

Pull the new seat covers over the seats and secure them. In places where folds may form, apply glue and then dry with a hairdryer.

Install the necessary accessories, add design elements (for example, in the form of patch pockets).

Sewing from scratch

What to do if there are no old covers? We distinguish four stages.

Selection of cladding type, material . Based on the recommendations, choose the option you like. Before purchasing the material, to correctly calculate the fabric, take measurements.

Taking measurements . Measure: the length and width of the back of the chair, the lower seat.

Tip: it is convenient to take measurements using a transparent film, tightly attaching it to the parts of the chair. Use a marker to circle the main points, highlighting the stitching sides.

Making a pattern . Transfer to paper or cardboard. Check the size range. Attach the pattern to the wrong side of the fabric with tailor's pins. Trace the outline.

From the sides where processing or seam will be needed, set aside two to three centimeters and draw an additional cutting line. Where there is no seam, set aside one centimeter at a time to process the free edge.

Cut out the workpiece. Iron at the folds.

Installation . Connect the parts, fasten with pins, make a basting manually with a seam “needle forward”.

Check the dimensions for accuracy. Sew the seams according to the basting. Turn out.

In places where the fabric is most vulnerable, internal inserts can be made from denser yarn.

Install the cover, secure it, add design.

Individual or universal covers?

When purchasing car covers, you can choose between a universal and individual option.

Individual ones fit well with the shape of the chairs. They are made for a specific car model, according to the size of specific car seats. The location of the seat drive control buttons and the presence of side airbags are taken into account.

Once installed, they do not move during operation. Custom car covers are usually more expensive than universal ones.

Universal options are suitable for all shapes and sizes, designed to cover as many cars as possible. If we take into account the thousands of brands of existing cars, then it is impossible to make car covers that truly fit all cars. Even the best universal products will not perfectly fit your seats.

Covers are the simplest, easy-to-install universal car covers. They can be used temporarily, thrown over the seats to protect the original upholstery if the driver and passengers sit down in dirty clothes. T-shirt covers can also be used to temporarily protect upholstery from dirt.

Which car seat covers are best to buy?

There are three types of covers: universal ones suitable for the seats of any car, model ones designed for seats of a certain brand and series, and then there are regular covers.

The first two types can not only decorate the car interior, but also increase comfort due to foam inserts. And the linings simply protect against dirt, although they are also presented in a wide range - from cheap raincoats to expensive fur and leather products.

The differences are not limited to the cut and methods of fastening. Upholstery materials are also quite varied and have both their pros and cons:

Velvet (plush) and corduroy are pleasant to the touch, mask light stains well, are easy to clean and can be washed in a machine. The disadvantages of these materials include electrification and attraction of dust, and they will not fit into every “interior” of a car.
Alcantara or artificial suede has the advantages of velvet, looks great, is wear-resistant, suitable for summer and winter. The disadvantage is the high cost.
Velor is the most common material. Delicate, soft, practical, but needs delicate washing.
Jacquard is a simple and cold fabric that gives the interior a cheap look. But it is durable, practical, does not electrify and is easy to clean.
Polyester is a cheap and non-absorbent material. Similar to jacquard, but accumulates static electricity.
Natural fur and sheepskin (mouton) is a cozy winter “coat” that can either decorate the interior or ruin it. You need to choose fur covers carefully and tastefully, not forgetting about delicate care.
Leather (natural and artificial) is durable, does not allow water to pass through, can be cleaned with a damp cloth, but in the cold it hardens and becomes rough, and in the sun it heats up.

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How to evaluate covers when choosing?

When choosing, you can consider the following characteristics:

Material. This is an incredibly important factor. It will determine the comfort and performance properties of the covers.
Breathability. Some materials restrict airflow, preventing occupants' skin from breathing.
How to fit the chairs. You need to make sure that the covers fit the seats. Do they cover most of your chair? Does it have a tight fit?
Durability. Many low-quality products fall apart after a short period of use. Consider the quality of the products.
Is it washable/washable? If you plan to use the covers for a long period, it is better to purchase a washable option.
Waterproof. If you play sports, lead an active lifestyle, have pets, or live in a warm climate, it is better to purchase waterproof car covers.
Style. Choose covers so that they match your car, your taste, and your lifestyle. This makes it possible to personalize the interior of the car.

What else should you consider?

Consider the features of the seats in the car:

Are the seats equipped with airbags?
Do car seats have armrests, removable or built-in headrests, what is the configuration of the rear “sofa”?
Do the headrests have built-in displays?

If the front seats are equipped with airbags, the seat covers must be compatible with them. They have special seams, either very thin material in the side or a slit. This allows the side airbags to deploy unimpeded.

The best seat covers

Covers for car seats include regular and orthopedic models made of different materials. Installing such products is much easier than covers, but they also have their drawbacks. For example, the cover does not cover the entire seat, but only its main part and slides off if it is weakly secured.

Balaton Plus Premium

5.0

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The perforated leather option in the upper price segment has an elegant style and looks good in a business class car.

There are 10 colors to choose from, with one and two shades. A popular pattern – a rhombus – was chosen as decoration.

The Full 3D design is comfortable, but there are no orthopedic inserts. The pads have an anti-slip coating on the reverse side and do not slide off the chairs. For convenient placement and installation, the headrests are separated from the main part.

Pros:

Elegant design and wide choice of colors;
Gives prestige to the salon;
The covers are easy to put on and take off;
Reliable fastening;
Anti-slip lining;
Removable headrests and backrests;
3D design;
The leather does not absorb odors and is easy to clean.

Minuses:

High price.

The front covers are similar to covers and have side edges, completely covering the upholstery of the chair. Details for the back row are represented by a one-piece sofa and separate backrests, which are connected by an armrest.

Autoluxe AL-208

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

92%

buyers recommend this product

Expensive, but at the same time high-quality and comfortable set of covers suitable for any car. It is equipped with three levels of support - on the seat, lumbar and back.

There are orthopedic inserts not only on the front row of seats, but also on the back row, so that all passengers can fit comfortably.

The upholstery is made of highly elastic eco-leather and decorated with diamonds with red stitching. The parts are secured with rubber bands and hooks.

Pros:

Stylish design;
Quality materials;
Reliable fastening;
Universal application;
Orthopedic inserts and supports;
Elastic eco-leather is resistant to mechanical damage and scratches.

Minuses:

No shoulder support;
The headrests are not removable.

Long trips will become more comfortable thanks to the lumbar pillow - it holds the spine in the correct position, relieving the load from the back.

The cost of the set is higher than analogues - 8400 rubles. There are other colors and designs in the manufacturer's collection.

Euromat EUSH-004002

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

85%

buyers recommend this product

For winter trips you need “heavy artillery” - fur products. Soft plush seats retain heat longer than jacquard or leather.

The model is fixed with crimping rubber bands and securely attached to the seat and backrest. The shape is suitable for chairs with molded and standard headrests. The material is based on faux fur.

Pros:

Original appearance;
Soft and gentle to the touch;
Heats up quickly and retains heat;
They are inexpensive;
Durable;
Firmly fastened with rubber bands;
The one-piece cover will fit any chair size.

Minuses:

Fur accumulates dust;
Over time, it gets lost and rubbed out;
Synthetics are electrified.

Faux fur capes are inexpensive, look stylish, and are well ventilated, but they do not come with covers for the back row.

Material

The type of material from which the covers are made determines the level of comfort, as well as durability and ease of cleaning. Let's look at some of the most popular materials.

Neoprene

This is perhaps the most popular cover material right now. Neoprene is a rubber-based synthetic material, the same material that wetsuits are made from. Neoprene covers are easy to mold. In addition, neoprene is extremely comfortable and regulates temperature well, helping the chairs stay cool in summer and warm in winter. In addition to comfort, neoprene perfectly protects the original upholstery from moisture. In addition, it is easy to clean. Neoprene is also quite durable and tear resistant. The disadvantage of neoprene is its high cost.

NeoSupreme

NeoSupreme is an alternative to expensive neoprene. It offers many of the benefits of neoprene at a lower price. NeoSupreme is an artificial fabric that imitates neoprene in both aesthetic and functional qualities.

NeoSupreme contains polyester mixed with neotex. It is not as soft as neoprene, so it is used with a layer of soft backing underneath. Car covers made from NeoSupreme fabric provide effective protection against liquids and are well resistant to UV radiation from the sun. NeoSupreme is inferior in strength to real neoprene.

Polycotton

This material is polyester and cotton. Used together with soft lining. Polyester provides excellent durability.

Polycotton has high breathability. This works great in the hot summer to help keep you cool. It is resistant to ultraviolet radiation from the sun (does not fade). During production, polycotton is treated with a special compound to make it stain-resistant and provide a good barrier against various contaminants.

Nylon

This is a synthetic fabric made from polyamide fibers. Nylon is versatile for both upholstery and covers as it is durable and affordable. Externally, nylon resembles natural silk. It retains color and does not fade during frequent use. Nylon is difficult to tear, it does not deform, stretches, and conforms to the shape. Disadvantages include a possible allergic reaction upon contact with sensitive skin, poor air permeability, and electrification.

Ballistic nylon

This is an especially strong, wear-resistant nylon used to make outdoor gear. Ballistic nylon is waterproof. In addition, it is UV resistant and easy to clean.

Vinyl

Vinyl used to be often used for upholstery and car seat covers, but with the advent of more modern artificial materials, automotive vinyl has lost ground. Vinyl products are very easy to clean, are waterproof, and provide decent tear protection.

The downside to vinyl is the quality of the fit. Although vinyl covers have improved, they do not have a perfect tight fit. In addition, vinyl does not distribute heat well in the summer, which can make its surface very hot. Direct sunlight can dry out vinyl, causing it to crack over time.

Velours

Velor is the main material for car covers. This fabric is made of polyester or cotton, resembles velvet, and provides maximum comfort. Velor is soft and comfortable, but not the most durable. Velor for automotive applications is usually made from polyester, giving it excellent wear resistance.

Jacquard

Jacquard fabric is considered an attribute of wealth. It is used for interior decoration, furniture finishing, and tailoring. Jacquard is a special way of weaving threads. Jacquard is characterized by the strength imparted by twisted threads. It is a little rougher than velor. It is quite expensive, since the production of this material is labor-intensive. Jacquard fabrics are strong, durable, have little stretch, are abrasion resistant, retain color well, but are water permeable.

Canvas

This is a type of very durable, wear-resistant fabric. Modern canvas is made from cotton or linen with the addition of synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon). Canvas is very difficult to tear. It is resistant to puffs. At the same time, the canvas is pleasant to the touch and allows air to pass through. Special protective impregnation gives it water-repellent properties. Ideal for those who require maximum car seat protection.

Denim

Denim fabric is highly wear-resistant and relatively comfortable. Typically used with soft lining.

Mesh material

The mesh structure makes it the best material when used in very hot climates. The mesh allows air to pass through, allowing for better circulation, causing passengers and the driver to sweat less.

Sheepskin

Sheep fur provides maximum comfort. Natural fur regulates temperature well. It will feel warm in winter and cool in summer. Sheepskin is wear-resistant. It will last a long time. The disadvantage is the high cost.

Artificial fur

Faux (acrylic) fur is a synthetic material that is similar to real sheepskin. Obviously, being synthetic, fur is not as luxurious as real fur. It also does not have the properties that real sheepskin has. It doesn’t regulate the temperature the same way and will last less. This fur is much cheaper than real sheepskin.

Leather

Genuine leather is the most expensive material for car upholstery and car covers. Individual leather covers can transform the interior of a car beyond recognition.

This option can be a real problem in the summer.

Faux leather

Eco-leather is most often used as a leather substitute for covers. This is a type of synthetic leather, hypoallergenic, breathable, and easy to care for. Externally, eco-leather is very similar to natural leather. It can have different shapes, including perforated. Consists of a cotton or microfiber base and microporous polyurethane film. It is cheaper than genuine leather, but durable.

Alcantara

Real suede is a luxurious material, but it does not have the durability needed for automotive applications. Instead, an artificial imitation of suede - Alcantara - is used. Alcantara is made from polyester and polyurethane fibers. It is wear-resistant, durable, more elastic than natural leather. Car covers are made entirely of Alcantara, as well as a combination of Alcantara and leatherette.

So, the best material is the one that suits you in terms of cost and also satisfies your needs. If you go through the list above, you will notice that different materials have common attributes. The choice is yours.

Comparative table of characteristics and applications of car covers made of different materials.
Which material is better, fabric or leather?

Without going into details, for the most part, car covers are usually divided into two categories - fabric and leather.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of these two categories.

Textile

Fabric covers are cost effective, although not necessarily the best quality. They are very practical and represent an excellent solution for most consumers.

Advantages:

Available in a wide range, such as velor, neoprene, nylon...
Affordable.
Unlike leather, fabric covers are more resistant to temperature changes.

Flaws:

The fabric can get dirty quite quickly. It is more difficult to clean locally than a leather surface.
Over time, dyed fabric covers tend to fade when exposed to the sun.
Fabric car covers can stain easily if they are not cleaned immediately. Dirt may get stuck between the fibers.

Leather

Leather cases are quite expensive, but they make up for the price with their durability and aesthetics.

Advantages:

High-quality leather covers are, for the most part, considered an improvement to the car's interior.
They are much easier to care for than fabric ones. Spilled liquid can simply be wiped up.
More durable.

Flaws:

The biggest disadvantage of leather cases is their susceptibility to temperature changes. They burn in hot summers and are cold in frosty winters.
Leather cases do not have as many color variations as fabric cases. The usual colors for them are black, gray, beige.

Is it worth installing covers on leather seats?

Leather is a luxury item. People love the comfort, smell, and rich appearance of a leather car interior. Should you cover leather seats to protect them or leave them as is and take care of them in every possible way?

Leather chairs are especially susceptible to wear and tear because moisture and oils will break down the leather, causing cracks and other visible signs of damage. Restoring them is expensive, and replacing them is even more expensive.

What dangers can leather seats pose when using a car?

There is no doubt that leather is durable. However, there are three main dangers of damage to leather car seats.

Sun damage. Cars spend a lot of time in the sun. The sun's ultraviolet rays can dry out leather, causing it to crack and color to fade.
Damage from spilled liquids. Liquid left on the skin for a long time damages it.
Cuts/damage. Sharp objects can permanently damage your skin. It cannot transport heavy solid objects. It can also damage it.

Installing covers will help maintain the original appearance of leather upholstery. However, you need to be aware that this can add some problems.

The fabric dye of the covers may stain the leather.
Car covers have seams that come into contact with the upholstery. When using the car, these seams will be exposed to the leather surface.
The leather surface is slippery. Covers may slip while the car is in use.

Inexpensive cases

If you are not the owner of a luxury car and are not ready to spend a large sum on seat covers, then our rating of inexpensive products will come in handy. We didn't look for the most affordable models. Our rating consists of cases that demonstrate good quality at a low cost.

A worthy option would be covers from the Multi Comfort company. Velor models will serve for a long time and at the same time please the eye with an excellent appearance. Their orthopedic properties are a pleasant bonus that will appeal to drivers who spend a lot of time behind the wheel. There may be problems with installation, but the fit is perfect.
The Hadar Rosen Corsar cases provide worthy competition to the first model. This is a truly universal product that can be applied to any car. This model will delight you with its excellent appearance for a long time, even despite intensive use. The manufacturer should consider creating pockets on the back of the cases.
Urban products occupy a worthy place among budget cases. It is distinguished by laconicism, restraint and rigor. There are no complaints about performance, but the product line could be expanded. The buyer has very little choice.
The Airline Visper is also a budget option with decent performance. The company uses various materials to create its products and strictly adheres to the technology of the production process.

Today you learned a lot about car covers. This information will allow you to make the right choice. After all, you know which fabric will be best for car seats and which manufacturer you can trust to protect your interior.

Size

As mentioned earlier, there are universal and custom cases. When purchasing individual products, you can count on them to perfectly fit the seats of your car, as they are made taking into account car models and the exact parameters of their seats.

Unlike individual ones, universal car covers are made according to the “one size fits all” principle. Often the packaging contains information about the car models to which the covers fit. If such information is not available, then you need to choose car seat covers according to the size of the passenger compartment seats.

For universal cases, the two most common sizes are: S (small) and M (medium - medium/standard). The difference lies in size and shape.

Size S is designed for compact seats with a more sloping backrest at the top in A and B class cars.
Size M is designed for regular sized seats with a backrest without a significant narrowing at the top.

Some foreign manufacturers have a greater number of size variations for universal car covers. These dimensions take into account the type of headrest (built-in or removable), the shape of the seats, the presence of armrests, and the type of rear “sofa”. In Russia, these sizes are not in use, so we will not consider them in detail.

In any case, when purchasing universal car seat covers, consider the features of the seats:

Headrests built-in or adjustable
Are there armrests or not
Are there airbags built into the seats

On the packaging you can usually find information about compatibility with certain features of car seats.

Case material (rating)

The material used to make car covers is the main criterion for buyers when choosing a car cover. At the moment, car covers made from the following four materials predominate on the market:

Genuine leather.
Eco leather.
Velor.
Alcantara.

We will talk in detail about the pros and cons of each of them and at the end we will answer the question of which material is better for car covers.

Car covers made of genuine leather

Genuine leather in the interior has always been evidence of the high status of its car owner. It can be especially often found in premium cars. It has the following undeniable advantages:

Excellent appearance
. Of course, much in this regard depends on the integrity of the manufacturer. If he chose high-quality raw materials and did not skimp on production, then the leather case will turn out simply impeccable in appearance.
Excellent thermal conductivity
. In winter, it quickly warms up to the optimal temperature and retains heat perfectly, thereby ensuring the comfort of the driver and her passengers. At the same time, it remains cool in summer.
Amazing stability
. Does not stretch, burst or deform over time. It perfectly resists temperature changes, exposure to water and other negative environmental influences.

Of course, this material has both its advantages and disadvantages. Although it effectively protects the seats from scratches, chips and dirt, it itself often gets dirty. Some types of stains that appear on natural leather cannot be removed even with special means. Because of this, it is best used in machines that are not used very often.

When purchasing car seat covers made of genuine leather, you can easily encounter products of poor quality. This is not always immediately noticeable, since defects that were initially present on this material are easily hidden by mechanical processing at the production stage. However, during operation they definitely make themselves felt.

It is impossible not to mention the specific smell of genuine leather covers. Some people take it calmly, others it irritates, and in others it even causes allergies. If you are prone to allergic reactions, then it is better for you to avoid using genuine leather in the salon.

Natural leather requires complex care. It needs to be cleaned periodically and sometimes even additionally protected with special means. If you are willing to devote enough time to this, choose cases made from this material, otherwise you will only waste your money.

Cases made of genuine leather are quite expensive, and therefore not everyone can afford them. Moreover, due to their strong susceptibility to contamination, such covers have to be changed from time to time, which means spending money on finishing the interior again.

Eco-leather car covers

Eco-leather is the most worthy of all the alternatives to natural material for finishing the inside of a car that exist today. In appearance, eco-leather is as close as possible to regular leather. In most cases, it is even impossible to distinguish it from genuine leather.

Eco-leather not only has all the advantages of its prototype, but also surpasses it in some respects. Let's look at all the positive qualities in more detail:

Safety
. The composition does not contain plasticizers that would emit harmful fumes when heated and would poison the human body. It does not emit unpleasant odors, which, by the way, leads to another significant advantage in the form of hypoallergenicity.
Attractive appearance
. We have already briefly mentioned this a little higher. The eco-leather case, painted in the color of the interior, looks truly luxurious.
Ventilation
. Easily allows air and water vapor to pass through. This property of artificial material is especially useful in the summer, when the cabin becomes stuffy.
Resistance to different temperatures
. Eco-leather withstands both heat and cold, without deforming at all on the seats, even with particularly sharp temperature changes. If it is -35 ℃ or +35 ℃ outside, nothing will happen to it. It also never fades in the sun.
Resistance to many types of mechanical damage
. Eco-leather rarely gets chips or scratches. Covers made of this material are durable and perfectly perform their main protective function of seats.
Durability
. If you properly care for your car covers, they will last you from five to ten years, retaining all their original properties.
Easy to care for
. Grooming is a complete pleasure. This does not require either expensive means or special skills. This material washes off even large stains amazingly quickly. However, it is not recommended to use a brush on it; a wet cloth is enough.
Acceptable cost
. Despite all the above advantages, eco-leather car covers are inexpensive. Due to their durability, they do not need to be replaced regularly. This is definitely a profitable investment in your car.

Of course, eco-leather cannot be called an absolutely ideal solution for making capes, car covers, etc. For example, in winter this material requires a lot of time to warm up, and due to animal claws and metal objects, its lining may be visible. However, all this can be easily avoided if you start the car in advance and treat the interior with care.

Velor car covers

Velor is a low-pile fabric that has been successfully used for sewing car seat covers for a long time. Velor has several distinctive features:

Does not freeze or heat up
. Thanks to this property, it is always pleasant and comfortable to sit on a seat covered with velor.
Does not require complex care
. To remove dirt from velor, just wipe it with a special shampoo. The cost of care products for this material is low.
Doesn't slip
. This is especially important for drivers. Velor “holds” the driver in the seat even on very sharp turns.
Gives delightful tactile sensations when in contact with the body
. The velor seat is incredibly pleasant to touch.
Shows exemplary stability during operation
. Velor is not afraid of water, fire, or even intense mechanical impacts.

Almost the only disadvantage of velor is that if used for too long, the pile can become tangled, which will not look very aesthetically pleasing. However, this material with all its advantages will in any case be enough for at least five years of normal use.

In addition, velor cannot be called a universal material for sewing car covers. A car cover made entirely of this fabric is not liked by all car owners, and therefore it is often combined with eco-leather. It looks very harmonious with her.

Alcantara car seat covers

Alcantara is an artificial material that looks and feels very much like suede. It is made from cotton, polyester and polyurethane. Respectable car brands like BMW and Mercedes often have upholstery made of this material.

Alcantara covers have several important advantages that cannot be ignored:

Wear resistance
. Very durable and withstands mechanical stress. Even cutting objects and the heat from cigarettes do not frighten him.
Ability to repel dirt
. Dust and dirt practically do not settle on Alcantara. This minimizes the need for regular interior cleaning.
Good ventilation
. Thanks to this, the interior “breathes” even if it does not have a climate control system. In winter this is not too important, but in summer it is very important.
Excellent thermoregulation
. Due to this parameter, the Alcantara cover quickly warms up in winter and does not get too hot in summer.
The ability to retain its original color for a long time
. Alcantara is not at all afraid of exposure to direct sunlight.
Pleasant texture
. Alcantara feels soft and silky to the touch.

Like any other material, Alcantara has its drawbacks. In terms of appearance, it is very similar to velor. The fact is that Alcantara does not look very good as the only material for sewing a car cover. Although some people think differently.

Summary on the material of car covers

So, which material is better for car seat covers: leather, eco-leather, velor or Alcantara? There is no definite answer here; we can only give a couple of recommendations regarding the choice of a specific option:

give preference to genuine leather if you are willing to repeatedly invest money in cases and also devote time to caring for them;
in all other cases, look at eco-leather, which is practically in no way inferior to natural leather;
If eco-leather seems too simple a solution to you, pay attention to combined products where it is combined with velor or Alcantara.

How much do seat covers cost?

The overall price range varies significantly. Universal ones usually cost from 2500–3000 rubles per set, depending on the size, style, quality of materials, and type of fastenings.

Individual covers cost from 7,000 rubles per set.

Where can I buy?

Some supermarkets sell universal, inexpensive covers.
There is more choice at auto parts stores. In some specialized stores you can find very high quality both universal and individual cases.
In online stores you will find a wide range. You can study the products using customer reviews.
Buying directly from the manufacturer online or in person will allow you to avoid overpaying the middleman.

Classification of cases

Each owner, at his own discretion, makes a choice in favor of one type of cover or another, guided by his own reasons for acquiring covers. However, there is a general number of identified problems:

General view of the vehicle.
Hiding existing defects.
Safety of new upholstery.
Reducing the problems of cleaning the cabin when transporting animals and children.
Work goals (work in a taxi, courier service).
Comfort when staying in the car for a long time.
Transformation of the interior, change of color scheme.
Protective function: does not accumulate dust, debris in folds, protection from ultraviolet radiation, the influence of chemical reagents during interior cleaning.
Expression of individuality.

Chair covers are classified according to external characteristics (size, features, type of material) and functionality.

Wool

Cozy “bedspreads” are made from good quality raw materials and have the ability to stretch. You cannot rely on the openwork of the material: the design will stretch out and lose strength and appearance.

Massage

If you sit behind the wheel for a long time, you can get a personal assistant and receive a massage on every trip. The massage cover has an effect on the back, sacrum, and muscles of the body. Accelerates the circulatory system. They are produced in two types: electrical, mechanical. For the cold season, option number one is recommended.

Thermo

The presence of a built-in heating regulator makes this type of coating universal.

Classic

The usual option is in the form of a T-shirt. Presence of pockets.

Instructions for installing seat covers

Installation instructions for different covers may differ; let’s look at the main points of installing universal covers.

Unpack, identify the different parts, which part of the cover belongs to which part of the chairs.
Installation on the lower part of the chair. Before starting installation, if possible, raise the seats as high as possible. This will make it easier to attach the elastic straps under the bottom of the seats. Place the bottom cover over the seat cushion. Make sure it is pulled tight at all points to ensure a tight seal. Pull the fastening straps and secure them under the car seat. S-shaped hooks are usually used for this. Do not attach hooks to any moving mechanisms or wiring. If you're having trouble finding a safe, secure place to attach the S-hooks, simply tie the straps together. Once all the straps are securely fastened, move the seat forward and backward to make sure there are no obstructions.
Installation on the back. If you have adjustable headrests, then first remove them, install the backrest cover, and then install the headrests. To install the back element, it will be more convenient to first turn it on the reverse side, put it on top of the upper part of the back, then gradually turn it back onto the front side, pulling it tight. Pull the elastic straps sewn to the bottom of the back cover through the space between the bottom cushion and the back. Then attach the straps to each other or down, under the car seat cushion.
Ensure free movement of the chair. Sit on the seat, move it back and forth, up and down, so that the elastic straps do not impede its movement.
Rear seat installation. On most vehicles, the rear seat must be removed before installation. The bottom cushion is removed first and the back cushion of the seat back is removed last.

Modern types of car seat covers

Which car seat covers are best to buy is impossible to answer unequivocally; it’s a matter of your taste and budget, because products for protecting car seats today are very diverse. The covers are:

universal - these are the most budget-friendly and widespread, suitable for many brands, models and modifications of cars (manufacturers usually list them on the packaging). Not all of these products are of poor quality (this is a popular but unfair stereotypical opinion about them). Universal covers have two disadvantages: their technical holes do not always coincide with the requirements of a particular machine and the range is not wide enough. Even if you know perfectly well which fabric is best for car seat covers for your specific car and its operating conditions, you may not find a universal option in this design;
in the form of T-shirts - inexpensive and short-lived; cotton knitwear is most often used for their production. In addition to fragility, they have a second significant disadvantage: they leave the corners of the backrest and seats open, absolutely not protecting them from abrasion and dirt;
model - as the name suggests, they are designed for specific car models and fit perfectly into their seats. They completely reproduce the “original” upholstery and perfectly fit all the elements of the car seat. There is only one drawback: model versions are produced for a limited number of popular models. In addition, it is worth considering the year of manufacture: one model released in different years may have different shapes and sizes of chairs - and then model covers that are perfect for one year will not fit another;
frame - this is a relatively new and relevant product. The main difference between frame and model ones is the complexity of the design (sewn-in frame). It is the presence of the frame that ensures the perfect fit of the seats and creates the effect of a completely reupholstered interior without, in fact, reupholstery. The frame version does not increase the volume of the chairs and looks like a glove, but it is more expensive than the model version;
made to order - in this case, car covers are ordered individually for a specific car, with measurements taken. With the right choice of material, this is the ideal option, taking into account all the design features of the seats and the wishes of the owner: you can even order them in leather with fur and rhinestones, with a back massager and heating. But tailoring to order is an expensive pleasure.

Synthetic leather seat covers

Which car covers are better, made of fabric or eco-leather? Synthetic leather is widely recommended for all those who actually drive a lot and sometimes drive in work clothes. Eco-leather is an extremely durable material.

The only contraindication is to transport animals on such seats, because their claws can easily destroy the surface of the material. Cleaning eco-leather from dirt is not difficult. All you need is a plain, damp cloth with a mild detergent. This option will also be appreciated by anyone who does not want to overpay. Synthetic leather has the disadvantage of not being ventilated at all. Low ventilation leads to significant discomfort on hot days.

Why are chair covers needed?

The seats of any car in use quickly become dirty. The more often the car is used, the faster and more intensively this happens. This manifests itself in dust, greasy food stains, and crumbs. Because of this, as well as due to frequent washing, the seat and its covering can become completely unattractive in appearance. You can protect yourself from all this with the help of special capes, that is, covers. Such car covers have many advantages:

Protection of car seats from dirt, scratches and cracks;
Prevents seats from fading in the sun under the influence of ultraviolet rays;
Easy cleaning of contaminants, especially dust;
Easy “installation” and “disassembly” for washing or dry cleaning;
Creating a unique cozy atmosphere in the car;
Expression of the driver’s personal personality and tastes.

Covers help protect the seats from dust and dirt
. Important! You can take the time to make several “collections” of covers with your own hands, suitable for your mood, weather or season.

Types of car covers

According to their design features, accessories are divided into universal and model ones. Motorists can also order individual tailoring of covers in a specialized studio.

Universal

Accessories are suitable for any seating in the car. The advantage of the products is their low cost. Disadvantages: sloppy appearance of the seats (baggy, overtightened), lack of technological cutouts, tendency to stretch.

Model

Products are sewn for a specific brand and vehicle equipment. They follow all the curves of the chairs and are easy to put on and take off due to their design. Among their advantages are a good fit and preservation of the functionality of the car.

Purpose of car seat covers and their characteristics

Accessories are used to protect the original upholstery from damage and dirt, as well as to mask seat defects. They are easy to remove and machine wash, which is cheaper than completely dry cleaning the interior.

Another function of the products is to increase travel comfort. The material of the accessories is pleasant to the touch, and the cut provides back support.

When selecting accessories, take into account the following characteristics:

Safety. Most cars are equipped with airbags. When selecting products, it is necessary to check whether they are adapted for operation with passive protection systems.
Compliance with the dimensions and style of the interior.
Material. The choice of canvas is influenced by the design and style of the interior.
Mounting type. Models with hooks, Velcro and combined have been developed.
Functionality, certification, price.

Types of cases

Several types of accessories have been developed:

Capes. Simple-cut products are intended for car owners who drive in dirty clothes (fishermen, hunters, farmers). Before the trip they are put on the seat, and at the end of the trip they are removed. The advantages of the models are ease of installation, versatility, low price. The average cost of samples is 1300-1900 rubles.
Headrest covers. Helps keep hair and upholstery clean. The cost of products is from 600 rubles.
Single layer T-shirts. Designed for the driver's seat, front seats or the entire cabin. They are installed in the same way as capes. The price of accessories is 1200-3400 rubles.
Full samples. Completely cover and protect the seats and require careful installation. The cost of accessories is from 1500 rubles.

Tools and materials

Before you get started, you need to prepare the following tools:

Tailor's scissors;
Fabric glue;
Sewing machine;
Centimeter or ruler;
Fabric and materials;
Hairdryer and iron;
Tools for removing seats and old accessories;
Awl for making leather.

Important! Depending on the type of cover and vehicle, the list of tools, equipment and materials will vary, but only slightly. In general, this should be enough to make a cover for a car.

It is worth remembering that all parameters must be measured individually

Rating of car covers

Car upholstery gets dirty easily. It is enough that the spilled drink is absorbed into it. For this reason, investing in car seat covers seems like a good choice, especially since they also protect the seats from minor damage such as cigarette ash. Having well-maintained and undamaged upholstery will definitely increase the value of your car when you decide to sell it. So, let's find out which car covers are best to choose?

Leader Accessories Seaton

It's made from faux leather, so no one was harmed in the making of the cases, but it has all the benefits of real leather. The cover is made of soft perforated faux leather with foam padding that is waterproof, durable and breathable.

It's super easy to clean. Simply wipe and air dry. The covers come in universal sizes so they fit most makes and models of cars. They are also side airbag compatible and have a seatback storage pocket.

Pet BarksBar

This good car seat covers are made of high quality heavy duty polyester. The triple layer should make them ultra-waterproof. They have a quilted pattern that provides comfort. Their built-in rubber non-slip pad and seat anchors prevent slipping once installed.

They will also never stain your seats because they are designed with color-resistant material. The cover is very easy to install and even easier to clean. You can throw it in your washing machine and wash with powder.

FH Group

The case has a bold design with bright color blocks. The seat covers are made of high quality fabric with three millimeters of breathable foam. This foam helps dissipate heat and keep you cool even on long trips.

The cover stays in place with hidden Velcro and adjustable straps. These features make installation and removal easy. The cover also has a universal fit, allowing it to work on most car seats. For added convenience, the seat covers are machine washable and air dryable. Despite the low price, this set includes covers for two seats and two headrest covers.

EDEALYN

The case is made of durable leatherette. Many people add this product to the rating of eco-leather car covers, which indicates its quality and reliability. The inside of the cover is made of highly elastic sponge and insulated fabric, so it is very comfortable to sit on it for a long time. Silicone is added to the bottom so the case does not slip. Additionally, the cover has straps that keep the seat in place no matter the wear and tear.

Unlike covers that fit over the entire seat, this one is compatible with side airbags, so you don't have to worry about the airbags malfunctioning in a crash.

HAMRON

Stylish covers that give the interior a sporty look while protecting the seats.

The set includes front seat covers, a rear seat cover and five headrest covers. The universal size makes the covers suitable for most cars, and at the same time they are adapted to side airbags.

Sojoy IsoTowel

This car seat cover has a universal shape that fits most car seats.

With an adjustable, buckle-type, non-slip silicone surface, the case always stays in place.

Quick-Dry Microfiber Seat Protector

These good car seat covers are always at the right temperature, keeping you cool on hot days and keeping you warm on cold days.

The case is made of microfiber with a silicone backing that holds the case in place.