Finding the Right Seat for the Job
We live in an age of customisation, and the most customised object that people choose to adapt is their car. From the engine to the screen glass, to exhaust to colour, the options for customising your car are endless. One great way to add a flair of personality while also increasing the value of your car is in the addition of custom seat covers. Just as one example, car cover provider Katzkin can create interiors improvement for your unique car, perfect for adding a slash of luxury to your basic Honda seat covers.
If this is something you’re considering, you need to be fully aware of the pros and cons of seat covers and the materials available. The customisation options can feel overwhelming, so in this article we’re going to break it down into simple key areas so that you can decide on an option that is best for you and for the car you drive.
Do I Need a Seat Cover in the First Place?
Are seat covers really that important? The answer will be different for everyone, and it depends on the answers you give for a few other questions:
- Who is in the car? If you have pets (or kids!) there might more mess in your car than others. According to one study, more than 80% of dog owners in the USA take their pets in the car with them. Many of these cars and seats get damaged when there is no protection in place so a seat cover will prevent a lot of stress and hassle by limiting the damage caused.
- How clean do you keep the car? This all depends on the time and commitment that you can personally give to a regular car cleaning schedule. If your circumstances allow you to keep on top of the mess, you may decide that a seat cover isn’t essential for you. However, if your time is limited and spills and stains sit around for a long time, these will be harder to clean up if you don’t have the protection that a seat cover provides. Essentially, if you’re looking to save time, get seat covers!
- What happens in your car? If you come back to your car from a sweaty jog or a muddy bike ride, you might find that seat covers will help you keep the seats clean and preserve your peace of mind. No one likes to sit on smelly seats! Similarly, if you like to nibble on snacks, or even feast on meals in your car (we’re blaming drive throughs…) the crumbs and debris can easily be swept off an easy-to-clean surface of a seat cover, where they would otherwise fall into the folds of fabric if a seat cover wasn’t there to protect it.
Pros and Cons of Car Seat Covers
Regardless of the material you decide to go for (more on that later!) there are other advantages and disadvantages to bear in mind when you’re thinking about seat covers.
The Good Stuff
Seat covers protect the seat from the harmful rays of the sun meaning, just like your skin, they are less likely to age, crack and dry out.
They also protect the seat from moisture, perhaps from a spilled drink or a sweaty back (gross!) so you’re not left with any stains.
A big plus is style – depending on the seat cover you go for, many add a touch of class and luxury to your vehicle and can be chosen to fit your personal style.
Some car seat covers have the additional bonus of squishy padding and soft fabric, making the seat much more comfortable. This is a great plus if you do lots of long journeys in the car and need to improve the comfort of your ride.
Car seats can also make the old look new. A new car seat cover does wonders to the aesthetic of a car that is perhaps looking a little worn or dated.
The Not So Good Stuff
If you like the original look of your car’s interiors, covering the seats might make the interior look strange or the seats out of place.
Although comfort is expected, initially it might take a while to get used to the change. You will have to adapt from the seats you are familiar with to the feel of new covers while might take a while to get used to.
It’s not as easy to thoroughly clean seat covers as they can be difficult to install and remove.
You might have found that car seats in general can be a little too warm and make your back sweat, and this is the case with some car seat covers too. If this is an issue you’re concerned about, you’d do well to investigate the material options available to find a substance that’s best for you.
The Options of Available Materials for Car Seat Covers
LEATHER
Leather Is a great option as although it can be expensive and gets hot in the summer, it is easier to clean, waterproof and adds a look of elegance.
SUEDE
Suede is more affordable than other options out there but has the downsides of not being resistant to water or UV light. This means it will be damaged by light and spills.
NEOPRENE
Neoprene is a great fabric with a sporty aesthetic. It is very durable and wate-resistant so if you’re the outdoorsy, active type of driver, this is a great option for you. As neoprene is the main fabric of wetsuits, it’s perfect if you’re one often to be found at the beach.
SHEEPSKIN
Sheepskin is ultimate luxury but also ultimate high maintenance. It’s extremely comfortable and luxurious and perfect for all weathers as it is warm during winter and cold during summer.
MESH
Mesh is best suited to drivers in hot climates as it keeps the air circulating and allows air to get beneath you, reducing the anxiety over sweat and smell.
Featured Photo by Erik Andersson on Unsplash
