Seat covers are one of the most popular aftermarket automotive interior accessories. There are many designs available, including saddle blanket seat covers. Seat covers can be made from a wide variety of different materials, including polyester and Neotex. While some look at seat covers as merely an aesthetic modification, they can actually add functionality. Well-designed seat covers can even protect your interior. Most seat covers are quite easy to install. Read on to learn more about automotive seat covers.
Seat Cover Design
The most common seat covers are available in solid colors like black, gray, and tan. These seat covers are intended to match the color of your interior, as black, gray, and tan are the most common interior colors. Some seat covers are designed to make a normal car seat look like a race car’s seat. Saddle blanket seat covers, which are designed to look like saddle blankets from the Wild West, are also popular.
Seat Cover Materials
Seat covers are made from a wide variety of materials. Some of the most expensive seat covers are made from leather and sheepskin. However, the vast majority of seat covers are made from synthetic fabrics. These synthetics are more cost-effective and durable than natural fabrics. Some of the most popular synthetic fabrics used in seat covers include Neotex and polyester. Both of these fabrics are durable and comfortable, while also being relatively inexpensive.
The Functionality of Seat Covers
While many people look at seat covers as simply being an aesthetic accessory, some seat covers offer an impressive amount of functionality, as well. For example, some seat covers actually include pockets. It is common for seat covers to include map pockets, which are large pockets that go over the back of the seat. Many car seats have pockets in these areas, so seat covers that have map pockets simply maintain the functionality of the original car seats. However, some vehicles, especially economy vehicles, do not include map pockets on one or both seats. In these circumstances, seat covers can actually add functionality to the seats that they would not have otherwise.
Many seat covers also include additional foam padding, which enhances the comfort of your vehicle’s standard seats. Some vehicles, especially economy vehicles or sports cars, have thinly padded seats that can be uncomfortable to sit on during long drives.
How Seat Covers Can Protect Your Interior
In addition to looks and functionality, seat covers can also add a layer of protection. Of course, seat covers can protect your interior from wear and tear. Seat covers can also protect your interior from stains, making them good options for people with small children. Certain seat covers can even protect your interior from the sun’s UV rays, which could otherwise cause your interior to fade.
Installing Seat Covers
Most seat covers are very easy to install. Usually, they simply slip on. Often, seat covers are held in place with simple clasps or clips. Most seat covers are designed to fit the vast majority of models. However, if you have a vehicle with very large seats or an old-school bench seat, you may need to get specialized seat covers.
Choosing the Right Seat Covers
Choosing the right seat covers often comes down to personal preference, unless your vehicle has non-standard seats that most seat covers won’t fit. You need to choose a design or color scheme, and you need to choose the material you want. Of course, you need to check and make sure that the seat covers you have your eye on will fit your vehicle.
