Every vehicle no matter how big or small or old or new it is, should be protected from the elements. While the exterior of your car requires more expensive protection, the interior can pass with a set of covers. Seat covers, to be more exact, are a great way to not only protect your seats from spills, claws and the sun but also great when it comes to changing the look of your cabin.
They are able to keep your seats in good shape for longer and cleaning them is rather easy which means you also won’t have to clean the actual seats as much. You can choose to go for OEM or aftermarket covers however, the latter seems to be a more popular choice.
Advantages of Aftermarket Seat Covers
Price
One of the main reasons why people seem to purchase aftermarket car seat covers is because of their price. They are quite affordable for something that you’ll use every day. That’s not to say they are of poor quality as you can find some durable auto seat covers that won’t feel like you’re sitting on nails.
Fit
While OEM seat covers fit quite well, there are aftermarket alternatives that can have the same effect without costing you a fortune. You can also go for universal seat covers if you want to be able to use them on different vehicles but know that there’s also the option for custom-fit covers.
Choice
Something that aftermarket automotive seat covers are far better than OEM ones in is the number of options you get in terms of design. You can get aftermarket seat covers with different designs and colours as well as with a different material.
Seat Cover Materials
Neoprene
One of the most comfortable and waterproof seat covers at the same time are those made of neoprene. This is the same material that wet suits are made from, which means that you get to have a somewhat stylish and rather durable cover over your seats.
Leather
If you want to have the most luxurious and most comfortable seat covers you should purchase leather car seat covers. Leather may require quite a bit of maintenance on your part but it will reward you tenfold with its stunning looks and plush feel.
Fake Leather
Leather seat covers are rather expensive but you can go for an alternative known as faux or fake leather. It’s also easier to keep clean but it’s not going to be as comfortable or as good-looking as real leather.
Canvas
Ruggedness and durability are synonymous with canvas seat covers. These types of automotive seat covers are made for the true off-roader as they can protect your seats from sharp objects. Don’t expect them to be on the comfortable side though.
Suede
With suede covers, you can expect much greater comfort levels than those of canvas covers and a high level of durability too. Suede seat covers are easy to clean and make for a more refined look.
Jacquard
Jacquard is found on most seats on lower trim level models but it can be found used for seat covers. It’s a fairly comfortable and durable material that can be used for some heavy-duty tasks as it has a rugged middle section. Jacquard covers make for a minimalist look.
Velour
Similar to Jacquard covers, Velour auto seat covers are made to be more comfortable but they are not as rugged. They look quite similar to each other but the latter is not made to be tested often especially not when off-roading.
Sheepskin
For some, sheepskin covers are even more luxurious and more comfortable than leather seat covers. That’s because this natural material is made to keep you warm and cool thanks to its breathable nature. When it comes to spills, though, sheepskin covers are no good.
Acrylic Fur
Acrylic fur is made to mimic actual sheepskin which makes it a great alternative for covers that try to replicate the look and feel of sheepskin covers. Acrylic fur covers are much easier to keep clean and they are not as expensive or moisture absorbent. However, they’re also not as comfortable or as breathable as sheepskin covers.
Denim
The same material used to make jeans is used to make seat covers. The difference here is that you also get foam backing to make the covers more comfortable. These seat covers are quite rugged and durable while being fairly comfortable for longer journeys.
Mesh
Probably the most breathable seat covers, mesh covers are made to protect your seats from dirt and dust. They are not waterproof, provide decent comfort levels and are reasonably priced too. Don’t expect them to make your vehicle’s interior look like that of a luxury sedan though.
Polyester
Polyester automotive seat covers are both lightweight and strong while being breathable too. These synthetic covers are great all-rounders since they are also easy to clean without being too expensive.
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