If your car's seat covers are looking a little worse for wear, you may be wondering how to bring them back to their former glory. Fortunately, it's easier than you might think! With the right supplies and know-how, cleaning and maintaining your seat covers can help keep them looking great for longer.
Vacuum and Wipe Down the Seats.
Begin by thoroughly vacuuming and wiping down the seats with a damp cloth. Try to remove as much dirt, dust, and debris as you can. This will make it easier to spot deep stains that need more attention and prevent them from getting ground further into the fabric.
Invest in a Good Steamer
A steamer is going to be your best bet for deep-cleaning fabric car seat covers. If you don’t own one, consider investing in one - they last a long time and will make sure your seat covers stay clean. To use it simply steam the entire seat cover, paying particular attention to any spots that need extra cleaning. Avoid using too much steam or water as this could damage the fabric and cause mildew. Allow it to dry completely before using the car again.
Use a Mild Soap Solution on Tough Stains
For tougher stains like food, coffee, or spilled drinks, you can use a mild soap solution. Dilute the soap in warm water and dip a cloth into the it. Using a dabbing motion and a light-colored cloth to avoid discoloration, gently clean away any contaminated areas. Always rinse the cloth in cold water before continuing and check for spots of staining before letting it dry naturally.
Advise for 4x4 Adventurers
If you often take your car off road its essential to periodically clean and maintain your
seat covers. Regular dirt can attract moisture, which leads to a nasty smell and unsightly stains. Use a vacuum cleaner for ordinary dirt or use a soft brush for more persistent accumulations of mud or other obscures. Keep in mind that any stains should be addressed immediately in order to avoid any permanent damage.
Take Care When Installing New Covers
When installing new seat covers, be sure to follow the instructions that came with them. Many seat covers come with straps and levers designed to keep them in place, which must be assessed before driving. You’ll also want to check for any areas where dust or dirt can accumulate and vacuum those regularly. Finally, it’s important to use only recommended cleaning agents and refrain from using abrasive products.
