Whether the car you drive is fresh off the lot or a certified antique, you want to take care of it right. A well-maintained car can provide many years of quality service, while a poorly maintained vehicle will start to look old long before its time.
Taking care of the space under the hood is important, and it will keep your vehicle running like new. But the space inside the car is nearly as important – the interior of your automobile is, after all, where you will be spending most of your time.
Proper interior car care starts with the seats. The quality of the seats will have a direct impact on your comfort, but it will also greatly affect the appearance of your car.
There are many ways to keep your car seats looking like new. No matter how old your car is or how many miles you drive each day, these tips can help you keep your car seats in pristine shape.
Cover it up
One of the best ways to preserve the appearance of your brand new seats is to keep them covered. A quality set of seat covers can keep the upholstery or leather underneath looking like new, so look for a set you like and protect your car’s interior.
Use the right cleaner
Different car seat materials require different types of cleaners, so read your owner’s manual carefully and shop accordingly. It is important to know what kind of materials your car seats are made of, i.e. leather, vinyl or cloth, and use cleaners designed specifically for those materials.
Wipe up spills
No matter how careful you are, eventually you will spill your coffee, soda or other liquid on the upholstery of your brand new car. When that happens, you need to be prepared, since wiping up spills right away can prevent staining and preserve your car’s appearance.
Keep a spill kit in your car
Wiping up those inevitable spills is important, so be prepared with an in-car cleanup kit. A pack of wet wipes, a small roll of paper towels and a sponge are the basics you will need – you can keep those items in the glove box or hang them from the back seat.
Caring for your vehicle means caring for the whole car, from the oil stick and brake fluid reservoir under the good to the cloth, leather or vinyl seats inside the passenger cabin. The tips listed above can help you keep your car’s interior looking like new no matter how far you drive.