How to Clean and Maintain Your Replacement Seat Covers (Leather, Leatherette & Cloth)

Your new OEM-style replacement seat covers don’t just improve the look of your vehicle, they also help protect your seats and add long-term value. But to keep them looking sharp and performing at their best, regular care and maintenance are essential.

Whether you have leather, leatherette, or cloth seat covers, this guide will walk you through the best cleaning methods and maintenance tips to extend their life and keep your interior looking showroom-fresh.

LEATHER SEAT COVERS

Common in: Luxury vehicles, restorations, premium interiors

Why they need care: Leather is luxurious but requires more attention to maintain its softness and avoid cracking or discoloration.

Cleaning Tips:

Wipe down weekly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.

Clean monthly with a leather-specific cleaner (never use harsh detergents).

Use a soft-bristled brush to work the cleaner into textured areas or stitching.

Maintenance Tips:

Condition every 1–2 months using a high-quality leather conditioner.

Keep away from direct sunlight for long periods to prevent fading.

Avoid getting the leather wet; if it happens, dry with a towel and allow to air-dry naturally.

LEATHERETTE SEAT COVERS

Common in: Work trucks, commercial vehicles, pet owners’ cars

Why they need care: Leatherette is durable and waterproof, but it can crack over time if not cleaned and conditioned.

Cleaning Tips:

Wipe down weekly with a damp microfiber cloth.

For deeper cleaning, use a leatherette-safe cleaner or a mixture of water and mild dish soap.

Avoid harsh scrubbing, let the cleaner lift the dirt instead.

Maintenance Tips:

Apply a leatherette conditioner once a month to prevent cracking or drying from sun exposure.

Use sunshades or park in the shade to protect from UV damage.

Avoid sharp tools or heavy objects that can gouge the surface.

CLOTH SEAT COVERS

Common in: Sedans, daily drivers, family vehicles

Why they need care: Cloth absorbs dust, spills, odors, and oils more easily than other materials.

Cleaning Tips:

Vacuum regularly using a handheld or shop vac with a brush attachment to remove dust, dirt, and crumbs.

Spot clean with a fabric-safe cleaner or a mix of mild soap and warm water. Use a microfiber cloth and avoid soaking the fabric.

Deodorize with baking soda: sprinkle lightly, let sit for 15 minutes, and vacuum it up.

Maintenance Tips:

Avoid eating and drinking in the car to reduce stains.

Use fabric protectant spray to resist moisture and spills.

Let the seats air out by occasionally leaving windows open (safely) in a shaded area.

GENERAL TIPS FOR ALL SEAT COVER TYPES

Act fast with spills. The sooner you clean them up, the less likely they’ll stain.

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or alcohol — they can damage all seat cover materials.

Final Thoughts

Investing in high-quality OEM-style replacement seat covers is a smart move, and with a little regular care, you can keep them looking and feeling great for years to come. Whether you drive a family SUV, a rugged truck, or a luxury sedan, proper seat cover maintenance will protect your investment and preserve your interior’s value.