Do you ever have passengers in your car? If so, your vehicle does more than sit in traffic; it has plenty of traffic inside, too! While it’s important to have reliable transportation on a regular basis, it’s just as important to keep it good condition. As you take care of your interior, there is an area that a car owner should not overlook — the vehicle upholstery. When your vehicle upholstery needs repairs or cleaning, you don’t have to make an appointment with the closest auto shop. Here are some quick and easy methods that will help you take care of your car’s upholstery at home.
What Happens to the Vehicle Upholstery Over Time?
Vehicle upholstery can take a beating over time. Whether it’s from dirt, spills, or simply wear and tear, the more interior traffic a car sees, the more the upholstery will start to look frayed and worn. While it may be tempting to simply replace the upholstery, this is expensive and time-consuming. Over time, upholstery can become worn, stained, or just dated. If you’re looking to give your car a new look, recovering the seats is a relatively easy way to do it. With a little time and effort, you can have brand-new looking seats that will last for years.
How to Take Care of the Vehicle Upholstery Yourself
Fortunately, a few simple steps can be taken to repair upholstery and extend its life. First, vacuum the upholstery to remove any dirt or debris. Next, use a mild soap and water solution to clean any stains. Be sure to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to confirm that it won’t damage the fabric. Once the upholstery is clean, use a fabric protector to help keep it looking new. If the damage is more extensive, don’t despair. You’ll need to remove the old fabric and foam, then cut and attach the new fabric and foam to the seat base. The process is similar for all types of upholstery, including leather and vinyl.
When you take good care of your car, you’ll be that much readier to welcome passengers for a ride. More importantly, car maintenance does not require big bucks. Car owners who want to keep their vehicles in good working condition take care of the interior as well as the exterior. By following these simple steps, your vehicle upholstery can be kept looking like new for years to come with just a little care and upkeep.
