It is inevitable that your car will get messy at some point, and do you really want to spend time cleaning and scrubbing? Well, there is an easy solution. A car seat protector.
Keeping your cars seats undamaged and clean can be a challenge when you have children and/or pets.
The seats are constantly exposed to such things as dirt, spills, stains, scratches, and the occasional personal accident (in the case of pets and toddlers). These incidents can cause a car to lose not only its visual appeal but money as well.
There are a ton of car seat protectors readily available on the market, and it can be daunting when trying to choose the right one. So, we have put together a list of various types of protectors to make things easier for you. The top selection is divided into multiple categories. We would make a recommendation in each category.
15 Best Car Seat Protectors
1. Brica Elite Seat – Guardian Car Seat Protector
The Brica Elite Seat Guardian Car Seat Protector is the perfect choice for car owners with babies or children. Brica, formerly known as Blue Ridge International Products Company, has been in the business for more than 20 years. Their primary focus is on keeping kids safe and comfortable.
The Brica Elite is ideal for rear-facing child seats with accessibility to the LATCH system and seat belts. Making it even more secure – it clips around the headrest. This car seat protector has a non-skid and anti-slip feature on both the bottom and the top.
This dual-grip traction feature keeps the car seat from experiencing any unwanted movement while keeping the car seat protector in place. It has a high-back design to give the utmost coverage preventing scuff marks and footprints on your backseat’s headrest. The seat protector has raised walls to catch spills and food crumbs.
It is made of durable vinyl with grime guard fabric, making it exceptionally easy to clean. It lays easily on the seat and has an extra tall back panel making it compatible with larger vehicles, such as SUVs. The tall back panel also makes it ideal for larger car seats.
What We Liked
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install
- Designed to fit seats of different sizes
- Tall-back protects the seat from children kicking in rear-facing seats
- Anti-skid/anti-slip provide slide protection
- Raised edge acts as crumb and spill catcher
- Clips around the car’s headrest
What We Dislike
- Rubber bands can cause temporary indentions
- Shows dirt quickly
- Slightly more expensive
- Not for all weather conditions
- Won’t fit middle seat
2.Summer Infant ELITE DuoMat Car Seat Protector
The Summer Infant ELITE DuoMat is explicitly designed for car seats. It has both a non-skidding back and a textured top that will keep a solid grip on the car seat to hold it firmly in place.
It fits perfectly on child’s car seats ranging from infant seats (front and rear-facing) to booster seats. There aren’t any straps that get in the way, and it works well with your vehicles LATCH system. It has deep side slots to accommodate seat belts.
It has crash-tested with car seat manufacturers in accordance with the FMVSS213 Crash Test Pulse. The lightweight fabric cover makes it easy to install and is easily foldable for storage. The front of this protector hangs over the car seat and features pockets at the bottom that are large enough to hold toys, bottles, juice boxes, and snacks.
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 4 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 2](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/plugins/content-egg/res/img/blank.gif)
What We Liked
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Machine washable-great for potty training
- Back folds down when rear-facing
- Stores away easily
- Pockets
- Low price
- Guaranteed safe
What We Dislike
- No kick mat for rear-facing
- Not good with leather seats
- Color can fade in heat
- Not that aesthetically appealing
3.Munchkin Auto Seat Protector
Coming in as the best value, the Munchkin Auto Seat Protector is an excellent and reasonably priced car seat protector option. Installation is a cinch thanks to the lower anchors that easily attach to your car’s LATCH system to anchor a baby’s car seat.
There are stabilizing wedges and thick, textured corners on all sides of the car seat protector which keep it secure and in place. The surface is non-slip, so you don’t have to worry about your child’s seat sliding or moving around.
With a large storage mesh pocket at the bottom, you can easily store and access all kinds of items from snacks to toys to cell phones. It has a flat and wide design and can be used with a booster seat. The padding is thick and cushiony, aiding in comfort and reducing indentations on your upholstery. The waterproof material is easy to clean with a simple wipe down. Its color does not bleed, making it ideal for all cars.
What We Like
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Affordable
- Large mesh pocket
- Compatible with Latch System
- Wedges keep it in place
What We Dislike
- Won’t stay in place on leather
- Back cover is shorter than others
- Not compatible with rear-facing seats
- Can only be spot cleaned
Best Kick Mats
Another must for protecting your car’s seats are kick mats. If you have an antsy backseat passenger who likes to kick the seats, you know how important this can be. They will protect against scuffs marks from shoes, kicks, and scrapes. Some are attached to backseat organizers that will keep the kids entertained and keep your car organized and tidy.
4.Brica Deluxe Kick Mats Auto Seat Protector
Brica comes in as our top pick again. The Brica Deluxe Kick Mats Auto Seat Protector is our top pick for several reasons. They are one of the largest kick mats you can purchase on the market today. They’re an excellent choice for those with larger vehicles such as SUVs, minivans, and large trucks.
They are easy to install using the adjustable lower and upper attachments, and an elastic strap fastens the kick mats securely to the seat. The grime guard fabric adds to the look and protects the back of your car seats from dirt, moisture, and mud. It also prevents rips and tears that may be caused by kids or pets. You can easily spot clean with a damp rag or sponge to keep it looking fresh.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Excellent at repelling dirt
- Fits most large vehicles
Cons
- Quality not as good as expected from this brand
- Can bunch up
- Not suitable for sports bucket seats
- Straps may be too short for some vehicles
5. Termichy 2-pack Kick Mats Waterproof Car Seat Protector
The Termichy 2-pack Kick Mats with Tissue Holder offers excellent protection for the back of your front seats and helps to keep your backseat organized. Perfect if you have active kids, need to tote essentials for long-distance trips, or just need to keep your accessories organized while traveling between locations.
These kick mats are quick and easy to clean as they are made out of waterproof materials. Stains and dirt are easily wiped off, making it look like new again. It is equipped with a tissue holder that can hold tissues or baby wipes. Additionally, it has two durable pockets, great for storage of sippies, food, toys, and baby necessities.
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 4 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 2](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/plugins/content-egg/res/img/blank.gif)
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Tissue holder
- Works with larger vehicles
- Organizer
- Machine washable
Cons
- Loose around some seats
6.Lebogner Kick Mat Auto Seat Back Protectors
This backseat kick mat protector is built with quality materials using 600D polyester to make it highly durable and long-lasting. Its equipped with top and bottom buckle straps for easy installation. It also has super-grip vinyl corners to prevent sliding and unwanted movement.
Thanks to its four large mesh pockets, you can keep your car organized. The pockets are large enough to hold water bottles, baby bottles, toys, snacks, and accessories.The kick mats are waterproof and washable with double-layered fabric to keep your car seats clean.
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 4 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 2](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/plugins/content-egg/res/img/blank.gif)
Pros
- Easy installation
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Machine washable
- Storage pockets
- 2-pack great value
Cons
- Mesh is weak at the bottom
- Straps too small for bulkier seats
- Some considered the polyester low-quality
Best Car Seat Protectors for Leather Seats
Leather seats are often seen as more opulent than fabric seats and usually, cost more. The material is costly. But it gives the car a lavish look and feel. Having said that, leather is also more expensive to repair and replace.
This is especially true if they become ripped or torn by sharp objects or have dirt embedded in the creases of the leather. Leather also responds to temperature and can burn you in the summertime if left in direct sunlight.
Sun exposure can bleach, fade, and dull your leather seats. Car seat protectors for leather seats will provide a barrier to prevent them from becoming damaged or dirty.
7. Brica Elite Seat Guardian Car Seat Protector
It’s Brica again!! The Brica Elite Seat Guardian is designed with a color-safe feature that won’t let colors bleed through to your leather seats. It is ergonomically designed and perfect in protecting leather against rear-facing child seats.
It has an extended back panel specifically designed to cover larger leather seats such those found in SUVs, trucks, and mini-vans.
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 24 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 14](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/uploads/ce-logos/icon_walmart-com-optimized.png)
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 24 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 14](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/uploads/ce-logos/icon_walmart-com-optimized.png)
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install
- Designed to fit seats of different sizes
- Tall-back protects seats from children kicking in rear-facing positions
- Anti-skid/anti-slip provide slide protection
- Raised edge acts as crumb and spill catcher
- Clips around the car’s headrest
Cons
- Rubber bands can cause temporary indentions
- Shows dirt quickly
- Slightly more expensive
- Not for all weather conditions
- Won’t fit middle seat
8. DINKANUR Car Seat Protector PU Leather Bamboo Charcoal Car Interior Seats Suit
The DINKANUR Car Seat Protector is simple, sleek, and efficient. It’s also strong, yet soft to the touch. It has a slim center backrest and is made of high-quality PU leather.
As with similar leather car seat protectors, you won’t need professional installation. It comes in two pieces and is easy to install on your own. You don’t even need to remove the original seat covers.
The non-slip rubber sole makes it ideal for baby car seats and will protect against stains, spills, scratches, and tears. The sides of the DINKANUR car seat protector are left uncovered so side airbags can deploy safely when needed.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Affordable
- Accommodates all airbags
- Breathable
- Anti-bacterial
- Great for winters to keep seats warm
Cons
- Padding is not that thick
- Does not have universal compatibility
9. Ohuhu 2-Pack Baby Child Car Auto Carseat Seat Protector Cover Dog Mat Vehicle Cover with Organizer
The Ohuhu 2-Pack seat protector is heavy duty and durable product that is very easy to install. It has a double-sided, anti-slip feature that keeps your baby’s car seat in place.
This car seat protector has been crash tested with forward-facing and rear-facing car seats.
It’s water-proof and easy to clean and has extended flaps for maximum coverage. It has a universal fit and has roomy and versatile mesh pockets to allow your child to keep and easily access drinks, food, and toys.
![15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 4 15 Best Car Seat Protectors With Kick Mats [Detailed Buyer's Guide] 2](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/plugins/content-egg/res/img/blank.gif)
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Safe
- Universal fit
- Pockets
- Great coverage
- Affordable
Cons
- Straps need to be handled with care
- Strong chemical smell that needs to be aired out before using
Best Car Seat Protectors that Come in a 2-Pack
What’s better than one car seat protector? Two! This can be especially important if you need two that match. Purchasing a 2-pack means you are saving time and money.
Especially when you consider shipping costs, if applicable. Even if you don’t need two, having one as a back-up can come in handy, particularly if you have a pet or additional passengers that ride with you from time to time.
10. 2-pack PU Leather Premium Car Seatback Organizer Travel Accessories
This uniquely designed, high-quality 2-pack PU leather car seat protector adds to the aesthetic charm with its rich black color. It’s easy to install with a top headrest buckle and a bottom buckle.
One of the more beautiful organizers, it keeps your seats clean while holding all your necessities.
It has several pockets that can hold phones, cups, tissues, and even umbrellas. Made with high-quality material, this car seat protector is very easy to clean.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Organizer
- Stylish
- Fits a wide range of seats
Cons
- Pricey
- Cannot use IPad while in the pocket
11. Zohzo Child & Infant Car Seat Protector (2-pack)
The Zohzo Child & Infant Car Seat Protector has a great seamless design. It has raised edges that will catch any crumbs or spills, thus preventing them from hitting your upholstery.
It’s easy to install with its long adjustable straps and fits around just about any headrest. It is compatible with almost all car seats and is easy to use with the LATCH system.
Zohzo Child’s Seat Protector has double-padded, high-density foam making your passengers ride more comfortably and preventing indentions in your car seats. It is composed of double-layered fabric, making it durable and easy to clean.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- 2-pack
- High-density foam
- Raised edges
Cons
- Parts of the seat may be susceptible to messes
- Easy to install 4.9
12.Oasser Kick Mats Car Seat Back Protectors Back of Seat Organizers 2-pack
If your searching for the best kick mat car seat protectors that come in a two-pack with the most storage, you should check out the Oasser Kick Mats Car Seat Back Protectors Back of Seat Organizers.
They have multiple storage compartments for IPads, food, drinks, umbrellas, magazines, and even a tissue box.
The IPad holder has nylon tape on both sides, ensuring your devices doesn’t slip. You can open any side of the tape to plug in your earphones or charger. Made with nylon, oxford cloth, and PVC, it is easy to clean by simply wiping it down with a wet cloth. Installation is quick and easy as well.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Multiple storage spaces
- Can operate IPad through storage department
Cons
- Fabric can easily rip
- Some complaints about zipper breaking
Best Car Seat Protectors with the Thickest Padding
Car seat protectors that come with thick padding are ideal, not only for adults who sit for a long time, but for car seats, boosters, and older kids who are sitting directly on them. Extra thick car seat protectors will keep your seats clean and protect them from rips and indentions that can be left from child car seats. They are comfortable to sit on or lie on (if your passenger is a pet).
13.Lusso Gear Car Seat Protector with Thickest Padding
Lusso Gear Car Seat Protector bestowed us with a car seat protector that is not only stylish but has very thick padding as well.
As well as being stylish, it is exceptionally durable. It is composed of high-quality PVC leather and is water-resistant, which will prevent damage from beverages, food spills, and wear and tear. The materials are environmentally friendly and odor-free.
The underside is heat resistant, and it has a non-slip surface, guaranteeing your passenger won’t slide around. It is designed for use with child car seats and incorporates the LATCH system. The extra-thick padding promises a comfortable ride as well as protecting your seats from indentations and tears. It won’t leave marks, discoloration or residue on your fabric, suede, or leather seats.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Extra thick padding
- Comfortable
- Well designed to prevent sliding
- Versatile for different car seats
- Stylish
- Pockets
Cons
- Stitches tend to tear near the feet
- Questionable durability
14.Drive Auto Products Car Seat Protector (2-Pack)
Drive Auto Products Car Seat Protector gives you maximum car seat protection, durability, and comfort.It is designed to fit just about any model of vehicle, including SUVs, trucks, minivans, and more.
This car seat protector has a neoprene non-slip backing that ensures that it will stay in place. It is made of 600D oxford premium fabric. Thus, it is highly durable. The cover is washable and waterproof and will prevent any liquid from leaking onto your seats. It can be washed on the gentle cycle or washed by hand.
Having extra 2cm-thick padding, it provides an extremely comfortable ride while protecting your seats from tears, indentations, and accidents occurring during potty training.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Machine washable on gentle cycle-great for potty training
- Extra thick padding
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Storage pouch
- 2-pack
Cons
- Pricey
- Risk of melting at very high temperatures
15.Emma and Ollie Car Seat Protector Set with Tablet Holder Kick Mat Cover
What a bargain. The Emma and Ollie Car Seat Protector Set with Tablet Holder Kick Mat Cover (4 Pack) Thickest Padding is an excellent value as it comes with two 5-pocket kick mat organizers as well two protectors.
The 5-pocket organizer has an extra-large tablet holder so you can be sure you have ample storage for all your belongings, or those of your kids while traveling.
It’s easy to install using the flexible straps on the headrest and the bottom buckles with straps. It’s water-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Just toss it in the washer on the gentle cycle or hand wash. It is an excellent choice for those going through the potty training phase.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Machine washable-great for potty training
- Durable
Cons
- Pricey
- Did not fit well in some vehicles
- Slides on some seats such as leather
Advantages of Car Seat Protectors
A car seat protector offers maximum protection to your car’s interior and will prevent the seats from getting damaged. Other advantages:
- Prevents repairing or replacing
- Also prevents damage from direct sunlight
- Prevents indentations from child seats
- From tearing of upholstery
- You’ll spend less time cleaning and scrubbing
Your car will appear well-maintained to prospective buyers, thus enhancing the value and saleability of your vehicle.
Buyer’s Guide
Once you start shopping for protective seat covers for your car, you may suddenly feel overwhelmed. Here are some things to take into consideration when choosing the best car seat protector for your car:
Is it Easy to Install?
Car seat protectors are typically very easy to install and easy to take out. The majority of car seat protectors come with straps for the headrest and buckles to fasten the bottom. Many are compatible with the LATCH system.
Washable
If you tend to carry dirty loads, kids, or pets, you will want something that’s easily cleaned or washable. Most car seat protectors are either waterproof or water-resistant. They can be easily wiped down. Some are machine washable. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
Is it Durable
Look for quality material that is thick and water-resistant. The best protectors are composed of rubber, soft plastic, leather, and neoprene.
Design?
Your car seat protector should be aesthetically pleasing. There are some beautiful designs, but if you are getting a seat protector to protect your seat from a child’s car seat, look for something flat, wide, easy to install, uninstall, and store.
Is it Child-Friendly
Parents are typically looking for car seat protectors for various reasons. Some to protect the back of the front seat, some to protect the seats during potty training, and some to protect the rear seats.
Choose something simple to install and lays down smoothly. Make sure it doesn’t slide and stays in place when the car is in motion. Some come with kick mats, great for those who have active little legs. You can also purchase car seat protectors that catch crumbs and spills.
Some have pockets for accessories such as phones and baby necessities. The protectors/organizers that attach to the back of the front seat are equipped with pockets for IPads, toys, snacks, and drinks. If you’re in the potty training phase, look for car seat protectors that are made of a good quality waterproof material and machine washable.
Warranty and Return Policy?
Be sure to check on the warranty and return policy just in case. This can cut down on a lot of time, and trouble should the car seat protector not be the right fit for you.
Hot Tip
Make sure it fits your seats!! There aren’t many things worse than placing your order, waiting for it to arrive, then finding out it doesn’t fit your car seats. One can also look at car seat trade in. Most car seat protectors are designed to be a universal fit. This works for the majority, but because seats vary in size from vehicle to vehicle, some owners don’t get the same “fit” as others.
Taking a quick measurement of your seats is an excellent way to get started. The best car seat protectors are adjustable and will fit almost every vehicle. Always refer to reviews or contact the manufacturer directly to see if a particular product fits your vehicle before you purchase it. Some manufacturers provide a guide while others give measurements.
Conclusion
If you have children, using a car seat or booster seat can be harsh on your car’s upholstery, especially if you have leather seats. The child seats can lead to dents, rips, and premature wear and tear. Let’s not forget the mess and stains that can come from crumbs and beverage spills.
A car seat protector will stabilize the child’s car seat or booster seat and prevent it from sliding while providing a more comfortable ride. It will also help protect your seat if your little one is potty training. If you have a furry friend who rides with you, a seat protector will save your upholstery from dander, scratches and tears, dirt, and little accidents.
Car seat protectors are an excellent investment and one of the least expensive ways to protect your vehicle’s upholstery. Not to mention, protecting one of your greatest assets. The majority of car seat protectors are very affordable and easy to install. The best car seat protectors will be easy to clean, easy to install, durable, and blend in with the interior of your car.
Purchasing the best car seat protector enables you to have the best of all worlds; a clean, organized interior, ensuring the safety of your little ones, and you’re protecting one your most prominent assets (the upholstery of your car).
When choosing a car seat protector, be sure to think about your lifestyle and try to find a high-quality product that will fit into your budget and is easy to install and clean.