Creating car seat covers from towels is an easy, affordable, and practical DIY solution for protecting your vehicle’s interior. Whether you’re trying to shield your seats from sweat after a workout, sand after a beach trip, or dirt from pets and kids, towel seat covers offer a washable and customizable alternative to store-bought covers. This guide will walk you through the steps to repurpose household towels into functional seat covers, with options ranging from quick, no-sew methods to more fitted, sewn designs. With just a few materials and a little creativity, you can give your car a fresh, protective upgrade in no time.
Making car seat covers out of towels is a budget-friendly and simple DIY project. It’s a great way to protect your seats from sweat, dirt, pet hair, or spills—especially after workouts or beach trips. Here’s how to do it:
What You’ll Need:
- 2 large bath towels (or beach towels) per seat
- Scissors (optional)
- Sewing machine or fabric glue (optional)
- Elastic bands, Velcro, or safety pins (optional, for securing)
- Measuring tape (optional)
Basic Method (No-Sew, Easy Fit):
- Choose the Right Towels:
- Use large, thick bath or beach towels.
- Make sure they’re long enough to cover the seat back and bottom.
- Drape the Towel Over the Seat:
- Lay one towel over the backrest, letting it drape over the top and hang down.
- Place the second towel across the seat bottom, tucking the ends between the seat and backrest.
- Tuck and Adjust:
- Tuck the towels into the crevices between the seat sections to keep them in place.
- You can push the edges under plastic trim or cushions if possible.
- Secure (Optional):
- Use safety pins, elastic straps, or Velcro to keep the towels from sliding.
- For a snug fit, wrap elastic bands around the headrest or seat base.
- You can also tie small knots in the towel corners behind the seat.
Advanced (Sewn Version for a Better Fit):
- Measure Your Seat:
- Measure the height and width of both the seat back and bottom.
- Cut Towels to Fit:
- Cut the towels to fit the measured dimensions, adding 1–2 inches for seam allowance.
- Sew Pieces Together:
- Sew two towel pieces into an “L” shape to join the seat back and bottom sections.
- Add elastic or Velcro along edges to help hold the cover in place.
- Add Openings (Optional):
- If you use seat belts or headrests, cut small slits where needed and finish the edges to prevent fraying.
Tips:
- Choose towels in a color that complements your car interior.
- Wash and dry towels first to prevent shrinkage or lint.
- For a non-slip option, place a rubber shelf liner under the towel on the seat.
How to Make a Beach Towel Car Seat Cover (DIY Guide)
Making a car seat cover out of a beach towel is a simple, cost-effective project—perfect for protecting your seats from sand, sweat, or moisture. Beach towels are ideal because they’re long, absorbent, and easy to clean.
✅ Materials You’ll Need:
- 1 large beach towel (per seat)
- Scissors (optional)
- Sewing machine or fabric glue (optional for a fitted version)
- Elastic bands, Velcro strips, or safety pins (for securing)
- Measuring tape (optional)
Method 1: No-Sew, Quick Drape Style
This method is ideal for temporary or quick use (e.g., post-beach or gym trips).
- Choose the Right Beach Towel:
- Use an oversized towel that can cover both the seat back and bottom.
- A towel about 60–70 inches long works best.
- Drape the Towel Over the Seat:
- Center the towel over the headrest and let it drape evenly down the front and back of the seat.
- Make sure it covers the seat bottom and extends to the floor if possible.
- Tuck and Secure:
- Tuck the sides into the seat creases (between the backrest and seat base) to prevent sliding.
- Use safety pins, elastic bands, or Velcro strips around the sides or under the seat for added hold.
- Optional: Cut small holes for headrests and finish the edges with sewing or fabric glue to prevent fraying.
Method 2: Semi-Fitted Towel Cover (Basic Sewing)
For a more secure and neater fit, follow these steps:
- Measure Your Seat:
- Measure the height and width of the backrest and seat base.
- Use those measurements to fold and pin the towel into an “L” shape to fit over the seat.
- Mark and Cut:
- Mark where the towel will bend over the seat edge and where it may need trimming.
- Cut excess fabric, if needed, and round off corners for a clean look.
- Sew or Glue the Shape:
- Sew the edges together to form a pocket-like cover, or use strong fabric glue.
- Add elastic straps on the corners or Velcro under the seat to keep it snug.
- Optional Headrest Hole:
- Cut a slit at the top for the headrest poles if needed, and reinforce the cut edges.
Tips:
- Choose towels with bright or beachy patterns for a fun summer vibe.
- Wash the towel first to remove lint and pre-shrink it.
- Add a rubber mat or non-slip fabric underneath if using in a hot car to prevent sliding.
Is it safe to put towels under car seats
Putting towels under car seats can be safe, but it depends on how you use them and why you’re placing them there. Here’s a breakdown of when it’s safe, potentially unsafe, and what to watch for:
✅ When It’s Generally Safe:
- To protect from dirt or spills: If you’re placing a towel under regular passengers’ seats (not child car seats), just to catch dirt or moisture, it’s typically fine.
- For temporary use: After a beach trip or workout, putting a towel under the seat to protect the upholstery is okay if it doesn’t interfere with seat movement or sensors.
⚠️ Potential Risks (and When It’s Not Safe):
- Under Child Car Seats (Caution Required):
- Most car seat manufacturers do not recommend placing anything under the car seat unless it’s been crash-tested with the product.
- A towel can change the stability or angle of the seat, reducing safety in a crash.
- If you must use one (e.g., to protect the seat), use only a thin towel and check with the car seat’s manual or manufacturer.
- Obstructing Airbag Sensors or Seat Mechanisms:
- Modern vehicles often have sensors under the seats (like weight sensors for airbags or seat belt reminders). Thick towels may interfere with these systems.
- Towels that block or restrict seat tracks or recline mechanisms can pose a safety hazard.
- Slippage:
- A towel under a passenger can slide, especially on leather or vinyl seats, making it less safe during sudden stops or turns.
✅ Safe Use Tips:
- Use thin towels that don’t add bulk or height.
- Make sure towels are flat and not bunched up.
- Avoid covering or interfering with seat sensors, airbags, or anchoring systems.
- For child car seats, check the manual or use a manufacturer-approved seat protector.
🔍 Final Verdict:
- For general use (adults, pets, mess protection): Yes, towels are safe if properly placed.
- Under child car seats: Use with caution—check the car seat manual and avoid anything that affects fit or stability.
Conclusion
Making car seat covers out of towels is a simple, affordable, and practical DIY project that protects your vehicle’s interior from dirt, sweat, spills, and daily wear. Whether you choose a quick no-sew method or a more fitted, sewn version, towel seat covers are easy to customize, wash, and replace. With just a few household materials and basic tools, you can create a functional cover that extends the life of your car seats while adding a personal touch. This DIY solution is especially great for active lifestyles, pet owners, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly alternative to store-bought covers.