A custom steering wheel cover is a valuable addition to your car’s interior, enhancing comfort, grip, and style. However, to keep it looking new and performing its best, it’s important to practice proper daily care. In this guide, we’ll walk through essential daily tips to maintain your custom steering wheel cover, so you can extend its life and preserve its beauty.
1. Regularly Wipe Down Your Cover
One of the easiest ways to care for your steering wheel cover is to give it a quick wipe-down at the end of each day or after extended use.
- Use a Soft Cloth: A microfiber cloth works best, as it gently removes dust, dirt, and oils without scratching the material.
- Avoid Excessive Moisture: When wiping, make sure the cloth is only slightly damp, especially for materials like leather and Alcantara, which can be sensitive to water.
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt and oils, which can degrade the material over time and make it look worn out.
2. Avoid Eating or Drinking in the Car
Food and drinks can spill onto your steering wheel cover, causing stains that are difficult to remove. Steering wheels are frequently touched, so even small crumbs or drink splashes can quickly get into the cover’s material.
- Keep Snacks Sealed: If you must have snacks on the go, keep them sealed and away from the steering wheel. This simple habit prevents residue from getting on your cover.
- Wipe Hands After Eating: Grease from hands, especially after eating, can transfer oils and leave marks on materials like leather, suede, and Alcantara.
3. Protect the Cover from Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat or cold can damage certain materials, especially genuine leather, suede, and Alcantara.
- Use a Sunshade: Protect your car’s interior from direct sunlight by using a sunshade, especially in hot weather. Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading and drying, especially on darker-colored covers.
- Park in the Shade: If possible, park in a covered or shaded area to minimize the impact of temperature on your steering wheel cover.
For climates with cold winters, wearing gloves can help prevent stiffening and cracking, which might happen when bare hands touch a cold wheel cover repeatedly.
4. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products
Using the wrong cleaning products can do more harm than good, especially for delicate materials.
- Check the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer, as they often recommend specific products or methods for cleaning.
- Use Mild Soaps Only When Necessary: For deep cleaning, use mild, gentle soap with water, but make sure it’s suitable for the material. Avoid products containing alcohol, bleach, or ammonia, as these can degrade materials like leather and Alcantara.
5. Keep Hands Clean
Keeping your hands clean is a small but effective way to extend the life of your steering wheel cover. Hands carry natural oils that can be transferred to the steering wheel cover over time, especially if you’ve applied lotion or handled greasy substances.
- Wash Your Hands Before Driving: Washing your hands before getting in the car reduces oil buildup and keeps the cover clean.
- Use a Moisture-Free Hand Sanitizer: If you use hand sanitizer, let it dry completely before touching the wheel, as alcohol can be damaging to certain materials.
6. Weekly Gentle Brushing for Suede or Alcantara
For covers made of suede or Alcantara, regular brushing helps maintain the soft, textured appearance.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Brush: A brush with soft, fine bristles will lift the fibers and restore the natural texture of the material without causing damage.
- Brush in One Direction: To maintain a consistent look, brush in one direction. This is particularly helpful for keeping Alcantara and suede looking plush and fresh.
7. Apply Conditioner for Leather Covers
Leather steering wheel covers benefit from occasional conditioning, which keeps them soft and prevents cracking.
- Use a Leather Conditioner: Apply a small amount of leather conditioner every few weeks, especially if your car is exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Avoid Over-Conditioning: Applying too much conditioner can make leather slippery, which could compromise grip. Follow the product instructions and apply only as recommended.
8. Inspect for Damage Regularly
A quick daily check can help you catch minor issues before they become bigger problems. Look for any signs of wear, such as loose stitching, tears, or fading, as these might indicate that it’s time to repair or replace the cover.
- Check High-Touch Areas: The parts of the steering wheel that you grip the most are more prone to wear and should be inspected frequently.
- Prompt Repairs: If you notice any loose threads or minor tears, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
With these simple daily and weekly maintenance tips, you can keep your custom steering wheel cover looking and performing its best. Regular care protects your investment, enhances the lifespan of the cover, and maintains its premium feel. By investing a few minutes each day, you’ll ensure that your custom steering wheel cover stays in top condition, providing you with comfort, grip, and style for years to come.