How to Remove Stains from Neoprene Seat Covers

by Greg Lindberg

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber used as upholstery for car seats. The material, which is also used in scuba diving wet suits, is sleek and warm and is known for being waterproof and stain-resistant. However, stains can still get into the seat covers at times. The majority of neoprene seat covers on the market are hand or machine washable, preferably on a cold water cycle (see References). If you have a stain you can't get of your seat cover by simply washing it, consider taking the covers to a professional cleaner. However, there also other cleaning techniques you can try first.

Step 1

Soak the seat cover with a damp cloth as soon as the stain has occurred to avoid discoloration. Then quickly spray upholstery cleaner and let the area dry.

Step 2

Soak the stain once more using warm water and using a small brush over the stain to scrub out any residual material. Use a small vacuum cleaner to dry and remove all dirt as much as possible. All sediment should now be removed from the stain.

Step 3

Wash your seat cover by hand, scrubbing particularly hard on the stain using wet okole seat shampoo (see Resources). This shampoo is primarily used for cleaning wet suits, but is also helpful for immense cleaning to neoprene seat covers. Rinse with water and hang dry after washing.

Step 4

Run the stain using a white cloth and lacquer thinner to remove and grease or oil type stains. Immediately wash with cold water and hang dry. If the stain is still visible, continue to Step 4.

Step 5

Take the neoprene seat cover to be dry cleaned. Once you've done everything you can on your own, your final option is to have the seat covers professionally cleaned. Let the dry cleaner know the cleaning technique you have already tried and what the cause of the stain was.

References

Tips

Things You'll Need