by Jeanette Cheezum

Created on: October 10, 2009   Last Updated: October 26, 2009

The selection of cloth or leather car seats can make a difference in the looks and comfort of your new vehicle. There are pros and cons for each. There is also the realization that everyone cannot afford to be choosey. After all you must not only think of looks and resale value. Your bank account may make the final decision. With today's low prices there may be some leverage for the consumer.

Allow me to give examples of advantages and disadvantages of each.

If cloth is your choice make sure the seats will have a high fiber count for strength and durability. Is it easy to pop a hole in it or will it be thread bare within a year or two? Is the stitching or piping is secure to the seat fabric? Does the quality of this fabric prevent sagging? These are questions to ask.

Most cloth seats will not last as long as your car. You must consider what the car will be used for. Will it be a soccer mom and her family and their friends loading and unloading sports gear day after day or a construction worker carrying his tools and wearing dirty clothes? Either of these can be brutal on cloth seats. Not to mention cigarette smoke, spills, perspiration and oil from your skin can stain them.

Care for these problems could consist of brushing, steam cleaning and vacuuming them and using products such as stain resistant Scotchguard to lengthen the life and performance of the fabric. Common sense tells you to choose medium to darker colors.

If you get into a car with shorts on during the summer months or you live where its hot most of the year cloth seats will not overheat and be uncomfortable.

When purchasing leather interior and seats one should make sure they are genuine leather. Check for texture and top grain. Usual choices are leather to the touch. Which means everywhere the body touches will be leather. The back and sides are vinyl. Some car dealers offer leather and suede to the touch.

Leather looks sportier and more luxurious. It is very easy to clean and a natural fabric that breathes. With bun warmers and coolers this becomes very comfortable no matter what the temperature is.

Leather doesn't hold odors like cloth does. The seat material under the leather doesn't become wet from perspiration, rain or spills.

In the long run leather will look nicer and last longer than cloth, especially if you take care of your vehicle.

Cars are made to last longer now, your seats should be able to also.

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