To help you find the safest and best car seat protector, we have tried plenty of top products, looking for models that provided protection from slipping and those that offered some form of water resistance, offering shielding from sweat and drinks that have been accidentally dropped. We also liked items that did not stick to human skin, those that were easy to clean and items that offered long-lasting warranties. You’ll find some of the best car accessories in our product guides on Gadget Review.
The best product we tried was easily the Gorla Universal Fit Waterproof Car Seat Protector, which offers a universal fit to most standard car seats and is available in three attractive colors, helping to suit the aesthetics of nearly any automobile. It doesn’t cling to the skin, which is great for after a workout, and offers protection from sweat and accidental spillage, among other dangers. We also liked that it comes with a lifetime warranty and can be tossed into the wash making it great for ride sharing, such as Uber, Lyft or even Door Dash deliveries. Keep reading to learn more about the Gorla Universal Fit Waterproof Car Seat Protector and the other models on this list.
Top 6 Best Car Seat Protectors
#1 Gorla Universal Fit Waterproof Car Seat Protector
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: Made from high quality waterproof components that are 100% washing machine safe, including integrated anti-slip straps, and shipping with a free seat belt protector and a lifetime warranty.
Read Full Review: Gorla Beige Universal Waterproof Cover
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Lifetime warranty
- Integrated anti-slid straps
- Comes with seat belt protector
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Some picks offer more color choices
- Fairly heavy at nearly 1.5 lb
- Machine washable, but cannot be placed in a dryer
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Gorla Universal Fit Waterproof Car Seat Protector is built primarily for safety, as it features integrated anti-slip straps that help securely lock the cover in place. It is available in three unique color choices, helping to suit many aesthetics, and comes with a free seat belt protector that matches the chosen color. It also boasts a lifetime warranty which we found to be fantastic.
Though this item truly does offer a universal fit, easily sliding on top of nearly any bucket seat, it is fairly heavy, at 1.5 pounds, which could slightly impede the installation procedure. Additionally, though this item is machine washable in cold water, it is not to be placed in a dryer. Don’t forget to read about the best car seat cushion as well.
#2 Lusso Gear Car Seat Protector
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Extremely thick and durable design, made from PVC leather, with multiple large pockets running throughout, for the storage of first aid kids and the like, and availability in 5 unique colors.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Most durable (thick PVC leather)
- 5 color options
- Multiple pockets for storing necessities
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- 1 year guarantee
- Does not allow quite as much air flow as top pick
- Does not fit some seats so be sure to measure
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
This Lusso Gear Car Seat Protector is available in two sizes, with a product model suiting adults and child car seats, and five unique color options, suiting nearly any aesthetic. It is made from thick PVC leather, along with some Oxford fabric trim, and does a great job at resisting sweat and liquids. The car seat protector also comes with multiple large pockets running throughout, which are a great way to store necessities, such as first aid kits. And, if you need a good place to keep your car protected, then check out our best carport cover guide.
Though this is a high quality product, it does only one with a one year money back guarantee, whereas our top pick features a lifetime warranty. Also, this is not quite as universal a design as our top pick, so be sure to measure the dimensions of your car seat then comparing to the product dimensions before purchasing. The best car diffuser is another great accessory to make your car a better place.
#3 Munchkin Brica Elite Seat Guardian Car Seat Protector
Award: BEST FOR CHILDREN
WHY WE LIKE IT: Universal design that is extremely easy to install, requiring one to secure just 2 latches, with durable traction on both sides and crash test certification, ensuring safety for your loved ones.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Safest
- Traction on both sides
- Will not bleed onto upholstery
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Available in 1 color
- Can be slightly too large for certain bucket seats
- No warranty
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
This Munchkin Brica Elite Seat Guardian Car Seat Protector has been certified to stay secure during multiple crash tests, making this the safest car seat protector on this list. It is also extremely easy to install, requiring merely the connection of some simple latches, and features heavy duty traction on both sides of the protector, ensuring that it will not slide out of place. We also liked the color safe construction, which will not bleed colors onto the upholstery. This Brica Seat Guardian is a universal car seat protector that’s compatible with all baby car seats, and the rear facing kick mat provides complete seat back coverage for those rear-facing child seats. It uses adjustable straps to secure the back panel to the back seat head rest.
This is a well made item manufactured with high quality materials and is available on Amazon com, though it does include a warranty of any kind, which may be a turnoff for some consumers. Additionally, it is only available in one color option, whereas our number two pick has five colors to choose from. Also check out the best car brakes to make sure your car is safe.
#4 Fortem Waterproof Car Seat Protector
Award: BEST MULTIPACK
WHY WE LIKE IT: High quality multipack, shipping with two protectors, manufactured with Oxford cloth that is waterproof and easy to clean, with two large pockets on the bottom.
Read Full Review: FORTEM Protector Waterproof Backseat Protects
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- 100% waterproof finish
- Easy to clean Oxford cloth
- Large pockets on bottom
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- 1 year warranty
- Attaches via 1 latch
- Edges are not cupped
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
This Fortem Waterproof Car Seat Protector comes in a multipack containing two units, each being manufactured with high quality Oxford cloth, which we found to be waterproof, durable material, and easy to clean with speading a short time cleaning stains from accidental spills, making it a good choice for those with pets or toddlers. We also liked the large pockets on the bottom, which are great for the storage of toys, first aid kids or other knick knacks.
Though these car seat protectors were extremely easy to install, it only attaches to the seat via one latch, which is less than some other products on this list. Also, the edges are not cupped, meaning that spilled liquids will have nowhere to pool, so they could end up spilling over. Speaking of car additions, the best car floor mats will help you keep your car cleaner.
#5 Smart Elf Car Seat Protector
Award: BEST BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: Budget-friendly multipack that comes with 2 car seat protectors, each made from high quality polyester and featuring pockets along the bottom for the storage of toys and essential items, like first aid kits.
Read Full Review: Smart elf Protector Thickest Non Slip
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Great for Uber, Lyft or Door Dash drivers
- 100% waterproof
- Protects from damage caused by booster seats
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Slightly flimsier than top picks, weighing 5 oz each
- No warranty
- Odor upon receiving, though it faded
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
This Smart Elf Car Seat Protector arrives in a multipack of two units, similar to our number four pick, while coming in at an extremely budget-friendly price. These are made from high quality polyester that is both waterproof and slip-resistant and excels at protecting car seats from damage caused by the plastic bases of child booster seats. We also liked the large pockets running along the bottom, a feature in line with several other picks on this list.
Though the polyester components are waterproof material, this is a slightly flimsier design than some products on this list, with each seat weighing just five ounces. Additionally, this multipack does not come with a warranty, beyond what you get upon your initial Amazon purchase. Another product worth considering if you’re on a budget is the AmazonBasics Waterproof Car Back Bench Seat Cover Protector. This fits most cars and SUVs and protects your entire back seat from scratch marks, dirt, messes, etc. This could be a perfect choice for transporting pets as a pet seat cover, yet it may not be the best option for a child car seat on a road trip. Now that your seats are protected, you can turn your ears toward the best car stereo.
#6 Diono Ultra Mat Car Seat Protector
Award: BEST UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: Designed to fit nearly any style or size car seat, offering universal compatibility, with 5 layers of materials to increase water-resistance and a trio of mesh pockets running throughout, for the storage of essential items.
Read Full Review: Diono Ultra Full Size Protector Black
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Easy wipe clean material
- Crash tested for safety
- Trio of mesh pockets
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Fairly heavy, at 1.6 lb
- Limited 1 year warranty
- Machine washable but cannot be placed in drier
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
This Diono Ultra Mat Car Seat Protector boasts a near universal design that fit every car seat we tried it with, both front and rear seats. It features five distinct layers of materials, including comfort foam, which helps with water resistance, and a trio of mesh pockets along the bottom for the storage of toys and necessary items. We also liked that it has been crash tested for safety, a feature putting it in line with our number three pick.
Though this is a well made car seat protector, it only ships with a limited one year warranty, which is significantly less than the lifetime warranty found with our top pick. Also, this item is machine washable, which is nice, but cannot be placed in a machine to dry. Another great option is the Britax Vehicle Seat Protector, which features raised edges to prevent less messes and catch food crumbs and spills. There’s also front seat guard shields for any dirt on children’s shoes. The thick padding uses non-slip material for added safety grip, but this protector does not cover the entire seat unfortunately, leaving the car seat back exposed. Also have a look at the best car charger to keep your vehicle on the road.
How We Decided
To narrow down to the above list, we focused, first and foremost, on universal compatibility, preferring items that worked with most car seats, no matter the style or the location. We also liked products that offered some level of anti-slip protection, which increases the overall safety of infant seats.
We also liked models that were easy to install, often just requiring the attachment of several lockable straps, and those that were truly waterproof and resistant to sweat and all manner of liquids. To that end, we favored products that were easy to clean, often machine washable, and those that protected car seats from the kind of messes caused by having pets or toddlers in the car.
Some preferred items came with additional features. One such feature was the inclusion of multiple mesh pockets, typically located on the bottom of the protector. These are great for storing essential items, such as first aid kits, or toys and related knickknacks. Finally, we liked items that came with long-lasting warranties, with our top pick boasting a lifetime warranty.
Best Car Seat Protector Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Manufacturing Materials
These car seat protectors are often made from high quality materials, including PVC leather, polyester and Oxford cloth. All of these components are water-resistant surfaces, to one degree or another, and thick enough to increase the item’s comfort rating. Some items add additional comfort, via the inclusion of foam, while others contain treading running throughout, which helps to keep the protector securely in place. - Installation and Universal Compatibility
For the most part, these items are extremely easy to install. Just place them on the seat, plug in a few straps and you are good to go. Some include enclosures for the seat belts, while others work around seat belts. Additionally, thanks to most of the aforementioned straps being located near the head rest, these products are compatible with most consumer grade automobiles, though there are some exceptions. Be sure to read the fine print. - Storage and Pockets
Many car seat protectors come with additional features, including a number of storage pockets running throughout. These pockets are typically made from mesh and located at the bottom of the protector, making them perfect to store necessary items, such as first aid kids, and toys, gadgets and other knick knacks. - Washing and Drying
Other features include the ability to be thrown in a washing machine on the cold setting, though most items we tested could not be placed in a dryer.
