Let’s face it—small children can be messy, leaving their mark everywhere they go, including your car. Whether you’re driving them home from school or taking a road trip for the holidays, it only takes a minute for crayons, food, or worse to ruin your auto upholstery. The good news is that you can set rules and take precautions to prevent damage and extend the life of your upholstery if you have children. 

Ways to Prevent Damage to Your Auto Upholstery

Be Mindful of the Food Allowed

Lots of foods can leave stains if they’re dropped or smeared by little hands in the back seat. Jelly, ketchup, peanut butter, fruit juice, ice cream, and gum are some of the worst offenders. It’s not practical for most parents to completely prohibit eating in the car, but you can be careful about the foods you allow. Packing lunches or snacks with healthy items such as apple pieces and water secured in no-spill bottles will keep the kids from getting too cranky while keeping your car clean.

Say “No” to Crayons & Markers

Children love creating art, especially during long drives. Instead of letting them bring crayons, markers, or paint, give them colored pencils. If those utensils leave behind marks, they’ll be easier to clean away. Make sure an adult sits in the back seat with them to supervise their drawing.

Invest in Seat Covers & Floor Mats

Seat covers might not be your first choice of accessories for auto upholstery, but they can be lifesavers with kids around. Some children just won’t obey when they’re told not to push their feet against the back of seats or to take off their muddy cleats before climbing inside. Seat covers are available in a variety of colors and sizes, and floor mats come in durable materials such as synthetic rubber. 

Of course, routine cleaning is also essential to keeping your auto upholstery looking pristine, and the team at Whitehurst Auto Trim & Upholstery Inc, in Dothan, AL, can help if you require a professional touch. They can not only restore, but also repair and customize upholstery as requested. Using only top quality products and materials, they can also repair and recover seats. Call (334) 792-6145 or visit them online today to learn more about their services.