24th October 2024

Your car cover is more than just a protective layer; it’s an investment in the longevity and appearance of your vehicle. To make sure your cover serves its purpose effectively and lasts for years, proper care and maintenance is essential. This guide will cover different methods for looking after your car cover featuring expert tips from Coverzone.

Regular Cleaning

Keeping your car cover clean is vital for maintaining its protective qualities. Here are a few tips on how to do it effectively:

• Spots and Splotches: If you notice any stains or marks use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to gently clean the affected area. Do not rub hard! Make sure that bird lime is removed promptly. Apply soap & water to soften for 5 minutes prior to wiping.
• Machine Wash: If your cover is machine washable (check the supplied care instructions for full details) wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as these can damage the material.
• Air Dry: Never use a tumble dryer or heat source as these can do lasting damage to your cover. Instead hang in a dry, shaded area away from direct sunlight if possible

Proper Storage

When your car cover is not in use proper storage is the key to prolonging your cover’s life:

• Clean Before Storing: Ensure your cover is clean and dry before storing as this will help to prevent both mildew and mould growth.
• Use a Sturdy Storage Bag: Store your cover in the supplied storage bag. Make sure that the cover is dry and neatly folded for storage.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Make sure to keep your cover in a cool, dry area completely away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Multilayer covers should be stored below 25C to prevent de-lamination.

Inspect for Damage

You should regularly check your cover to catch any wear and tear before it becomes a major problem:

• Check for Tears or Holes: Regularly examine your cover for any signs of damage. Small tears can be repaired with repair patches, while larger damage may require a replacement. Coverzone make a handy repair patch kit of 3 patches for the inside of the cover and 3 patches for the outer. The self adhesive backings will bond together filling the hole and making a permanent repair.
• Look for Fading: If your cover shows signs of fading it may be time to say goodbye to your current cover and invest in a new one to ensure continued UV and weather protection for your vehicle.

Avoiding Unnecessary Wear

To minimise wear and tear on your cover, consider the following tips:

Secure your Cover Properly: Ensure your cover is snug and securely fastened to prevent it from being blown around in high winds. Most covers will come with straps or ties - use them!

The straps should not be over tightened so the cover can move a little in the breeze. Take notice of storm warnings as if your home can suffer structural damage, your cover can as well!

Remove Debris: Before putting your cover on, remove any debris, leaves or dirt from your vehicle. This prevents scratches and damage to your car’s surface and the cover itself.

Follow Manufacturer Instructions

Lastly, always refer to the care instructions that are included with your car cover. Car covers are technical items and vary in construction methods. This means that usage guidelines from the maker vary from type to type. The instructions that are supplied will include specific cleaning instructions and maintenance tips that are specific to your cover and the materials it uses.

Caring for your car cover is essential to ensuring it provides optimal protection to your vehicle. By following these maintenance tips you can extend the life of your cover and keep your car looking great, no matter the season.

If you are looking for high quality covers and more expert advice, visit Coverzone today.

Your vehicle deserves the best protection and with the right care our covers will deliver just that.