While many luxury car manufacturers provide built-in car seats, owners of economy vehicles also value the comfort of a heated seat on cold winter days. To get the heat of a luxury seat at a budget price point, third party manufacturers make accessory covers that sit on top of a seat and keep you warm on cold days.
The heated car seat cover market is as strong as ever, and there are options to fit any budget. If you’re looking for a brand that just provides high-quality heating, or if you are simply after a set that can warm up your car in the winter months, this guide has you covered.
Features to Consider in a Good Heated Car Seat Cover
The way to determine the best heated car seat covers on the market is to discuss a set of features that include:
- Material and Comfort: This is an important factor when considering a purchase of heated car seat covers. Nobody wants to invest in car seat covers if the material is cheap and uncomfortable to sit on. With this, we examined a range of materials and provided the best and most comfortable on the market.
- Heating Speed: When you obtain a set of heated car seat covers, one aspect you should be looking for is the amount of time it takes to reach the heating temperature you require. If you’re in a freezing climate and want your body to feel warm and cozy quite quickly, the last thing you want to do is invest in a set that takes forever to achieve full heat.
- Intelligent Control: Car seat covers with intelligent control automatically turn off once they reach a certain set temperature, assuring that your car seat won’t overheat.
- Timer: If you’re unable to afford (or don’t want to invest) in a heated seat cover with intelligent control, then alternatively, having a timer is a must as it only increases safety. With this, you have the option to set the time for the heater to switch off.
- Bonus Features: Some, not all, heated car seat covers come with one or multiple accessories that can be relevant to your needs. Such accessories include massagers or phone holders, and these features can make the difference between a great car seat cover and a bad one.
- Safety: This has to be the most important factor to consider when searching for your heated car seat cover – especially if you have children within your family. Car seat covers can reach extremely hot temperatures and can cause fires if not handled correctly. That’s why it’s good to know which brands provide the safest sets, and this guide aims to give you exactly that.
Top 10 Best Heated Car Seat Covers 2020
1. Best Overall Heated Car Seat Cover: SNAILAX Massage Car Seat Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and comfort
This heated car seat cover provides the ultimate comfort. With the standard option being soft polyester and the two upgraded options made of a soft plush material, all three have the ability to keep you excessively comfortable during long trips.
What makes this brand a top recommendation within this competitive market is the level of comfort it provides for muscle aches and soreness. If you or a member of your family suffer from continuous muscle aches, then this set is certainly a number one contender, as it will help alleviate aches and pains. The cushion has 6 vibration motors that seep into your tissue and muscles to help relieve fatigue, muscle tension, and soreness, although it can be pretty loud.
Timer
This heated car seat cover does come with a timer and you can set it using the handheld controller that’s added in the package. With this, you can set a timer of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. The controller also gives you many more options like mode indicators and massage regions, as well as different heat settings.
Heating Speed
After testing this product, we came to the conclusion that it takes less than a minute to reach a temperature that would make you feel warm and toasty. This makes it one of the faster brands to reach such a temperature, so it’s good to know you’ll be investing your money wisely.
Bonus Features
First and foremost, this car seat cover is designed to give you the most comforting feeling during your driving, hence the 6 different vibration motors it comes with. Therefore, you can argue that the heating options are the bonus additions for this product. However, despite this, the heating options are what makes this product a valuable and effective choice on the market. If you suffer from back problems, it’s the heat that condenses onto your back that really helps relieve some of the soreness.
Safety
Some of what makes this product truly outstanding are its safety features. Firstly, it’s equipped with overheat protection so that the device can remain at a stable temperature. The heating pad also comes with an auto shut-off feature so that you can set up a time in which you want the heating to vanish. This is effective for two reasons, as it prevents you from trying to turn it off while you drive, and it stops the device from overheating. Lastly, the cover comes with a non-slip rubber bottom and adjustable dual straps to secure it to the car seat and keep it in place.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy to install
- Multiple options for massaging
- Very fast heating time
Cons
- The vibration can be quite loud
2. Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and comfort
This product is a cushion that looks and feels extremely soft – making it a highly recommended option for long rides. You can even use 2 at the same time with the same auxiliary outlet, which will keep you and your passenger warm and soothed throughout each journey.
Additionally, there are breathable holes pierced into the cushion which improve airflow. Less expensive models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion don’t have this feature
Heating Speed
Full heat can be achieved under 1 minute, which is a solid and highly competitive time. One of the best aspects of this heated car seat is that there’s an intelligent temperature system that allows you to choose a heat ranging between 86F and 140F.
Timer
This Kingleting seat cover comes with a timer option that is incredibly valuable. It allows to turn on the heater for periods of 30, 60 and 90 minutes.
Bonus Accessories
The cigarette lighter has two interfaces and is the reason why you’re able to use two cushions at the same time.
Safety
This product comes with a variety of safety features. Firstly, it has a protection device that allows the seat to turn off when the temperature is too high. The temperature will be maintained but if it lowers, it will turn back on.
Secondly, the wiring is anti-freeze so that it doesn’t damage in the winter months. Lastly, the cover has a non-slip rubber backing. This is upgrade quality and is designed to keep your cushion from slipping while you drive. Slippery cushions can ruin your driving angle and are dangerous. Furthermore, there are elastic bands to fasten the cushion to the seat and keep it in place perfectly.
Pros
- The Rubberized bottom keeps the seat in place
- The interface is an extension that can accommodate two connections at once
- Incredibly safe to use
Cons
- No side straps
3. Zone Tech Heated Car Seat Cover
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
This Zone Tech heated seat cover is designed to give you both warmth and comfort. The heating fabric can easily warm your back which helps to keep up metabolism and blood circulation. Furthermore, if you’re ever suffering from tired or sore muscles, this car seat cover will generate a soothing sensation that will help reduce the pain.
Heating Speed
After testing this car seat cover, we learned that it takes around a minute for you to feel nice and warm. We’d recommend turning it on while warming up your car.
Timer
This device does come with a timer manual where you can adjust the time you want the seat to be heated.
Once your vehicle is running and your Zone Tech heated car seat cover is switched on, you’ll then be able to adjust the temperature to your liking using the provided indicator. However, the only options you’ll have are the low setting or the high setting. This indicator is a new and improved remote that allows you to choose a temperature as high as 120F.
Bonus Accessories
The only bonus feature to this product is that it comes with additional hooks on the bottom of the seat. These hooks allow your cover to be more secure while covering your car seat – so, this could be placed within the safety section, but as it’s a slightly different way to hold down a cover onto a seat, it’s quite necessary to mention it within this category.
Safety
The Zone Tech heated car seat cover uses the technology of Far-Infrared. This feature allows the heat to build within the fabric, which subsequently reduces the chance of the wire becoming lumpy – known as unsafe heating.
The product also has a non-flammable design, and with it being UL approved, you’ll know that you and other users in your family will be safe from experiencing a fire.
Pros
- Quick heating time
- It has fireproof material that uses infrared technology
- The straps and hooks join together to adjust the cover in place, so it doesn’t move while you drive
Cons
- It doesn’t come with many temperature settings. Only high or low.
4. Best Premium Car Seat Cover: Snailax Cushion (3 Levels Cooling + 2 Levels Heating)
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
If you’re looking for a heated seat cover that also has a strong focus on comfort, then take the time to consider this Snailax model. One aspect that stands out is the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric: both revolutionary concepts within this market. The upper and lower side are made out of mesh and the middle section has a unique X90 structure made out of polyester. What this generates is a superb support force and ventilation system. When we tested this product out, this was an impressive and effective feature.
Heating Speed
One thing we noticed quickly was the rapid speed in which the heater achieved full heat. We worked out that the cover can reach full heat in just under 2 minutes, which is quicker than average within this market.
Timer
There is a timer with this seat cover, but it’s not as efficient as others placed on this list. With this Snailax model, it only includes a 30-minute auto timer that you cannot change or adjust. For some, this may not be the most ideal feature so do take this into consideration before deciding to purchase.
Bonus Features
The obvious bonus feature of this product is the additional cooling system. With this, you could say that this Snailax model is a 2-in-1 system than can be used all year round. If you happen to live in a region with seasons, experiencing all kinds of weather throughout the year, then this seat cover model is perfect for you. You have your heater in the winter, and your cooler in the summer – all with one seat cover.
Safety
As many seat covers do, this model comes with a rubber bottom that keeps the cover in place securely. In addition, to keep the cover extra sturdy, there are elastic straps in which you tie around the perimeter of the car seat.
Additionally, there is built-in UL approval overheat protection thermostats. This serves to keep your temperature at a steady balance that will prevent your cover from burning. This is always a worthy feature to have when considering your next heated car seat cover.
Pros
- A 2-in-1 system of heating and cooling is perfect for all seasons.
- Revolutionary design concepts include the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric
- Program overheat protection for safe use
- Universal and can be used in the home, car or office
Cons
- The auto timer can’t be changed
5. Best Budget Heated Car Seat Cover: Comfier Car Seat Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
The outer material is made of faux suede and soft plush which allows you to feel nice and comfortable during your road journeys. With additional high-density foam padding, this car seat cover will give you a luxurious and cozy feel and will last you a long time.
Another aspect we were impressed with was the hemming of this product. At times, car seat covers can start to wear and tear around the edges. With the excellent hemming of the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, this is why it can possibly last longer than other heated car seat cushions.
Heating Speed
As mentioned on the product’s listing, it can achieve a heating speed of 1-3 minutes. Just like the other Snailax product on this list, this heating speed is fast and efficient one compared to others on the market.
Timer
This car seat cover does come with a timer, giving you the options of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. You need to also note that it comes with a default timer of 60 minutes – so you’ll always know that the product will shut off automatically when it has heated for an hour. However, if you are in need of longer heating time – not to worry – the device comes with a handheld controller that’s one click away from you adding more time to the heater. Not only is this efficient, but it makes it safe to use.
Bonus Features
This car seat cover doesn’t come with any standout bonus features but it is one of the more versatile covers on the market. Not only is this tailormade for your car, but you can also use it at home or in your office. The package will include a UL home adapter, as well as the expected car adapter.
Safety
One of the features we liked most about this product was the focus it has on safety for its customers. This always goes a long way when it comes to heated car seat covers as there are many out there than can be dangerous.
With the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, comes an anti-slip bottom which helps keep your cushion nice and sturdy.
As previously mentioned, with the auto shut off time of 60 minutes, you know that there’s fire prevention right there. This can be extremely useful if you decide to use the product at home. If you do use if for your chair at home and fall asleep (without setting a timer), you’ll know it will automatically shut off after 60 minutes – preventing the product from overheating.
An additional safety feature is that it comes with a built-in UL-approved protection thermostat that’s designed to keep your temperature at a stable level. Overall, this car seat cover is one of the safest on the market.
Pros
- Incredibly safe
- Excellent heating speed
- Versatile
- Can potentially last a long time if carefully used
Cons
- Despite the comfort it generates, it does come a little flimsy compared to others listed in this article
- No pouch for the controller. Increases the risk of losing it
6. Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
The seat cover is made of soft polyester fabric and is designed to especially give you comfort by massaging your back while you drive. There is a reason why ‘relax’ is in their company name, and it’s because it does exactly that. If you work long hours and want a seat cover that can relax you during your commute home, the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Cushion will have you covered.
The comfort is generated by six invigorating massage motors that do wonders for your upper and lower back, alongside your thighs. A part of the soothing massage treatment is the heating process. The seat cover has a max limit of 124F, a little lower than products like the Zento Heated Car Seat that can warm up to over 130 degrees.
Heating Speed
We found that this seat cover warms quite quickly, but it takes around 7 minutes to actually achieve full heat. In comparison to other brands, this is considered relatively slow, so take this into consideration if you’re looking for one that can reach max temperature more quickly.
Timer
This product comes with a useful handheld controller that contains numerous and necessary options. This includes the option of a timer in which you can choose either 15, 30 or 60 minutes.
When deciding on the key feature of this product, the controller has to be mentioned for this accolade. What’s impressive about this device is that it gives you a range of choices that end up being specific to your needs. For instance, if you just want your back warmed and soothed, then go ahead and just have this option going. There are also different modes you can choose from, including pulse, normal, press and auto.
Bonus Features
One additional bonus to the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is the fact that you can use it in the car, home or office. This is not a common theme within the heated car seat industry as many brands tend to stick with producing their products only being available to vehicles. To make this achievable, this product comes with an AC and a DC adapter.
Another bonus feature is the thick padding in the back and neck area. Although this is considered to relate to the comfort of the cover, this extra padding is not the most common feature when it comes to heated car seat covers – hence the importance of discussing it within this category.
Safety
When considering the safety features of this product, it’s apparent that there’s no real emphasis on the safety preventions this product contains. However, that doesn’t mean to say it’s unsafe. After testing the seat cover, we found that the dual straps are completely effective in securing the cushion to a car seat. They’re tough enough to keep the cushion from sliding and they also accommodate a variety of seats – making it a worthy car seat cover for you to enjoy.
Pros
- Connects via AC + DC adapters – making it versatile
- The handheld controller gives you multiple and thorough options
- There are six different massage motors that target different areas of your body
Cons
- The heating speed can be much quicker. If you live in a freezing climate and want to rely on a fast and efficient heater to get you warm, this may not be the option for you.
7. Zento Heated Car Seat
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
The Zento Heated Car Seat is stylish and comfortable to sit on. It includes a layer of thick foam padding and is wrapped in super-soft satin that provides the comfort of this product. The predominant material is made of high-quality soft polyester that generates massive comfort for you to enjoy. With the quality of the material, this heated seat cover can last a long time.
One feature you will most certainly notice is the soothing sensation that the heat will provide. Ultimately, this feeling helps maintain your metabolism and steady your blood circulation. If this appeals to you, then definitely consider the Zento Heated Car Seat.
Heating Speed
Immediately, we were impressed by the heating speed of this product, as it was pretty instant before we experienced the highest temperature of 150 degrees.
Timer
This product actually comes with an adjustable timer feature where you can choose a time for auto shut off between 30 and 60 minutes. If you don’t set up a timer, then the cover will automatically shut off after 60 minutes anyway. This was formed as another way to keep your safety in tack.
The timer allows the heat to have a balance and the seat to remain safe when in use. How it actually works? The controller is very on point and simple to use with just a few buttons.
Bonus Features
One aspect to discuss here is that it does come with two interfaces that are connectable to one cigarette lighter power source. As this comes as a two-seater cover set, this is perfect for you and a significant other to enjoy simultaneously.
Safety
Aside from the automatic shut off timer, this heated seat cover has a small collection of safety features that are good to know. With this, there are elastic straps that hold the cover in place and does do a good job of keeping it that way. As it’s universal, you are able to adjust these straps to most vehicles out there, including cars, trucks, and RVs.
Furthermore, this Zento product has UL approved wiring that almost guarantees a non-burnable seat cover. That way, you can spend your time feeling the warmth of a heated seat and not have the worry of it beginning to overheat.
Pros
- It’s considered a safe product after having UL approved wiring
- It comes with the common rubber bottom which allows the cover to stay in place
- The heat reaches a temperature of 150F – which is one of the highest on the market
- There’s a timer to keep you extra safe and the balance of the heat remains intact
Cons
- We noticed the heat can take a little time to spread across all surfaces of the cover
- The seat cover isn’t breathable
8. Wagan Soft Heated Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and Comfort
The main reason why this model makes this list is due to it being perhaps one of the comfiest heated seat covers around. Although the design doesn’t look very exquisite, you cannot overlook the comfort aspect of this cushion. If comfort is the greatest feature you’re looking for, then certainly consider this option.
The polyurethane foam is the main reason why the Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is as comfortable as it is. The foam also helps in keeping the seat warm with the heat so this will certainly help you feel soothed during those rides through town and outer city.
Overall, the soft velour cushion has an extremely soft and durable covering. It’s that comfortable, you won’t ever want to take it off your seat.
Heating Speed
After testing the product, we came to the conclusion that the seat cover reaches full heat between 2 and 3 minutes. This is considered an average time within the market.
Timer
We’ve already given you the best feature of this seat cover model, by explaining just how comfortable it is. However, on the flip side, this is where the other extreme comes into play. This is due to the product not having a timer, so this is why it comes at the bottom of this list. If you’re going to promote the most effective heated car seat cover on the market, then promoting one that includes a timer is absolutely pivotal, especially since so many newer models contain one.
Bonus Features
This product makes up for not having a timer by including both the AC and DC adapter. This means you can use the seat cover in your car, home or office. That way, you can take advantage of the comfort in more than one spot.
Additionally, the product is easy to store as it can be folded very easily. So when summer arrives, you’ll know you can pack it up and store it away.
Safety Features
There are 2 rear elastic straps and 4 cinch straps around the bottom to prevent the cushion from moving while you drive. Furthermore, the safety fuse feature allows the wires to remain safe in the heat as well.
Pros
- One of the comfiest on the market
- Can be easily stored away for the summer
- Proved to be safe for use
Cons
- Does not include a timer option
- Reaches a max temperature of 114 degrees. Although this is more than enough to keep you warm, there are individuals who may consider this not to be a high enough maximum temperature – as others on the market tend to reach much higher maximums
9. Sojoy Universal
Editor’s Rating:
Material and comfort
The Sojoy Universal mat uses a polyester fabric that’s soft and is designed to keep you comfortable while driving.
Heating Speed
This product requires three minutes to achieve full heat. This may not be the quickest on the market, but it does come with 3 different settings: low, medium and high. Some users note a faint rubber smell when heating the cover up the first few times.
Timer
The product comes with a timer, but the only option is for 45 minutes.
Bonus Accessories
This product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories.
Safety
This seat cover collection is designed to be non-slip, so this is a safety feature that should be addressed within this section.
Another safety feature is its 45 minute timer option. This can prevent the cover from overheating and causing fire damage to you and your car. The only concern relating to this product is that there is no controller. If you need to switch the device back on while driving, the only option is for you to reach down to feel for the cord and turn it back on. Clearly, this can be a dangerous action to attempt.
Pros
- Universal 12V heated car seat
- The power cable has a nice length so that it can be tucked under the car console and be out of sight
- Comes with 3 different settings for you to choose from
- Comes with a timer
Cons
- It can take up to 3 minutes to achieve full heat (fairly slow in comparison to others we have examined)
- There is a possibility of a burning rubber smell – especially with first-time use
10. Warmitory Heated Car Seat Cushion
Editor’s Rating:
Material and comfort
The Warmitory Heated Car Seat cushion is made of a high-grade leather combined with a high-density foam to keep you comfortable.
Heating Speed
Getting fully up to its 131-degree maximum heat in 5 minutes, the seat is a bit slower than average but slightly more powerful than average as well. It’s expensive price is beat out by cheaper models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion.
Timer
A default safety timer is set for 50 minutes and will turn off automatically once it hits that time benchmark or upon reaching a too hot temperature.
Bonus Accessories
Although the product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories, it does come with some clever features that help justify its well-above average price point.
A non-slip coating prevents the cover from sliding around, a problem all too pervasive with cheap, elastic mounted seat covers. The universal plug works with all connectors from 12 volt to 24 volt, meaning this cover can work with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs. It’s also got a 30-day risk free satisfaction guarantee if you run into any problems.
Safety:
An overheat protection sensor automatically turns off upon reaching a too-high level of heat, preventing fire, burns, and damage to seat surfaces.
Pros
- Padded, heated car seat is comfortable and heats up to a toasty 131 degrees
- Non-slip coating prevents from sliding around
- Connector works with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs
- Comes with a default safety timer
Cons
- No bonus accessories
- Quite pricey
Guide to Buying the Best Heated Car Seat Cover
Arguably the most effective way to keep warm while you drive in your vehicle is to invest in a heated car seat cover. These covers were created to do one thing: produce heat in your car seat – with the added bonus of providing some padding to keep you comfortable during your journeys. However, it’s important not to rush into buying such a product, as it’s important to pick the right one for your needs.
In this section, we will discuss the various features that you need to know about in order to choose the best heated car seat covers:
Universal Fit Seat Covers
When deciding on the right heated car seat cover, you need to ask yourself in what vehicle it will be used. If it’s simply just for your car and nothing else, then this feature isn’t going to be too important. However, there are many people who like to use the one car seat cover in another vehicle they may own – like an RV or a truck. For you, you may want to use a heated car seat cover in your home or office, so make sure you lookout for this feature while shopping.
Most heated car seat covers now come as a universal fit, so it won’t be too difficult to track one down. Investing in a universal fit is a great way to save you time and money as it can act as a versatile option to be used in your car, truck, home or office.
Safety and Heated Car Seats
A heated car seat contains a heating element that, when malfunctioning, has a small risk of overheating. There are a few things you can do to minimize risk of a superficial burn or an overheated seat when you install a heated car seat cover:
- Frequent Breaks: We’d recommend taking a break every two hours or so to minimize the probability of overheating. Even if you don’t get out of the car, turn the heated seat off for 10-15 minutes every couple of hours.
- Heating Level: Just because you have a heated seat doesn’t mean it has to be on full blast all the time. Adjust the heating level based on your need and temperature so as to minimize stress on the heating elements.
- Physical Concerns: In studies of accidents with heated seats, many injured users experience lower body numbness. Be especially careful and take frequent breaks if you have conditions that cause lower body numbness.
- User Manual: The most important thing to do to reduce risk of damage is to follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. Misuse is the most common source of malfunctions.
Dual Interface
Do you want a heated car seat for yourself? Or, would you also like to keep your partner or any other passenger warm at the same time? If you don’t like the idea of leaving somebody out while you’re getting warm and cozy, then it’s important to consider a heated car seat cover that comes with a dual interface.
Typically, heated car seat covers rely on a car cigarette lighter to run. The problem with this is that cars usually contain one cigarette lighter which accommodates one seat only. With a dual interface allows a single accessory outlet/cigarette lighter to connect to two heated car seat covers. Therefore, you won’t have that guilty feeling of being warm while you leave your significant other colder in the opposite seat.
Why Invest in Intelligent Control?
This may not be the most important aspect of a heated car seat cover, and it may not be very common either. However, it’s certainly recommended, as having intelligent control is undeniably effective.
If you’re not worried about the extra cost of having this particular feature, then you won’t be disappointed when you get to use it. Using a heated seat cover with intelligent control will give you the option of shutting down the seat heat when the temperature reaches your set preference. Aeration holes can also help, as seen on the Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion. What this does is help maintain the temperature and prevents it from overheating – making it a safe and reliable product.
Are You Looking for a Way to Manage Muscular Pains + Sores?
If so, you’ll be glad to know that there are a variety of options that come with massaging features. Tests have proven that heated car seat covers can help your muscular pains and sore via massaging controls.
If this applies to you, then strongly consider the brands that provide this significant feature. Many people suffer from chronic back or neck pain and driving long journeys doesn’t help this issue. That’s why the invention of car seat covers with massaging control is tailormade for those with such medical conditions. If you are somebody with such medical conditions or you just want to feel extra soothed during your rides, then this may be the most viable option for you.
Conclusion
Whether you are someone who is eager to buy a heated car seat cover or someone who is casually considering the option, we hope that this guide helps you in making the right choice for you. If investing in a heated car seat cover is the right choice, then you could be saying goodbye to chilly winters and be driving in the warmth of your car.
By reading our buyer guide, you can save time and energy on stressing over what model is the one for you. We have broken down a variety of options and examined all of their best and worst features – just so you can come to the most viable option.
The best part about our choices is that they all match any budget, however, the more features you’re looking for, the more costly the seat cover can be. Therefore, take the time in reading this guide, and perhaps you’ll find the perfect match for you and your car seat.
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
