Markus Andrews

Integrating all of your different technology is the new trend – Premium cars today come equipped with spacious screens to handle your navigation and entertainment requirements. Because most of us can’t spring for a Tesla Model S, iPad mounts are an affordable alternative. New design innovations in the car tablet mount field have sprung several variants serving different purposes. These devices turn your iPad into a mounted touchscreen navigation system, a viewing screen, and a music device rolled into one.

What to Consider Before Buying a Good iPad Car Mount
Before zeroing in on a model, keep a few things in mind – What features to look for and specifically, how the mount attaches to your car.
Mount Location
If you’re shopping for an iPad mount, you probably have a good idea where you will want your tablet to be mounted in the car. On the list below, you can find mounts that attach to the headrest, dashboard, cupholders, and floor. For more information on the different ways that mounts can be installed in your car, see our section on types of iPad car mounts.
Ease of Installation
Some of the mounts on our list quickly snap into place while some are more complicated to install. Mounts that attach to the car using screws or other hardware are more sturdy as well. That’s why drivers who will be mounting tablets for their own use should consider a more permanent installation like the Arkon Tablet Mount
User-Friendly Features
Viewing angles for different seats also depends on the type of iPad car mount you pick. Rear-seat holders typically offer optimum viewing angles for rear seats. Your children in the back seat can use the screen easily – And in a safe manner. Cup holder iPad mounts are better suited for front seat navigation or passenger seat entertainment purposes. Air vent, windshield, and dashboard iPad holders are great if you want a display you can attach and remove in a pinch.
Build Quality
A lot of how an iPad mount handles turbulence on the road has to do with the build quality. If long drives on rough roads are your priority, a stable iPad mount made of durable metal-plastic material is the right choice. Even if you frequent high traffic density routes, you need stability to ensure clear display without vibrations – Also, you don’t want your iPad to fall off mid-drive. Even if you pick a magnetic dash mount or air vent holder for flexibility, make sure you pick a model with sturdy construction.
We’ve assembled a list of clear winners – Our favorite picks, keeping the type of iPad mount and budget in mind.

Top 10 Best iPad Car Mounts 2020

1. Best Overall iPad Car Mount: TFY Universal Car Headrest Mount Holder

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This model by TFY is a great pick for nearly anyone looking for an iPad Car Mount. It’s well made, secure, and stylish.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Headrest
Ease of Installation
The installation process is quite simple and takes about 5 to 10 minutes. This headrest iPad car mount has two parts – The durable stain resistant elastic strap and the metal holding brackets that acts as the tablet holding tray. Both the strap and the brackets come with Velcro securing patches. If you have adjustable height headrests, simply wrap the elasticated strap across the headrest vertically. If you have fixed height headrests, wrap it horizontally. The metal brackets go on the top and bottom of the strap’s Velcro patch – You can adjust the spacing to hold all iPad models and most standard tablets and phones.
Performance
The metal brackets have Velcro securing patches on the back. The tray is well made, flat, smooth, and stable enough to hold all iPad models comfortably. You can snugly fit in your tablet to make sure it doesn’t shake or fall off. The brackets also allow for placing your iPad in with the cover on. You can tweak the thickness spacing as well – And never have to remove your iPad from its protective case. You can move the strap up and down to customize viewing angles.
Strength
The strap is made of tough elasticized material with Velcro patches. The metal brackets are plastic coated and built durably. The build material of the strap and the brackets is strong enough to securely hold most tablet models over extremely long-distance drives of over 1,000 km. Though the model is designed to tirelessly entertain your rear-seat passengers, it can be disassembled and packed in a snap. The Velcro patches are dependable when it comes to tablet shaking and dislodgement prevention.
Value for Money
While this model is priced lesser compared to cup holder models like the Macally Heavy Duty Tablet Holder, it costs more than the CD slot and dashboard models. Overall, this model is worth the price.

Pros

Made from premium metal, Velcro, and elastic material.
Best suited for long-distance drives.
Set up takes about 5 to 10 minutes – Easy to install.
Stable viewing angles for rear-seat passengers.

Cons

Not suitable for driver seat navigation.
The iPad tray can’t be moved sidewards like the iKross model.

2. Best Premium iPad Car Mount: Cellet Cup Holder Tablet Mount

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Cellet’s cup holder iPad car mount is easy to install, convenient to use and sturdy. It also offers the best viewing angles and does not obstruct the driver’s view.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Cupholder
Ease of Installation
As far as easy installations of iPad car mounts go, it can’t get simpler than this model by Cellet. It comes with a lightweight and sturdy circular (cup-shaped) base that fits into most standard cup holders. It’s as simple as place, turn, and clip into position. The adjustable base fits into most standard cup holders.
Performance
It sports a single-arm carrier with a three-pronged tablet tray on top. Although it does not block your view, it can get slightly cumbersome to switch gears if you drive a manual (depending on how far the cup holder is from the gear stick). Passengers can swivel the holder for better viewing angles.
Strength
The Cellet iPad holder is constructed from durable high-strength plastic materials. The overall strength of this model is above par – The single hinge joint arm can comfortably hold most tablets and phones. This model isn’t easily prone to shaking and instability – But if long-distance driving is your priority, you’d do better with a headrest iPad mount concerning stability and unobstructed driving.
Value for Money
This model is slightly pricey compared to most other iPad holders, but it does allow you to easily navigate while keeping your passenger entertained. Considering the quality Cellet provides, we think it’s a great deal.

Pros

Does not block the driver’s view.
Easy setup process.
Sturdier when compared to the magnetic dashboard and air vent models.
Provides on-road navigation and entertainment.
It can be detached and packed away at need.

Cons

Rear seat viewing can be obstructed.
Manual drivers might have trouble changing their gears sometimes.

3. Best Budget iPad Car Mount: Tryone Car Headrest Mount

View on Amazon

Why we like it: If we’re talking value for money, it doesn’t get better than Tryone’s headrest iPad car mount.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Headrest
Ease of Installation
The iPad mount comes with a pair of clamps pushed into place by a spring-loaded piston. The piston moves horizontally and fixes the clamps to the posts of your headrest. The tablet holder is attached to the piston at the center and has a tray that fits most iPad and iPhone models. The setup process is simple – It takes under 5 minutes to have it up and going. The model fits rear seat posts of 12.5 to 15 cm in width – Make sure your car and iPad mount are compatible.
Performance
This model is convenient to use – Kids above 10 can even clip it in and use it all by themselves. The holder can be customized to fit most large tablets and cellphones – You can use your iPad in both landscape and portrait mode by simply rotating the holding tray.
The tray can also be bent to tilt the screen at a comfortable angle. The clamping piston does not have an extra sliding tube mechanism like the iKross model to move the iPad sideways.
Strength
Although Tryone’s headrest iPad mount is primarily made of plastic, the overall build quality is simply great. The manufacturing material is strong enough to handle moderately long-distance drives without shaking much. The plastic side clamps of the tablet tray grip your iPad tightly – They can be detached easily too.
Value for Money
If you’re looking for a cheap, quick, and sturdy solution for entertaining your kids in the backseat, this is the pick for you. Entering the list significantly more affordable than the cup holder models by iKross, and Akron, this model is quite the steal.
This model can’t slide your iPad sideways, which might limit the viewing angle from the other seat, but at this price point, you can probably grab two.

Pros

The best value iPad car mount.
The installation process takes less than 2 minutes.
Offers great viewing angles for rear-seat passengers.
It can be customized to fit most iPads and other standard tablet and smartphone models.

Cons

It cannot slide sideways like the iKross model.
It only fits headrests of a particular width.
Not for front seat real-time navigation.

4. Best for Backseat Passengers: iKross Universal Car Tablet Mount Holder

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This sturdy model by iKross is the best option to keep rear-seat passengers entertained and informed on long-distance drives spanning lengths of over 3,000 km.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Headrest
Ease of Installation
This model comes with two adjustable clamps attached to a square tube that slides sideways. These clamps can be fitted to the front seat’s headrest with a few tightness and length adjustments. Once you’ve fitted the supporting clamps, fix the iPad tray to the square tube.
Performance
This car tablet mount features great versatility. While it works best with the iPad, the tablet-holding tray can be adjusted to fit most standard cellphones and tablets. The square pole moves sideways – Both rear-seat passengers can enjoy great viewing angles with a single iPad.
The angle of the tablet holder and the positioning ensures the driver’s view is never obstructed. If you aren’t looking for hands-on navigation or immediate connectivity, this is the best pick for you.
Strength
The clamp-tube mechanism is well built – The material is sturdy enough to hold iPads over long distances without concern of shaking or instability. The solid ABS material and the aluminum square tube can easily withstand the disturbances and issues associated with larger distance drives – Without posing a threat to your children in the backseat.
Value for Money
Entering the list on the affordable end, this sturdy iPad mount justifies its price point. If Velcro isn’t your thing and you want a cheaper and sturdier headrest model, iKross’ model is worth considering.

Pros

Great value for money in terms of build quality and utility.
It can be customized to fit every version of the iPad, most tablets, and phones.
A sturdy iPad car mounts specially designed for long drives.
The iPad tray can be moved sideways to provide larger viewing angles.
Does not obstruct the driver’s view.

Cons

Navigation and internet/call connectivity for the driver’s seat isn’t an option.

5. Best Heavy Duty Cupholder iPad Car Mount: Macally Heavy Duty Tablet Holder

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The heavy-duty build of Macally’s iPad car mount coupled with its ease of installation/detachment makes it a durable and convenient pick.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Cupholder
Ease of Installation
Just like Cellet’s model, this cup holder mount comes with a cup-shaped base that can be fitted in and tightened firmly. The installation process is simple – Just place the iPad car mount in the cup holder you want to give up temporarily – And adjust for tightness and firmness. Place your iPad on the spinnable tablet tray and fix the clasps.
Performance
Cup holder car mounts are absolutely the best option for driver’s seat navigation – And passenger seat entertainment. Macally’s tablet mount is designed to specifically give you obstruction-free navigation while driving. The holder can be rotated and tilted to give both you and your passenger optimal viewing angles. This heavy-duty model is the perfect companion for long drives – Coupled with a secure headrest tablet mount for the rear seat.
Strength
This model is meant to take slightly rougher roads. The heavy-duty construction results in a well-made product that can hold your iPad with minimal shaking while allowing you navigation access. This is a product you can detach from your car when you want but also gives you sturdy performance because of its strong metal-plastic build.
Value for Money
While this model is slightly higher priced when compared to Tryone’s headrest model, it is affordable compared to Cellet’s model and Akron’s seat rail model as well. The easy installation process, the unscrew-and-pack-away convenience, and easy access to navigation and your favorite playlists, this model is completely worth the price.

Pros

Durable build quality.
Easy access to on-road navigation and entertainment.
It can be removed from your cup holder and packed away when you want.
Suitable for long-distance drives.

Cons

Almost no access to the rear seat if you’re using it upfront.
If you have something more permanent and stable on your mind, there are options on our list to consider.

6. Most Stable iPad Car Mount: Akron Tablet Mount

View on Amazon
Why we like it: When it comes to stability, Akron’s seat rail tablet mount is the most stable iPad holder in the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Seat Rail/floor iPad car mount.
Ease of Installation
The package comes with four long and four short support legs for the tablet holder – And a Gooseneck-design holder with a sturdy screw clamp.
For seat rail installation, first, loosen the track bolt with the aid of a socket wrench. Place the seat track bolt bracket and tighten the bolt using the socket wrench.  You can change the orientation of the bolted bracket by removing the screws and adjusting it.
For installing this model on the floor of your car, remove the screws from the bolted bracket and attach the floor/console mount bracket. You can then fasten the floor bracket to the floor of your car with screws (that come in the package). If you’re new to using a socket wrench and a nail gun, it’s best to get assistance for setting this model up. But once it’s up, it can withstand the roughest of roads.
Performance
In terms of user-friendliness and viewing angles, this model is great. Both the driver and the passenger can bend the Gooseneck to make the iPad screen face any angle. Although this model is meant to be a permanent solution, it is prone to wobbling when the road gets especially rough. But the iPad is never at risk of falling off – Nor is the bendable arm flimsy.
Strength
All the products you receive in the sales package – The metal support legs, the bendable Gooseneck arm, the screw clamp, and the screws are built with a tough mix of metal and plastic material. Although this model is prone to shaking as it is attached either to the floor or close to it, it reliably holds your iPad over moderately long distances.
Value for Money
Akron’s floor tablet holder is priced slightly higher compared to iKross’s headrest holder and Macally’s cup holder tablet mount. If you’re on the hunt for a permanent and sturdy solution for on the road navigation – And not having the driver’s view obstructed, this is a great choice for you.

Pros

One of the most secure models on the market.
A permanent solution for holding your iPad.
Hands-on navigation and passenger seat entertainment.
Does not obstruct the driver’s view.

Cons

The installation process can get tricky if you’re a beginner.
Can’t be removed and packed away as easily as Tryone’s headrest mount or WizGear’s dashboard mount.

7. Best Dashboard iPad Car Mount: WizGear Universal Magnetic Car Mount

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Wizgear’s magnetic iPad holder can be mounted on the dashboard quickly – The magnetic tray lets you attach and remove your iPad to the holder as you wish.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Dashboard
Ease of Installation
This tablet holder comes with a ball and bendable socket arm which has a suction cup on one end and a circular/rectangular magnetic tray to hold your iPad. You can easily peel off the stickers and attach the suction mount to your dashboard. Ensure the surface is as flat as possible so that the iPad tray does not obstruct the driver’s view.
Performance
The magnetic tray can hold most iPads and smartphones securely, but we wouldn’t recommend this product if you’re looking to use larger tablets over longer distances. The magnet operated iPad holder lets you set up and remove your tablet easily – And the suction comes off relatively easily as well. This model is meant as a temporary solution for people looking to use iPads for navigation over small distances. You can detach the mount from your dashboard when you wish. While there are claims that magnetic holders can damage your device’s battery, that’s not true.
Strength
The suction cup and the bendable arm are built well. The model holds your iPad securely over short distances. If you’re looking for iPad holders to last you through rougher or longer routes, there are other models on this list better suited for your needs. This model comes with the option of adding extra metal plates onto the back of the holder, allowing it to grip your iPad or iPhone more securely. Although the suction cup mechanism comes off easily when compared to other screw operated iPad mounts, the adhesive is quite strong – It’s strong enough to handle most daily purposes.
Value for Money
This model is decently priced when compared to cup holder iPad mounts and other models. Entering the list significantly cheaper than Akron’s seat rail model, this suction cup type tablet mount is even slightly more affordable than Satechi’s CD slot model (while giving you the same convenience.

Pros

The suction cup design allows for easy installation/detachment.
The magnetic mount lets you take off your iPad and place it back quickly.
Good buy for short-distance navigation on city roads.

Cons

The suction cup adhesive isn’t designed for especially long-distance drives.
The magnetic iPad tray is prone to dropping bigger tablets on rough roads.

8. Best CD Slot iPad Car Mount: Satechi Universal Tablet CD Slot Mount

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Satechi iPad car mount is spring loaded – You can clip the iPad holder in and out of the CD slot quite easily.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Car CD player slot
Ease of Installation
This model comes with a ball joint and spring-loaded mechanism that can be easily fitted into most standard car CD slots. Rather than use an antiquated ratcheted lock-release system and tightening screws, this model utilizes a spring and tightening clamp mechanism to sturdily fit into your CD slot. If the setup seems flimsy after your first installation, you’ll find additional stick-on rubber pads in the package, which you can use to readjust the thickness and make the fit tighter.
Performance
The iPad is held on the mount by two jaw-like protrusions. Since the model is spring-loaded, you can spread the jaws and place your iPad inside and let the spring tension hold it upright. The jaws also come with a rubber coating – which insulates and grips your iPad better. Since it goes into your CD slot, it does not block your driving view. Over short distances on packed roads, it’s one of the best ways to get hands-on navigation in a pinch. If you’re looking to use this mount with multiple devices, make sure they’re compatible, as this model has trouble gripping smaller smartphones.
Strength
The construction material of this particular model is surprisingly good. Even though it isn’t supported by additional fittings, it can support the weight of every iPad type (and most other standard tablets) quite comfortably. The iPad holding tray itself is quite durable. It’s best suited for short city roads without any risk of tablet dislodgement.
Value for Money
Being moderately priced compared to some of the other variants on this list, it sure is worth a look – As long as CDs aren’t your primary source of content.

Pros

The spring-loaded and clamp mechanism allows for a sturdy fit into your CD slot.
You can clip the holder into your CD slot and clip it out in under a minute.
The build quality is strong and durable.
The best option if you’re looking for hands-on navigation over small distances.

Cons

If you love listening to your playlists on CD, this option isn’t for you.
This model has trouble gripping smaller smartphones.
Your iPad screen is prone to vibrations over long distances.

9. Best Windshield iPad Car Mount: APPS2Car Tablet Car Mount Holder

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This flexible Gooseneck model by APPS2Car can stick to any surface and can carry all iPad versions.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Windshield
Ease of Installation
Installing this model is relatively easy. However, this model is exclusively meant to be a permanent solution to your tablet holding needs. The 13-inch flexible rubber arm has a spring-operated tablet mount on one end and a strong suction cup on the other. The suction cup comes with an extra adhesive gel that fixes the mount strongly to any surface you need.
Performance
The Gooseneck design of the bendable arm means you can fix this model safely on the windshield without any fear of the tablet falling off. You can set this model up on any flat surface inside your car, but we recommend using your windshield as this model is a permanent solution for holding your tablet. The flipside of using your windshield to mount this model is that it might block your driver’s seat view. Pay close to the installation process and ascertain that it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view, and you should be fine. This model is moderately priced when compared to other higher priced rear seat and cup holder iPad holders.
Strength
The bendable arm is well built – It lets you stably adjust the viewing angle as you wish. It is made of a durable bendable metal plastic alloy that lets you bend it up to 90 degrees. The suction cup adheres quite strongly to the glass surface and won’t budge easily. It carries your iPad over moderately long distances sturdily. If you’re on the lookout for an iPad holder that clips in and out over shorter distances (for convenience), this model isn’t for you. The adhesive gel makes it hard to displace the holder from the surface.
Value for Money
This model enters the list in the mid-range category – It is priced similarly to Satechi. It is a permanent fix to your iPad holding requirements at a similar price point.

Pros

GPS navigation and entertainment for the passenger’s seat.
The bendable arm is quite customizable when it comes to viewing angles.
The suction cup with the adhesive gel gives a strong grip on the glass surface.
The tray can be adjusted to fit all iPad models and larger phones.

Cons

If plug-in, plug-out convenience is what you’re looking for, this model isn’t for you.
Ensure you don’t block the driver’s seat view while setting up this model as the adhesive is quite strong.

10. Best Air Vent iPad Car Mount: OHLPRO Universal Tablet Holder

View on Amazon
Why we like it: While designed primarily for car air vent use, OHLPRO’s versatility lets you use it on your windshield and dashboard.
Editor’s Rating:

Mount Location: Air vent/windshield/dashboard
Ease of Installation
This model with two types of mounts – A suction cup for viable flat surfaces and an air vent mount. The air vent mount comes with a horizontal latching mechanism that you simply push into place inside the air vent. You can then attach the tablet mount to the vertical arm. The suction cup works as expected – you peel of the sticker and attach the adhesive side to either your dashboard or windshield.
Performance
Air vent and CD slot iPad car mounts give you the same thing – Easy access to navigation, calls, and entertainment (for the passenger’s seat). It’s simply convenient to fix in your iPad when the drive begins and remove it along with the tablet mount when you’re ready to exit the car. However, these models are better suited for short distances. Take precautions to not let your iPad heat up too much due to the air dissipation from the vents.
Strength
The air vent locking mechanism is adequately made. It can comfortably hold most tablets and smartphones. This model’s suction surface works perfectly fine – It attaches strongly to your dashboard while also giving you the option to remove it as you wish. This convenience comes at a cost – This model isn’t your best choice for long-distance drives or rough roads. It shakes a fair bit and poses the risk of detaching in case you’re off-roading.
Value for Money
This model is slightly cheaper when placed side by side with Cellet’s iPad car mount or even Satechi’s CD slot car mount. For the amount of convenience and user accessibility this model provides, it’s definitely worth the price point.

Pros

Versatile iPad car mount that attaches to either your air vent, windshield, or dashboard.
It can be clipped in and out as you wish.
If you opt to use the air vent mount or dashboard, it is quite discrete.
Installation is quick and simple – It does not have several moving parts.

Cons

Your iPad is prone to wobbling on rougher roads.
Not the most stable iPad car mount for long-distance drives.
Air vent blockage can cause iPad back panel heating.

Guide to Buying an iPad Car Mount
Because there are so many different ways to mount an iPad to your vehicle, there are lots of things to consider before buying your hardware. Here is what you should consider when choosing the right mount for your car.
Security
Common security threats posed by shoddy iPad car mounts include severe wobbling, tablet dislodgement, and even disassembly of mechanical parts in a few cases. Damage to your tablet – Or worse, injury to you or your passengers is possible if you pick a badly made tablet holder or install a car iPad mount wrongly.
Our list recommends the best iPad car mounts – Models designed and crafted to your different needs, taking the best manufacturing quality and security features into consideration.
User-Friendliness
The term ‘user friendly’ doesn’t refer to one specific feature in an iPad car mount, it’s the combination of several features.
Features like locking mechanisms, holder dimensions, holder customizability, viewing angle adjustability, and ease of installation work in tandem to give you the best possible user experience.
Everything you’re looking for in an iPad holder – Navigation, internet, and call connectivity, and entertainment access – should be weighed against what type of roads you’re planning to frequent.
Compatibility
Most of the mounts on our list accommodate virtually every model of iPad smaller than 10 inches. However, regardless of the one you choose, make sure it’s compatible with your car and iPad model.
A lot of the accessibility and user-friendly features iPad car mounts provide depends on how compatible it is with your car and device – More specifically, how well the locking mechanism attaches to the chosen mounting locations and the size and customizability of the tablet holder.
Accessibility
The level of accessibility your iPad car mount is going to give largely depends on the type of holder you opt for. All mounts come with two parts – An iPad holder and a mechanism to affix it to a certain location inside your car. Where you will be viewing the iPad screen from is the biggest factor when it comes accessibility features.
The angle of screen tilt, distance from the steering wheel, and how securely it attaches to the car depends on where in your car you place it – More specifically, which part of your car the locking/latching mechanism attaches to.
Durability
How your device mount handles stress is determined by the durability and in turn, the build quality. If you’re looking for a temporary solution, there’s no reason to compromise on sturdiness and durability. Most convenient iPad car mount models can be detached, disassembled, and packed away to use when you wish. Others are made from stronger material and are designed to be a permanent fixture in your car. Regardless of what type you pick, make sure the mount is constructed with the best material. Durable iPad car mounts last longer, grip your iPad firmly, and do not shake or fall off easily.
Types of iPad Car Mounts
Depending on where in your car you plan to place the iPad holder, you have several different options.
Headrest/Rear Seat iPad Car Mounts
Headrest or rear seat iPad car mounts are attached to the backside of headrests facing the rear seats. Often touted as the safest and most practical variety of iPad car mounts, headrest mounts are ideal for long distances. They’re best used for entertainment and study purposes as they face away from the driver and the passenger. Navigation and call capabilities are limited, but they sure do make up for it by occupying your kids on that long trip to the lakeside cabin.
Cup Holder iPad Car Mounts
Cup holder iPad mounts fit snugly into your (you guessed it) cup holder. These mounts come with expandable bases, adjustable trays, and multiple pivot joints that let you secure the iPad mount safely, while also customizing for usability. They’re quite sturdy as well, compared to magnetic and air vent mounts. Depending on where in your car you install it, it can be adjusted for rearview or driver view without obstructing visibility.
Seat Rail/Floor iPad Car Mounts
A slightly less common variety of iPad car mounts, the seat rails/floor clamp variety is the definition of reliability. These models require you to gear up, grab those tools, and fit them in tight. They fix onto the seat rail of the passenger seat or on the floor of the car itself. Depending on your requirements, you can adjust the height from waist high to about chest high. Seat rail iPad car mounts are sturdy and don’t obstruct your view – The only downside is the installation process.
CD Slot iPad Car Mounts
If you don’t listen to CDs often, you could consider buying a CD tray iPad car mount. These variants typically come with simple clips (or tightening screws, depending on which model you pick) equipped with sliding mechanisms – You can easily clip these in and out of your CD tray as you wish. While these models don’t obstruct your view much, they’re quite prone to wobbling – They’re the ideal pick if you’re looking for a convenient iPad car mount for short-distance drives.
Air Vent iPad Car Mounts
Air vent iPad car mounts directly plug into your front air vents. The installation process is quite straightforward – All you have to do is slide back the tab clip and secure it firmly into the vent and adjust for optimal viewing angles. These clip type car mounts are easy to fit in and remove in a pinch, but they do obstruct airflow by placing your iPad directly in front of the vent. Yes, they’re strong enough to support the weight on slightly longer distances, but you run the risk of overheating and possible tablet malfunction over prolonged usage.
Windshield/Dashboard iPad Car Mounts
This variant of iPad car mounts is the most commonly sold model. They attach to either your windshield or the front dash of your car using a powerful suction cup. These models are simple to install and don’t require much in the way of maintenance. On the flip side, they aren’t the most stable iPad car mounts on the market – They’re quite susceptible to collapse due to excess weight or rough driving conditions.
Benefits of iPad Car Mounts
Adding an iPad to your existing car is an instant upgrade! Here are some ways to use your iPad in the car.
Navigation
Most of us constantly use GPS navigation these days. Whether you’re on your phone or iPad, balancing the device inside your car without using a holder can prove dangerous. It’s an absolute no-no when you’re driving. iPad car mounts – Especially cupholder, windshield and dashboard mounts give you secure and convenient access to on-road navigation, especially if you love long drives on slightly rougher terrains.
Entertainment
Road trips are fun for the entire family – But on-road entertainment like music, movies, and games are a blessing to parents of children with a tad bit extra energy levels. We recommend you pick a sturdy headrest model like the iKross iPad mount – Headrest mounts keep your kids occupied with educational or mainstream gaming, video, and audio content.
If passenger seat entertainment is what you’re looking for, a cupholder mount can do the job just fine. Easy access to charging means endless playlists for you and your loved one.
Connectivity
Driving and talking on your smartphone isn’t just inconvenient – It’s also downright dangerous because of distraction and busy hands. Just mount an iPad on a holder and take all calls on your hands-free Bluetooth – Safe and simple. Professionals who need to stay connected to team members or managers while driving through jammed roads can benefit greatly from an iPad car mount. Magnetic dashboard models are great for taking calls on short distance drives.
FAQs
Which is the best user-friendly iPad car mount?
The user-friendliness of your iPad mount largely depends on the type you choose. Cellet’s cup holder iPad car mount is the best user-friendly tablet holder as it provides both the driver and the passenger navigation, connectivity, and entertainment capabilities over comparatively larger distance drives. WizGear’s magnetic tablet holder is also a great option if you want a truly plug in and plug out type iPad car mount.
Which is the best iPad car mount for long-distance drives?
If you’re hitting the open road for a well-deserved vacation with the family, your best bet is a headrest tablet holder. iKross’ model is the best iPad car mount for long-distance drives as it is well built and offers a range of viewing angles. It grips all iPads safely and allows rear-seat passengers to use the screen without fear of dislodging your tablet.
Are iPad car mounts dangerous?
If you pick a well-made iPad car mount and follow the instruction manual to a T, it’s not going to pose a threat to you or your passengers. Models by TFY and APPS2Car for example, are manufactured from premium raw materials to ensure they aren’t dangerous to any user. Regardless of which model you decide to pick, make sure you pay close attention to the installation process to avoid common mistakes.
Safety First
We hope this list has been helpful, but remember, a distracted driver is a dangerous driver. While the mounts on this list make using devices safer while driving, keeping your eyes on the road is the most important thing. Thousands of lives are lost every year to distracted driving, and we owe it to ourselves and each other to use our devices responsibly. More

Long car trips are a big part of American life. The cost of gasoline on top of multiple stops for expensive restaurant and gas station food can make a trip skyrocket more in price, and quickly. One way to save money is to invest in a high-quality, well-made 12-volt cooler for your vehicle.
12-volt coolers provide a portable and affordable answer to the typical gas station snacks and unhealthy fast food that peppers the American landscape. You only need a decent surface area for the cooler to sit in and an auxiliary cigarette lighter built-in to your vehicle to enjoy it to its fullest.
We’re going to show you the best 12-volt cooler choices available on the market today. Firstly, we are going to situate you with the bare minimum of what you should know before purchasing one of these 12-volt coolers in our short buyer’s guide. After that, we’ll dive right into our individual product reviews giving you all the info on the 12-volt coolers worth investing in. Then comes an extended buyer’s guide that will flesh out the fantastic benefits of owning a 12 volt cooler in the first place.

Features to Consider in a 12-Volt Cooler
If you crave even more detail on these awesome car cooler products, please be sure to look at our extended buyer’s guide after our product reviews for a more detailed look on the ins and outs of these on-the-road lifesavers.
Size
Size is on the top of your list when it comes to the most important factor in a 12-volt cooler. Are you buying this for your entire family, or are you just using a cooler to keep your lunch cool on the way to work? Size matters, especially when considering exactly what and how much you’ll be putting in your cooler.
Temperature
Some of us, especially those who live in the more southern areas of the United States, deal with extreme temperatures on the regular. Be sure that before purchasing any kind of 12-volt cooler that the product can at least chill items down to about 40 degrees. It’s also worth noting that some coolers also can freeze food completely, so if you want to bring along a pint of ice cream, make sure your cooler is up to the job.
Portability
This may not be too much of an issue depending on your usage of the cooler itself. Truckers, for instance, are generally going to want to keep their coolers on their rig. However, campers that want to enjoy fresh food during their trip may want to buy a lighter 12-volt cooler system for maximum ease of movement.
Insulation
You could own one of the best coolers in the world in terms of how cold the internal temperature gets inside the product. However, if the insulation inside isn’t up to par, you’re not going to be able to retain that cool atmosphere for very long at all. A well-sealed and insulated 12-volt cooler will not only maintain its temperature when opening the lid, but it will also stay at the same temperature even when exposed to increased levels of heat, such as when sitting directly in the sun’s rays.
Energy Concerns
Battery and solar-powered coolers exist, however they generally come with a steep price tag. Most of these products plug into an energy outlet for charging, the more energy-efficient the cooler is, the easier it is on your car battery in the long run.

Top 10 Best 12-Volt Coolers 2020

1. Best Overall 12-Volt Cooler: Alpicool CF35 Portable

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Not only is this the most affordable family option on our list, but it’s the perfect mix of price point as well as overall options.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 35L, 45L, and 55L
Weight: 28lbs
Connections: 12/24V DC
Review
This solidly-built 12-volt cooler is the king of our list, balancing quality alongside its economical price point.
With options for 35, 45, and 55 liters of interior storage, all options are more than enough for a family outing. The 35L version comes in at a relatively light 28lbs, so it’s not going to be too much of a hassle to store in and out of a vehicle, and with easily accessible side handles, you won’t have trouble getting a decent grip.
In our opinion, the neatest thing about the Alpicool CF35 is that it is specifically built for off-roading purposes. That means it can tolerate strange angles that one might run into on backwoods adventures without missing a beat when it comes to keeping your food and beverages cool and fresh. On top of that, it also comes with a three-stage battery protection system, which keeps the cooler from draining your car battery completely, a good thing to have when you’re out and about in the backcountry!
Verdict
The biggest issue we found with this cooler is that airflow is necessary for it to function properly. The compressor must not be obscured by anything else in your vehicle, so it’s crucial you put it in a relatively open-air location. If you have a cramped vehicle, this may not be the best option for you on this list.

Pros

Great value for the price
Lots of room for food and beverages
Three-stage car battery protection system
Built tough, and for off-roading
Light despite its roomy interior

Cons

Needs proper airflow, or the compressor will not work adequately

2. Best Value: Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This solidly-built and well-insulated cooler from well-known brand Igloo can hold up to 32 12-oz cans at one time, all at a bargain price.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 28qt
Weight: 10lbs
Connections: 12-volt DC, 110-volt outlet
Review
Much like the Cooluli Mini Fridge on this list, the Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric cooler is a portable affair. This is very much a casual 12-volt cooler for things like short day trips, small picnics at the park, and other more minor events, as it has a relatively small capacity.
With that being said, however, it still cools down to below 40 degrees and has enough capacity for a few days for a single person. And if you find the cooling capacity on this model lacking, there’s enough room in this model to add additional ice, keeping your food and beverages fresh for hours.
This is a tough 12-volt cooler as well. Made of solid polypropylene plastic, if this model happens to take a nasty fall out of one’s vehicle, it will stay intact. This thing is built to last! On top of that, the cooling fan built into the top of the unit is pretty much silent, so you won’t have to deal with a loud, super-annoying cooling fan hum while trying to enjoy activities and conversation with your family and friends.
To sweeten the design of this cooler more, the size and shape (a tall height but small, narrow base) help it fit pretty much anywhere in your vehicle, whether sitting somewhere in the trunk or even inside the cab in between seats. This efficient design makes it extremely versatile when it comes to storage.
Verdict
One of the biggest problems we found with the Igloo 12-volt cooler is that it requires an adapter to be used with indoor outlets. Other than that, especially for the price, it’s hard to beat this product, especially with all the great design features and the overall price point of the entire product. It’s a solid deal for a solidly-built 12-volt cooler.

Pros

8-foot long power cord
Quiet motor
Great insulated design
Carry handle
LED light on the plug when the unit is operational

Cons

Indoor use requires an adaptor

3. Best Budget 12-Volt Cooler: Wagan 12V Cooler/Warmer

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This inexpensive cooling/heating unit is roomy and can even hold larger 2L bottles of water and soda.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 14L
Weight: 10lbs
Connections: 12-volt DC, AC adaptor sold separately
Review
This compact 12-volt cooler is a great and inexpensive option for any on-the-go family that wants a lot of storage space at a budget price.
This 12-volt cooler can hold up to 12 regular-sized cans of soda OR two 2L bottles of soda. That’s a lot of space for an inexpensive model! And due to the awesome polyurethane foam insulated interior, your food and beverage choices will stay chilly for long periods.
One of the cooler things we found about this product is the excellent 7.5-foot cord that comes with the cooler. This allows you to plug it up to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or any other DC adaptor and have the cooler sit comfortably in the back seat, cooling (or heating) your food and drinks uninterrupted.
Verdict
The biggest problem we noticed with the Wagan cooler is that the top’s seal might come loose if the cooler is packed too full of goods, so that’s something to be aware of when you’re planning out a trip. Otherwise, this is a fantastic buy at its price point and will give you a lot of value in the long run.

Pros

7.5-foot cord provided
Folding handle
Polyurethane foam insulation
Hot/Cold/Off indicator light

Cons

The top’s seal may not stay intact depending on how stuffed the cooler is

4. Koolatron P-20 Compact Thermo

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The narrow design of this 12-volt cooler makes it ideal for narrow spaces.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 18qt
Weight: 5lbs
Connections: 12-volt DC. 110/120-volt AC
Review
If you’re looking for a 12-volt cooler that can fit in pretty much any narrow space in your car, home, or some other area of your life with very little room, then the Koolatron P20 Compact is the option for you! Also, it’s a decent size at around 18 quarts, so it’s more than enough when it comes to storing food for one to two individuals.
With a simple flip of a switch, this cooler can switch between cool and warm modes. The cool mode can go as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit below the outside temperature. However, if you’re looking to warm some food up on a cold winter day, the Koolatron P20 can also work in the opposite direction, warming things up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit. An AC adaptor can be purchased separately, allowing you to use this cooler with a standard outlet.
Verdict
The downside to the Koolatron P20 is that it doesn’t come with an AC adaptor. These can easily be bought separately, however, and we think the narrow design of this 12-volt cooler more than makes up for it.

Pros

Folding handle system
Slender fit ideal for nooks and crannies in cramped vehicles
Quiet cooling motor

Cons

AC adaptor sold separately

5. Best Large 12-Volt Cooler: Costway 55 Quart Car Cooler

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This 12-volt cooler borders on a full-blown car refrigerator with its fast cooling capabilities.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 52L
Weight: 36lbs
Connections: 12/24V DC, 110-240V AC
Review
This beast of a 12-volt cooler is closer to a car refrigerator more than any other item on this list, except maybe for the ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer.
First up is the overall construction quality of this product. It’s built ridiculously tough, and it can withstand terrible drops. On top of that, it has a huge 52L carrying capacity, so this product can easily store food and beverages for an entire family, and then some.
The Costway is also extremely cooling efficient. Within just 30 minutes, the Costway cooler can go from 90 degrees Fahrenheit to 32 Fahrenheit-an insane rate of cooling well worth the price tag.
On top of all those fantastic features, the Costway cooler also comes with a lot of different accessories including an internal wire-constructed basket system for organizational purposes. It also comes with both AC as well as DC cables for both indoor as well as outdoor/vehicle use.
Verdict
As far as negatives go, the worst aspect of this product is its high energy consumption. For this reason, we don’t recommend it being connected to a car battery for too long if the vehicle’s engine isn’t running. Other than that, this is a superb product that is possibly the best family option on this list.

Pros

3 different settings for car battery usage
Vivid LCD
Comes with power cord
30-minute fast cooldown
Huge amount of carrying space

Cons

Potentially can drain a car battery fast

6. Best Premium 12-Volt Cooler: ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Widely considered to be the best 12-volt cooler/refrigerator on the market. If you’ve got the cash, this model will be sure to please.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 37Qt
Weight: 56lbs
Connections: 12/24V DC and 120V AC
Review
First things first, the interior is incredibly spacious, and the 37qt model can hold a whopping 50 12oz cans of soda. So, use that as a mental picture to help you understand the sheer volume of space this cooler has!
As a compression-based 12-volt refrigerator, the outside temperature doesn’t really matter much to it when it comes to its maximum cooling capabilities. Even in the hottest conditions, it can go as low as zero degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s also built extremely tough. This product was made for the intrepid adventurer in mind. Not only does it function at pretty much any angle of incline, but it can keep food cold as long as a refrigerator if used properly.
Verdict
This is obviously a very high-end product, and with it comes a steep price tag. Additionally, an additional purchase of an insulation jacket might be necessary to help insulate while staying cold in hot temperatures. If you’ve got the cash, however, this is a great purchase option.

Pros

Comes in 37, 50, and 82-quart versions
Holds up to 50 12oz cans of soda
Can go as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit
Comes with two power cables: DC and AC
Comes with a three-year warranty

Cons

Extremely expensive
Might need extra insulation

7. Knox Gear 48 Quart Electric Cooler/Warmer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This 12-volt cooler comes complete with wheels, making this one of the most mobile options on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 48qt
Weight: 16lbs
Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
Review
The presence of wheels on this 12-volt cooler is the first really noticeable thing with this product. With a 48-quart carrying capacity, you’re possibly going to need those wheels in order to lug around everything you can fit in this thing!
The most crucial thing to note about this cooler, however, is how it’s designed. There are two handles built into it. One extends outward much like you would see on a wheeled luggage carrier, the others are embedded on the side as you would see on any cooler you could purchase at a local grocery store. This makes transporting the large cooler easy.
Even the cord systems are built into the cooler itself, so you won’t have any chance of losing them. In fact, they have a built-in section dedicated just for them alone, which we found to be a really neat addition.
Verdict
This product comes with a pretty short cord, so you’re not going to be taking this 12-volt cooler too far from the car or electrical outlet. However, for its price, storage capacity, and the fact that it’s wheeled, this is a fantastic choice for your cooling needs.

Pros

Comes with DC and AC cables
Lots of space
Great price
Wheeled for easier movement

Cons

The power cord could definitely be longer.

8. Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler/Warmer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: It’s a small, compact, low cost, and a great starter cooler for keeping a small amount of food cool on the road.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 4qt
Weight: 4lbs
Connections: AC, DC, USB
Review
This cooler is super compact and looks more like a powered lunchbox than a refrigerator. However, if you’re not too concerned about a small capacity, this 12-volt cooler might be the item you’re looking for.
A great thing about this cooler is it comes with both an AC adaptor (for at-home use) as well as a DC cable for use with a vehicle. On top of that, it also comes with USB capabilities, but we wouldn’t recommend that as the cooling/heating output isn’t as good with that sort of connection.
This cooler is also a fantastic pick for the individual who is looking to let their personality shine with their choice of product. The Cooluli comes with a whopping seven different color options to choose from, allowing you a greater range of aesthetic options than most of the products on this list.
Verdict
Sitting in the $50 range, the best thing about this product is its price. The cost, while awesome, comes at a cost of additional space. The cooler can only fit a maximum of 6 cans of soda, so it’s really not the most ideal for family situations, but probably better suited for an individual that’s on the go, or is looking for a low-cost solution to transporting their medications, such as insulin. But even then, you could go with better options on this list.

Pros

Comes in lots of color choices
One of the most affordable 12-volt coolers on the market
Small, space-efficient design
Great for truckers and individuals on the go
Helpful carrying handle

Cons

Not big enough for family use

9. Koolatron P27 Voyager

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This solidly built 12-volt cooler is a good choice for people looking for simplicity over extras.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 29qt
Weight: 11lbs
Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
Review
The Koolatron Voyager is a decent thermoelectric cooler that can hold quite a bit of food and drink for your family’s needs. It also doubles as a food warmer in a pinch as well, like most thermoelectric coolers on this list.
What separates this product from other inexpensive coolers like the Cooluli Mini Fridge and the Wagan 12v is how absolutely solid it is built. In fact, the manufacturer specifically says that the only movable aspect of the cooler is the actual motor of the cooling fan itself. Because of this solid-state sort of construction, it pretty much ensures that this product won’t break down.
Verdict
A couple of things knocked the score of this product down a bit. For one, there’s no AC adaptor included with the product, forcing you to buy it separately. Also, and probably the biggest issue, the power cord mechanism here can easily loosen from the body of the cooler. This could be a really bad prospect if one lost the cord during the middle of a camping trip, causing countless dollars of food and drink to potentially go to waste.

Pros

Automatic locking mechanism built into the handle
Big enough for a family
Great price

Cons

Doesn’t include AC adaptor
The power cord can loosen easily

10. Coleman 40-Quart Portable Cooler

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Coleman portable cooler is a solid low-cost option for families who are looking for a lot of storage space on a lower budget.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs
Capacity: 40Qt
Weight: 15lbs
Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
Review
Coleman is a well-known name in coolers and outdoor supplies, and we just had to include one of their products on our list of 12-volt coolers. This is a great option if you’re on a budget and you need a lot of storage space at the same time.
The most noticeable thing about this cooler is its slick “door” design. This allows it not only to be used in an upright position but also down on its side like a traditional refrigerator setup.
Additionally, the Coleman cooler isn’t that heavy at 15 lbs, which makes it light enough to be transportable. And with a 40qt interior, you’ll have more than enough room for food and beverages for everyone.
Verdict
Although it’s a good low-cost option, there are some problems with this Coleman cooler. First off, the cooling fan built into the model is quite loud. Coleman doesn’t have the best reputation for durable products either, especially with prolonged use in high-temperature areas. The Coleman 12-volt cooler doesn’t really work efficiently in places with ambient temperature over 80 degrees, so take that into consideration before purchase. If you’re looking for a cooler that keeps things cool even in ultra-hot climates, check out the ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer.

Pros

Can be used upright or more like a chest
Efficient “door” design
Affordable for the volume

Cons

Loud cooling fan
Can give out with prolonged use in the heat

Guide to Buying The Best 12-Volt Cooler
Here are a few additional in-depth points that we feel can expand a bit more on what we originally covered in the brief buyer’s guide that went over earlier in the article. Let’s take a closer look at what makes owning a 12-volt cooler product such a cool prospect!
The Positives of Buying a 12-Volt Cooler
Individuals have been using 12-volt coolers for years, especially if they are one the road a lot. Truck drivers, who are extremely vital to keeping the United States economy in tip-top shape, absolutely rely on them when it comes to keeping their food and drink supply properly maintained while dealing with transporting freight.
Diet
The rest of the population, however, has also caught on to the value of these coolers, and with good reason. If your job has you on the road often and you adhere to a specific dietary needs, then a 12-volt cooler might be your ticket to a better level of health. It’s a sad fact that fast food options and your typical gas station eats don’t cut it when it comes to overall healthy eating, but with a 12-volt cooler in your vehicle’s arsenal, you can bypass the less-than-stellar food lining America’s highways.
Keeping Medicines Cold
In some more serious cases, a 12-volt cooler can even help ensure that people have access to medicine while also providing peace of mind. People with diabetic conditions that require insulin supplementation can safely store their materials in a 12-volt cooler in case of a serious emergency and not worry about spoiling their life-saving medical supplies while on long car trips or in hot weather conditions.
Extra Features
Some 12-volt coolers come complete with USB ports embedded in them. This is a fantastic addition for not just you but the entire family. On the off chance that you didn’t store any form of external power sources with you prior to a middle-of-nowhere camping outing, no fear! These sorts of coolers can charge up your smartphone and any number of other USB-related devices as long as your car has gas.
Financial Considerations
Last, but not least, we think one of the very best reasons to invest in a 12-volt cooler is that you will definitely end up saving more money in the long run than you would without one. Convenience food is just that, convenient, and it comes at a cost that adds up. Why not load up on your favorite snacks, beverages, and quality meals before going out on the road in the first place? Not only is it smart on a sheer financial level, but it also gives you complete control over your trip. You’ll never have to make a pit stop for a can of energy drink ever again!
Types of 12-Volt Coolers
There are a few different versions of a 12-volt cooler on the market, mainly distinguishable by the way they keep things cool. Check out the following types of coolers.
Thermoelectric
This is the main kind of 12-volt cooler you’re going to find available. They are usually not very bulky and can cool items 30-40 degrees below outside temperature depending on the model, no ice needed!
Thermoelectric coolers utilize what is known as the Peltier effect in order to facilitate heat transfer. This transfer takes place between two internal semiconductor “plates” that are constantly shifting heat to one another; so while one of these plates is losing heat energy, another one is gaining it. The cooling plate is located on the inside of the cooler, while the heating plate is located on the outside of the cooler.
When the plate on the inside of the cooler reaches lower temperature levels, it will also lower the overall temperature inside the cooler as a whole. Ideally, if the cooler is very well insulated, it will stay that way!
The interesting thing about thermoelectric coolers is that you can replace the inner cooling plate with the outside heating plate and convert your 12-volt cooler into a 12 volt warmer in a jiffy. Not only can you keep food cool, but you can also keep it warm at your discretion.
Something to be clear about with thermoelectric coolers, however… they can not keep food frozen, so be aware of that before considering any kind of purchase. These are better for shorter car trips or if you live in a colder climate than other parts of the world. If you live in a place where the daily temperature gets to 75 degrees Fahrenheit or more, this type of 12-volt cooler won’t keep your items very cold for long at all.
Compressor Coolers
Compressor-based cooling systems use refrigerant liquid or some other type of coolant-based substance to properly manipulate the internal temperature of the cooler. These types of 12-volt coolers are equivalent to home refrigeration systems and can be used for both keeping items relatively cool as well as outright freezing them.
Compressor refrigeration units literally “compress” the refrigerant fluid inside the unit. This increases pressure and temperature in the process. The super pressurized refrigerant then becomes a gas and snakes through the condenser coils located on the outside of the unit. Since these coils are out in the open, they are then exposed to outside temperatures. If the outside temperature is lower than the refrigerant’s temperature, then the refrigerant becomes liquid. This highly-pressurized liquid then moves through a narrowly-shaped expansion valve and emerges as supercooled vapor.
Absorption Refrigerators
These are the heavy-hitters of the 12 volt cooler world. They also happen to use an insane amount of power and are best used in RVs as opposed to standard road vehicles, as the power required for these coolers can easily exhaust a full car battery very fast. If you buy an absorption refrigerator, we recommend purchasing a deep cycle battery.
FAQ
Can 12-volt coolers drain a car battery with prolonged use?
If your vehicle is currently on the go, or the engine is running, then a 12-volt cooler won’t tax your car battery. A good recommendation is to always unplug your cooler when you park your vehicle, that way it won’t sap any excess energy from your car battery. A car battery can support a cooler for a short period of time without the motor running.
How long does it take for a 12-volt cooler to lower its temperature?
A lot of this depends on the temperature outside or in one’s vehicle, but a good litmus to go by is usually at least one hour or a little over an hour for your cooler to hit a decent 30-40 degree lower temperature. Prepping and pre-cooling your cooler in the comfort of your own home before making a trip is a practical option in order to bypass long cooling times.
Is the warming portion of a 12-volt cooler really that effective?
Some 12-volt coolers can warm food items as well as keep them cold. This, however, is not the equivalent to utilizing something like a microwave or an oven. The heat setting on 12-volt thermoelectric coolers like the Koolatron P-20 and the Wagan 12v generally is just to keep food at a certain “fresh” temperature (such as a sandwich or a nice cup of coffee) so that you aren’t consuming ice-cold food when you don’t have to.
How cold can 12-volt coolers get?
Now, this really depends on the product, but usually, 12-volt coolers can pump out temperatures 30-40 degrees lower than the current temperature in one’s geographic area, ensuring the food and beverages inside are at a nice and chilly state of being.
Can a 12-volt cooler keep food cold even when unplugged?
This really depends on the overall quality of one’s product, however, generally speaking, a cooler should keep food and beverages chilly for several hours assuming the lid on the cooler stays closed and sealed. The length of this time can vary depending on the product you purchase.
Helpful Hints for Using a 12-Volt Cooler
It’s crucial to note that every 12-volt cooler is going to be different. Be sure to consult the manual that comes with it in order to set it up and utilize it to its maximum capacity. However, here are a few nonspecific tips to get the most out of your new cooling unit.
Keep all 12-volt coolers level inside your vehicle if at all possible. This applies even if it’s plugged in or not. It’s good to make this a habit, even if your model specifies that it doesn’t matter if it needs to be level or not.
This seems like a no-brainer, but keep your cooler clean. Not only will it cut down on nasty odors in the long run, but it also will ultimately keep more serious issues, such as mold and bacteria, at bay.
A lot of 12-volt cooler models come with a decent amount of power cord, but if you’re not 100% sure, always bring an extra extension cord with you on your trip as you’ll never know if you might need it.
Do you live in a really hot environment? If so, consider adding even more insulation to the outside of your 12-volt cooler. Some models come with these covers already with the product itself, but others can be purchased separately.
Ice isn’t needed for things like thermoelectric coolers, however, in hotter climates, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to add some inside the cooler to keep things as cool as possible or to prolong the useable unplugged time of a cooler. Be sure to put the ice in a sealable, tough bag of some kind, otherwise, you’re going to be cleaning up a lot of water.
For even more helpful tips on what to look for when buying a 12-volt cooler, please check out this video.
Final Considerations
12-volt coolers are a great addition to any vehicle, especially on extended. Coolers allow some of the conveniences of being at home, helping keep food nice and fresh while out on the road for long periods of time. They even come in handy for individuals that need to keep precious materials, such as medicines, chilled and always at the ready for when they are needed the most.
If you are still having a problem considering any of the products we chose for our list, take another look at our short buyer’s guide as well as our extended buyer’s guide for a much more in-depth look on what you should really look out for in a quality 12-volt cooler for your personal needs.
Until next time, we’ll see you on the road! More

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

View on Amazon

Why we like it: The Snailax Massage Car Seat Cushion has impeccable heating speed that’s extremely effective in keeping you warm and soothed.
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

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This product contains intelligent control that’s unique and effective at monitoring temperature. It also heats up quickly and puts off a consistent heat.
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

View on Amazon

Why we like it: The fabric is a fireproof material that uses Far-Infrared technology for added safety.
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)

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This Snailax Cushion model comes with revolutionary 3D mesh and fabric materials that are implemented to generate support force and ventilation systems. Additionally, the device comes with a cooling system that is perfect for those hot summer months.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Comfier Car Seat Cushion goes above and beyond in making sure your device is as safe as it can be.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is specifically designed to give you the most relaxing experience for your car journeys. We came to the conclusion that it delivers on this promise.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Zento Heated Car seat model is manufactured to give you a long-lasting car seat cover that can last for years.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is perhaps the comfiest heated car seat cover we have tested.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Sojoy Universal provides of the most universal fits on the market. It fits on almost all types of car seats with its smart multifunctional fit system.
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

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This padded pricey heated car seat cushion adds both warmth and comfort to standard car seats.
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. More

There’s nothing like hitting the open road in an RV—relishing in the comfort of a mobile home while basking in the glory of nature within our spectacular national parks. But at the end of the day, RVing is still camping, and everyday household chores require a lot more effort than they would at home.
One of your weekly essentials on the road will be washing your clothes, which, unless you have a mammoth wardrobe, will need to be done every week or so. Sure, you could pop into the nearest RV park and use their facilities, but chances are the place will be packed, and you’ll have to keep checking whether the washer is free multiple times throughout the day. And to make matters worse, someone always ends up “accidentally” taking your favorite pair of socks—it’s far from ideal.
A much better option, if your rig permits, is to install or store a washer dryer combo inside. As the ultimate RV luxury item, a washer dryer combo lets you do your laundry on your own time without having to hustle in line at the RV park or laundromat. We’re going to look at the top eight options on the market after this short introductory guide.

Features to Consider
Before you start sifting through our eight recommendations for RV washer dryer combos, you need to wrap your head around the concept of mobile laundering. The best machine is subjective; what works for your buddy won’t necessarily be the best option for you. Take the following things into consideration before purchasing an RV washer dryer combo from our list.
The Type of RV Washer Dryer Combo
RV washer dryer combos come in three main forms:
RV Single-Drum Washer Dryer Combo: these have a single drum that does both the washing and the tumble drying.
Stackable RV Washer Dryer: these have two drums stacked on top of each other, one for washing and one for tumble drying.
Portable RV Washer Dryer: these aren’t permanently installed into your RV and have one drum for washing and one drum for spin-drying.
See our section on the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which type is best for your needs. Note that portable models can only spin-dry your clothes; you’ll still have to hang them up to get them properly dry.
Non-portable models are either vented (faster and more efficient, but require an exhaust pipe to the outside) or non-vented (slower and less efficient, but does not need an exhaust fan). Skip ahead to our section on Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos to learn more.
How Often Do You Use Your RV?
Are you a weekend warrior, or are you living in your RV full time? The more time you spend inside your great mobile home, the more money you should spend on decking it out to make life as comfortable and convenient as can be.
Fulltime RVers would be wise to splash out on a top of the line model with a high load capacity and a low power draw (especially if they’re using it off-grid). Occasional adventurers, however, could settle for a cheap option that covers the bare basics.
Will You Be Using It Off-Grid?
If you plan to do your laundry while boondocking (camping off-grid in a remote location), then energy and water efficiency must take the utmost priority. After all, you’ll need to supply power through solar panels/batteries plus water through your freshwater tank. And getting a super-efficient machine will mean less drain on those precious off-grid resources.
Another crucial factor to consider is your inverter. Is it beefy enough to handle the wattage of your power-hungry washer dryer combo? Boondockers will need a mighty strong inverter, a massive battery bank, and a marvelous solar set up to run a single-drum or stackable washer dryer combo off the grid. Portables have much lower resource requirements, so they’re worth considering if your RV isn’t fully decked out.
If you’re planning on using your machine via shore power—plugging into the 120V grid and water hook up at your nearest RV park—then energy and water efficiency aren’t relevant, unless you’re environmentally conscious. For most, you’ve already paid for the electricity and water upfront, so there’s no harm in using a smidgen more.
Want to learn more about the art of washing while boondocking? Then skip ahead to Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid.
The Load Capacity
How often do you plan on laundering your clothes? How many times are you happy to wear the same t-shirt before chucking it in the wash?
Load capacity refers to the total weight of the clothes you can wash in one go. Note that RV washer dryer combos have a much lower load capacity than their household counterparts because they’re designed to fit into a smaller space.
The Dimensions
There’s no point buying an RV washer dryer combo that’s too big for the available space, so it’s essential you carefully measure the dimensions before committing to a purchase.
Aside from width, length, and height, you may also want to consider the weight. If your RV is already approaching the limit of its Gross Vehicle Mass (the maximum permitted weight as specified by the vehicle manufacturer), then you need to be very careful not to exceed that amount. Not only will your overburdened RV fail to make it up steep hills, but you will also be in breach of your registration. And let’s not forget that heavier RVs consume more miles per gallon on each trip.
Furthermore, weight is especially crucial for portable washer dryers if you plan on moving them around the RV or using them outside.
It’s a complex choice, but those are the basics you’ll need to choose the right washer/dryer combo for your RV. If you want a more in-depth analysis as well as some other things to consider with your purchase, or you’re new to life on the road and want some basics, check out our full guide below.

Top 8 Best RV Washer Dryer Combos 2020

1. Best Overall RV Washer Dryer Combo: Giantex Portable Washing Machine

View on Amazon

Why we like it: It’s simple, affordable, and takes up a tiny amount of space.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Portable
Load Capacity: Washing 11 lbs / spinning 6.6 lbs
Wattage: Washing 300w / spinning 110w
Dimensions: 31 x 27 x 16 inches
Weight: 28 pounds
Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
The portable washer dryer combo is the option of choice for countless RV enthusiasts around America, and the Giantex Twin Tub Washing Machine is the cream of the crop. This wildly popular unit can be found on small and big rigs alike from Florida to New Hampshire and everywhere in-between.
The secret to Giantex’s success is simple: create an affordable product that works. While other portable washer dryer combos are notoriously fickle, Giantex has built a reliable piece of equipment that gets the job done—and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
The dimensions here are relatively petite, so most RVers will have a cupboard somewhere to stash the machine until its time to clean. And with a modest 300W for washing and 110W for spinning, you won’t need an epic battery bank to run this little wonder off the grid. And even though it’s famously quiet and easy to use, the Giantex still manages to coax out even the most stubborn of stains.
Like most portable options, it’s a twin tub, so you’ll need to transfer the laundry into the spinner by hand. Furthermore, the spinner holds half the capacity of the washer, which means double the work.
Nonetheless, given its low price point, effective wash/spin cycles, and tiny dimensions, this product is certainly our #1 pick overall.

Pros

Low price point
Simple interface
Small and lightweight
Extremely popular and well-known

Cons

Spinner capacity is half that of the washer

2. Best Premium RV Washer Dryer Combo: Splendide WD2100XC

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Set it and forget it: this vented single-drum machine lets you throw in a load then go do something else until it’s done—easy peasy!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Single-drum
Vented: Yes
Load Capacity: washing 15 lbs / drying 11 pounds
Wattage: 1300W
Dimensions: 23.5 x 22.6 x 33.12 inches
Run Time: Washing 40 mins / Drying 45 mins
If you’ve got the space to slip a single-drum washer dryer combo into your RV, then the WD2100XC Splendide is…well…splendid. This wonderful machine takes all the effort out of washing your clothes on the road—simply configure the desired settings then go explore the great outdoors while it does its thing. The entire washing and tumble drying process takes about an hour and a half, just enough time to grill a few juicy steaks on the BBQ as you admire those epic alpine views.
At well over a thousand bucks, the WD2100XC Splendide costs a fortune compared to the cheaper portable washer dryer combos on our list. Nonetheless, that’s money well spent for the full-time RVer who wants a machine to tumble dry their clothes until they’re all toasty warm.
Although it kind of looks like a household washer dryer combo, the reality is the load capacity is much lower than what you would expect at home. Having said that, it’s still way higher than any of the portable washing machines out there. Furthermore, you don’t have to manually switch your laundry between a washing and a spinning tub, or have to hang it all up on the line afterward. Consequently, the whole laundering process becomes super easy—just like at home.
Rest assured Splendide built this model specially for RV and marine use; it’s super sturdy and won’t breakdown as you traverse all those bumps on the road.
There are a couple of things you need to be aware of before you bash that ‘buy now’ button, though. First, the washer dryer combo uses a whopping 1300W, which will require a big battery bank and inverter if you plan to use it off the grid (connecting it to the mains is no problem, however). Second, this model is vented (find out more about the differences here), which means you need to have an exhaust pipe leading to the exterior of your RV. If you’re A-Okay with these two conditions, then the WD2100XC can’t be beaten.

Pros

Single-drum design doesn’t require moving laundry from washer to dryer
Saves you lots of time and hassle
Vented to the exterior for faster drying

Cons

Expensive
High wattage

3. SUPER DEAL Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine

View on Amazon

Why we like it: In terms of cleaning and speed, it outperforms most portable washer dryer combos on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Portable
Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
Wattage: 240 W
Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 26 inches
Weight: 26.4 pounds
Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
You’ll pay a little more for the privilege, but the Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine from SUPER DEAL is still one heck of a super deal. The reason we reckon it’s so great is simple: the powerful machine runs at a whopping 1300 RPM, which lets it finish it’s wash and spin cycle much quicker than the other portable combos out there.
And despite the fact it runs quick, the machine does an excellent job of washing and spin-drying your clothes. Expect to get a wrinkle-free pile of fresh laundry with every load, sans those annoying detergent stains.
Plus—and this is a big plus—you can run the washer and the dryer at the same time, which makes the whole laundry process much easier to manage. So, despite the fact it costs about double that of our cheapest recommendation, it’s money well spent for the time-poor RVer.
Another cool feature is its translucent plastic tub, which lets you watch your washing in action (handy if something gets stuck). Although you might associate plastic with being cheap, it’s beneficial in the portable washer dryer world because it means the machine isn’t prone to rust.
On the downside, the load capacity here is rather low, so don’t expect to wash and dry a big pile of laundry at the same time. You might have to purchase a new hose connection, too, as the included ones don’t fit every faucet.

Pros

Runs at 1300 RPM (more than other models)
Has a compact, lightweight design
The plastic body isn’t prone to rust

Cons

More expensive than other portables
Low load capacity

4. Best Choice Products Portable Laundry Machine & Spin Cycle

View on Amazon
Why we like it: It washes and dries in record speed and is a cinch to use.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Portable
Load Capacity: washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
Wattage: 300W
Dimensions: 23″ x 13.5″ x 26″
Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
Weight: 23 lbs
Best Choice Products do one of the best portable washer dryers on the market. The product is a hit among American consumers for its rapid washing and spinning time and its simple, user-friendly interface. The device washes in 15 minutes and spin dries in five, which is notably quicker than other options out there—and the fact you can perform both functions at once makes everything so much easier.
Another awesome feature is the filtration system that stops lint, hair, and other nasty gunk from clogging up the drain. That means you won’t have to waste time cleaning your washer dryer after every use—a definite bonus on our book!
It’s about on par with its competitors in terms of weight and size, although the unit is a little more power-hungry than other portables, something to consider if you’ve got limited juice. It’s also a tiny bit noisier than other options, so think twice about putting on a load late at night in the RV park.

Pros

Easy to use
Washes and spin-dries at the same time
Fast and effective
Superb filtration system

Cons

Uses a bit more power than others
Quite noisy

5. Best Budget RV Washer Dryer Combo: COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This tiny little unit does the job with gusto and fits into the smallest of spaces.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Portable
Load Capacity: 7 lbs
Wattage: 200W
Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 14 inches
Weight: 13.95 lbs
Run-time: Washing 10 mins / Spinning 5 mins
Weighing in at a meager 14 pounds, the COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine is the lightest washer dryer combo on our list and is little enough to lift with one arm. Forget about busting your back by trying to lug a heavy combo machine out of the closet every time you need to clean your clothes. This model gives portability a whole new meaning.
Naturally, the downside is it can’t wash a big load of clothes at once; there’s a minuscule load capacity of just seven pounds to play with. Nonetheless, if you’re happy to wash often and want something petite and cheap, COSTAWAY delivers the goods.
Using the thing is super simple, too: fill it with water, set the timer, and away you go. Ten minutes later, it’ll have finished its wash cycle, and five minutes after that, it’ll stop spin-drying.
One thing we don’t love about this model is you have to stand there and watch the water fill to the brim—there’s no automatic mechanism to stop it overflowing. Also, if you don’t load it correctly with even weight distribution, the spin cycle will force the machine to shake like mad and make an awful racket (that causes additional wear and tear as well).

Pros

Small and light
Affordable
Easy to use

Cons

User needs to monitor the water level when filling
Spin cycle is problematic without proper weight distribution

6. ThinkGizmos Portable Washing Machine

View on Amazon
Why we like it: It’s a solid mid-range option that does an excellent job of cleaning your kit.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Portable
Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 4.4 lbs
Wattage: Washing 230W/ spinning 100W
Dimensions: 23 x 14 x 27 inches
Weight: 27 pounds
Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
Happy campers who are prepared to spend a bit more on a decent portable washer dryer combo might consider this excellent option from ThinkGizmos. It costs about double the price of the cheapest portable on our list, but that’s money well spent if you’re passionate about wearing spotlessly clean clothing at the campground. Put simply, ThinkGizmos is more effective at removing stains and nasty odors than its portable competitors.
The model is on par with other portables in terms of weight, size, and wattage, although it will take slightly longer to finish a full run (20 minutes all up). A built-in lint filter succeeds at keeping the fluffy stuff from sticking all over your fresh, clean clothes.
Be warned, though, if you overfill it or don’t get the weight distribution right, it’ll shake itself around the room and make an annoying amount of noise.

Pros

Cleans better than most portables
Has an effective lint filter
Comparable in size and weight to other portables

Cons

Has a slightly longer cycle than most
Problematic when overloaded

7. Best Non-Vented Single-Drum Washer Dryer: Splendide WDC7100XC

View on Amazon
Why we like it: It’s perfect for RVers who want a powerful single-drum machine without vents.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Single-Drum
Vented: No
Load Capacity: Washing 15 lbs / drying 11 lbs
Wattage: 1300 watts
Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 22 inches
Weight: 145 pounds
Run-time: Washing 30 mins / Rinsing 30 mins / Drying 150 mins
Non-vented single-drum washer dryer combos require more power to run and take longer to dry than their vented counterparts. However, as these don’t need an exhaust pipe to the exterior of the vehicle, they’re the only viable option for RVers who don’t have such a pipe yet still want the raw drying power of a proper tumble drier. And Splendide does the best non-vented model on the market with its flagship WDC7100XC.
The load capacity of 15/11lbs doesn’t compete with a domestic washer dryer, but it’s pretty good for a mobile home and easily outperforms any portable options on the market. And although the drier might not be as quick or effective as our favorite vented model, the Splendide WD2100XC, it still gets your clothes all toasty warm and dry with minimal fuss.
The total run time drags on for 3.5 hours (2.5 hours just for tumble drying), but the fact you can ‘set it and forget it’ makes up for the wait.
Sadly, much like other non-vented washer dryer combos, the construction is a bit fickle and prone to breakdown, so expect to have to repair it sooner or later. Also, the included plastic necks that sit between the hose and couples have a nasty tendency to crack, leaving a swamp of soapy water in its wake. Thankfully, it’s an easy situation to remedy by buying quality stainless steel replacements from your local hardware store.

Pros

Non-vented models can tumble dry without an exhaust pipe to the exterior
Set it and forget it—no need to swap clothes between drums for drying
Does a great job of washing and drying

Cons

Non-vented models take a long time to dry
Machine occasionally breaks down
Some stock parts are low quality (can be replaced)

8. Best Non-Electric RV Washer Dryer Combo: WOAIM Portable Washer/Dryer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The machine doesn’t require any electricity at all to wash and dry your clothes.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Non-electric portable
Load Capacity: 4.4 lbs
Dimensions: 16 x 13 x 15 inches
Weight: 9 pounds
Don’t have an inverter in your RV? Then you need a washing and drying solution that doesn’t require any electricity at all! Introducing the Portable Washer/Dryer from WOAIM, a wonder device that washes and cleans your clothes without a single watt. There is a catch, of course: you have to do all the hard work yourself.
Rather than relying on an electric powered motor, WOAIM has you spinning the drum of the washer-dryer through your arms. You’ll have to yank a cord up and down, again and again, until your clothes are finally clean and dry enough to hang up on the line. It’s backbreaking work, but there’s no denying the concept is eco-friendly, and you could certainly save on your membership at the gym.
The lightweight design and small dimensions mean you could also stash this away in a small storage space and retrieve it when needed. Do note, however, it has a minuscule load capacity of 4.4 pounds, meaning you’ll be tugging away at those cords for an eternity if you need to clean and spin dry a big load.
And it well over a hundred bucks, it hardly seems terrific value when there’s plenty of cheaper portable electric models out there. Nonetheless, if you like the idea of washing your clothes with your own raw effort, then go ahead and grab this one to stow in your RV.

Pros

Doesn’t require electricity
Good exercise
Eco-friendly concept

Cons

Hard work to use
Small load capacity

RV Washer Dryer Combo Buyer’s Guide
RV washer dryer combos vary significantly from your typical domestic machines, and there’s quite a lot to learn about the art of washing your clothes on the road.
In this section, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about RV washer dryers and outline the pros and cons of each type. That way, you’ll have the necessary knowledge at hand to make an informed purchase and can enjoy the benefits of your mobile washing machine for years to come.
Why You Should Buy An RV Washer Dryer Combo
Sure, you could get by without an RV washer dryer combo, but the marvelous machine will make your life on the road so much easier. By having your very own washing facilities onboard, you can bypass the queue at the RV park and skip the line at the laundromat.
Traveling in an RV already entails a whole host of annoying domestic chores: washing your clothes and bed linen, filling up your fresh water tank, emptying your grey water tank, disposing of your black water, refueling your gas tank, and ensuring your batteries have plenty of juice. Having a washer dryer combo at the ready makes laundering a breeze, giving you more time to focus on these other tasks or—better yet—relaxing in the great outdoors.
The Pros & Cons of Each RV Washer Dryer Type
Are you confused about the different types of RV washer dryers on the market? Here, we’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you decide what works best for you.
Single Drum RV Washer Dryer Combos
As the name suggests, these machines have one single drum that washes then tumble dries your clothes at the push of a button (manufacturers may refer to them as RV Washer Dryer Combos or Combination RV Washer Dryers). Single drum models are the most popular type of non-portable RV washer dryers as they don’t require much space (under 25 x 25 x 35 inches), have modest energy and water requirements, and you don’t need to take your clothes out of the washer and put them into the drier (unlike the stackable model).
The Good:
Compact design is easy to fit into your RV (many new RVs have slots where you can plug them in yourself)
Vented and non-vented models available
Uses less electricity than stackable models
Tumble drying will full dry your clothes
One button washing and drying—set it and forget it
The Bad:
Can’t do large loads of laundry at once (up to 15 pounds)
Longer total laundering time than stackable washer dryers
Uses quite a lot of water (20-25 gallons per load)
Sound tempting? Our favorite single-drum washer dryer combo is the fantastic Splendide WD2100XC.
Stackable RV Washer Dryer Combos
Stackable RV washer dryer combos work with two drums; the tumble dryer is stacked on top of the washer. Although the maximum load per drum is only around 12 pounds, give or take, the beautiful thing is you can run both drums at the same time—perfect for families with large washing requirements. In fact, stackable RV washer dryers have a comparable load capacity to dual-drum domestic units, so you can get away with washing just about anything you like.
As for the dimensions, you need a bit more available width and depth than the single-drum variety (up to 30 inches wide by 30 inches deep). But as you’d expect, they’re much higher, usually reaching 70 inches or so. Folks who own a big rig with plenty of extra space may prefer these models as they allow you to churn through a massive pile of laundry quickly, despite the fact you need to transfer your clothes between each drum manually.
Portable RV Washer Dryer Combos
Although these machines are called “portable,” that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easy to cart around—some weigh as much as 100 pounds, although 15 to 25 is the norm. The term “portable” refers to the fact they don’t need to be installed into your RV; simply plug them into an electrical outlet, fill them with water, and your good to go.
The major downside to portable combos—and it’s a doozy—is they spin-dry rather than tumble dry. Spin-drying leaves your clothes damp rather than soaking wet, so you’ll still need to hang them up on the line before slipping them on.
Portable RV washer dryer combos come with a hose to get the greywater down the drain (don’t forget to hook it up or you’ll flood your floor). Some models don’t even require electricity — you pull a cord repeatedly instead — which is perfect for the RVers with a modest battery bank who wants to launder off-grid.
As they’re small and portable, the load capacity is low, rarely more than 8 pounds. Consequently, these aren’t ideal for families or travels with high laundry requirements. The entire process is rather quick, however, with each load taking less than half an hour, including the time it takes to put the washed clothes on the line.
The Good:
Don’t require installation
Many models don’t need electricity
Very reasonably priced
Each load gets washed and dried quickly
Doesn’t need much water
Can easily be moved between RVs
The Bad:
Can’t be fixed in place
Can only wash minimal loads
Many models require manual work
Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid
While most RVers will plug into the shore power (the electrical grid at an RV park or home) to use their washer dryer combo, those with more advanced electrical setups may be able to run their machine while boondocking. Non-portable (single-drum/stackable) washer dryer combos have high power requirements, however, so if off-grid laundering with these is a necessity, you need to ensure your rig is up to the challenge. Portables, on the other hand, work well with more primitive setups.
The Wattage
The first thing you need to consider is the wattage (W), or in other words, how much power the machine uses. RV washer dryer combos typically run between 150 and 1500 watts. If laundering off-grid, you need to ensure your inverter is capable of inverting the required wattage from your 12-24V (DC) battery system to the 120V (AC) system that runs most of your appliances.
Inverters are rated with a maximum peak wattage; examples include 1000W, 1500W, 3000W, and 5000W; be sure the wattage of your washer dryer is much lower than your inverter. However, the maximum wattage of the inverter needs also to be higher than all the appliances you will be using at the same time—factor in your toaster, kettle, fan, TV, etc. And finally, you’ll generally need a pure sine wave inverter for a washer-dryer, as the other types could damage the complex electrical system.
The Battery Bank
The second key thing to consider is your battery bank, which is measured in Amp Hours (ah). As washer dryer combos draw quite a lot of power, they’re going to drain your batteries fairly quickly. If your batteries rarely have much juice to spare, then you should look at expanding your battery bank before trying to run a non-portable washer dryer off-grid. Mighty Max makes superb AGM deep cycle batteries, while SHUNBIN does superb lithium batteries (you can’t mix and match the battery types, so go with the same variety you’ve already got installed). Before buying these, consult an auto-electrician to determine whether it’s feasible to install more batteries in your RV.
Keeping Your Batteries Charged On the Road
You’ve got three options for keeping your batteries charged up on the road:
A DC to DC charger uses your vehicle’s alternator to charge your batteries as you drive (REDARC make a good option)
Solar panels and the associated controller will draw power from the sun to recharge your battery bank. However, they aren’t especially useful when it’s overcast, or you’re parked in the shade (Renogy are a well-regarded brand).
A generator will charge your batteries and can even power your 120V system while boondocking. Opting for a high wattage model will let you run your air conditioning, washer dryer, and other power-hungry appliances in the remote wilderness. Still, it’s proper RV etiquette to consider how the noise pollution may affect your neighbors (Champion make a great wattage generator that doesn’t make too much noise).
Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
Non-portable RV washer dryer combos fit into two categories: vented and non-vented. Every seasoned RVer knows the vented machines are ideal; however, it may not be possible to install one on your rig.
Note that portable washer dryers don’t have vents because they don’t have a tumble dry function; they use spin-drying instead.
Vented Washer Dryer Combos
These systems draw in air from the RV, heat it up, and tumble it through your laundry before sending it out of an external exhaust pipe into the open-air. Although the process is fast, easy, and energy-efficient, there’s one major caveat: you need to have someone drill a hole for the exhaust pipe if there isn’t already one there. There might not be a suitable place to install an exhaust vent on your rig, and even if there is, you’ll still need to pay a technician to set it up for you.
The Splendide WD2100XC is our favorite single-drum vented washer-dryer.
Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
The non-vented varieties, on the other hand, heat the air within the drum to tumble dry your clothes. As a result, a considerable amount of steam forms within the drum, which the machine cools using cold water on the outside. The excess water from the steam is pumped into your RV’s grey water tank.
The drawback here is non-vented systems take much longer to perform the same task and require more electricity and water to run.
The Splendide WDC7100XC is our top pick for a non-vented RV washer dryer.
Installing an RV Washer Dryer Combo
Can you install an RV washer dryer combo yourself, or do you need to get a professional involved? It depends on the type.
Installing A Single Drum Washer Dryer Combo
If you’ve got a late-model RV, you might be able to hook up a single-drum washer dryer combo yourself if the water and electrical connections are already in place. Just be sure to follow the manual carefully and remember to bolt the machine down to the floor. If the electrical and water hookups aren’t in place, you’ll need a professional to sort it out.
Installing A Stackable Washer Dryer
Stackable Washer Dryers are usually custom-fit into larger RVs, so the layman won’t be able to set these up on their own. Of course, if you happen to be a skilled plumber/electrician, then you might be up to the task.
Installing A Portable Washer Dryer Combos
These don’t require installation at all, which helps keep the costs right down. Just plug them into your electrical hookup, fill them with water, and you’re good to go.
How to Winterize Your RV Washing Machine
If you plan on storing your RV in an area where the temperature dips below 32F, then you must winterize your washer-dryer machine. Otherwise, it will get destroyed when the water expands into ice (you’ll also need to do this for your RV’s water system). In a nutshell, the process involves pumping anti-freeze into the system, then flushing it out again when you’re ready to use it in spring. However, as all washer dryer combos are different, you’ll need to consult your manual to see the precise steps.
Alternatively, a professional RV servicing company like Lazy Days can do the whole thing for you for a couple of hundred dollars.
Handy Tips for Doing Laundry in Your RV
Doing laundry on the road isn’t quite as simple as at home and may require a little extra planning and preparation to pull off. The following handy hints should help lighten the load (pun intended).
Avoid doing the heavy-duty stuff yourself
Washing your blankets, comforters, jackets, and other bulky items can be a hassle in an RV, especially if you’ve got a small portable machine. Veteran travelers prefer to save these for the RV park washing machine.
Ensure everything is hooked up properly
One loose nut or a stray grey water hose will result in an awful soapy mess all over your lovely carpet. Double-check everything is as it should be and enlist the help of an expert if you’re unsure.
Read the instruction manual
Although RV washer dryers aren’t particularly hard to operate, it’s worth reading through the manual to get the gist of their inner-workings.
Washers work as a dirty clothes hamper
Store your smelly laundry inside the washing drum to save space. And when it comes time to wash, it’s already there waiting to go.
Electricity and water don’t mix
Make sure your hands and any clothes are completely dry before playing around with a live current.
Use high-efficiency detergent
Look for the HE (high efficiency) label on your laundry detergent as the regular stuff won’t cut it on an RV washing machine.
The Best RV Washer Dryer Combo: Final Thoughts
The best RV washer dryer combo depends on your laundering requirements, budget, and the existing layout and features of your rig. Today we’ve covered the three main types—single-drum, stackable, and portable —plus provided a wealth of information on how to launder off-grid, how to install a washer dryer in your RV, and and the key points to consider before making a purchase, among other things.
Keep the information contained in this guide in mind and carefully consider your existing setup and laundry requirements before selecting one of the options on our list. That way, you’ll find the ideal washer dryer combo for your rig and enjoy years of hassle-free washing to come. Happy road-tripping, folks. More

While most drivers use the carpet mats that come stock in their car, a set of aftermarket floor mats can provide huge benefits. Along with sprucing up the look of your vehicle, new floor mats can protect your car floor, improve its resale value, and make it easier to clean. And while aftermarket floor mats have a reputation of being pricey, you can typically get a full, high-quality four-piece set for well under $50.

The Main Factors to Consider ins a Floor Mat
There are tremendous variations in floor mats, with some simply designed to replace old mats at the lowest possible price and other premium models meant to hold up to intense use and long driving miles. When shopping for a floor mat for your vehicle, consider the following features:
Fitment
While new cars usually come with a custom-fit floor mat, aftermarket car floor mats are typically manufactured in a universal size that can be trimmed down to fit your own vehicle. If you’re buying a universal mat, measure the rough footprint of your floor to make sure that whatever you purchase can be properly trimmed down to size.
Less commonly, floor mat manufacturers will design a mat for a specific model or series of models. Before purchasing this type of mat, double-check that it will fit your exact car make, model, and model year. When choosing from Amazon, it will provide a drop down menu where you can input the make and model of your car to see if it’s compatible.
Pieces
A set of floor mats can be categorized based on how many separate mats it contains.
Two-Piece Set: The most common and least expensive set of floor mats only outfit the two front seats. For budget variations, these can be usually purchased for well under $30.
Three-Piece Set: A three-piece set outfits each of the front two seats with individual mats and the middle row seats with one mat that extends across the whole vehicle.
Four-Piece Set: A four-piece mat set typically works with cars that have middle bucket seats, with one mat for each of the front four seats.
Five-Piece Set: Five-piece floor mat sets place one mat per seat in the first two rows, and one long mat in the back bench seat. These sets are normally the most expensive. Some five-piece sets also include a trunk liner.
Material
Most cars come outfitted from the factory with carpet mats. These floor mats are custom fit to the car but aren’t waterproof and, therefore, are susceptible to wear, staining, and even mold. Aftermarket carpet floor mats, especially all-weather floor mats, are most commonly made out of rubber, although occasionally other materials are used. On cheaper mats, traditional synthetic rubbers are used, but as you move up in price, proprietary rubber materials with unique properties can be purchased.
That’s an overview of the basics, we go into more detail in our full guide, but now it’s time to check out some great floor mats you can get for your car.

Top 10 Best Floor Mats 2020

1. Best Overall Floor Mat: Armor All Black 3-Piece Floor Mat

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Famed car accessory outfitter Armor All delivers a mid-range and smartly designed set of durable floor mats targeted and SUV and truck owners.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Rubber
Famous car brand Armor All’s Full Coverage Floor Mats are a near-flawless offering for a particularly economical price. The standard weather-proof rubber material is deeply grooved so as to channel dirt and water away from the edges, making for easy cleaning.
Rinsing the mats is easy, just a quick hose-down will wash away dirt, grime, and stains. Interesting to note is that Armor All doesn’t use a proprietary material for their mat, probably to cut costs, although we have no complaints with the simple synthetic rubber they use.
Patent-pending plastic nubs called Carpet Claw Technology dig into the carpet floor of the vehicle, anchoring the mats tightly to the floor. Since these mats include the traditional rubber nibs seen on other floor mats, these mats stay perfectly in place. This improves safety and ease of use, as a fixed mat won’t sneak under pedals or require adjustment while driving.
The mats are trimmable with a thinner material towards the borders making the product easier to customize. The back mat, which extends across the full second row, is thinner than average, making its fitting more universal but worsening its durability. The mats come in Tan, Black, and Grey versions, meaning that Armor All probably offers a color that perfectly matches your car’s interior.

Pros

Carpet Claw Technology helps these mats dig into the floor, preventing sliding
Tan, black, and grey colors available
Thin mat helps with fitting to nearly any vehicle
Deep grooves help channel dirt and water away from carpeted surfaces
Simple synthetic rubber is effective and inexpensive

Cons

Thinner mat construction is less durable
No proprietary rubber material

2. FH Group Black Rubber Floor Mat

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Manufacturer FH Group’s plain black floor mats are simple but durable, inexpensive, and can be trimmed down to size to fit almost any vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Trimmable
Pieces: Four Pieces
Material: Synthetic Rubber
In a market that’s flooded with model-specific products and expensive brand names like Weathertech and Husky, it is refreshing to see a manufacturer like FH Group making a simple and generic floor mat that performs competitively at a low price point.
This set includes four floor mats (two front and two rear) for under $50 compared to the premium manufacturers’ $150-plus price points. Made of a similar rubber, the mats are both stain proof and water-resistant, while the edges have elevated borders that stop dirt and liquids from spilling onto your carpet. Short but effective nib technology keeps the mats from sliding around.
While all of these features so far are on par with premium models, our personal favorite part of this product is the fact that these mats are trimmable. While front mats start with dimensions of 30 by 17 inches and rear mats have dimensions of 18 by 18 inches, each individual mat can be cut down to size to fit your vehicle. This means that the FH Group mats are some of the most versatile in our lineup, fitting everything from big SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and the Chevy Equinox, all the way down to compacts like the Toyota Corolla. All in all, these mats are durable, effective, versatile, and inexpensive.

Pros

Durable rubber mats can be cut down to size
Edges have elevated borders to stop water from leaking onto your carpet
Versatile mats fit everything from big SUVs to small compacts
Simple and generic floor mat is competitive in both performance and price

Cons

Relatively simple mat doesn’t use advanced rubber technology

3. Motor Trend FlexTough Contour Liners

View on Amazon

Why we like it: A solid set of car floor mats are made even better by their multiple color options, odorless construction, and grooved non-slip surfaces.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Semi-universal trim-to-fit
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Odorless EVA Rubber
With six distinct color variations, it is not hard to find an option that perfectly matches the interior of your vehicle. That said, the most popular color of these Motor Trend Flex Tough Contour liners is a universal black that goes with everything. The deep grooves in the rubber help contain water in wet conditions until you can clean the mats. A high sidewall prevents water and dirt from spilling over the edge and onto the carpet floor of your vehicle.
A couple of clever and often-overlooked features make us love this mat. You get the normal characteristics we’ve come to expect like no-slip nibs and a flexible yet durable material. Yet we particularly appreciate the odorless rubber, as some mats tend to stink up the car with an unpleasant smell during the first month of use. Also appreciated is HEPA compliance, which reduces the quantity of airborne chemicals in your vehicle after installation.
Other than that, this is a pretty typical mat, with trim-to-fit sizing, grooves for traction and water channeling, and a large single mat for the back seat. The products fit in a wide variety of vehicles, but they’re smaller than other mats. This lessens the need for trimming but also lowers the amount of protected floor surface area.

Pros

Six distinct colors match can match any interior
Odorless manufacturing and HEPA compliance reduces odor and chemical load
No-slip nibs keep the flexible rubber material in place
Grooves for traction and water channeling

Cons

Small size reduces the amount of protected floor surface area

4. Best Budget Pick: AmazonBasics Four Piece Heavy Duty Car Floor Mat

View on Amazon
Why we like it: A generic, sturdy, and inexpensive four-piece set manufactured by Amazon rivals more expensive brand names, but at half the price.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Trimmable
Pieces: Four Pieces
Material: Rubber
While Amazon’s in-house brand AmazonBasics normally gets mixed reviews on their car products, we’re impressed with their effort on these ultra-economical floor pads. Made of a thick, padded, waterproof rubber, these all-weather mats are sturdy and have minimal branding which makes them fit for nearly any vehicle.
Part of the reason these mats are cheaper is the fact that they simply use less material than other manufacturers, and a 20-inch by 28-inch size for the front mats yields a footprint almost a full square foot smaller than Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats.
While these mats are technically trimmable, cutting them down to size is a bit trickier than with other models, again, thanks to that ultra-thick construction. It’s a double-edged sword, and although they’re tricky to trim, that design choice means it’s difficult to wear through the mat. Amazon, probably thanks to this thick format, does provide a full year warranty.

Pros

Ultra-economical floor pads are made of a thick, padded waterproof rubber
Thick rubber is resistant to wear
Full-year warranty from the manufacturer
Trimmable construction helps customize the fit

Cons

Smaller footprint than other floor mats
Thick construction means they’re hard to trim down to size

5. Motor Trend Black Deep Dish Rubber Floor Mats

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Motor Trend’s ‘Deep Dish’ design extends up the sides of the footwells, protecting the car floor from splashes and keeping things watertight. They’re also trimmable.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Trimmable
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
With a large surface area and an adaptable footprint, Motor Trend’s universal mats will fit almost any vehicle, and they’re relatively inexpensive as well – coming in at under 50 bucks. This makes them a good pick for a budget-oriented shopper.
A small of number nibs do a great job of keeping the mat in place, which is sometimes an issue with some options that are trim-to-fit. These mats have a large footprint that extends further across the floor, giving a larger contact patch that also improves waterproofing. Sidewalls create a barrier against spillage, while grooves channel water towards the center of the mat.
One of Motor Trend’s innovations on these floor mats is its Performance Rubber Polymer Technology, which is designed to be permanently flexible against all shapes of car floors. Since these mats are designed to fit a wide range of cars, they have to be more flexible, but still durable. Their proprietary rubber technology does a terrific job of walking this fine line. They’re also trim-to-fit to further refine the shape, but you’ll never get a truly custom fit due to these mats’ universal design.

Pros

Large surface area and adaptable footprint make this mat fit on most vehicles
Big contact patch improves waterproofing
Proprietary rubber technology is rubber but still durable
Priced well under $50

Cons

Universal design means it’s hard to get a custom fit

6. Best Premium Floor Mat: Ford F-150 WeatherTech Floor Liners

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Meant for the mid-sized Ford F-150, these expensive mats are specifically designed for the contours of Ford’s geometry, leading to a perfect fit (and expensive price tag).
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Ford F150 SuperCrew (2015-2018)
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Patented High-Density Tri-Extruded (HDTE) material
Well-known brand WeatherTech has a hard-earned reputation: with ads in every major auto publication and a presence on the shelves in nearly all auto parts stores, the company is renowned for its wide product line and excellent attention to detail.
In this case, a patented HDTE (High-density tri-extruded) rubber makes up the material, leading to a durable, cushioned, weather-proof mat that repels water. Fit is perfect, and while this specific version is compatible with Ford F150s from 2015-2018, the company also offers slightly different versions meant for pre-2015 F150s as well as models compatible with the newest F150s, a testament to their commitment to the production of custom products.
A WeatherTech mat is simply a perfect fit, every time. It’s also backed by a lifetime guarantee, known to be one of the best warranties in the industry alongside Husky’s lifetime warranty.
So while these mats have just about everything we could ask for, a great fit, durable proprietary materials, and a warranty still can’t make up for an astronomical price (much of which goes to WeatherTech’s large marketing budget). If money is no object, these mats are well worth consideration, but for everyone else, a universal fit set of floor mats like Armor All’s Full Coverage Set will be nearly as good at about one-tenth of the price.

Pros

Patented HDTE material is cushioned, durable, and waterproof
Wide product line means a truly custom fit
One of the best warranties in the industry
Company has a renowned attention to detail with their products

Cons

Ultra-expensive price point

7. Husky Liners SuperCrew WeatherBeater

View on Amazon
Why we like it: An expensive model of car floor mats uses all the design bells and whistles, fits Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras perfectly, and includes a lifetime warranty.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Weather-proof Proprietary Rubber
Review
The best part of these mats, simply put, is the fit. Designed to perfectly position against each and every contour of a Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra, the floor mats slide into place like a glove. High sidewalls mean that the nibs holding the mats in place are practically unnecessary, and these mats won’t move around at all during operation.
The downside to this is that they’re only usable in two vehicle models, the Chevy Silverado and its GMC companion, the Sierra. Specifically designed grooves and traction pads are placed strategically on the mat, with more traction on high-use areas (near the pedals) and less where traction isn’t as needed (the back seat).
While a particularly high price tag turns some potential buyers off to these products, Husky backs up these mats with incredible durability, customer service, and a lifetime warranty. The proprietary rubber technology can last longer than your car itself, and if for whatever reason it doesn’t, Husky will replace your floor mats no-questions-asked. Still, though, at up to four times the price of budget mats, it’s a tradeoff that is difficult to make.

Pros

Construction uses a proprietary weather-proof rubber material
High side walls prevent the mat from moving around during operation
Great durability and lifetime warranty
More traction in high-use areas near pedals

Cons

Price much higher than budget car floor mats

8. BDK ProLiner Original Universal Fit Heavy Duty Floor Mats

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Using a specially designed matrix of rubber nibs to keep the mat in place, this mat uses big sidewalls and a proprietary rubber that can hold up to years of use.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable (Front 27” x 18” / Rear 17” by 54”)
Pieces: Three Pieces
Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
BDK is a California-based importer that mainly deals in inexpensive car floor mats, with this model being their most popular for good reason. Utilizing a proprietary advanced-performance rubber polymer, it is particularly durable and will hold up to many miles of wear and tear.
Elevated sidewalls prevent water and debris from spilling out over the edge of the mat, although the edges have a low profile, much smaller than the walls of mats like Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats. A shorter height makes them slightly more prone to spilling. Construction also includes a grid of ergonomic grooves that help keep the foot in place while driving.
The most clever part of the construction, however, is the matrix of rubber nibs on the bottom side of the mat. These nibs are highly concentrated in the most important areas, leading to a mat that stays in place practically as if glued. The product, although it’s sized to be semi-universal right out of the packaging, is trimmable for a more customized fit with just a simple pair of scissors. A pro tip—place your original mat on top of the new one before trimming to perfectly copy the shape of the originals.

Pros

Matrix of rubber nibs keeps mat in place
Size is customizable with a pair of scissors
Grid of ergonomic grooves help keep the foot in place
Semi-universal sizing fits most vehicles without being cut down

Cons

Low-profile walls are slightly more prone to spilling water

9. Motor Trend DualFlex Two-Tone Rubber Car Floor Mats

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Motor Trend’s performance-oriented mats are available in exotic colors and work perfectly on sports cars and other performance vehicles.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Trimmable (27” by 17”)
Pieces: Four Pieces
Material: Advanced Performance Rubber Polymer
Review
At a slightly higher price point and with some more performance-oriented features like a rubber pattern optimized for traction, Motor Trend goes after a more premium customer with these floor mats. Loud accent colors match more exotic sports cars; red and blue are on offer as well as the more-sedate tan and grey options, although we wish they would have offered a plain black color.
The trimmable mats have a relatively large footprint with dimensions of 27 by 17 inches, meaning that the mats might not fit on ultra-compact sports cars. While technically trim-to-fit, these mats don’t have as much room for customization as other mats, with only about 3 inches of the trimmable border before you’ll run into the thick, water-blocking sidewall that can’t be cut.
An advanced rubber polymer is used in the mat to keep things flexible and grippy even after many years and exposure to water and sunlight. These mats don’t crack, split, or deteriorate over time, backed up by a satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team.

Pros

Performance-oriented design is great for sports cars
Trim to fit design can be customized
Satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team
Loud accent colors match exotic vehicles

Cons

No plain black mat on offer
Not as much room for sizing customization as other car floor mats

10. FH Group Universal Fit Carpet Floor Mat

View on Amazon
Why we like it: These ultra-generic and ultra-inexpensive mats are cheap but lack the weather-proof features and custom fitting of other options, although they’re good for use in mild climates.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Fitment: Semi-Universal (Front: 25″ x 18″ / Rear: 18″ x 12″)
Pieces: Four Pieces
Material: Carpet
Review
These carpet FH Group mats are available in all of the most common colors, from classic black and grey to the slightly-less-common beige. For those looking for a more custom look, exotic colors are also available. Do note, which colors are available at any given time rotates with stock availability.
The mats are made of a tight-knight carpet with faux leather accents. The top layer connects to a thin bottom layer of rubber. The driver’s side mat has a rubber heel pad to minimize wear while driving.
While these mats are right alongside the most economical all-weather mats in terms of price, they lack an important feature—waterproof construction. This isn’t a deal-breaker for those who live in mild, dry climates, but for other shoppers, we’d recommend a product that’s a bit more sturdy.
Our biggest issue isn’t with the material, though, it’s with the sizing. Due to their material, these mats aren’t trim-to-fit like many of the all-weather rubber mats, and for this reason, they count on a ‘semi-universal’ fit that hypothetically works with a wide variety of cars. In some cases, this works acceptably, but on other vehicles, mats bunch up, don’t install correctly, or worse, slide around. Make sure you measure your vehicle before purchasing these mats to minimize unpleasant surprises.

Pros

Semi-universal fit works in a wide variety of vehicles
Rubber heel pad minimizes wear
Exotic colors for those who want a custom look
Faux leather accents

Cons

Need to measure vehicle before purchasing to ensure a good fit
Carpet construction means these are not waterproof
Not trim-to-fit

Guide to Buying the Best Floor Mats for 2020
Buying parts and accessories for your vehicle is a big deal: for most people, a car is a deeply personal purchase, and modifying your car is no different. Floor mats are an important vehicle customization that can greatly improve your driving experience, but due to the huge amount of sizing options and types of mats available, it can sometimes be a challenge to pick the right product. Read on to clear up some common questions of car floor mat buyers, and later we’ll go over some cleaning tips to keep your footwells pristine.
Frequently Asked Questions
With hundreds of options available for purchase, it’s sometimes tricky to find the right floor mat for your vehicle. Below are some of the most common questions we get regarding all-weather, OEM, and aftermarket floor mats.
Who Should Buy Aftermarket Floor Mats?
A few types of car owners are best served by purchasing a new set of floor mats. Those who often drive in poor weather conditions may want a new set of floor mats to make the interior of their car more weather-proof. Drivers who have issues with their stock floor mats should consider purchasing new floor mats, and those who frequently use their car for work may want to consider new floor mats to help protect the floor of their vehicle from heavy wear.
What Is An OEM Floor Mat?
OEM stands for ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’ and refers to the products that come stock with the vehicle. If you’re shopping for new floor mats and you want to get the exact same floor mat, look for a product with labeled ‘OEM’ for your car’s make and model. Otherwise, a non-OEM all-weather mat can present an opportunity to upgrade.
How Often Should I Replace My Floor Mats?
As with most car parts that wear out, when you should replace your floor mats depends on multiple factors. Floor mats can last for 50 years if you take off your shoes before driving, or they can last for a single winter on a work truck where roads are heavily salted. As a general recommendation, there are two key moments when you should consider replacing your floor mats:
Visible heavy wear: If your floor mat is threadbare, has holes, or the sides of the mat begin to curl up, it’s time to purchase a new one. These visible wear indicators aren’t only unsightly, but they can also be dangerous and interfere with the operation of the pedals.
Slipping: If your mat becomes slippery enough to slide around, it is vital that you replace it immediately. A mat that slips around on the floor can get caught in the pedals and cause you to be unable to brake, potentially causing an accident.
Do I Need All-Weather Floor Mats?
While all-weather floor mats can be used in any vehicle, they’re commonly purchased for car owners that often drive in inclement weather. Water, road salt, and dirt are the biggest enemies of carpet floor mats, and rubber all-weather floor mats perform better in bad conditions.
If you live in an area with minimal snow and rain, a carpet floor mat will hold up pretty well compared to a rubber floor mat. If you’re in an area with severe winters or severe rains, purchasing an all-weather mat will pay off over time.
What Are The Best Floor Mats?
The best floor mat is the one that fits your car: if you buy a floor mat that isn’t compatible with your vehicle, you won’t be able to use it. Other than that, we’d recommend a mid-range all-weather mat like Armor All’s Universal 3-Piece Set for a typical road user. While more expensive, ultra-durable mats are great for drivers that are hard on work vehicles and need a custom fit, whereas a less-expensive all-weather mat is just fine for the typical user.
Do I Need Tools To Install Floor Mats?
No, you don’t need any tools to install floor mats. If you buy the correct size of floor mats, you can simply replace them by sliding them into the floor. For the best performance, we’d recommend a quick vacuum clean of the car floor before installation to minimize slipping. We have an article about car vacuums if you haven’t got one and are interested. If you have a trimmable mat, customize it by layering your stock mats over the new product and drawing an outline for a perfect fit.
Will Floor Mats Stay in Place?
Floor mats have to pass legal safety standards to make sure they stay in place during operation. As floor mats are considered a piece of safety equipment, they undergo testing to make sure they’ll stay sufficiently in place during driving so as to not interfere with the operation of the pedals.
Cleaning Floor Mats
Let’s look at how to go about cleaning the various kinds of floormats so that your new purchase will continue to look great over time.
Cleaning Rubber/All-Weather Floor Mats
Along with being waterproof and protecting your floor from heavy weather, aftermarket all-weather floor mats are an upgrade from factory carpet mats because they’re easy to clean. To clean rubber mats, simply remove them from your vehicle and give them a rinse with water. For stains from salt or heavy dirt, a sturdy brush can go a long way.
Cleaning Carpet Floor Mats
Cleaning carpet floor mats is a bit trickier than cleaning all-weather rubber mats. Since dirt, salt, and water permeate the carpet, deep stains require attention and car-specific cleaning products to be removed.
To clean a carpet floor mat, first remove it from the car and suck up dirt and other particulates with a vacuum. After the major dirt is gone, apply a car-specific mat cleaner (although a carpet cleaner can do in a pinch), and give it a hearty scrub. With deep stains, completely removing discoloration might take some elbow grease. Follow the instructions of your specific cleaning product, as sometimes you should rinse down the mat, but sometimes the cleaner should be left in the mat as a carpet conditioner. Finally, lay the mat out in the sun to dry.
Benefits of Floor Mats
The purchase of floor mats has a benefit that goes well beyond personal ease of use and comfort while driving. Generally, purchasing a set of floor mats improves three things:
Ease of Cleaning
Carpet floor mats are flawed: they are not waterproof, stain-resistant, or easy to clean. While some drivers prefer the look of a carpet floor mat, most who upgrade to an aftermarket mat will purchase an all-weather floor mat.
All-weather floor mats are slip-resistant, weather-proof, and stain-proof due to their impermeable rubber construction. To clean, simply remove the floor mat from your car and give it a rinse down. No more vacuuming, carpet conditioning, or perpetually-wet floor mats.
Resale Values
Purchasing a replacement mat can have positive benefits on the used sale price of your car, increasing the value of your car should you decide to resell it or trade it in.
Protecting Your Interior: With stock factory mats, water seeps underneath, causing unpleasant odors, discoloration, and sometimes even rust or mold. A weather-proof mat prevents this, protecting the floor of your car.
Improving Aesthetics: Aftermarket floor mats simply look better in your vehicle, adding a premium and custom look to the interior.
Safety
As floor mats wear out, they can become more slippery, which slightly increases the risk of an accident. Floor mats should solidly grip and fit the floor or your vehicle so that they don’t slip under the pedals, preventing safe operation. Manufacturers have recalled floor mats that are unintentionally prone to slipping under the pedals. For this reason, periodically checking floor mats is a vital part of routine maintenance.
Wrapping Up
A floor mat is one of the best, and cheapest, ways to upgrade your vehicle. Along with upgrading the look of your car’s interior, there are also performance and safety benefits. A sturdy floor mat will perform better in poor weather and slip around less, improving safety. An aftermarket replacement mat can also keep your car in better condition, improving its resale value.
For a purchase that typically costs well under $100, some aftermarket floor mats are an option for any vehicle owner to improve their driving experience, whether that’s to improve resale value, upgrade your interior, or simply to increase your comfort while driving. It’s fair to say buying a floor mat for your vehicle is worth the price, so enjoy browsing our list and finding one that’s right for you. More

It’s often you have a spotless car on the outside but a mess on the inside. That’s the case for most people. It’s easy to take your vehicle to a car wash. The entire process takes only several minutes; however, cleaning the inside of your car is another thing. If you have a carpeted interior, getting all of those dirt stains that were trekked into the car after a rainy day, or the juice stains from all of the drinks that your children have spilled, can be incredibly challenging.
Car carpet cleaners can make your job a lot easier, and are the key to having a spotless carpet. Your car carpets can look like new again with just a little bit of work. By using these carpet cleaning products and bit of know-how, you won’t have to get it detailed by a professional.

How to Choose a Car Carpet Cleaner
Finding the perfect car carpet cleaner is no easy task. This is partially because there are so many products on the market that all claim to work miracles. We’ve done the research for you and looked at various aspects of different products to determine which ones are the best.
We’ve broken down the most important features into three distinct categories: the overall formula of the car carpet cleaner, the features and functionalities that it provides, its ease of use, and whether it can be applied on various surfaces other than carpet.
Formulation and Functionality
Most car owners don’t really look at the formula of the car carpet cleaners or consider what type of functions that the cleaner offers, but this is actually one of the first things you should consider. Some car carpet cleaners can do more than just clean the carpet. The formula may also have the following.
Disinfecting Abilities
Make sure that the car carpet cleaner is making a difference at the microbial level. Your car is a closed environment, which means that it’s the perfect breeding ground for a lot of disgusting microbes. While you don’t necessarily need to look for a product that contains bleach, you should look for something that can also disinfect the carpet and get rid of mold, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Deodorizing Abilities
Many times, the smell of a dirty car is just as bad as the visual. It’s easy for messes and accidents to start to smell funky or sour. Spills can start to smell funny even if they are only left overnight. The smell may indicate that there’s mildew or bacteria brooding within the carpet fibers. You can get rid of the smell with a car carpet cleaner that has deodorizing abilities. These cleaners have a special technology that can remove odors.
Stain Removal Abilities
You’d be surprised at just how quickly messes can turn into stains. Look for car carpet cleaners that can get rid of stains without causing any discoloration.
Last but not least, look for a formula that is non-toxic and made from safe ingredients. Non-toxic cleaners tend to be more gentle on the carpet and will be less likely to cause discoloration and other issues.
Ease of Use
Many people hesitate to clean their car’s carpet on their own. They think that it takes a lot of effort and work to do. This really isn’t the case most of the time. A good car carpet cleaner will do the job for you within a relatively short period of time. Generally, they are fast-acting. The best car carpet cleaners will also penetrate into deep stains with little to no extra elbow-grease needed.
Possible Applications
It’s important to consider the applications of the cleaner and whether it is compatible with various surfaces. Some car carpet cleaners can do so much more than just disinfect and remove stains. They can clean up engine grease and they can even be used on other surfaces, like vinyl, suede and leather. Finding a car carpet cleaner that can also cleans other surfaces will make your job a lot smoother, as you’ll only need one product in your closet rather than a whole box of them.
Another important thing to consider is whether the car carpet cleaner can be used on both dark- and light-colored carpets. Make sure that the product won’t accidentally bleach or dye your carpets or other surfaces, like the plastic trim on the side or the rubber moldings. If they do, you may find yourself forking over a fortune to replace those pieces.
That’s the basics. A car carpet cleaner is very similar to other carpet cleaners on the market, with an emphasis on powerful dirt removal as car carpets are more heavily used than your average living room carpet. To get a more in-depth look, check out our guide below, but let’s go over our favorite choices that’ll make the inside of your car as gleaming as the outside.

Top 10 Best Car Carpet Cleaners 2020

1. Best Overall Car Carpet Cleaner: Rocco and Roxie

View on Amazon

Why we like it: It’s affordable and has many functions, like stain and odor removal. It is flexible and can clean multiple surfaces in your car.
Editor’s Rating:

This product makes some impressive claims. If your stains aren’t gone, you can get a full refund! It’s also extremely affordable, and many people have obtained great results from this product.
This cleaner is also approved by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). That means that its formula is safe and gentle for all colorfast carpets.
Formulation and Functionality
The product relies on a professional-strength bio-enzymatic formula to get rid of odors. The cleaner will release active bacteria that feed on the ammonia residue which is found in pet urine and many other organic materials. This formula is able to reach deep down into the carpet and does a lovely job at making it look, feel and smell like new again.
The formula is child and pet friendly and can work on a wide variety of messes. You’ll usually notice a difference within 10 to 15 minutes, although you might want to let the formula sit for up to one hour for some of the more stubborn stains. Remember to apply a liberal amount.
This formula is also chlorine-free, color-safe and does not leave any residue behind. This makes it an extremely safe product to use.
Ease of Use
On top of being one of the most affordable car carpet cleaners out there, this is one of the easiest to use. Simply spray the product on your carpet and wait. Use an absorbent towel to soak up the product, as well as any stains that are left behind. For some of the tougher stains, spray a liberal amount of the product on the area, and place a folded towel on top with a weighted object.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on many different surfaces, like carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, hardwood, tile, concrete, artificial grass, litter boxes and more. Therefore, as well as getting a carpet cleaner, you’re getting a great all-purpose cleaning product.

Pros

Chlorine-free and color safe
Can be used on carpets, furniture, clothing and more
Eliminates odors, stains and residues
Affordable

Cons

May need to sit overnight for some of the tougher stains

2. Best Budget Car Carpet Cleaner: Nature’s Miracle

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This super affordable car carpet cleaner penetrates deep into carpet fibers to remove stains and contains bio-enzymatic odor removal technology to get rid of all the smells.
Editor’s Rating:

If you’re looking for an affordable option, then you can’t go wrong with Nature’s Miracle Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampoo. This is perhaps one of the cheapest car carpet cleaners out there on the market. It can tackle quite a lot; however, it can only be used on carpets.
Formulation and Functionality
This product contains a low-foaming, water-based formula that is safe to use. The product uses bio-enzymatic odor locking technology to remove odors and stains, and the color-bright formula will condition the carpet, so it looks and feels like new. The formula can easily penetrate deep into the carpet fibers to remove not only dirt and grime, but also allergens.
Ease of Use
This product is fairly easy to use. You can use it stand-alone or with a carpet-cleaning machine. It works better with a machine, and by using one, you don’t have to wait long before you see results.
Possible Applications
The only downside with this product is that it can only be used on carpet, and cannot be used on many other surfaces. It cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery. As a result, it’s not recommended for use on any other area of the car.

Pros

Bio-enzymatic odor locking technology offers a permanent and superior odor removal
Low-foaming formula that is compatible with any water-based carpet cleaning machine
Penetrates deep into carpet fibers
Color-bright formula that conditions the carpet
Can be used alone or with a machine

Cons

Cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery

3. Best Premium Car Carpet Cleaner: Bissell Deep Clean

View on Amazon

Why we like it: This is Bissell’s most powerful formula. It can remove even the toughest stains and is great for heavily soiled carpets.
Editor’s Rating:

Although this product is a little bit pricey, it is definitely well worth it. This product is one of the best car carpet cleaners out there because it works well on almost every type of stain. It’s great for heavily soiled areas, stubborn stains and underlying odors.
It’s quick-acting and despite the fact that it’s more expensive, you’ll actually save a lot of money on product and on time. You won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning up as long as you have this product on hand.
Formulation and Functionality
One of the main reasons why this product is so effective is because it contains 4 times more active ingredients than many of the leading competitive products. It’s also Safer Choice Certified, and dye and phosphate-free. This product also does not contain any heavy metals or optical brighteners. The formula can protect your carpet from future stains, and it is children, pet and environmentally friendly. It can also remove tough odors.
While most people reserve this product for tough, stubborn stains and heavily soiled areas, it can also be used for simpler cleaning jobs. It’s extremely effective at cleaning up food and beverage soils, pet stains, blood, oil, grease and makeup.
Ease of Use
This product is extremely easy to use, but it is for machine-use only. All you have to do is pour about 2.5 fluid ounces of the cleaner into a carpet cleaning machine (this is Bissell’s own), and that’s it! However, due to the need for a machine, it significantly adds to an already premium price tag.
Possible Applications
This product is only safe on carpet, area rugs and upholstery. It should not be used on any other surfaces.

Pros

Great for tough, stubborn stains and odors
Contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes
Safe for kids and pets
Environmentally-friendly and biodegradable
A portion of proceeds go towards the BISSELL Pet Foundation

Cons

Machine-use only

4. Best for Quick Fixes: Folex Carpet Spot Remover

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Watch stains magically disappear in front of your eyes with this product. It’s fast-acting and quick-drying, so you’ll get the cleaning done in just half the time.
Editor’s Rating:

The one thing that most people hate doing is waiting. They want instantaneous results, and you can get that with the Folex Carpet Spot Remover. This company has been around for over 30 years and know what they’re doing! There’s a reason why they’re one of the most highly recommended car carpet cleaning solutions out there.
Formulation and Functionality
The water-based formula is non-toxic, non-flammable and odor-free. It relies on a surfactant as an emulsifying agent to remove stains, and is effective on auto oil, grease, dirt, food messes, makeup, grass stains, pet accidents and more. The formula is both colorfast and color stable.
Ease of Use
This product is perhaps one of the easiest products to use. All you have to do is spray on the solution on the area of the carpet that needs to be cleaned and then wipe it off or wait for it to dry. No rinsing or vacuuming necessary! You’ll see the stains disappear before your eyes. For some of the tougher stains, you may have to apply the solution more than once.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on carpet and all surfaces that can be dampened with water. It can safely be used on upholstery, clothing, draperies, walls, woodwork and more.

Pros

No rinsing or vacuuming needed
Instant results
Non-toxic and non-irritating to normal skin
Does not leave behind any residue
Affordable

Cons

May require more than one treatment to completely remove all stains

5. Best All-Purpose Cleaner: CarGuys Super Cleaner

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This product can be used to clean all surfaces of your car! The deep cleaning formula can even act as an engine degreaser!
Editor’s Rating:

This product has more than one application. Not only can it clean the carpets, but it can also act as an engine degreaser. It can also be applied on anything plastic, rubber or vinyl. It’s super convenient to have a bottle of this stuff in your garage, as it will clean up all types of messes and stains. You can replace your cabinet of cleaning supplies and solutions with just one bottle of this stuff.
This product comes with a fully adjustable nozzle and a comfortable ergonomic handle. The slim neck packaging makes it easy to hold, and the wider base prevents accidental tipping when you’re working.
Formulation and Functionality
This product uses one of the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift away dirt, grime and stains at the molecular level. The product contains no ammonia and harmful chemicals, and the product can get rid of almost all types of messes such as engine grease.
Ease of Use
Just spray and wait for the product to work. This product relies on a water-based polymer formula, so it’s not only safe, but does not need to be rinsed with water. Just spray and wipe it away!
Possible Applications
Get rid of a cabinet of cleaners and replace them with this highly effective product. This cleaning product is a favorite among car owners because it can be used to remove odors, dirt, grime and stains from the carpet and upholstery. It also removes stains and scuffs on leather and vinyl. You can clean the floor mats, tires and trims easily with it too.
It’s also effective at removing bird poop, bugs and tree sap from the exterior surface as well as grease from the engines.
It can clean just about anything, and can be used on the following surfaces: upholstery, fabric, leather, canvas, vinyl, plastic, metal, wood trim and rubber. It does not leave behind any residue at all.
The only surface that this product cannot be used on is glass.

Pros

All-purpose formula with various applications
Uses the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift stains
Water-based formula
Contains no ammonia or harmful chemicals
100% risk-free guarantee

Cons

Packaging can leak if not stored properly

6. Best for Pet-Owners: Bissell Professional Pet Urine Eliminator

View on Amazon
Why we like it: It’s great for cleaning up messes created by your pets. It also protects the carpet from future stains, and works well on all types of carpets.
Editor’s Rating:

This product is great for pet owners who want to get pet stains and odors away from their carpets. It’s easy to use, and works well on heavily trafficked areas. It also protects the carpet from future stains. Best of all, this product offers a Febreeze clean and uses the power of oxy to get rid of unwanted smells! Your car will smell fresh and clean after every use.
You’ll also feel good about purchasing this product because a portion of the proceeds goes towards the Bissell Pet Foundation, a charity that helps save homeless pets. Although it’s mainly formulated for pet messes, this product will also work well on other messes as well.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is safe for children and pets, and contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes. The detergent is biodegradable, so it’s also earth-friendly.
This product contains 3 times more active ingredients than many other leading competitive formulas, can protect your carpets from future stains, and can get rid of both stains and odors.
This product contains a 2X concentrated formula that will work to get rid of even the toughest stains. It also penetrates deep into the carpet to get rid of all odors. Your pets aren’t going to mark that area of the carpet again.
Ease of Use
This product should ideally be used with machines only, although you can simply pour a little bit of the product on pet messes.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on upholstery and all types of carpets. The manufacturer recommends pre-treating a small section of the carpet first just to confirm that it won’t stain or discolor the carpet.

Pros

Great value for the price
Safe for pets and children
2X concentrated formula
Biodegradable
Removes pet stains and odors

Cons

Doesn’t work as well with petroleum-based messes
Machine-use only

7. Carpet Miracle Carpet Cleaner and Deodorizer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This car carpet cleaner is great for pet owners and can remove all pet messes and odors with ease.
Editor’s Rating:

If your primary concern is that your pets make a huge mess on your car carpets, then this is the product you need. This product is made in the USA, and Sunny & Honey, the parent company, donates 10% of all profits to charities that help animals in need. It’s one of the more affordable carpet cleaners out there. It’s also Leaping Bunny Certified.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is biodegradable and non-toxic. It also contains no harsh chemicals, but it is very concentrated, so a little amount can get most jobs done. The product is children-friendly, earth-friendly and also pet-friendly. It works wonders on pet messes, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time with your fur baby.
Ease of Use
This product is relatively easy to use. It’s compatible with a lot of cleaning machines. It is, however, for machine-use only. This product is best used on organic messes caused by pets.
Possible Applications
This product works well on carpets, rugs and upholstery. It can also be used on leather or faux leather seats.

Pros

100% guarantee
Biodegradable and non-toxic
Removes even the toughest stains with just one application
Works well with several types of machines
Color-safe

Cons

Isn’t as effective on petroleum-based messes
Is for machine-use only

8. Biokleen Carpet and Rug Shampoo

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This carpet cleaner is made from natural enzymes and is environmentally-friendly. It contains no fragrances or artificial colors, and can easily destroy even the toughest stains.
Editor’s Rating:

Many people have sensitive noses or are allergic to fragrances. If you’re looking for a scent-free, environmentally-friendly car carpet cleaner, then the Biokleen Carpet and Rug Shampoo is just what you need. The interesting thing about this product is that it relies on enzyme cultures to eat away the messes and get rid of odors. Even the most discerning noses won’t be able to detect any odors and scents after the cleaner has done its job.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is plant-based and contains both enzyme cultures and citrus extracts. It works well on organic messes, but is less effective on petroleum or chemical-based messes. However, if your kid spills their drink in the car (or if they puke), this car carpet cleaner will easily remove odors and get rid of any stains. The formula is non-toxic and safe to use around chemicals and pets. It’s fragrance-free and also contains no artificial colors.
Ease of Use
Just pour some of the product out onto the stained area or onto the carpet and you’re good to go. This full-strength formula does not need to be further diluted. You will have to wait for it to dry, so make sure that you open all of the windows for proper ventilation.
Possible Applications
This car carpet cleaner can be used on all carpets and upholstery within your car and in your home. Although effective in the short-term, it’s not great for leather and many other fabrics, so be wary of over-using it on this surface.

Pros

Ultra-concentrated for less waste and more savings
Environmentally-friendly and recyclable
Not tested on animals
Plant-based formula containing no phosphates, chlorine, ammonia and other harsh chemicals
Removes odors and stains

Cons

Works only on organic messes
Takes some time to dry

9. Best Dry Carpet Cleaner: Capture Carpet Powder

View on Amazon
Why we like it: You don’t need a lot of powder to clean a small carpet area. Powder cleaners also last a long time. One tub can last years!
Editor’s Rating:

Most people don’t realize that car carpet cleaners can also come in the form of dry powder. This type of cleaning solution is easy to work with and a little goes a long way. In fact, just one pail of this powder can clean up to 400 square feet! You’ll have enough to clean your carpets for years! Another benefit of choosing dry powder is that it doesn’t go bad, and the powder will be just as effective years down the road.
Many people prefer dry powder because wet cleaners add moisture to the carpet. Those who don’t clean the wet cleaners up properly may end up with mildew. This may also prolong the life of the carpet, so it looks pristine for as long as possible.
Although dry powder is easy to work with and has many advantages, you will need some tools. You’ll need to brush the powder into the carpet using circular motions and vacuum it off the carpet afterward. This type of cleaning solution can be a bit time-consuming to use.
Formulation and Functionality
One pail can last for years. The pails come with a resealable lid for easy storage, and the formula will remove odors, stains and dirt. It locks onto stains to prevent them from spreading. The formula is also non-toxic and safe for kids and pets. This formula will remove moisture from carpets as well.
Ease of Use
This product isn’t necessarily the easiest to use. You need to brush the product into the carpet and then vacuum it up. The manufacturer also recommends using a pre-mist spray on the carpet for tougher stains. To get the most out of the product, you should also use a sifter to apply the powder, so that only a fine layer of the product is on the carpet.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on carpets, rugs, upholstery, furniture, sofa and couches. It is also safe for all types of carpets, like wool and code s fabric carpets.

Pros

One pail cleans up to 400 square feet
Locks in stains and prevent them from spreading
Extremely affordable
Removes dirt, odor, stains and moisture
Safe for all types of carpets

Cons

Requires brushing and vacuuming
Needs pre-misting for tougher stains

10. Hoover CleanPlus Concentrated Solution

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This car carpet cleaner smells amazing. If you’re looking for that clean, linen scent, this is what you need!
Editor’s Rating:

The Hoover CleanPlus concentrated solution is one of the best smelling car carpet cleaners on our list. You’ll get that lovely fresh linen scent that will remind you of fresh laundry. Another thing that we like about this product is that it’s made in the USA. The only downside about this product is that the fragrance can irritate some sensitive noses. If you have a fragrance allergy, you might want to consider staying away from this product.
Formulation and Functionality
This car carpet cleaner is a powerful concentrated detergent solution that can tackle stains, odors, dirt and grime. It’s phosphate-free, non-toxic and even septic safe. This product is highly concentrated, so you only need to use a little bit to get rid of tough stains.
Ease of Use
As the product is very concentrated, you only need a little bit. This product is super easy to use, and can even be used with any deep cleaning machine for a more thorough clean. For the toughest stains, we recommend applying the Hoover Pre-Treat Spray with this cleaner.
Possible Applications
This detergent solution can be used on carpets, area rugs, car interiors and upholstery. One product can get a lot of cleaning done!

Pros

Lovely fresh linen scent
Can be used on home upholstery and carpets
Offers a powerful, deep clean
Concentrated solution so a little goes a long way
Made in the USA

Cons

Not ideal for those with sensitive noses or fragrance allergies

A Complete Guide to Car Carpet Cleaners
It’s never a bad idea to have a can or jar of car carpet cleaner in your house. You never know when you’ll need to clean up a mess or spill. There are so many products out there that there’s bound to be one that will meet all of your requirements and needs.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Car Carpet Cleaners
Finding the right car carpet cleaner is no easy task. Other than the formulation and functionality, ease of use and possible applications, there are a lot of other factors that you need to take into consideration in order to find a cleaner that meets all your needs. Some other factors to consider include:
The Scent
Some people absolutely love a nicely scented cleaner, while those with sensitive noses may prefer something that’s unscented. If the car carpet cleaner is unscented, you’ll need to consider whether it has a natural smell from the chemicals that it contains. Some popular scents for car carpet cleaners include lavender, lemon and even mint. These scents can leave your car smelling fresh and new. This is a good choice if you like your cleaners to smell nice.
Overall Price
Don’t just look at the total price when considering the cost of a car carpet cleaner. Consider the amount of product that you get and the amount of product that you’ll have to use to get the desired results. If you’re concerned about price, go for this one.
The Amount
If you’re a soccer mom who is constantly taking your kids to soccer practice, you’re likely going to clean the carpets a lot more often than someone who happens to stay at home more often. It’d be in your best interest to look for a product that comes in a larger volume, so that one purchase can last for numerous cleanings.
Some consumers may also want to consider the type of packaging that the product comes in and whether the product is environmentally-friendly. Think about what you need before you start on your quest to find the perfect car carpet cleaner.
Useful Supplemental Tools to Have
Most of the car carpet cleaners that we’ve outlined in our guide can be used by themselves, or at least with a machine; however, if you have any of the following additional tools, you can also use them to expedite the cleaning process:
Carpet Steamers
Carpet steamers are great for cleaning particularly dirty carpets in no time. These machines use both suction and piping hot water to dislodge and remove dirt and debris. Some of these machines even have a place for you to add a car carpet cleaner. For an easier cleaning job, look for carpet steamers that are cordless.
Scrub Brushes with Tough Bristles
These brushes are best for getting tough stains out of carpets. They’ll loosen any dirt or debris that may be embedded within the carpet fibers for a more thorough clean. It’s best to avoid wire brushes, as these are best reserved for harder surfaces, like concrete or tiles. These tools are also great to have on hand for other cleaning tasks, and they’re extremely affordable.
Wet-Dry Vacuums
Wet and dry vacuums are similar to regular vacuums, but they can handle both liquid spills and dry messes. These vacuums are great for heavy cleaning and require very little maintenance. The only downside is that the filters need to be changed regularly.
Supplemental tools can enhance the overall effectiveness of the cleaning product, and can also make the cleaning job a lot easier to handle.
The Different Types of Car Carpet Cleaners
There are quite a few different car carpet cleaners on the market. The type that will be the best fit for your car will depend on your needs. For example, if you take your dog on muddy hikes all the time, you might want to find something that will not only get rid of the dirt, but also any unpleasant odors. If there are a lot of nooks and crannies in your car, you might need a carpet cleaner that can get into those hard-to-reach areas. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of car carpet cleaners below.
Aerosol
Aerosol spray cans are very popular when it comes to car carpet cleaners, as they offer a powerful foaming action that can evenly distribute the cleaning solution everywhere. One can of these products can usually easily clean a four-door sedan with a moderate amount of dirt and stains. These products also tend to have a longer shelf life, as the contents inside are protected from light and air. Aerosol containers are also typically considered to be safer and more durable in comparison to other types of packaging. They’re leak-proof, so they’re great for packing some of the stronger chemicals that may be used for cleaning carpets.
Deodorizing
Many car carpet cleaners are marketed as deodorizers as well. These cleaners will get rid of any unwanted scents and odors that may linger in your car using powerful encapsulating agents.
These cleaners do not simply cover up the odor using a fragrance. Instead, the encapsulating agents will bond with the odor molecules to permanently change their structure and eliminate them. Deodorizers add a fresh scent and offer long-lasting results. They neutralize the odor at its source and remove it forever.
Dry Powder
Dry carpet cleaners are not as popular as wet ones; however, these products are definitely worth looking at. These cleaning products rely on small, porous beads to attract all of the dirt and debris in the carpet. All you have to do is sprinkle some of the dry carpet cleaner powder onto the carpet and let it do its job. To remove the cleaner, simply vacuum it up. It’s fast, simple and easy!
There are many benefits to using a dry product. Carpet fibers are quite absorbent, and may absorb the water of wet detergents and cleaning solutions. This means that a small amount of residue may be left behind in the carpet, and this residue may end up damaging the carpet fibers in the long run. Some people believe that there’s a chance that wet products may worsen localized soiling. Dry cleaning products may also prevent mold and mildew growth.
Spray Bottle
Many people like car carpet cleaners packaged in spray bottles, especially if they don’t want to deal with the foaming power of aerosol or other types of packaging. With that said, it’s easy to aim the nozzle at a specific area and soak one spot of the carpet. This is why these cleaners will typically have formulas that target deep stains. Spray bottles can also help you aim at hard-to-reach areas with more ease.
Liquid Solutions
You can also purchase a huge tub or jar of cleaning solution. All you have to do is pour some of that solution onto the carpet and let it sit. Some of these liquid solutions are very concentrated, and you’ll need to dilute them first.
Five Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Your Car Carpets
You don’t need to be a professional to get your car carpets looking like new. All you need is a little experience, skill and the right car carpet cleaner like our top overall pick. If you’ve never tried cleaning your car’s carpet before, here are five tips and tricks that will help.
#1. Remove All Visible Debris, Trash and Items
To get a good clean, you’ll want to apply the car carpet cleaning solution evenly. This means that you should remove all visible debris, trash and other items to ease the overall process. If the seats are in the way, move them forward or back. If they’re removable, you may even want to consider removing the seats entirely. Remove your car’s floor mats as well.
#2. ALWAYS Vacuum the Carpet Thoroughly First
A portable vacuum cleaner will come in handy when cleaning your carpets. Use special vacuum attachments to get into hard-to-reach areas, like under the seats. You want to get out as much dirt, grime, dust and crumbs as possible before applying the car carpet cleaner, so that it can easily penetrate deep into the carpet.
#3. Brush in the Cleaner Using Circular Motions
After letting the cleaner sit for several minutes, you’ll want to start brushing it into the carpet using circular motions. You should still do this even if you’re using an instant car carpet cleaner. With an instant car carpet cleaner, however, you’ll notice that the formula will start to dry within seconds, so you’ll need to start brushing within 1 to 2 seconds of applying it to your carpet.
Brushing in the car carpet cleaner using circular motions will help bring out dirt and grime that are locked in the carpet fibers. It can also help more efficiently remove some of the more stubborn stains that may have been sitting in your carpet for some time now.
#4. “Rinse” the Carpet with a Damp Cloth
While this is not always useful, some car carpet cleaners may recommend that you use a damp cloth to “rinse” the carpet afterward in order to remove as much residue as possible. This may also help in facilitating quicker drying. If you want to be fancy, you can even use a microfiber cloth. It’ll be gentler on the carpet fibers.
#5. Open All Doors and Windows for Faster Drying
Last but not least, keep all your doors and windows open when cleaning the carpets. This will help facilitate quicker drying, so you’ll get the job done in half the time. It’ll also prevent any mold, fungi or damp-loving microbes from finding a home in your car.
Check out this DIY video below for a more detailed walkthrough on how to clean the carpet in your car.
[embedded content]
The Right Car Carpet Cleaner
Most car carpet cleaners will work like a charm. Dispense a little bit of product at a time, as a little can go a long way. If you find that there’s still a stain, or if you’re simply unhappy with the results, consider cleaning the carpets a few more times before calling it quits. This is especially true for pesky stains that you’ve allowed to sit for years. Soon, your car will be clean inside and out, and you can be happy with a job well done. More

Driving your vehicle through a fancy drive-through car wash is effective, and it’s even entertaining if you have little kids as passengers. However, there’s no denying that the cost adds up over time. Hand washing your vehicle at home is another great option but not everyone enjoys an afternoon in the sun meticulously scrubbing off every little spot.
A terrific middle ground for the person who wants a high-quality wash without the time commitments of hand scrubbing is a pressure washer. Maintaining a clean car does not only look better, but it actually helps preserve the life of the car and can ward off the threat of rust from built-up grime and salt.

How to Choose the Best Pressure Washer
Owning your own pressure washer means you have the convenience of getting a perfect wash without even needing to leave your home. There are numerous washers on the market, each offering a different experience. Here are factors to consider before making a purchase.
Ease of Use
Think of who will be the primary user of the pressure washer and take that into consideration. Washers come in a range of weight, portability, and ease of operating.
Strength of Spray
Lightweight pressure washers are wonderful for small jobs around the house and minor maintenance sprays between car washes. They don’t pack the same punch as a more heavy-duty pressure washer which, while more versatile, is also more difficult to move around.
Gas or Electric?
Gas pressure washers have the convenience of being moved around without a wire tethering it to a limited area. Yet, electric washers mean you never have to remember to have the fuel on hand; you only need to plug it in. Gas pressure washers usually produce more power than electric ones, and are often more rugged and can handle more hazardous terrain. What’s more, the fact you don’t need to plug it in means you can take your gas pressure washer anywhere, while electric pressure washers will have to be anchored to a power source.
Water Consumption
Pressure washers that use less water can still be very effective, and very economical. If you plan on using a pressure washer regularly, finding one that keeps the water usage to a minimum can save you money and help the environment.
For this guide we narrowed down our selection based on these characteristics so that you are able to select the most fitting pressure washer for your needs. While reading through our reviews, there are a few terms or initializations that you will need to understand:
PSI – This stands for pounds per square inch. It refers to how powerful the stream of water that comes out of the hose of the pressure washer will be. The higher the number, the stronger the stream of water.
GPM – This stands for gallons per minute. This is the total amount of water that is sprayed out each minute.
HP – This stands for horsepower. This will only apply to gas-powered power washers and references the amount of power generated by the engine. A larger number here indicates a more powerful engine.
Amp – This is short for amperage and is the term used to describe the strength of the electrical current in an electric pump or motor. A higher number here is a stronger pump.
After our list, we have a complete guide to choosing the right pressure washer at the bottom of this page. If you want more in-depth information before making a purchase, you can find it there. Now, let’s hose down that car and get it sparkling.

Top 10 Best Pressure Washers for Cars 2020

1. Best Overall Electric Pressure Washer: Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Sun Joe produces excellent pressure washers, and this is their standout model. Two separate detergent tanks and a high-quality build make this versatile enough to clean any car and more besides.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 14.5 Amp/1800-watt motor. Up to 2030 PSI
Water Usage – 1.76 GPM
Type: Electric
Review
For an easy-to-use, portable, affordable, yet powerful option, few pressure washers can compete with the Sun Joe washer. It is smaller than a typical gas pressure washer, and thus easy to move from project to project. Being small and portable makes it perfect for using on your car, truck, RV, or boat as you’re moving around. A powerful 14.5 Amp motor creating 1.76 GPM means it’ll handle even very tough stains.
This model has two separate detergent tanks, so you can use different cleaning products based on your particular needs. At the 0.9 liters each, the detergent tanks are not as big as you would find on larger pressure washer models. The fact that there are two of them, however, means that you have the convenience of switching between soaps for different parts of your project. For example, while washing your car, you can have your detergent for windows and windshields in one, while you keep the soap for the body
This machine is very easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of reading of the instructions to try and figure things out. That also means it’s quite light on features. As it is straightforward, even an inexperienced person can confidently tackle their power washing projects. If you are just looking for a pressure washer that is easy to use, affordable, and still powerful enough to really clean your vehicle, this is very likely the best option for you.

Pros

Compact size makes it portable and easy to store
Very easy to use
Dual detergent containers

Cons

Soap containers are not very large
Light on features

2. Best Budget Power Washer: Greenworks GPW1602 Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon

Why we like it: For the price, this power washer cleans extremely well and is particularly suited for smaller vehicles.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 13 Amp. Up to 1600 PSI
Water Usage – 1.3 GPM
Type: Electric
Review
If you are someone who likes to keep your car looking great with frequent washes, portability and ease of setup are crucial factors to consider in your washer. The Greenworks electric washer is an excellent choice for someone serious about keeping a clean car and it is also one of the most affordable machines on the market. While the price is quite low, the overall quality is still excellent. With 1600 PSI generating 1.2 GPM, it is more than sufficient for getting a quality clean on your car.
The hose is 20 feet, which is enough length to get around smaller vehicles but may not be enough slack to circle around larger trucks, boats, and RVs. Luckily, the unit is extremely lightweight and easy to move at only 17.5 lbs. It does not have a built-in detergent tank, but a soap applicator tip is easy to install and use. After applying the soap, you just have to switch back to whichever pressure tip you need for your project.
It’s on the quieter side while running and is certainly quieter than a gas-powered washer. While it does not boast the same strength as larger, more expensive pressure washers, it can, therefore, be used for small tasks around the house like washing patio furniture and house siding without fear of damage.
When you’re done with your project, this compact little pressure washer can easily be stored in a garage or shed while taking up too much space. The hose is quite short, however, which can be problematic when trying to get to some areas around the house. Those who only need it for washing vehicles will find that this may be the best deal on the market today. If you also want to use it to wash decks, homes, and other things, it may be best to find a washer with a little more power.

Pros

Compact, portable, lightweight and a small footprint for storage
Very affordable price
Easy to switch between nozzles

Cons

No detergent container
Hose is only 20 feet long

3. Best Premium Power Washer: Sun Joe SPX3500 Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon

Why we like it: Great energy efficiency and maneuverability make this Sun Joe pressure washer a nice trade-up on our overall pick.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 13-amp. Up to 2300 PSI
Water Usage – 1.48 GPM
Type: Electric
Review
Sun Joe is a great go-to pressure washer brand, and this is another, slightly more expensive, model of pressure washer that is an excellent, powerful machine. With 2300 PSI of cleaning power, it produces 1.48 GPM of water. This machine’s unique feature that makes it stick out from the rest is that it has an adjustable detergent dial to control how much soap you would like to dispense onto your working surface. This is ideal for people who wash their cars frequently and know which parts of the car would benefit from more or less detergent being applied.
Its 20-foot hose and 35-foot power cord coupled with its large “easy glide” wheels make it easy to move this heavier unit weighing in at 46.5lbs. We love that its weight, concentrated in the bottom of the machine, means that it does not tip over while you’re in the middle of using it, as can sometimes happen with lightweight plastic-body machines.
The “Total Stop System” means that the pump will shut off when the trigger isn’t being held to save energy and prevent the pump from being worn out.  It comes with five different spray tips to suit your various needs and an onboard detergent tank with a capacity of 40.6 fluid ounces.

Pros

Onboard storage for the hose and cord
Easy and straightforward setup
Pump stops when not in use to save energy
“Total Stop System” minimizes use of electricity

Cons

On the heavy side for an electric pressure washer
Only a 20-foot hose

4. Most Powerful Pressure Washer: TEANDE 3800PSI Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Extreme power means no matter what paces you put your car through, this pressure washer will clean it all, and much more besides.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 1800 Watt. Up to 3800 PSI.
Water Usage – 2.8 GPM
Type: Gas
Review
This electric pressure washer has a powerful 1800-Watt motor generating up to 3800 psi and a GPM rate of 2.8. It is an excellent tool for washing your car, but with that kind of force, it’s also versatile enough for other outdoor projects like fences and patio furniture. It can even be used to power wash your deck or home! It comes with five nozzles for different spray patterns. They are easy to connect and give you options depending on the task you are tackling.
One of the great features of this model is that the body of the machine has a storage compartment for these nozzles and all accessories. The hose is only 6 meters (about 18 feet) long, which might not be quite as much as is needed for larger vehicles. The machine is on wheels for easy mobility, but the wheels are hard plastic, which can make it hard to pull or push through grass or other uneven surfaces.
The power cord, however, is sufficiently long for nearly any task you have in mind at 35 feet. The sleek-looking body comes in green and blue and has a simple, accessible appearance. The ease of use cannot be overstated; it is a very straightforward machine. Despite the impressive power that this machine produces, it is still very quiet thanks to the fact that it uses an electric motor.

Pros

Compact and extremely easy to use for just about anyone
Sleek, simple, attractive looking unit
Excellent performance for most household jobs like cars, decks, and walkways

Cons

Nozzles need to be switched for different jobs, as opposed to just adjusting a handle on the wand.
Plastic wheels, as opposed to tubes or rubber.

5. Best Gas Powered Washer: Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: A reliable Honda engine and excellent wheels make this a great gas-powered choice for those heavy-duty washes.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 6HP. 3200 PSI
Water Usage – 2.5 GPM
Type: Gas
Review
If you are eager to tackle heavy cleaning projects while also having a unit that works perfectly for a lower pressure job such as your automobile, consider the Simpson MegaShot gasoline pressure washer. This machine boasts a Honda engine, so you can count on it being reliable and long-lasting. However, since it’s a gas engine, it’s quite loud.
While many pressure washers have plastic parts, including plastic wands, this washer has only heavy-duty metal, so it can handle being used for all kinds of projects without fear of causing much damage. The metal frame of the unit completely surrounds the engine, making it able to trek out into all kinds of terrain with you.
This portability is made even easier with its enormous tire wheels. Because it is a heavy machine at 55lbs, the wheels are terrific for making it simple and painless to move around your yard or project area. For washing your car, it has a 25-foot hose, allowing for an easy time getting around your vehicle. This hose is also engineered to be kink and abrasion-resistant. It comes with five easy-to-used nozzle tips for various jobs.
This model, unlike many others, does not have a built-in tank for detergent. While that may be a turn off for some, it may also be a time-saving feature. The pressure washer comes with a clear hose that can be directly inserted into your detergent, so you can actually use the detergent’s original container; no pouring or measuring needed!

Pros

Comes assembled and is almost ready to use out the box
Powerful and therefore versatile for all kinds of projects, not just your car
Long, durable, kink-resistant hose
Large fuel tank to keep you working without interruption

Cons

No built-in detergent tanks
Since it is a powerful, gas engine, it’s loud

6. Tacklife GSW01A Gas Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: Phenomenal power and high-quality parts, including a metal spray gun, make this a quality option for those who need serious cleaning work done.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 6.5HP. 3300PSI
Water Usage – 2.6 GPM
Type: Gas
Review
For the serious do-it-yourselfer, this pressure washer is a tool unlike any other. Yes, it will efficiently clean your vehicle, but it can also clean just about anything else imaginable with its remarkable 3300 PSI at 2.6 GPM. Its price tag is higher than most, but there is no questioning the quality and durability behind this machine. It comes with five nozzle attachments to meet the needs of various projects.
The large detergent tank holds a full gallon, so you will not be constantly interrupted by the need for refills as you wash. Likewise, the gas tank is 3.8 liters, meaning you are free to roam for a long period of time without having to worry about a power cord getting in your way.
Weighing in at 77.16lbs, it’s comparable to other heavy-duty gas-powered washers, but its portability is still made easy by its huge, 12-inch wheels. Its 30-foot hose is engineered to last with its three layers of durable material to be flexible and wear-resistant.
Another bonus of this model is that the spray gun is metal instead of plastic, making it last longer. If you only want to pressure wash your car, this washer would definitely be overkill. But if you are looking to wash your car while also maintaining a spotless home and property, this Tacklife pressure washer is a hard model to beat.

Pros

Packs an enormous punch at 3300 PSI
Suitable for any pressure washing jobs
Large one-gallon detergent tank

Cons

Heavyweight machine makes it a little harder to take out on a whim
One of the more expensive power washers on the market

7. Annovi Reverberi AR383SS Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: A long hose means it’s easy to circumnavigate your boat or large truck with this pressure washer.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 13-amp motor. 1900 PSI.
Water Usage – 1.3 GPM
Type: Electric
Review
For a compact, powerful pressure washer that will allow mobility around your larger vehicles, the Annovi Reverberi Electric pressure washer may be the one for you. This washer is compact yet powerful delivering 1900 PSI at 1.3 GPM. The 30-foot flexible hose coupled with a 35-foot power cord means you can easily move around your workspace or maneuver around larger trucks or boats with the 33lb unit. However, while in use, you must unwind the entire length of the host to attach at both ends.
One of the things that really stood out to us was the durability and accessibility. While many power washers have plastic pieces or converters for the hose, this Annovi model uses metal for all the heavy wear pieces, so you will be happy pressure washing with this machine for years to come. Because this is a mid-sized electric washer, you are sure to have the power you need for most at-home washing projects.
At the same time, it is small enough for nearly anyone to easily use, move, and store without hassle. While it may be small, it does have a lot of power capacity, so be careful not to cause damage when starting out. The attachments that come with this model include a washer gun, a wand, detergent tank (28oz. capacity), and four different pressure nozzles.
With the impressive power and long list of features, we expected this to be priced quite a bit higher. It offers great value at its price point.

Pros

Size strikes a balance between powerful and portable
Surprisingly affordable
Metal parts used for all key areas

Cons

The hose reel is for storage when not in use.

8. STANLEY FATMAX SXPW2823K Gas Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This is a gas pressure washer that’s easy to use and is slightly less powerful than other models, but more maneuverable as a result.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 4.3HP. 2800 PSI
Water Usage – 2.3 GPM
Type: Gas
Review
For powerful pressure washer that you can use for all kinds of projects around the house, including your vehicle, consider the Stanley Fatmax pressure washer. With an efficient 2.3 GPM, it is a good option for smaller projects and bigger endeavors alike. Switching between different levels of pressure is made easy by a simple twist of the pressure adjustment handle.
Its hose is a durable kink-resistant material and the body is engineered to be resistant to corrosion. KOHLER manufactures the engine, ensuring a powerful and long-lasting lifespan on this pressure washer. Something unique about this model is that the front panel has an easy to reference image to instruct you as to which pressure you ought to be using for your given project, ranging from gentle to abrasive. It helps remove the effort of thinking when embarking on a task.
With this powerful machine, your car will likely only need a “gentle” spray. The convenient soap reservoir is accessible and has a very large capacity; up to a gallon of detergent will fit. If you are worried about the difficulty of starting the engine with a gas-powered washer and prefer the ease of an electric start, do not be too quick to eliminate the Stanley Fatmax as an option. This washer has been fitted with KOHLER’s “Easy-Pull” technology to get you up and running on the very first pull.
Of course, with such a powerful engine, it is also on the heavy side. But standing at 35.5 inches tall with large, 12-inch “never flat” wheels, it is still able to be wheeled around with relative ease.

Pros

Versatile for more than just your car
Thoughtfully engineered to be long-lasting
Easy pull technology for easy starting

Cons

The engine is loud, as gas washers tend to be
A powerful engine means it will use quite a bit of gas

9. Karsher K2 Electric Pressure Washer

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This is a low-powered but easy to use pressure washer that’s great for giving your car an occasional clean.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 120 Volts. 1600 PSI
Water Usage – 1.25 GPM
Type: Electric
Review
Weighing only 16.8lbs, this Karsher K2 electric washer is ideal for frequent use when you want to get out and start washing without a lot of setup time. It is also perfect for anyone to use, no matter how strong they are, because it’s so easy to use and lightweight, while still having more than enough power to get a professional-grade wash on your car. For being such a small machine, you will be surprised by its 1600 PSI producing 1.25 GPM.
One of the best features about buying this machine is the accessories that are included to make cleaning your car and home a breeze. A large surface cleaning attachment is excellent for cleaning surfaces like driveways and patios without producing cumbersome backsplash that leaves you soaking wet. The detergent foamer included in the bundle produces a thick lather of foamy soap to spray on your work surface. It includes two detergents: a multipurpose detergent (for decks, driveways, and the like,) and a detergent specifically for vehicles.
The included soft bristle brush guarantees you will not scratch your car, while the surface cleaner attachment is suitable for more intense jobs. While there is certainly a lot to love about this power washer, some of the included attachments aren’t as durable as they should be. These parts have to be very strong to withstand the high pressure, and the type of plastic used may not be up to the job in all cases.

Pros

Good selection of accessories, especially for washing your car
Lightweight and thus accessible for nearly anyone to use
Very quiet even when operating at max power

Cons

Plastic attachments are not very durable

10. WORX WG625 Cordless Power Cleaner

View on Amazon
Why we like it: A micro-pressure washer that can harvest water from any source and turn it into a strong jet for simple cleaning tasks.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Power Specs – 20 Volt. 320 PSI
Water Usage – .53 GPM
Type: Battery
While this model certainly differs from a traditional electric or gas-powered pressure washer, it is still a terrific option for a washer that will leave you with a shining clean car, truck, boat, or RV. It delivers five times the amount of pressure that a regular garden hose nozzle provides.
That said, It is not nearly as powerful as a traditional pressure washer and isn’t suitable for larger jobs like pressure washing a deck or driveway. Yet its portability and variety of water source options make it a great option specifically for cleaning vehicles.
It can be used with a simple garden hose or, using the included hose, it can draw water from sources like lakes, ponds, or a bucket of water. It delivers 320 PSI and produces a flow of 0.53 GPM. Avid car washers will appreciate that there is no threat to damaging their vehicles while still getting a powerful spray.
Customers who are avid campers love this product because it is portable and easy to keep in your truck and RV or camper so you can clean throughout your journey. It is also great for spraying off patio furniture and dirty boots while camping.
Having a battery as a power source means you can go virtually anywhere there’s water without needing an electric plug or heavy gas engine. It takes around 5 hours for the 20V battery to charge, so it takes some foresight to make sure you are powered up before spraying. While we certainly love the convenience of this machine, it would be nice if the battery lasted longer. If you plan on using this regularly, it makes sense to invest in an extra battery pack or two.

Pros

Extremely portable and lightweight
Can use water from nearly any freshwater source
Perfect for camping

Cons

Not as versatile as traditional pressure washers
Battery life is to short

The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Pressure Washer for Your Vehicle
A pressure washer is one of those tools that you might not think you need until you realize what they are capable of. And once you start using one, it will not be long before you’ll be addicted to using it on your vehicles, your home, and anywhere else that could use a good cleaning. If you are a home and vehicle owner, you will almost certainly use a pressure washer enough to justify making a purchase rather than renting one when it is needed.
Most traditional pressure washers attach to your outdoors garden hose to boost your water pressure and allow you to accomplish all kinds of tasks around your home and property.
The most common uses include washing vehicles (including, cars, trucks, RVs, boats), the walls of a house, cement driveways, fences, and decks. It does not just clean, but also makes for an indispensable preparation tool before staining or painting surfaces.
There are a variety of attachments available for different models of pressure washers to help make your tasks as easy as possible. Many of these come with the washers, but there are often numerous other aftermarket accessories available as well.
Now that you know the basics of what a pressure washer is and what it can be used for, it is time to learn about some of the specific options you will find on pressure washers. In each of the following cases it is important to note that one option is not necessarily better than another, just different. Understanding each option will help you to choose the one that is best for your particular situation.
Gasoline vs. Electricity
The main category differentiating different types of pressure washers is based on how they are powered. The two traditional means of power are electric pressure washers and gasoline-powered pressure washers. In general, a gas-powered pressure washer will be more powerful than an electric one. This is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). A gas-powered pressure washer can deliver upwards of 4,000 PSI, which is extremely powerful.
The average home and vehicle owner will not need that much force for accomplishing most tasks such as blasting off grime and dirt or prepping a surface for paint or stain. High-end electric pressure washers can still produce a very strong stream of water, which is more than enough to clean any vehicle. When deciding whether to get either a gas or an electric washer, make sure to think about these factors:
Noise – Gas-powered pressure washers are much louder than electric.
Convenience – There are no cords needed for a gas-powered washer, but you do have to make sure to keep plenty of fuel available.
Weight – Gas-powered washers tend to be significantly heavier than electric.
Efficiency
Another important thing to consider is how efficient the pressure washer will be. There are several different areas where this will be important. The first measurement to pay attention to is the gallons per minute (GPM). This measures how much water flows from the machine in a given minute. This is helpful for efficiently cleaning and rinsing away whatever dirt or other surface debris has been lifted by the intense pressure. A higher GPM machine uses more water, which can help to quickly wash away the dirt and debris on your vehicle or other surface. Using more water than you need to get the job done, on the other hand, is wasteful.
The next thing to look at is how much energy a machine is going to use. This will be measured in watts for electric pressure washers and fuel for gas-powered options. In general, the more powerful a machine is, the more energy is needed. Having a pressure washer that is more powerful than you need for a job is wasteful and will increase the cost of ownership over time. Choosing a model that has the level of power you need, but not too much, is important for efficient operations.
How to Properly Power Wash Vehicles
No matter which model you choose it is important that you use your power washer properly to clean your vehicles. We all know that keeping a clean, well-maintained car promotes the longevity of the car’s exterior and keeps rust and build-up at bay. Using a pressure washer is a great way to clean many areas of a vehicle, as long as you do it properly.
Cleaning the Body of the Vehicle
Most pressure washers have specialty soap foaming “canons” to apply a thick lather to your car which helps loosen the stuck-on grime. If you are someone who camps or boats, consider the ease with which you can clean your RV, camper, and boat using a pressure washer. To clean the exterior surfaces of your vehicles you simply fill up the detergent containers on the pressure washer (or attach the soap dispensing attachment) and begin spraying it on the exterior of your vehicle. It is typically recommended to use between 1200 and 2500 PSI settings when washing your vehicle.
There are many types of detergents specific to power washing vehicles that you should consider for the task. Just make sure that the soap is compatible for use with pressure washers and begin the job. Once you have sprayed the entire surface of the vehicle with the soapy water, turn off the soap dispenser and start using clean water to rinse. You can use a higher-pressure stream of water to get the soap off at first. When ready, it is generally recommended to use a low-pressure setting for the final rinse to help avoid water spots.
Washing the Wheels
Wheels can get dirty very quickly. To make it worse, the dirt and debris that gets on the wheels are often very difficult to get off. When you are ready to wash your wheels and tires, you will want to turn the pressure up to at least 1500 PSI and spray them down. You can purchase soaps that are designed specifically for washing wheels and tires if you choose, but simply spraying them with water is often enough to get them looking nice.
Washing the Engine
A clean engine is just as important as cleaning the rest of your car. Many people don’t realize this, but power washing your engine is actually quite good for a vehicle, as long as it is done properly. First, make sure your engine is off and completely cooled down. Next, set your power washer to a lower PSI (1200 or lower) and use a wide spraying nozzle. Begin spraying down the entire engine area to remove any leaves, twigs, small rocks, and other items that can get trapped in the area. This should all be done from above the engine spraying down so any debris falls out the bottom.
One of the most important aspects of washing your engine is getting rid of any built-up grease. To do this, add a degreasing detergent to the soap dispenser and use that while spraying the engine. Finally, rinse it off again with clean water. The engine will dry on its own through evaporation, or you can drive it around so that the heat and wind get rid of all the excess water.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing to consider before making your purchase is to ask yourself what you will actually be using the pressure washer for and how often you will use it. Will you simply use it a few times per year to clean your vehicle? Or will you use it weekly on your car and each season to wash your siding, decking, and other items?
For simply washing the car and the occasional small task like washing garden tools, a mid-grade electric pressure washer, such as our top pick, would be ideal and will not break the bank. For someone hoping to frequently maintain their siding, cement, and decks or fences, a more powerful electric or gas pressure washer, such as this one, would fit the bill.
Take into consideration the length of the power cord on whichever electric model you consider to make sure it would be suitable to reach your desired work area. In the end, purchasing a good quality power washer is almost always a great investment that will help you to keep your cars and your home looking their best. More

A good paint job will define a car. Some paint jobs, like the airbrush overload of the seventies, define an entire generation of car culture. If you have a project car, you know that eventually you will have to give it that final touch. You are going to need to prime, paint and shine. You’re going to need a paint gun.
Spraying paint at something is not a complicated process. After all, a can of spray paint is an all-in-one paint gun and paint container, and it costs a few dollars to grab a rattle can. So, it can’t be that hard to lay down some paint. With that in mind, It seems so crazy to know that there are thousands of paint guns on the market, each offering a special take on this simple process. How do you choose the one for you, and what exactly do you need?

A Short Primer on Buying a Paint Gun
First, read this quick primer. We’ll lay out the quick facts so you can get into the process fast and delve right into choosing. After our recommendations, there will be a much more in-depth guide at the bottom here.
HVLP
The first thing to know is that there are different types of spray guns. You can dive into it in more detail down here, but the most common type is called an HVLP sprayer.
HVLP stands for High Volume, Low Pressure. That means it can spray a lot of paint, and you don’t need tornado force winds to do it. They work best with thin to medium viscosity material. Your standard auto paints and clear coats fit nicely into that category. They also offer the best compromise between how fast you can paint something and how much overspray you have to worry about.
How Is the Paint Fed
Paint guns have a few different ways to actually get the paint into the gun.
A siphon feed, or conventional, spray gun has a cup underneath it. There’s a tube going into the container that sucks up the material and injects it into the air. Siphon feed guns are the easiest to use. They are also crucial for spraying some specialized materials like metal flecked paint.
A gravity feed gun has a cup on top, and it uses gravity to push the material into the gun. The gravity assisting makes the gun more efficient. That efficiency contributes to better atomization, a smoother finish, and less wasted material.
A pressure feed gun uses a pressurized container or a pump to push the paint up into the gun. It doesn’t need to siphon or rely on gravity. That means you can spray upside down, which can be really handy in tight spots. The downside is that it is much harder to clean because of the extra hoses and complications of the pressurized canister.
The Source of Air
HVLP guns are all powered by air. The air flows through, at low pressure, and mixes with the paint to form the spray. The most common sources of air are turbines or air compressors. You can read our guide below if you want to compare them.
The important thing is to make sure your air source meets the requirements for the gun you buy. Pressure, measured in PSI, and volume, measured in CFM, are the two most important numbers.
Some guns have a turbine or air compressor already attached, like the HomeRight HVLP in the recommendations. Others come with their own dedicated air source, like the Wagner Spraytech. Most dedicated HVLP guns, however, will require you to provide your own air source.
Quality
The quality of the gun makes a big difference in three main areas.
How Easy They Are to Clean
Sprayers have to be cleaned after every use. Dried material inside the gun turns it into a fancy paperweight. The easier they are to clean, the easier it’ll be to avoid that fate.
How Long They Will Last
Plastic parts, as well as cheaper metals, will wear out with a lot of use. If you plan on spraying a few projects a year, you’ll be okay with a gun that isn’t as robust as others. If you plan to lay down a few hundred gallons a year, you would be better off spending the money for a gun with better quality construction.
The Consistency of Spray
In order to get the best paint job possible you need a gun that is precise. High-quality guns will have better machining and accuracy. That gives them the ability to lay down a more consistent coat and a better finish over cheaper guns.
Type of Job
There are lots of different paints and finishes that can be applied to a car. It is essential to make sure the gun you choose can spray the material you want to use. That doesn’t just include the size of the gun. A bigger gun will generally be able to spray more material, but it also includes smaller considerations like:
Nozzle/Tip Size
The size of the hole the material is sprayed out of dictates how thick the material you are spraying can be. Check out this chart at the bottom of the page to make sure you can use the material you need.
Container Size
If you are just doing touch up and airbrushing, you don’t need a large material reservoir. If you are painting a large area, though, having to refill often is annoying.
Hose Length
If you are supplying your own air compressor and hose, you don’t have to worry about it. If you are buying a unit with its own hose, make sure it’s long enough to do the job.
Once you have the basics in mind, it can still be tough to choose the right one because of the sheer number of options. Don’t worry, we have your back. Here are the 10 spray guns we would recommend.

Top 10 Paint Guns for Cars 2020

1. Best Overall Painting System: Fuji Semi-Pro 2 HVLP System

View on Amazon

Why we like it: The Fuji Semi-Pro is high quality and comes with everything you need to start spraying.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP, convertible to conventional feed.
Container Size: 12oz
Tip Size: 1.3mm installed, Interchangeable
Air Compressor/Turbine: Two-stage turbine included with 25ft hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The Fuji Semi-Pro 2 is perfect for someone with nothing but wants a good quality system for tackling a lot of small to medium projects. It comes with everything you need to get started and will grow with you over time.
First off, the gun is good quality. The metal parts will last a long time, and it features Fuji’s modular system. That means you can convert the gun to perform different tasks. If you want a high volume siphon cup, they sell one for it. If you want to turn it into a very fine airbrush-like gun, they sell parts to do that too.
The only issue is that you won’t want to do any big projects with this little unit. Even though you can buy and install a bigger reservoir, the included 12oz cup will have you spending more time mixing paint than spraying. The compressor isn’t big enough to lay down a large volume either. If you need to do bigger jobs, check out the Semi-Pro 2’s bigger brother on the list here. Just be prepared to spend a lot more.
Is It Easy to Use?
All HVLP guns have a learning curve, but the Semi-Pro 2 makes it easy to overcome by providing you with everything in one convenient package. You won’t have to worry about dialing in an air compressor or finding the right hose. At 25ft, the hose isn’t going to hold you back. You won’t have those awkward moments when you walk too far around a project and come unplugged.
The gun has plenty of adjustments too, so you can dial in the pattern you need. It also includes a gravity-fed no-bleed cup that looks a little intimidating at first, but it makes for a more intuitive feel to the trigger. Perhaps most importantly, it is easy to keep clean. The metal gun breaks down quickly, and you can scrub away without fear.

Pros

Parts are high quality
Air supply produces good power for the price
Modular gun is a very versatile platform
Gun is very easy to clean

Cons

Small reservoir means it’s not suited for large projects
Extra tip sizes and gun parts have to purchased separately and are expensive

2. Best Budget Paint System: Wagner Spraytech Complete

View on Amazon

Why we like it: The Wagner Spraytech is a complete system that is very budget-friendly.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
Container Size: 32oz and 48oz
Tip Size: Adjustable
Air Compressor/Turbine: Portable turbine and 20ft hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The Wagner Spraytech Complete is for the DIY painter on a budget. You get everything you need to start spraying at a very reasonable price. The turbine isn’t super powerful, but it’s enough for medium-sized jobs. Mostly, the straightforward design means even first time painters will quickly get the hang of it.
The biggest drawback to the Wagner Spraytech is the plastic. The entire thing is made of plastic, and plastic has a bad habit of wearing out over time. That should be fine if you only plan on spraying a few projects here and there. It’s also okay if you are looking for a first step into a new hobby. It doesn’t make sense to buy a high-quality, expensive machine like the Fuji on this list if you don’t even know that you like painting, or only expect to infrequently use it.
You won’t find much to complain about other than the quality, though. The Wagner can handle bigger jobs, boasting some of the largest reservoirs on this list. It also has a large tip that can handle a variety of materials. Storing the unit is also really easy; the portable turbine comes with a holder for the gun. That probably isn’t very high on the priority list, but it is pretty convenient when you have it.
Is It Easy to Use?
Everything about the Wagner makes it easy to use. The gun is lightweight and has very few parts, so it’s easy to work with. The hose is easy to connect and stretches 20ft. Since the tip is not interchangeable, you don’t have to worry about losing pieces. Just adjust the size with a dial on the side, and you are good to go. The only thing on the list easier to use is the HomeRight, but it doesn’t have nearly the power that the included Wagner turbine has.
It can be a little frustrating to keep clean, though. You’ll want to make sure to run cleaner through the gun until it runs clear to make sure nothing dries inside it. It’s a very inexpensive gun, but that doesn’t mean you want to replace it after one use.

Pros

Includes air supply
It’s straightforward to set up and use
Very inexpensive for a complete setup

Cons

Quality is low
Guns are not very adjustable

3. Most Convenient HVLP Sprayer: 3M Accuspray One Spray

View on Amazon

Why we like it: The Accuspray has quickly replaceable tips and cup liners. That makes it a dream to use and keep clean.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
Container Size: 32oz
Tip Size: Disposable 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, and 1.8mm, with a 2.0mm available for purchase
Air Compressor/Turbine: 10 CFM at 25 PSI compressor required, no hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The 3M Accuspray is a really unique gun, and it has one great feature that makes it worth the high price: the plastic tips are easy to remove and change out. If they get too dirty, you just throw them away and grab a new one out of the box. Every time you start a new project it’s like starting with a new gun.
The added bonus to having easy to replace tips is that you can swap in different sizes. If you start spraying a new material and it’s clogging up a bit, swap to a bigger tip. The time you save not having to re-mix paint or fiddle with dirty tips is worth the extra money it costs to get set up with the Accuspray.
Of course, there are a few downsides. You’ll need to supply your own air, so make sure you budget for that. Second, it’s never going to give you the quality you’ll get from something like the Finishline on this list because of the interchangeable plastic tips. It will do 99% of jobs, but if you need that upper 1% of quality, then you’ll need to spend the extra money on the high precision gun.
Is It Easy to Use?
It’s okay. You will need to source your own compressor and hoses, so that can be a hassle. However, you won’t have to worry very much about cleaning. Even if you forget and paint dries inside the gun, you can just pop the plastic parts off, and then toss the rest of it in the cleaner.
Even the cup has a removable liner, so you don’t have to clean out the reservoir after every use. You just throw it away. If you never want to waste time cleaning or messing with a gun that is getting a little worn out, here you go. If a part starts acting up, just toss it and grab a new one. It’s hard to oversell how convenient that is. The most frustrating thing in the entire world of spraying paint is a clogged tip.

Pros

Disposable liners and tips make cleanup very easy
Disposable tips are available in a range of sizes
One gun can be used for a lot of different projects

Cons

Consumables can become expensive over time
No included air supply

4. Best Premium HVLP Sprayer: Devilbiss Finishline 4

View on Amazon
Why we like it: This no-nonsense professional-grade gun will last you a lifetime.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
Container Size: 32oz
Tip Size: 1.3mm, 1.5mm, 1.8mm
Air Compressor/Turbine: 13 CFM at 25 PSI compressor required, no hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The Finishline 4 is just an HVLP sprayer, and it’s an expensive one at that. There are better options if you are just starting out. There are options like the CH spray gun further down that can use a smaller compressor and cost less.
However, if you have the compressor already and are comfortable with spraying, the Devilbiss Finishline won’t let you down. Devilbiss is a big player in the pro world and they are serious about their craft. The anodized frame and all-metal construction means it will last forever. The fit and finish means you’ll never walk around dripping. The buttery smooth double stage trigger feels excellent and won’t fatigue your hand even if you spend all year spraying.
You’ll also be laying down beautiful coats with low overspray. The high-efficiency gravity feed design will complement both years of practice and neophytes picking up a sprayer for the first time. It included extra tips and tons of adjustment dials. You can tune it for anything you want to spray through it.
Is It Easy to Use?
Let’s just get this out there, the answer is no. Higher-end guns just need more fiddling with. The adjustments are plentiful but very sensitive. That’s great if you want to dial in the perfect pattern, but can be frustrating as heck if you are new to spraying. Since it does not include an air supply, it’s up to you to source a compressor and hose. Having to buy those things adds another layer of complication to the process.
The only good news is that since it is made from corrosion-resistant metal, it’s easy to clean once you do take it apart. Even if you let the material dry on the inside of the gun, not all is lost. Shame on you for being lazy, but you can soak every piece in thinner and scrub it clean without fear.

Pros

High-quality parts
Very easy to clean
Multiple tips included
Highly adjustable gun

Cons

Expensive for a single gun
No air source included

5. Best Paint System for Large Projects: Fuji Mini-Mite 4 Platinum

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Fuji Mini-Mite 4 is a high power, high volume system that can handle a broad range of materials.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
Container Size: 32oz
Tip Size: 1.3mm, interchangeable
Air Compressor/Turbine: 4-stage turbine with 25ft hose
Who Is This Gun For?
This system is for the hardcore DIY crowd, or even as a backup for a professional shop. The Fuji Mini-Mite 4 Platinum is what happens if the Semi-Pro 2 from earlier on this list hits the gym and learns to lift. It has a 4 stage turbine that can oxidize even thick materials, and can lay down an ultra-smooth finish that will make your car worth telling people to stop breathing on.
The kit also comes with the larger sprayer that is better for bigger jobs. It sports a 32oz siphon cup attached to a 25ft hose. That way, you can do laps around your project without running out of room or paint. The gun is super high quality, too, even rivaling the more expensive standalone sprayers on this list like the Finishline.
All of that function comes for a price, though. The Mini-Mite is easily the most expensive thing we are willing to recommend here. It’s worth it if you plan on painting the next Concours winner.
Is It Easy to Use?
It is. It may be even easier to use than its smaller cousin. With a larger reservoir and a more traditional gun, you’ll spend more time spraying and less time fiddling setting it up.
Like other systems that include their own air source, the biggest advantage is that there’s no guessing or giant air compressors. Just pull it out of the box and go. The T-Series gun that the Mity-Mite comes with will be a little harder to clean than the M-Series. Still, it features the same no-bleed design that is standard on professional setups.
All of that combines to form one of the most intuitive and fast systems on this list. The extra power means you don’t have to be as accurate with viscosity, and the one-stage trigger means you just point and spray. Honestly, for the price, you’d hope that was the case – and thankfully it is.

Pros

Made from high-quality materials
Very easy to use and clean
Portable turbine produces a good amount of power
Large capacity gun can handle large projects

Cons

High initial investment price
Extra tip sizes and gun parts have to purchased separately and are expensive

6. Best HVLP Set for Any Project: TCP Global HVLP Set

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The TCP HVLP Set gives you a gun for primer, a gun for paint, and a small gun for airbrushing and touch up at a fantastic price.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP x3
Container Size: 32oz x2, 5oz x1
Tip Size: 1.8mm x1, 1.4mm x1, 1mm x1
Air Compressor/Turbine: 7 CFM at 30 PSI air compressor required, no hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The TCP HVLP set includes three different HVLP guns setting you up to tackle anything. The 1.8mm tipped gun can handle primers and other higher viscosity work. The 1.4mm tipped gun is perfect for lightweight paints and finishes. Finally, the smaller 1mm tipped gun is ideal for touch up and details.
If you already have an air compressor, then you can buy this kit and dive headfirst into the world of paint and finish. You won’t be breaking the bank to do it either. Only the Campbell Hausfeld sprayer is less expensive per gun. You get a metal cup instead of a plastic cup with the TCP, though, and there’s three of them.
You might be let down if you are a bit more serious about your finishes. Yes, the kit does include everything you need to do it all. It just won’t be at the quality of the higher priced guns like the Finishline we recommended. The atomization of the material just won’t be quite as good, and the parts will be a little bit more likely corrode. If you aren’t that hardcore, then this set is perfect.
Is It Easy to Use?
The TCP set is not as easy as others on the list. Three times the number of options means three times the amount of parts to adjust and keep clean. There is something to be said about having those options, though. If one gun is not working out for you, swap it for another and see if it works better.
The guns themselves are easy to keep clean, which is always nice. They are all metal and break down easily. However, you might have to tighten screws and fiddle with the knobs more often. Loose tolerances are an issue you will find on any budget spray gun.

Pros

The 3 gun set covers just about every project
Easy to clean and maintain
Convenient dials make adjusting the pattern very easy

Cons

Prone to corrosion if not maintained
No included air supply

7. Best All In One Sprayer: HomeRight Power Painter Super Finish Max

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The HomeRight Power Painter is an all in one machine that couldn’t be simpler to use.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
Container Size: 40oz
Tip Size: 4mm, 2mm, 1.5mm
Air Compressor/Turbine: Built into the gun
Who Is This Gun For?
If you are looking for a sprayer that you can just pull out of the box, fill with paint and start painting, here it is. The HomeRight Finish Max is a complete system contained in the gun. We really do live in the future, right?
There’s a lot of downsides to that, though. First off, like the Wagner on this list, it’s made of plastic through and through. Not an ideal piece of equipment if you plan on using it hundreds of times. Unlike the Wagner, the gun is heavy. It has a large reservoir and a turbine attached to it. That turbine isn’t powerful either. It’s compact and will never push the air volume that a separate system will. You really have to value the convenience and simplicity to give this thing a go.
It does have some really cool features you won’t find on other guns in its class. It has interchangeable metal tips that range from the smaller fine finish tips to the large tips that can spray unthinned latex paint. Coupled with the adjustable widths and pattern selectors, you can paint your shed one day and paint your car the next.
Is It Easy to Use?
Nothing on this list is easier. Fill it with paint, plug it in, and point it at what you plan on painting. Cleanup is easy enough, and there aren’t any parts to lose or break. There’s not much to say about it. Grab one and head down the page to here and learn some tips on spraying.

Pros

All-in-one design means no hoses or external parts
Can spray a wide variety of materials
Very simple to use

Cons

Plastic parts are prone to wearing out quickly
Air supply is not powerful enough for good atomization and fast spraying

8. Best Inexpensive HVLP Sprayer: Campbell Hausfeld HVLP Gun

View on Amazon
Why we like it: The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP Gun will get you painting with a reliable, easy to clean gun that costs less than lunch.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
Container Size: 20oz
Tip Size: 1.4mm
Air Compressor/Turbine: 4.5 CFM at 40 PSI air compressor required, no hose
Who Is This Gun For?
The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP gun is the perfect first gun. If you want to get serious about laying down the finish and are willing to shop around for an air compressor, then you can pick up this gun for the price of a good meal and start your journey. You don’t even need a very powerful compressor since this HVLP gun is happy with 5CFM.
The size makes it perfect for medium projects. The cup isn’t as big as you will want for larger projects, and the tip size doesn’t lend itself well to detail work. If you really need those extra options, then fork over a few more dollars for the TCP set mentioned on this list.
What you won’t get is professional quality. The cup is plastic, and the adjustment dials are sloppy. You’ll be fighting overspray, and you might not get the atomization you want for really smooth paint. You could buy about ten of these for the price of the much higher quality Accuspray on this list, though. You won’t feel bad using and absuing these guns to learn your craft.
Is It Easy to Use?
The CH HVLP is about middle of the road when it comes to ease of use. It’s not bad, but you will need to source your own air supply and fiddle with it. It doesn’t need a powerful air supply to work well, and that does make it easier to set up in the average shop. Even if you don’t already have a compressor, Campbell Hausfeld is well known for making their own air compressors which are also available at a budget price.
It is all metal. That sets it apart from other budget options. You’ll be able to take it apart and clean it without issue. The only thing that can be annoying is the plastic cup. Plastic will get stained and need replacing long before the rest of the gun.

Pros

Easy to clean and maintain
Inexpensive
Can run off a small air compressor

Cons

No included air supply
Quality is inconsistent

9. Best Pressure Pot System: TCP Global Pressure Tank with Spray Gun

View on Amazon
Why we like it: With a pressure pot that can hold 2.5 gallons of material, there’s no chance you’ll run out once you start spraying.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Pressure Feed HVLP
Container Size: 2.5 gallons
Tip Size: 1.5mm
Air Compressor/Turbine: 8 CFM at 50 PSI air compressor required, 10ft hose fixed to the pot
Who Is This Gun For?
Are you about to paint an entire bus? Then look no further. The TCP Pressure Pot can hold 2.5 gallons of material. That’s nearly five times the size of the next largest reservoir on the list.
This is the only pressurized system on this list. You can learn more about it down the page here. In short, it uses air to pressurize the reservoir and force the material into the gun. That gives you the most control over the spray that you can get and allows you to spray in any position.
Mostly this unit is all about speed and volume. You can spray unthinned material and spray a huge amount of it in a short amount of time. Even the powerful compressor on the Fuji Mini-Mite on this list pales compared to the size of the job that a pressure pot can handle.
You will be sacrificing a lot of convenience for that volume, though. You’ll need a good size air compressor to charge the pot. You’ll also be tethered to the pot with a 10ft hose, so get your biceps curls in now. You’ll need them to tote 2.5 gallons of material around with you as you work through the project.
Is It Easy to Use?
Nope. Not even close. It’s the hardest to use tool on this list by far.
Let’s start with the fact that you will be spending a lot of time disassembling and cleaning this unit. The hose can get clogged with material, the seals can rot and corrode, the gun is extra sensitive because of the higher pressure, etc.
You can get it into tight areas and spray upside down, though. That can make the actual spraying easier since you don’t have to worry about spilling or starving the gun. That’s the reward for how much work it takes to set up. Yet it’s hard to say that it’s worth it if you don’t need it.

Pros

Can hold a lot of material
Pressure fed system can spray in any position
Low price for a pressurized system

Cons

Needs a robust air compressor that is not included
Hard to clean and maintain

10. Best Spray Gun For Thick Materials: TCP Global Air Undercoating Gun

View on Amazon
Why we like it: If you need to spray thick materials, this is a great setup that does not cost very much.
Editor’s Rating:

Specifications
Type of Gun: Siphon Feed
Container Size: 25oz
Tip Size: n/a
Air Compressor/Turbine: 9 CFM at 80 PSI air compressor required
Who Is This Gun For?
This gun is on the list for those who need to spray thick materials like bed liners or rubberized coatings. The TCP Global Air Gun is a dead-simple siphon gun that can spray anything that fits through the straw in the reservoir. Being simple is also the reason it will probably last forever: there’s nothing to wear out.
The drawback is that you don’t get any kind of fine control. You won’t be airbrushing ghost flames with this paint gun. Since it’s for things like bed liner and single component undercoatings, that’s probably not an issue. Just make sure you tape off anything that you don’t want sprayed.
Is It Easy to Use?
Since it has no tip, no regulator, and no flow control, there is nothing to fiddle with. That does make it very easy to use. Fill the cup with material and connect it to an air hose, and you are good to go.
The gun is easy to clean. There’s only a couple parts, and they are metal. Simply scrub it down with solvent and call it good. The only thing that stops this from being the most accessible device on the list is the need for an air compressor.

Pros

Can spray nearly any liquid
Inexpensive
Easy to disassemble and clean

Cons

Needs high pressure to work well
No gun adjustability

The Complete Guide to Paint Guns
If you’ve read the quick start guide and seen our recommendations, but are still hungry for more knowledge, then this section is for you. We’ve also included some tips for laying down the perfect finish at the end. Just be aware that there is no substitute for practice. It’s totally ok to paint a few old boxes before attempting a mirror glaze.
Types of Paint Gun
There are four main types of paint gun:
HVLP- High Volume Low Pressure
We’ve been talking about these things for most of this article, but we can reiterate. An HVLP gun uses low air pressure to mix with a high volume of material and create an even, well-mixed spray. They are less expensive, more common, and easier to use than other styles. The downside to HVLP is that they can’t spray out of position. Check out almost anything on the recommendation list, like the Fuji Semi-Pro, to see an example.
HVLP guns either pick up the paint from a siphon cup underneath the gun, or a gravity cup above the gun. A gravity feed gun is more efficient than a siphon gun since gravity helps out with the process. A siphon feed gun is a bit simpler. They can be used at a greater number of angles than a gravity feed gun since there is no chance that material can spill out of a cup attached to the bottom. They need more air pressure, though, and can be harder to clean.
LVLP- Low Volume Low Pressure
Like HVLP, an LVLP gun uses low-pressure air to atomize material and create an even spray. Unlike HVLP, an LVLP gun does not use a high volume of material. They are more efficient and much more controllable than their high volume counterparts. However, when compared to HVLP, they are much slower. They require lower pressure and spray less material. That means you’ll be spending a lot more time holding down the trigger to cover the same area.
Like HVLP, an LVLP gun can be gravity feed or siphon feed, although they are much more commonly siphon feed.
Air Pressure Assisted
Pressure-assisted guns use a separate pressurized container to feed material into the gun. They are best for thicker materials and for spraying a huge area. With the extra pressure assistance, they can spray out a lot more material than their HVLP and LVLP counterparts. They are harder to use and clean, and like LVLP they have been mainly replaced by HVLP in the hobby and semi-pro realms. There is still one on the recommended list, though, the TCP Global Pressure Pot.
Airless
Airless paint sprayers are very common for painting houses since they can pump very thick paint and a very high volume. Like the name implies, they don’t use any air. Instead, they use a pump that just pumps the material straight into the gun with a decent amount of pressure. You really sacrifice a lot of control with an airless gun. That’s why you rarely see someone using one to paint cars.
Tip Size
This is easy; the bigger the hole, the thicker the material can be sprayed. Just reference this list:
1mm or less: Very thin material like diluted lacquer
1mm-1.3mm: Thin material like clear coats and thinned paint
4mm-1.7mm: Basecoats, oil paints and thicker clear coats
8mm-2.2mm: Primers and heavier paints
>2mm: Latex paints
Air Source
Your air source will dictate how much control you have over the spray pattern, the volume of material you can spray at one time, and how long you can spray without taking a break. Usually, your air source will come from one of two devices: a turbine or an air compressor.
Turbine
It’s easy to visualize a turbine as a small leaf blower since they work very similarly. Turbines are usually less expensive than an air compressor, but can’t generate the high pressures that a compressor can. They can run continuously and are much smaller than an air compressor, though. That makes them prime candidates for portable painters, painters with a small shop, or painters that want something quieter than a large compressor.
If a paint sprayer includes an air source, then it’s almost always a turbine. Like the Fuji Mini-Mite from the list, some can stand toe-to-toe with many air compressors in power. Others, like the inexpensive Wagner, are just barely enough to atomize the paint.
Air Compressor
An air compressor can fill a tank with compressed air and provide much higher pressure and volume than a turbine. That extra pressure can be used with guns that cover a large area or push thicker materials. It gives you the most amount of control over the materials and patterns. Professional shops that use professional guns like the Finishline on the list use large air compressors.
Compressors are loud, expensive, and take up a ton of space. Even more efficient HVLP guns like the Campbell Hausfeld on the list still needs a relatively high CFM to work well. If you have a compressor that can’t put out the volume, you’ll have to stop frequently and wait for it to charge. That’s an issue because every time you start and stop is a chance for puddles and unsightly build-up to form.
Tips for Spraying With Your Paint Gun
So you have an air source, a gun, and some paint. Now comes the hardest part. If you thought choosing the gun was tough, just wait until you start laying paint down. You’ll learn new curse words like “water contamination” and “orange peel.” If you want to see what those look like, click over to this troubleshooting site to see what horrors await you.
Don’t worry. Hundreds of thousands of people do it every week, and we have some tips to get you started.
Safety First
Wear a mask that can filter out fine particles. Paint is bad for your insides, trust us. If you prefer, trust the CDC. Even with a mask, it’s good to be in a well-ventilated area before you paint. Also, wear gloves when mixing things. If nothing else, it will prevent your hands from being a Pollock painting after the project.
There, safety rant over.
Thin Your Materials to the Proper Viscosity
There is no one size fits all answer to “how thin should my material be.” There are just too many variables: the type of material, the type of thinner, the tip on the gun, the weather, the amount of patience you have, etc. There are tools to measure viscosity, but they are expensive. Instead, here are a few pointers to get you on the right track.
Use a Notebook
Keep a notebook around your station and record your ratios. You’ll be able to reference it in the future and re-create ratios that worked well. Try to also note the temperature and humidity so you can make adjustments. Exact numbers don’t matter as much as noting that it was hot like Texas and humid like a Florida swamp. That way, you know to add a lot more thinner when it’s cold like an Alaskan winter.
Stir your Sample Correctly
When you stir a sample, make a note of how much sticks to your stir stick. Then you can do a dip test. Just stick a stir stick into the medium and pull it out. The way it flows off the stir stick can tell you a lot about how thin the material is and whether you’re ready to spray.
Use The Right Thinner
This is really important if you care about how the final product will look. Water is great for thinning out water-based paint but will absolutely ruin any oil-based product. Some materials have their own special thinners and reducers. Generally, having a bottle of mineral spirits and acetone on hand will cover all your bases.
Google It
If you go to Google and type “the best way to thin X paint for an HVLP sprayer,” you will get tons of answers. That will give you an excellent place to start.
Keep The Gun Clean
Nothing is more important than cleanliness when spraying paint. The opening on a fine sprayer is less than the thickness of a tooth pick. A speck of dust can clog the tip and ruin your day. Unless you have removable, disposable tips like the Accuspray, you should focus on keeping the tip and needle clean. Take apart the gun and soak the pieces in thinner and wipe them down before and after every use.
Don’t let the material dry inside the gun
Run thinner through the gun after you finish spraying until it comes out clean. Especially finishes that are meant to harden and protect the paint. If those set inside your spray gun, then you might as well have poured concrete down it because the result is the same.
Practice
No one got good at anything without practicing. What makes it more difficult is that every paint gun is different. Even two HVLP guns with similar specifications can behave differently. You’ll have to just practice with whatever gun you decide to buy. You can find the best techniques to practice on Youtube. It really helps to see what motions you’ll want to perform. This video by Tom Stringham is a bit dry but covers just about everything you’d want to know from set up to spray technique.
If you feel like keeping it simple then just make sure to practice keeping a consistent distance and angle to the surface. The more evenly you can keep the fan pattern on the work, the better your results will be.
The Final Word on Paint Guns
Nothing completes a car as much as a great paint job. When your car has a perfect cherry finish, you can join the exclusive club of people whose anxiety spikes at car shows when you see children running around with ice cream. However, a good shop will charge you at least three arms and one leg for that privilege. That’s a big ouch.
Doing it yourself can be terrifying and confusing. Don’t let it be. You’re happy to turn the wrench on every other part of your car, don’t let a little paint scare you off. Use this guide. Buy a great sprayer, practice a little, and let the reward of a well-done job wash over you. More