Bought some used cloth seat upholstery, and before I begin installing was wondering if I could (or should) run them through a gentle wash cycle in the washing machine. I know I can clean them after the install, so just curious if this might be a better approach.

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'87 GT in process!

I ran a set of 88 Beechwood seat covers through a washing machine on gentle a couple of years ago. I let them air dry and they looked pretty decent. I managed to sell them to another PFF member after the wash job and have not had any complaints from him.

Nelson

I am reminded of the car-guy who cleaned his hub caps in the dishwasher. The lady of the house was not impressed. Maybe you don't have that problem, or you use the laundromat.

I've washed a few sets without problem.

Washed a set in the home machine. No problem.

If you have one of the newer washers without an agitator, go for it. I washed what appeared to be a good set in a regular washer and it tore up one of the backs. Since, we have replaced that washer with an agitator-less model and I washed a pair of Saddle Tan covers that were so filthy with hair oil and hair spray on the headrest that they looked chocolate brown. They came out looking like a new pair and without damage.

quote Originally posted by fierofool: If you have one of the newer washers without an agitator, go for it. I washed what appeared to be a good set in a regular washer and it tore up one of the backs. Since, we have replaced that washer with an agitator-less model and I washed a pair of Saddle Tan covers that were so filthy with hair oil and hair spray on the headrest that they looked chocolate brown. They came out looking like a new pair and without damage.

If someone is concerned about this, place the covers in a large pillow case and pin close.

I didn't have any issues with the agitator, but it was on gentle cycle.

Thanks for all the replies. Think I will give it a try. I'll post back with the results. May be a week or two- still awaiting arrival.

I'd do it... Definitely wouldn't use the dryer though just in case of shrinkage or something! I doubt they are made of cotton and would do so, but better safe than sorry I guess!

Good luck!

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"Discord"
Red 1988 GT under restoration!

( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

I re-installed them Damp, so if they were going to shrink at all, it would be a perfect, tight fit to the seat

That was a great idea! Must have smelled like fabric softener in there for awhile!

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"Discord"
Red 1988 GT under restoration!

( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

quote Originally posted by Lou6t4gto: I re-installed them Damp, so if they were going to shrink at all, it would be a perfect, tight fit to the seat

best idea.....

I've cleaned all of mine using a Bissell carpet cleaning machine with the upholstery attachment. No need to remove from car or take covers off seats. Use cold water, 50% Woolite Delicate Care liquid soap and mix in 50% Oxi Clean Laundry Stain Remover liquid. Then rinse with cold water and extract. They come out almost dry and look great!

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"Because in a split second, It's gone"
Ayrton Senna