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Whether you are dealing with an untrained puppy, a senior with incontinence or simply a dog who has been on a wet or muddy walk, mess is par for the course when it comes to dog ownership. This doesn't mean you need to sacrifice your car seats and furniture. Waterproof seat covers and dog mattress covers are an effective way to protect your property, while keeping your pet dry and comfortable.
This guide comprehensively covers both bed and car seat covers and discusses the key things to look for when choosing a product, as well as finding the right fit, care, and safety. While there are lots available on the market, we'll help you determine the right choice for you and your furry friend.
Why dogs pee on beds and car seats
How to protect a bed from dog pee: Dog mattress cover & bed covers
How to protect car seats from dog pee
What to look for: Key features of waterproof covers
Materials and construction: What makes a cover waterproof
Waterproof vs. water-resistant: which do you actually need?
Fit, size, and staying in place
Safety when using seat covers in the car
How to clean and care for waterproof covers
How to choose the right Potty Buddy protection
You want a real waterproof barrier that is going to prevent any urine or stool from soiling your home or car
The best seat cover should be non-slip, water resistant and easy to clean (machine wash is ideal)
Water resistant is not the same as waterproof, and you'll want to pick waterproof seat covers if you are doing daily driving or have a pet expected to make a lot of mess
There are different options depending on whether you want to protect your bed or car, rather than there being a 'one size fits all'
Accidents happen in the dog world. This can be due to territorial marking, anxiety, excitement, or medical issues such as hormonal incontinence, bladder stones, or urinary tract infections. These dogs need your help and assistance, rather than any sort of blame or punishment.
Be aware that whenever your dog soils inside, those pheromones and chemicals tend to linger and this can promote repeated accidents. Quickly removing soild waste and moisture, and protecting your surfaces with covers, is the best way to stop your dog from soiling in the same spot again.
For indoor sleeping spots, you'll want to cover both the human bed/mattress and the dog’s own bed, if they sleep or rest in both spots.
We recommend a layered approach, using a standard waterproof mattress protector as well as a dog mattress cover under the bed sheet. Where the dog lies, you'll want to put a washable waterproof pad and to use machine-washable dog bed covers. This layered approach ensures the mattress and dog bed remain protected from any smells or damp.
Layering a washable waterproof pad on top of a waterproof mattress cover, is the sensible solution. Always use a top layer so you can strip and do a machine wash, never having to clean the actual mattress. Trying to deep clean a soaking mattress is nearly impossible, so the aim is to prevent this from happening in the first place.
The best bedding for dogs that sleep in beds must be effective at ensuring the mattress does not get wet or stained at all.
The best bed covers for dog beds are easy to wash, comfortable to lie on, and reliably waterproof. Covers should feature secure closures to prevent dogs from pulling them off. Good dog mattress covers eliminate odors and extend the lifespan of orthopedic beds.
Many dogs do like to use covered beds. A soft washable cover doesn’t reduce comfort and is much preferable to a hard surface like a floor. Choose soft top fabric over the waterproof layer.
Picking the right fabric depends on the dog's needs for cooling or claw resistance. Durable fabrics like ballistic nylon and canvas prevent claws from snagging. Towels can be used on top, if huge and regular accidents are expected.
There are a wide range of waterproof seat covers available, including bench covers, hammocks, cargo liners and front bucket covers. It matters whether you are protecting cloth or leather seats, so opt for a cover designed specifically for the material in your car. The aim is always for the cover to be 100% waterproof and to keep the seat underneath dry.
Seat covers are available for all vehicles, from cars and vans to trucks and even caravans. They can be used for everyday driving and the best waterproof seat covers fit seamlessly onto the seat, as if they were always there.
The risk of long-lasting damage does vary depending on the type of car seat you have. Cloth tends to absorb and hold moisture and odor, while the risk with leather is that it can stain and crack if not properly maintained. For both, you want to try and keep them bone dry.
When you have a dog who is likely to be urinating in the car, you should prioritize a true waterproof barrier and only choose a cover that is easy to wipe and washable. If you expect an accident, it is sensible to put a waterproof pad on top of the seat cover, for an extra barrier.
Waterproof seat covers block moisture from reaching factory upholstery, and a snug-fitting cover prevents shifting and bunching during use. Have these on the chairs and beds your dog is most likely to sit and lay on.
You'll be on the lookout for covers that are have a tried and tested waterproof membrane, a non-slip backing and secure straps for anchorage. Ideally, choose one with reinforced seams, for extra security. The ideal seat cover will be machine-washable and quick dry.
While it can be hard to find the perfect fit, a close match helps to prevent spills and leaks. The top surface should be soft, keeping your pup as comfortable as possible.
A well-made waterproof cover will have multiple layers. The top fabric should be waterproof while the internal waterproof membrane is usually bonded PU or TPU membrane,which prevents liquid from passing through. This is the heavy duty layer that does most of the hard work. In addition, materials like Ripstop and Neoprene can be used as an outer layer to provide strength, flexibility and durability.
Be aware that a water repellent surface can make water bead up, but this is not the same as being fully waterproof. Combining several layers, each working in a different way to keep water off fabrics underneath, is the way to go.
Waterproof and water-resistant are similar but not the same. Waterproof seat covers stop liquid from passing through and are ideal for heavier urine accidents. Water-resistant covers can repel urine to some extent, but are best used for protection from lighter spills.
| Feature | Waterproof Cover | Water-resistant Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Protection level | High | Moderate, works for light spills |
| Best use case | True incontinence, larger breeds | Light splashes, toy breeds |
| Backing / membrane | Typically a bonded waterproof PU or TPU membrane | Can just be a water-repellent finish on the surface |
| Machine washable? | Should be, yes | Usually, but double check the label |
| Non-slip backing? | Is available | Is available |
| Typical price range | $25-75 | $15-45 |
Go for the waterproof cover if you are expecting frequent accidents or lots of mess and mud. For young pups who are not toilet trained or older pets who are becoming incontinent they are the better investment.
Similarly, if you expect daily use, they are recommended for everyday driving. Waterproof protection helps ensure car seats remain in good nick and don't retain any odour.
You may go for a water-resistant option if you only expect light spills and aren't likely to be dealing with any 'full' accidents. They are a good option for trapping dirt, hair, fur, paw sweat, and small amounts of liquid (like a damp coat after swimming). For light indoor use, they are a sound choice.
Use a soft tape measure to check the length, width and depth of the surface. For bucket car seats, include the seat-back and head rest to ensure the cover will be large enough. If you are using the cover in a cargo area, measure the sides as well as the floor.
For security, you'll want some overlap, so the seat is covered without the edges being exposed. Buckles, straps and headrest loops are your friend here, so you can ensure the cover is a snug fit and is not going to bunch or move about.
Check whether the cover is designed for 'universal fit' or 'custom fit'. Custom fits are best when on the search for that perfect fit, as they are built for more precise coverage.
It is crucial that the seat cover does not interfere with any of the car's safety features. For example, if your car has side-impact airbags, you must ensure that the cover is not blocking the seat sides. Be on the lookout for air-bag compatible designs.
Similarly, we do not want the cover to obstruct seat belts or their buckles, and they should not interfere with car seats or booster seats. They should be securely anchored so they won't slide during braking.
For use alongside heated seats, check the manufacturer's instructions. Not all covers will be compatible.
Generally, yes, it is okay to use these on heated seats occasionally. However, an insulated waterproof layer can reduce heat transfer and, in rare cases, trap heat. It is always best to check with the manufacturer, for specific instructions.
To wash your cover, remove it from the seat. Start with a cold wash and use mild detergent, without any fabric softener. Softeners have the potential to degrade the waterproof later. While you can do a low-heat tumble dry after, air drying may be better for preserving the functionality.
Use an effective cleaner, such as the Potty Buddy's probiotic cleaner. This is a wonderful product for spot treating urine stains and eliminating the odour.
As well as a cover, your pet may benefit from using waterproof pee pads, blankets and dog diapers. Their needs will depend on the degree of indoor soiling, as well as the pet's size. Purchasing from a reputable company like Potty Buddy means you don't have to worry about having to constantly repurchase products.
You want to avoid buying inferior covers that do not offer proper protection or that fray and tear. A great product is truly waterproof, easily washed and stays in place.
Here is a useful 'must have' check list for you to follow, when it comes to buying a seat cover:
A true, quality waterproof barrier
Non-slip backing
Machine washable
Secure fit
Heavy-duty and durable seams
Air-bag safe (for cars)
Soft cover for comfort
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