A Steering wheel cover is a great way to protect your steering wheel from getting dirty or looking old but do they get hot? In this article, we will tackle the question “do steering wheel covers get hot?”, We will also take a look at some of the most popular materials used for steering wheel covers, and see how well they perform when it comes to heat dissipation. We will also discuss the benefits of using a steering wheel cover, and how to choose the right one for your vehicle.
To answer the question: Do steering wheel covers get hot? The answer is a resounding “yes!” To put it simply, yes, some steering wheel covers do get hot. These steering wheel covers can get hot if they are left parked under the scorching sun for some time, mostly long periods.
However, the likelihood of a steering wheel cover getting hot is largely dependent on the type of material used to make them. Some materials are more effective at dissipating heat than others. Apart from steering wheel covers made from cotton, cotton-polyester, and neoprene, all other materials are not that heat-resistant.
This means that if your steering wheel cover is not made from the above-mentioned materials, it is likely to get hot when parked in hot weather for a few hours.
Aside from this, you should note that if your steering wheel cover is bedazzled or has jewel-like ornaments on it, it is also likely to trap heat. Thus, if you have a blinged or studded steering wheel, be careful not to burn your hands if your car has been parked in the sun for long.
Which steering wheel covers are best for hot weather?
The right steering wheel cover can indeed prevent you from stinging your hands when you grip a steering wheel of a vehicle that has sat in a broiling parking lot for hours.
While the scorching sun can inevitably heat your car and thus your steering wheel, a good steering wheel cover can still give you a delightful driving experience. The best steering wheel covers for hot weather are made from heat-resistant, breathable materials such as microfiber, rayon, flax linen, neoprene, and silicone.
1. Microfiber
Though microfiber can trap a bit of heat, it will not get nearly as hot as leather or vinyl, so choosing a steering wheel cover made from microfiber is a good decision for hot weather. This material is also very absorbent and can quickly get rid of sweat and moisture.
2. Rayon:
Rayon steering wheel covers are also a good choice for hot weather. This material is made from natural fibers and is very breathable lightweight and absorbent which means that it will not trap heat the way some other materials can.
3. Flax Linen:
This type of steering wheel cover is also made from natural fibers, but it is slightly less absorbent than rayon. It is lightweight, airy, and fast-drying, making it great for regulating temperature. It is also very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
4. Neoprene:
Neoprene is both water and heat-resistant thus keeping your hands cool and dry. It is also known as wet-suit material, this type of material can withstand heat which makes it a good choice for your steering wheel cover.
5. Silicone:
Silicone can withstand heat and as such known for its tolerance for extreme temperatures. Silicone steering wheel covers are not as common as the other materials, but if you are looking for a cover that can withstand the heat, this is a very good option.
What can I do to keep my steering wheel cool?
Let us just say you bought a steering wheel cover without thinking about temperature changes and how they can affect the touch or feel of the cover. Now, you find yourself in a mostly hot climate or it is summertime where you live. What can you do to keep your steering wheel cool?
1. Toss a towel over it:
Once your vehicle is parked under the sun, one way to keep the steering cover from conducting heat is to cover it with a towel. This will help keep the contact temperature of your steering wheel down.
2. Invest in a windshield protector:
A windshield protector will help block some of the scorching sun rays from entering your car and by extension, your dashboard and steering wheel.
3. Park under a shade:
If parking under a shade is an option please do so. This will not only help keep your car cool, but it will also make your steering wheel cover bearable to touch once you get back to driving your car.
4. Keep windows slightly opened:
In hot climates, it is very common to find that on extremely hot days, people leave their cars parked outside with their windows not completely rolled up. Most people leave the windows slightly opened to keep their vehicles somewhat aerated when parked under the scorching sun. This technique will also help your steering cover keep cool on hot days.
5. Invest in window tinting:
If you can afford it and the laws of your country permit it, you can tint the windows of your car. Tinting helps block out some of the sun rays from entering your car. This will, in turn, help keep your steering wheel cover cool.
6. Choose the material wisely:
I know I said at the beginning of this portion of the article that we will assume you bought a steering wheel cover without thinking about temperature changes and how they can affect the touch or feel of the cover. However, I will not leave this point out! Do choose your steering wheel cover wisely as one of its purposes is to help keep the steering wheel warm or cool. Apart from it being aesthetically pleasing, find out how well or poorly the cover does in your type of climate. I honestly do not want you to throw away your hard-earned money. I am that kind!
How to choose the right steering wheel cover for your car?
When choosing a steering wheel cover, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider the climate where you live. On the other hand, if you live in a colder climate, you will want to find a steering wheel cover that can trap heat the way some other materials can.
Flax Linen:
This type of steering wheel cover is also made from natural fibers, but it is slightly less absorbent than rayon. It is lightweight, airy, and fast-drying, While the aforementioned materials can trap some amount of heat, they will not get nearly as hot as other materials, making them an excellent choice of steering wheel cover for the hot weather.
Cotton:
This natural fiber is a good choice for steering wheel covers in hot climates because it can absorb a lot of heat. It is also lightweight and easy to care for.
Leather:
Leather absorbs very little heat, making it a poor choice for steering wheel covers in hot climates. However, it is a good choice for colder climates, as it will help keep the steering wheel warm.
Polyurethane:
This synthetic material is a good choice for steering wheel covers in hot climates because it absorbs a lot of heat. It is also lightweight and easy to care for.
Final thoughts
When choosing a steering wheel cover, be sure to consider the climate where you live. If you live in a hot climate, you will want to find a steering wheel cover that can absorb a lot of heat, such as cotton or polyurethane. If you live in a colder climate, you will want to find a steering wheel cover made from materials like flax linen or leather that can trap heat. Whichever material you choose, be sure to find one that is easy to care for and lightweight.
Thank you for reading. Please feel free to send an email.
