Do you have a steering wheel cover that’s a little too big? Or maybe you’ve just had it for a while and it’s starting to stretch out. Don’t worry, there is a solution! In this article, we will discuss how to shrink a steering wheel cover. This process is not difficult, but it does require some patience. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have your cover fitting snugly in no time!
Can You Shrink a Steering Wheel Cover?
Have you recently bought a steering wheel cover that was too big for the steering wheel? Have you been wondering if you could shrink it to make it fit? Let’s see how I can help you with that.
For starters, the type of material used for the steering wheel cover will determine if you can shrink it or not. Apart from plastic steering wheel covers, the good news is that you can shrink almost every steering wheel cover. Primarily, you need to harness your creativity.
You can also sew your loose steering wheel cover to fit well on the steering wheel. With a bit of elbow grease and skill, you will need an upholstery thread, hook needles, and a pair of scissors to make this happen. Try not to make it look messy in the end though.
Another Do-It-Yourself (DIY) will be to stuff, preferably, foam lining in-between the steering wheel and the cover. This does not in any way shrink the cover but at least it gives a good snug to your steering wheel.
Depending on the settings, dryers tend to shrink items placed in them. So, how about you throw in your loose steering wheel cover and have it shrink a bit! That may help make it smaller for the steering wheel and help fit well.
Nonetheless, two friends have told me that when they bought their leather steering wheel covers, they were a bit lost but as the weeks went by, they became a perfect fit for their steering wheels. So, I guess I would say, wait if you can.
Before we get into the DIY process of shrinking a steering wheel cover, first let’s get to know what a steering wheel cover is and the types available.
Steering wheel cover
A steering wheel cover is a great way to protect your steering wheel from the elements. It can also add a bit of style and personality to your car. They come in different colors, sizes and are made from different materials. Materials used for steering wheel covers range from plastic to leather.
Types of steering wheel cover
1. Plastic steering wheel cover:
A plastic steering wheel cover is the most common type. It’s usually made from hard, durable plastic and is designed to protect your steering wheel from scratches and scuffs. This type of cover comes in different colors and designs and is relatively inexpensive.
Plastic steering wheel covers are easy to clean and maintain, but they don’t offer much in the way of style or comfort.
2. Leather steering wheel cover:
A leather steering wheel cover is a more luxurious option. It’s made from real leather and is often embossed with a design or logo. This type of cover is more expensive than a plastic one, but it will last longer and look better and add some style and class to your car interior.
Leather steering wheel covers are also more comfortable to grip and provide better traction in wet or icy conditions. It can also absorb sweat and is more comfortable in hot weather.
The best leather steering wheel cover will be durable, stylish, and easy to clean. You should also be affordable and fit your steering wheel snugly. I found this cool, cheap, and durable Leather steering wheel cover on Amazon.
3. Fleece steering wheel cover:
A fleece steering wheel cover is eco-friendly and easy-to care for steering wheel cover. It is also perfect for winter weather. It’s made from soft, warm fleece and will keep your hands warm on those cold winter days. Fleece steering wheel covers are available in different colors and designs and are also relatively inexpensive. A fleece steering wheel cover is a great way to add some extra warmth and comfort to your car in winter.
Reasons why you might shrink your steering wheel cover
1. Can’t find a good fit:
The first reason why you might want to shrink your steering wheel cover is that you are not able to find a good fit. If the steering wheel cover is too large for the steering wheel, you might be able to fix this problem by shrinking it.
2. Stretching out:
The second reason why you might want to shrink your steering wheel cover is that it has started to stretch out over time. If the cover is starting to look baggy or loose, you can try shrinking it to make it fit better.
3. Look neater on the steering wheel
The last reason why you might want to stretch your steering wheel cover is that you want to make it look neater on the steering wheel. If the cover is too large or baggy, shrinking it can help make it fit better and look more polished.
How to shrink a steering wheel cover
Now that you know the reasons why you might want to shrink your steering wheel cover, let’s take a look at how to do it. There are a few different methods that you can try, so choose the one that works best for you.
Method one: Sewing
The first way to shrink a steering wheel cover is by sewing it to fit the steering wheel. This method is a bit more complicated, but let’s assume you bought a nice shirt for your son, only to get home and realize it is too big. Ordinarily, you would want it resized if you do not choose to return it.
In the same way, if you buy a big steering wheel cover, just resize it by sewing it. As mentioned previously, you will need a strong thread that you are sure will not break easily.
It may also require you to cut off a bit of the steering wheel cover with scissors or a cutter. Using a hook needle also makes the sewing process easier as it is advisable to put the steering wheel cover around the wheel while you sew.
You will need to pre-soak the steering wheel cover and punch holes in it before sewing as it will be easier once you start sewing.
Allow the steering wheel cover to air or sun dry on a thin layer of newspaper or paper towel to help absorb some of the water. Do not be tempted to use a hair or blow dryer as this may not make it shrink evenly.
Method two: Stuffing
The second way to shrink a steering wheel cover is by stuffing it with foam lining. This method is less complicated than sewing, but it will still help to make the cover fit well. You will need some foam lining and a needle and thread to sew it in place.
Method three: Drying
The third way to shrink a steering wheel cover is by putting it in the dryer. This method is the quickest and easiest way to shrink the cover. Be careful not to overheat the cover, or it might become damaged.
Method four: Waiting
The fourth way to shrink a steering wheel cover is by waiting. If you don’t want to or can’t sew or stuff the cover, you can try waiting for it to shrink on its own. This method might take a while, but it will eventually shrink to fit the steering wheel.
If you follow these simple steps, you’ll be able to shrink your steering wheel cover so that it fits snugly on your steering wheel. This is a quick and easy process, and it’s also a great way to keep your steering wheel looking new!
Which method is best for me?
There are a few different methods that you can use to shrink a steering wheel cover, so choose the one that works best for you. If you can sew, stuff, or dry the cover, those methods will be more effective. If you don’t have any sewing skills, you can try waiting for the cover to shrink on its own. Whichever method you choose, make sure to be careful not to damage the cover.
Fitting a steering wheel cover
Most steering wheel covers come with instructions on how to fit them properly. But, in case you lose the instructions or they’re not very clear, we’ve put together a simple guide on how to fit a steering wheel cover.
- Start by taking the steering wheel cover and placing it over the steering wheel. Make sure that it’s laying flat and that there are no wrinkles in the fabric.
- Now, take the bottom of the steering wheel cover and pull it up towards the top of the steering wheel. make sure that you keep pulling until the cover is tight against the steering wheel.
- Once the cover is tight against the steering wheel, use a few staples or pins to secure it in place. You can also use some adhesive tape if you don’t have any staples or pins handy.
- That’s it! You’ve now fitted your steering wheel cover. If the cover is too large or baggy, you can try shrinking it to make it fit better.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to shrink a steering wheel cover, you can try one of the methods listed above. Be careful not to damage the cover in the process, and make sure to wait for the cover to dry completely before using it. Good luck!
