What Causes Burn Holes in Car Upholstery?

Burn holes—especially from cigarette burns—are a common issue in fabric upholstery. Whether you’re preparing your car for resale or simply want to improve its appearance, repairing small burns can make a noticeable difference in your car’s interior.

What You’ll Need

• Burn repair kit or fabric patch
• Razor blade or small scissors
• Fabric glue or adhesive
• Soft cloth
• Color match swatch (optional)
• Seat covers (optional for added protection)

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Determine the size and depth of the burn marks. Small holes can typically be repaired using a DIY method, while larger damaged areas may require a fabric patch or professional upholstery repair.

Step 2: Trim the Burnt Area

Use a razor blade or small scissors to carefully trim away scorched fibers. Remove any charred material so the fabric glue can bond cleanly to the upholstery.

Step 3: Prepare the Repair Material

If you’re using a burn repair kit, follow the kit instructions. For a DIY repair, cut a piece of fabric from a hidden area (like under the seat) to use as a patch. Ensure it matches the texture and color of the original cloth seat for a seamless look.

Step 4: Apply Fabric Glue

Using fabric glue or a vinyl repair kit, attach the patch to the damaged area. Press firmly with a soft cloth and smooth it out to ensure good adhesion. Avoid over-gluing, as excess glue may seep out and harden unevenly.

Step 5: Let It Dry and Blend the Edges

Allow the repaired area to dry fully. Once dry, gently brush the area to blend the fibers. Some repair kits include color-matched tools or fiber blends that help the repair match the surrounding car seat fabric more closely.

Optional: Use Seat Covers for Extra Protection

Installing seat covers not only hides any imperfections but also helps protect your upholstery from future damage. It’s a smart option, especially if you’re prepping the vehicle for resale value improvement.

When to Reupholster

For larger holes or damage across multiple areas, reupholstering might be more cost-effective than repeated DIY repairs. Automotive upholstery experts can replace cloth seats or panels for a factory-fresh finish.

Restore Your Car’s Interior With Confidence

From small holes to cigarette burn repair, fixing burn marks in fabric upholstery doesn’t have to be complicated. For advanced repairs or full seat restoration, Neuco offers professional automotive upholstery solutions to bring your car’s interior back to life.