How to Remove Indents From Vinyl Seats

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Car seats and other equipment can quickly indent a vinyl seat.

Indented seats are a common problem for any often-used vehicle or chair. In some cases, vinyl will show signs of indentation after only a few minutes as the seat padding is compressed and the vinyl material on top of it is pushed inward. While vinyl is generally a durable fabric, it does require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Removing indentations from a vinyl seat requires some careful treatment and basic materials.

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Step 1

Remove any objects pressing down on the seat. The indent should reduce partially by itself within a few minutes as the seat padding expands, giving you a better idea of how much you actually need to fix.

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Step 2

Hold the tube of a vacuum up against the center of the indentation and place the motor on high. The suction will help pull the vinyl outward along with the padding under it, which helps reduce the indentation. Do not slide the tube across the vinyl to avoid scratching it.

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Step 3

Rinse a washcloth in hot water and wring it out so it is damp. Place it over the indentation and then run an iron over it on a low setting, using the steam option. The vinyl will contract as it cools down and this helps reduce indentations.

Step 4

Rub a vinyl protectant into the seat once you finish ironing to keep the vinyl from drying out from the steam and water exposure. Avoid sitting in the seat until it is completely dry.

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