2026 Guide: best 2018 subaru forester seat covers

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I looked for 2018 Subaru Forester seat covers that do more than just change the look of the cabin. In this category, the details matter most to me: a true custom fit, airbag compatibility, coverage that protects the seats without getting in the way, and materials that are easy to wipe clean after spills, pet hair, or everyday messes.

I also paid attention to whether the covers work with heated seats, seat belts, rear armrests, and the Forester’s seat controls, because a cover that blocks basic functions is not a good buy no matter how good it looks.

This article is for Forester owners who want a practical upgrade and need help choosing between full-set leather-style covers, breathable cloth options, and add-on protection for high-wear areas. Below is a side-by-side comparison to help narrow down the best fit for your trim, budget, and use case.

	Best Overall	CustomCover Fits Forester Car Seat Cover Full Set Compatiable with	Fit: Custom 1:1 fit for 2014-2018 Forester	Material: Premium soft faux leather	Protection: Water-resistant and stain-resistant	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Top Pick	FREESOO Custom Fit Forester Seat Covers 2014 2015 2016 2017	Fit: Custom for 2014-2018 Forester, including Base	Material: Waterproof faux leather with padding	Extras: Armrest cover and rear map pockets	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Premium Pick	coverdream Forester Waterproof Leather Seat Covers Custom Fit for 2014-2018	Fit: Tailored to 2014-2018 Forester	Material: Firm-hand leather	Design: 360° full wrap coverage	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Design	FEINEPRO for Subaru Forester Seat Covers 5 Sets	Fit: Custom for Forester 2014-2018	Material: Waterproof faux leather	Coverage: Full set with headrest covers	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Runner Up	IKABEVEM Custom Fit Seat Covers for Subaru Forester 2014-2018	Fit: Tailor-made for 2014-2018 models	Material: Top-grade faux leather	Safety: Airbag compatible cutouts	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Front Favorite	GIANT PANDA 2PCS Front Car Seat Cover Fit Subaru	Fit: Front seats for Subaru Forester	Material: Faux leather with polyester back	Coverage: 2-piece front seat set	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Value Choice	EKR Forester Seat Covers Custom Fit for Subaru Forester 2014	Fit: Custom for 2014-2018 Forester, not Base	Material: Faux leather with foam padding	Warranty: 2-year limited warranty	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Cloth Choice	coverdream Full Set Cloth Seat Covers Custom Fit for Subaru	Fit: Custom for 2014-2018 Forester	Material: Breathable polyester fabric	Protection: UV resistant and water-resistant	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Add-On Pick	INTGET Console Cover for 2017 2018 Subaru Forester Accessories 2013	Fit: Center console for 2013-2018 Forester	Material: Soft leather	Use: Armrest and pet scratch protection	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Safety First	OASIS AUTO Custom Fit Seat Covers Compatible with Subaru Forester	Fit: Custom for 2014-2018 Forester	Material: Waterproof faux leather	Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee	View Latest Price	Read Review

Now let’s move into the detailed reviews and compare how each option performs in fit, protection, comfort, and ease of installation. I’ll break down where each Subaru Forester seat cover makes sense so you can choose with confidence.

In-Depth Reviews

1. CustomCover Fits Forester Car Seat Cover Full Set Compatiable with

   
   
   
   Tailored Value
   View Latest Price
   • FitCustom 1:1 fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018
   • MaterialPremium soft faux leather with black-leather look
   • ProtectionWater-resistant, stain-resistant, pet-hair and scratch protection
   • SafetyAirbag-safe cutouts and seat-heating compatibility
   • CleaningWipe-clean surface for quick maintenance
   • InstallIncludes instructions and step-by-step video guidance

   CustomCover goes after the big thing Forester owners want: a snug, factory-style fit. The black faux-leather finish looks cleaner than cheap universal covers, and the cutouts are meant to keep airbags, seat belts, and heated seats working as they should. If you drive a 2014-2018 Forester and want the cabin to feel more finished, this is aimed squarely at you.

   The trade-off is that it is still a full-cover install, so expect some time in the garage and a little patience getting everything lined up. Also, there are no customer reviews yet, so you are buying on specs and photos alone. For shoppers who care most about appearance, protection, and a tailored look, it is an appealing pick.

   If you want something simple and proven, this is a bit of a leap.

2. FREESOO Custom Fit Forester Seat Covers 2014 2015 2016 2017

   
   
   
   Practical Upgrade
   View Latest Price
   • FitCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018, including Base models
   • CoverageFull set with front, rear, headrest, and armrest covers
   • MaterialWaterproof faux leather with multi-layer padding
   • SafetyAirbag, seat belt, heated seat, and child anchor compatibility
   • DesignZippered rear seat layout for cup-holder flexibility
   • Support24-month warranty plus tools, manual, and video help

   FREESOO feels like the more complete package. You get coverage for the seats, headrests, and even the armrest, which makes the interior look more unified. The waterproof faux leather should handle kid messes, muddy gear, and dog hair pretty well. I also like that it is designed to work with the Forester’s factory features instead of blocking them off.

   The downside is that full coverage usually means more install effort, and the zipper-based rear setup may not be as quick or elegant as a simpler cover. Still, if you want maximum protection with a tidy OEM-like look, this is the one to look at.

   It makes the most sense for daily drivers, families, and anyone who uses the rear seats often.

3. coverdream Forester Waterproof Leather Seat Covers Custom Fit for 2014-2018

   
   
   
   Tough Protection
   View Latest Price
   • FitCustom fit for 2014-2018 Subaru Forester
   • MaterialFirm-hand leather with waterproof protection
   • CoverageFull set with front and rear seat covers
   • SafetyHidden airbag cutout, airbag compatible
   • CompatibilityWorks with seat buttons, heating, and latch access
   • InstallIncludes manual tutorial, video tutorial, and tools

   coverdream goes after the practical buyer first. These covers are built like a shield, with a firm leather feel and full-wrap coverage that should do a solid job against spills, muddy clothes, and pet mess. The factory-style stitching and tight fit make them look more polished than many generic covers.

   I also like that they’re designed around the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester layout, including seat buttons and heating.

   The catch is the install. A snug, glove-like fit usually means more time and patience in the garage. If you want something quick and loose, this is not that product. But if you care more about real protection and a cleaner OEM look, this is a strong pick for daily drivers and families.

4. FEINEPRO for Subaru Forester Seat Covers 5 Sets

   
   
   
   Stylish Shield
   View Latest Price
   • FitCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018
   • MaterialWaterproof faux leather
   • CoverageFull set with front and rear covers
   • SafetyAirbag cutouts included
   • ComfortBreathable material for year-round use
   • InstallInstructions and installation video included

   FEINEPRO aims for a nicer cabin without going too flashy. The black and grey color scheme looks cleaner than plain black, and the faux leather should be easy to wipe down after kids, groceries, or a wet dog. It also promises a custom fit for the 2014-2018 Forester, which matters because loose seat covers usually look cheap fast.

   One thing to watch: the listing calls out the Mustang in the styling copy, which is a little sloppy and makes me less confident in the marketing. Still, the actual fit claims and included install video make this appealing for shoppers who want good protection with a more finished look.

   If you value easy cleanup and a modern interior, it’s worth a look.

5. IKABEVEM Custom Fit Seat Covers for Subaru Forester 2014-2018

   
   
   
   Solid Coverage
   View Latest Price
   • FitCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018
   • SetFull set seat cover package
   • MaterialFaux leather construction
   • ProtectionWaterproof seat protector design
   • SafetyAirbag compatible and seat belt friendly
   • UseHelps guard against spills, pet hair, and wear

   IKABEVEM is the kind of seat cover set that makes sense if you want a cleaner, more finished look in a Subaru Forester 2014-2018.

   The full set and faux leather build should appeal to drivers who want something that feels more upscale than basic cloth covers, and the waterproof protection is a real plus for families, pet owners, and anyone dealing with messy commutes.

   The big win here is coverage. It is meant to protect the original seats without getting in the way of airbags, belts, or seat adjustments. The trade-off is that faux leather can run warmer than fabric, and custom-fit covers usually take more time and patience to install well.

   If you want a tidy, protective upgrade and can live with a bit of setup work, this is a strong pick.

6. GIANT PANDA 2PCS Front Car Seat Cover Fit Subaru

   
   
   
   Smart Front Pick
   View Latest Price
   • FitFront seat covers for Subaru models
   • Pack2-piece front bucket seat set
   • MaterialFaux leather with polyester fiber backing
   • ProtectionHelps resist stains, wear, and pet damage
   • SafetyBreakaway seam for side-impact airbag compatibility
   • InstallDesigned for quick setup after reading instructions

   GIANT PANDA keeps it simple with a 2-piece front seat set, which is a nice fit for drivers who only want to refresh the most-used seats. The black faux leather look is clean and sporty, and the pattern gives the cabin a more polished feel without trying too hard.

   For commuters, rideshare drivers, or anyone who wants to protect the front seats first, that focused approach makes a lot of sense.

   The main advantage is the easier install compared with a full cabin kit. It should also work well for everyday messes like dirt, spills, and pet hair. The trade-off is obvious: it only covers the front row, so rear seats stay exposed.

   Also, the stretch-backed fit sounds helpful, but these covers will still depend on your seat shape for the best look. If you want a quick, practical upgrade, this one is easy to like.

7. EKR Forester Seat Covers Custom Fit for Subaru Forester 2014

   
   
   
   Tough Upgrade
   View Latest Price
   • FitmentCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018, not for Base model
   • MaterialFaux leather with 4-layer construction
   • ComfortFoam padding and protective polyester shell
   • ProtectionWater resistant, durable, and easy to clean
   • InstallDIY installation with secure buckles and zippers
   • CoverageFull set with front and rear seat covers, headrest covers, and airbag cutouts

   EKR aims for that factory-look upgrade, and it mostly delivers. The stitching follows the seat shape well, and the faux leather finish should look sharper than worn cloth seats in an older Forester. I like that it comes as a full set with airbag cutouts, headrest covers, and a snug, tailored fit.

   If you want your cabin to feel cleaner and more finished, this is the kind of cover set that can do it.

   The trade-off is installation. These are not throw-on-and-go covers, and getting a tight fit can take patience. Also, the material is leather-like, so it will be easier to wipe down than cloth, but it may not breathe as well on hot days. Still, for owners who want strong protection and a custom appearance, this is a solid pick.

   Just make sure your Forester is not the Base trim before buying.

8. coverdream Full Set Cloth Seat Covers Custom Fit for Subaru

   
   
   
   Breathable Fit
   View Latest Price
   • FitmentCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018, including Limited, Premium, Touring, XTPremium, XT Touring, Premium Black Edition
   • MaterialPremium polyester cloth with fully covered design
   • ComfortBreathable fabric with water-resistant protection
   • DesignFactory-style stitching, sturdy piping, and hidden airbag cutouts
   • InstallIncludes manual tutorial, video tutorial, and install tools
   • Warranty24-month replacement warranty

   Coverdream is the better choice if you care more about comfort than leather look. The breathable polyester should feel nicer in heat, and the fully covered design gives the Forester a tidy, more OEM-style appearance. It also comes with install tools and both manual and video guidance, which is helpful if you are doing this at home.

   The hidden airbag cutouts and factory-style stitching are smart touches that make it feel thoughtfully designed.

   The downside is that cloth covers can be less forgiving around stains than faux leather, especially with kids, pets, or muddy gear. They should resist water, but they will not wipe clean quite as fast. Also, the set does not include an armrest cover, so check your expectations there.

   For drivers who want cooler seats and a softer feel, this is a strong everyday option with good support behind it.

9. INTGET Console Cover for 2017 2018 Subaru Forester Accessories 2013

   
   
   
   Smart Protection
   View Latest Price
   • FitSubaru Forester 2013-2018, including Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, 2.0XT, and 2.5i trims
   • MaterialQuality leather with black stitching
   • ProtectionHelps guard against scratches, elbow wear, sweat, and pet claws
   • DesignFlat, wrinkle-resistant shape made for the original console curvature
   • ComfortSoft surface for resting an elbow or giving a pet a better grip
   • InstallTool-free install by sliding it on from the back first

   INTGET is a simple upgrade if your Forester’s center console is starting to look tired. The leather armrest cover feels more premium than the factory lid and should be a good pick for drivers who want everyday protection without changing the cabin look.

   It also helps if you travel with a dog, since the cover is meant to take some abuse from claws and movement.

   The big plus is the clean, wrinkle-free fit it aims for on 2013-2018 Foresters. The trade-off is that this only protects the armrest, not the seats, so it’s a narrow solution. If your main problem is a worn console lid, this makes sense. If you need full interior coverage, you’ll want more than this.

10. OASIS AUTO Custom Fit Seat Covers Compatible with Subaru Forester

    
    
    
    Full Coverage
    View Latest Price
    • FitCustom fit for Subaru Forester 2014-2018
    • MaterialWaterproof faux leather
    • SafetyCompatible with airbags and heated seats
    • FunctionPreserves seat adjustments and original vehicle features
    • SupportInstallation video available on YouTube
    • Warranty30-day money-back guarantee through Amazon Prime

    OASIS AUTO is the better pick if you want to cover the whole interior, not just one touch point. The waterproof faux leather should be useful for families, commuters, and anyone dealing with spills, pets, or messy gear.

    It also matters that these are designed to work with airbags and heated seats, because that keeps the upgrade practical instead of gimmicky.

    What stands out most is the custom-fit approach for the 2014-2018 Forester. The trade-off is installation: a full set takes time, and the fit will depend on how carefully you put it on. If you want a cleaner cabin and more protection, this is a strong choice. If you want something quick and effortless, this may feel like a project.

What to Look for in Best 2018 Subaru Forester Seat Covers

Exact Fit for the 2018 Forester Seat Layout

The biggest difference between a good cover and a frustrating one is fit. The 2018 Forester has split rear seating, headrests, armrests, and specific airbag openings that generic covers often miss. Look for products that explicitly list 2014-2018 Forester compatibility and mention a full set, not just front buckets. Options like CustomCover Fits Forester and EKR Forester Seat are aimed at the correct model range, which helps with seat contours and cutouts. A true custom fit should stay tight after installation, not bunch at the bolsters or slide when you enter and exit. If the listing does not clearly match your trim and seat configuration, keep shopping.

Material Choice: Waterproof, Leather-Look, or Cloth

Material affects comfort, maintenance, and how the cabin feels every day. Faux leather choices such as FREESOO Custom Fit and coverdream Forester Waterproof are easier to wipe clean, making them practical for kids, pets, and muddy gear. Cloth options like coverdream Full Set can breathe better in hot weather and feel less slick on long drives, but they may not repel spills as well. Think about your real use: if your Forester is a daily commuter and weekend hauler, waterproof surfaces usually win. If you prioritize a softer feel and less heat buildup, a breathable fabric cover can be the better long-term fit.

Airbag Compatibility and Safe Seat Access

Safety features should be non-negotiable. Your seat covers need proper side-airbag stitching or designated openings so the airbags can deploy as designed. This is especially important for front seats, where a poor cover can interfere with restraint systems. Look for clear language about airbag compatibility and full access to seat belts, adjustment levers, and ISOFIX/LATCH points. Products such as IKABEVEM Custom Fit and OASIS AUTO Custom are positioned for full-set protection, but you still need to confirm the exact safety cutouts. Avoid anything that looks “universal” without vehicle-specific safety notes, because the wrong seam placement can create real risk.

Rear Seat and Armrest Coverage for Family Use

Many buyers focus on the front seats and then regret leaving the rear row exposed. For a 2018 Forester, rear-seat coverage matters if you carry kids, dogs, sports gear, or dirty work clothes. Look for covers that include rear seat backs, bench sections, and center armrest pieces so the whole cabin wears evenly. FREESOO Custom Fit is a good example of a set that includes broader interior coverage, while INTGET Console Cover handles a smaller but useful problem: protecting the center console from elbow wear and scratches. If your vehicle sees frequent back-seat traffic, a complete rear solution is more valuable than a front-only upgrade.

Installation Time, Maintenance, and Long-Term Value

A seat cover only stays worthwhile if you can live with it after the first week. Check whether installation is simple enough to finish at home without removing half the interior. Some full sets take longer but deliver a cleaner factory look, while smaller products like GIANT PANDA 2PCS are easier to install but only protect the front row. Also consider cleaning: wipeable faux leather is better for quick maintenance, while fabric may need vacuuming and spot treatment. Finally, think about value beyond price. A cover that fits well, cleans easily, and survives daily use will usually outlast a cheaper set that constantly shifts or wrinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do 2018 Subaru Forester seat covers need to be custom fit?

Custom fit is strongly recommended for the 2018 Forester because the seat shape, headrests, and rear bench layout are more specific than a generic SUV pattern. Custom sets usually look better and stay in place longer. Products like CustomCover Fits Forester and EKR Forester Seat are designed around the Forester’s dimensions, which reduces sagging and awkward gaps. Universal covers can work in a pinch, but they often block adjustment levers or leave the rear bench poorly covered. If you want a cleaner, more factory-like result, custom fit is the safer choice.

Which material is best for protecting against spills and pets?

For spills and pet messes, waterproof faux leather is usually the most practical choice. It wipes clean quickly and does not absorb liquid the way fabric can. FREESOO Custom Fit and coverdream Forester Waterproof are strong examples for buyers who want simple cleanup after muddy paws, coffee spills, or rainy-day gear. If your dog rides often, choose a surface with enough grip so blankets and seat belts stay put. Cloth covers can still work, but they are better for comfort than for heavy-duty protection. For messy family use, waterproof materials are usually the smarter long-term option.

Are front-only covers enough for a 2018 Forester?

Front-only covers can be enough if your main goal is protecting the driver and passenger seats from daily wear. GIANT PANDA 2PCS is useful for shoppers who want a fast upgrade without committing to a full set. That said, a Forester often gets used as a family or adventure vehicle, so the rear seats usually take plenty of abuse too. If you carry children, pets, or cargo in back, a full set gives you more balanced protection and a more unified look. Front-only is fine for minimal protection, but full coverage is better for long-term ownership.

Will these covers work with side airbags?

They should only be used if the product specifically states airbag compatibility. That detail matters because the front seats in a 2018 Forester use side airbags that must deploy without obstruction. Covers like IKABEVEM Custom Fit and coverdream Forester Waterproof are advertised with safety-minded design language, but you should still verify the seam structure before installation. If the listing is vague or does not mention airbags at all, skip it. This is one area where saving money is not worth the risk. Properly made covers protect the seats without interfering with occupant safety systems.

Is a console cover worth buying too?

If your center armrest gets used constantly, a console cover can be a smart add-on. INTGET Console Cover is a good example because it protects a high-wear area that seat covers do not address. It helps if you rest your elbow there every day, travel with pets, or want to reduce scratches and scuffs on the lid. It is not essential for everyone, but it can extend the fresh look of the interior when paired with a seat-cover set. Think of it as a small, targeted upgrade rather than a replacement for full seat protection.

What should I expect from a breathable fabric seat cover?

Breathable fabric covers are usually more comfortable in hot weather and can feel less sticky than faux leather on long drives. coverdream Full Set is a good example for buyers who want a softer, cloth-based option with full coverage. The tradeoff is that fabric generally needs more maintenance and will not repel liquid as well as waterproof material. If you live in a warm climate or dislike the feel of synthetic leather, breathable fabric makes sense. Just be realistic about use: it is better for comfort and daily driving than for heavy spill or pet protection.

For most 2018 Forester owners, CustomCover Fits Forester is the top overall pick because it offers the best balance of model-specific fit, full-set coverage, and a clean black-leather look that feels close to factory. It is the strongest choice for buyers who want one solution that handles daily commuting, family use, and interior protection without looking loose or generic. If you want the easiest cleanup, FREESOO Custom Fit and coverdream Forester Waterproof are better matches for spill-prone households or pet owners. If your goal is simple front-seat refresh on a tighter budget, GIANT PANDA 2PCS is the lighter commitment. For a more breathable feel, coverdream Full Set stands out. Choose the cover that matches how you actually use your Forester, then install it carefully and enjoy the upgrade with confidence.