How to Update Motorhome Seats: 5 Options for a Captain’s Chair Makeover

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If your motorhome seats are starting to show their age, like cracked vinyl, faded fabric, or just years of sun and travel grime, you’re not alone. Worn captain’s chairs can make your RV interior feel dated even if the rest of your space looks great. Luckily, there are several ways to bring them back to life without blowing your renovation budget.

From deep-cleaning and repainting to full reupholstery or using stylish RV seat covers, there’s an option for every skill level and wallet size. Whether you’re planning a complete remodel or just want a quick refresh before your next trip, this guide will walk you through all your choices so you can make your motorhome seats look (and feel) brand new again.

1. Assessing the Condition of Your Motorhome Seats

Before you decide what to do, take a close look at what you’re working with. Are your seats structurally sound but just stained or faded? Or are they torn, cracked, and losing padding?

Vinyl seats tend to dry out and crack over time, especially if your RV has spent years in the sun. Leather can fade and get stiff, while cloth seats often hold onto dirt and odors. Run your hands along the seams and cushions to check for soft spots or foam breakdown.

If the frame and seat mechanisms still work, you’re in good shape. A deep clean or set of new motorhome seat covers might be all you need. But if the padding is crumbling or the vinyl is split wide open, you may want to look into reupholstering or replacing altogether.

2. Cleaning and Restoring Vinyl Seats

Sometimes all your seats need is a proper cleaning. A good vinyl cleaner can work wonders by lifting years of grime and sun damage to reveal what’s hiding underneath.

Supplies You’ll Need:

• Star Brite Ultimate Vinyl Clean
• Soft-bristle brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Optional protectant spray

Steps:

1. Vacuum or wipe down seats to remove surface dust.
2. Spray the vinyl cleaner generously.
3. Scrub gently with a soft brush to loosen dirt and mildew.
4. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.
5. Repeat as needed, then finish with a UV protectant to prevent fading.

Cost: Roughly $10 – $20 for supplies

Check out the before-and-after results from Ashley Mann’s renovation below — her motorhome seats went from grimy beige to bright and fresh again with just this cleaner!

Photo credit: AshleyandJosiah.com

Cleaning is always a smart first step before you decide on motorhome seat covers or reupholstery. You might be surprised by how much life your old seats still have left.

3. Painting RV Captain’s Chairs

Photo credit: MountainModernLife.com

Painting vinyl is an option some DIYers try, but it’s usually a temporary fix. Even high-quality vinyl paints tend to crack and flake, especially in spots that flex or get daily use.

On the blog MountainModernLife.com, RV owners Katie and Eric showcase how they painted their captain chairs step by step… and a few lessons learned along the way.

If you just want a quick aesthetic update and plan to reupholster down the road, go for it! However, for long-term use, paint might not be the best solution.

4. Reupholstering Motorhome Captain Chairs

(Photo Credit: ActiveRVInteriors.com)

If your seats are structurally solid but the material is beyond saving, reupholstery gives you that brand-new feel without having to replace the entire chair.

You’ve got two options here:

• DIY Reupholstery: Buy marine-grade vinyl or durable automotive fabric online, remove the old covers, and use them as templates for new ones. This option is best for handy DIYers with some sewing experience.
• Professional Reupholstery: For those who prefer a polished result, find an automotive or marine upholstery shop. They’ll match your existing style or give you something entirely new. Like the before and after photos, businesses like this will do the work for you!

Material Options:

• Vinyl: Affordable and easy to clean, but can crack over time.
• Leather: Luxurious and durable, though pricier and higher-maintenance.
• Performance fabrics: Breathable and modern, which is great if you want a less “RV” look.

Cost Estimate:

• DIY: $150-$300 for materials
• Professional: $400-$800 per seat (depending on complexity and fabric)

If you love your RV’s layout and just want a refreshed, cohesive look, this option can totally transform your interior.

5. Replacement Motorhome Seats

Sometimes, it’s just time for new seats. If your current captain’s chairs have broken frames, crushed padding, or electrical issues that make them unsafe or uncomfortable, replacement might be your best bet.

You can find replacements at:

• RV salvage yards
• Surplus or parts stores
• RecPro.com
• Camping World
• Amazon or eBay

Cost Estimate: $800–$4,000 for a set of two RV captain’s chairs, depending on model and features

When removing the old ones, unbolt them from the floor and carefully unplug the wiring for seat heaters or swivels. (Ashley Mann’s husband Josiah learned this the hard way — he accidentally cut the wires and had to hire an electrician to reconnect them!)

New seats instantly modernize your RV interior and make long drives more comfortable, and can add value if you plan to sell your motorhome in the future.

6. Using RV Seat Covers for a Quick and Stylish Update

If you’re looking for the easiest and most budget-friendly option, RV seat covers are the way to go. They slip right over your existing seats to hide cracks and stains, and can totally change your interior style in minutes.

Why RVers Love Them:

• Affordable (usually $50–$150 per pair)
• Easy to install
• Machine washable (depending on material)
• Available in tons of colors and textures

Here are some options:

• Premium Faux Leather Motorhome Seat Cover (Amazon)
• Stretch Fabric Covers for Motorhome Seats (Amazon)
• Waterproof Motorhome Captain Chair Seat Covers (Camping World)

Use these RV seat covers to match your overall motorhome decor, like neutral tones for a clean modern look, or fun colors if you want personality!

Bonus Tip: Measure your seats twice before ordering. Look for adjustable straps and elastic corners for a snug fit, especially on motorhome captain chairs.

7. Final Touches: Coordinating Your Motorhome ‘s Captain Chairs with the Rest of the RV

Once your seats look fresh again, tie them into the rest of your RV’s interior with small design updates. Add accent pillows, throws, or new curtains in complementary colors. If you’ve chosen new motorhome seat covers, try matching them with your dinette upholstery or dash accessories for a cohesive look.

For more interior inspiration, check out:

• 15 Class A Renovations That Will Make You Want an RV
• 22 Beautiful RV Remodel Ideas
• 8 Motorhome Remodels Wowwing Us This Week
• 14 RV’s With Dark, Black Interiors
• COLORFUL RV Interior Makeovers

Conclusion: Your Motorhome Seats Can Look New Again

Whether your seats just need a deep clean, a stylish cover, or a full makeover, there’s no shortage of ways to breathe new life into your motorhome’s interior!

We always suggest to start small: Clean and condition, then try RV seat covers for an instant refresh. If you’re ready to go all-in, motorhome seat reupholstery or complete complete replacement of your captain’s chairs can completely transform both the look and comfort of your ride.

No matter which route you choose, you’ll love sitting behind the wheel again. And if you tackle your own seat makeover, share your before-and-after photos, we’d love to see how you made your captain’s chairs shine again!