Antimacassars serve as protective seat covers in aviation

An antimacassar is a small cloth placed over the back of a chair or seat to protect upholstery from grease, dirt, and hair oils. The term originated in the mid-nineteenth century as a defense against macassar oil, a hair product popular in the early 1800s.

Beyond its practical use in preventing permanent stains on fabric or simulated leather, antimacassars have served as decorative fashion statements. In the aviation industry, airlines utilize these cloths to extend the lifespan of seat upholstery, which reduces long-term maintenance costs. Some airlines also utilize the space on antimacassars for advertising revenue.