Kindle First Generation Reader Covers and Skins

The first generation Kindle wireless reader was introduced by Amazon.com back in the fall of 2007. Amazing that it was that long ago! I've had my Kindle 1 since October 2008 and still love it and use it every single day. Although Amazon has introduced new Kindle models and my Kindle 1 is almost a dinosaur in e-reader years, it still works as well as it did on day one and I have no plans for replacing it anytime soon (though occasionally I dream about the Kindle DX's big screen, but I digress).

I'm sure I'm not alone. There are still tens of thousands of satisfied Kindle 1 owners out there. But after a couple of years of Kindle-ing, some of us might want to update our readers with a new case and maybe even a new decorative Kindle skin decal.

I've actually spent some time looking for a Kindle 1 cover and I've discovered that they're a little bit scarce. I did find some nice, colorful padded Kindle sleeves from SoftSuit at Amazon.com that I really like. They're reversible, so you pretty much get two sleeves in one, a nice feature for those of us who like to dress our Kindles to match our moods.

Leather Kindle 1 covers are much harder to find. The cover that was included with the first generation Kindles is vinyl and adequate, but it's hard to beat the feel of authentic leather. I did find a couple of leather covers available at Amazon, but I had better luck with eBay auctions. When I searched for leather Kindle covers some of the results included a used Kindle, so if you're shopping make sure you read the auction listing carefully to see exactly what you're bidding on.

Even though both the Kindle 1st and 2nd generation readers have 6-inch screens, the sizes are slightly different and genuine Kindle 2 covers attach with brackets on the side, so Kindle 1 and Kindle 2 covers are not interchangeable. Again, make sure the cover you order is designed to fit the 1st generation Kindle.

While Kindle 1 covers may be scarce, happily that is not the case when it comes to decorative Kindle skins. A skin (or skin decal) is a thin sticker made from a durable vinyl material that not only decorates a device but also protects it from dirt and nicks that may result from daily use.

There are hundreds of skin decal designs available, made to order to exactly fit the front and exposed portions of the back of the Kindle 1. No matter what your favorite color or taste in art, from classic to whimsical, you'll likely find several designs that you love.

Before applying a skin to the outside of your Kindle, make sure the surface is totally clean and dry. Take your time; position the sticker carefully, don't stretch it, and don't rush the process. Skins are easily removable when applied properly and can be changed to suit your mood, so take a little extra time and your new Kindle skin will serve you well.

If you're going to the beach or to the pool, or even slurping your morning cereal while you read (milk splashes on Kindle are not a pretty sight!) then be sure to add a dry pack case to your Kindle 1's wardrobe.

While there are not any custom-fit waterproof cases made for the first generation Kindle (there are for the Kindle 2), there are dry packs that work very well to protect your reader from water, sand, and even dew. You tent campers and canoeists out there who love to read know exactly what I'm talking about.

And let's not forget those who like to relax and read in the tub or at the spa. Don't forget to dress your Kindle in its waterproof case before you get too comfortable. (Splash!)

Click here to learn more about waterproof Kindle covers.

With a new, colorful Kindle skin and a new sleeve, cover, or case, your 1st generation Kindle should be good to go for a long time, your faithful companion, carrying your library of favorite books wherever you go.  Happy e-reading!