Key takeaways
- Polyester with a waterproof coating: Common and affordable. Higher denier ratings, such as 600D, generally mean thicker, tougher fabric.
- Vinyl: Highly water resistant and easy to wipe clean, but can stiffen in cold weather and crack with age.
- Canvas or heavy duck cloth: Breathes better and resists tearing, but may need re-treatment to stay waterproof.
- Welded or taped seams: Stitched seams can leak at the needle holes, so seam sealing or welding is a plus.
- UV-resistant coating: Prevents fading and brittleness in strong sun.
The best grill cover is the one that fits your grill’s exact dimensions, uses heavy waterproof fabric with UV protection, and stays put in the wind. A cover that is too loose collects water and blows off, and one that is too tight tears at the seams. Here is how to measure, what materials hold up, and which small features prevent most common complaints.
Measure Before You Buy
Fit is the number one factor. Measure the grill’s width from the outside edge of the side shelves, its depth from front to back including the handle, and its height from the ground to the top of the lid. If you keep a side burner or a smoker attachment, include it in the measurements. Compare the numbers to the cover’s listed dimensions and allow a few inches of extra room on each side. If you are between sizes, a slightly larger cover with tie-down straps is generally better than a snug one.
Many manufacturers list a cover specifically for a model, which removes guesswork. Otherwise, universal covers advertise a length range, such as 58 inches or 64 inches for common gas grill sizes. Always confirm the dimensions rather than relying on the label “universal.”
Fabric and Construction
- Polyester with a waterproof coating: Common and affordable. Higher denier ratings, such as 600D, generally mean thicker, tougher fabric.
- Vinyl: Highly water resistant and easy to wipe clean, but can stiffen in cold weather and crack with age.
- Canvas or heavy duck cloth: Breathes better and resists tearing, but may need re-treatment to stay waterproof.
- Welded or taped seams: Stitched seams can leak at the needle holes, so seam sealing or welding is a plus.
- UV-resistant coating: Prevents fading and brittleness in strong sun.
Venting matters. A cover with air vents or a breathable lining lets moisture escape, which reduces mildew and rust underneath. A fully sealed cover can trap condensation and cause corrosion over a wet winter.
Comparing Cover Types
| Material | Water Resistance | Durability | Typical Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coated polyester | Good to very good | Good | Coating can wear over years |
| Vinyl | Excellent | Moderate | Cracks in cold or heat |
| Canvas | Moderate unless treated | High | Heavy; may absorb water |
| Thin nylon | Low to moderate | Low | Tears and fades quickly |
Features That Prevent Annoyances
Wind is the biggest enemy. Look for adjustable straps or buckles that cinch under the grill’s body, and elastic hems that grip the base. Handles at the bottom make it easier to pull the cover off without dragging it on the ground. Some covers include a bag for storage during winter. If you live where high winds are common, consider a cover with a drawcord and a clip system rather than loose fabric. A shop search for a heavy duty waterproof grill cover brings up a wide range of sizes and fabrics to compare.
Match the Cover to Your Grill Type
Gas grills with side shelves need a wider cover than their cooking box suggests. Kamado-style ceramic cookers are tall and rounded, so a barrel-shaped cover often fits them better than a rectangular one. Pellet grills have hoppers and chimneys that need extra height; check specifications for a pellet grill cover that mentions the hopper. Round kettle grills use domed covers with a drawstring. Built-in or island grills may need a custom cover because their dimensions are unusual.
Care, Cleaning, and Safety
Never place a cover on a hot grill. Let it cool completely, since fabric can melt or catch fire, and trapped heat can warp the cover coating. Clean the grill grates before storing it to avoid attracting pests and to reduce odors under the cover. Wipe the cover with mild soap and water, rinse, and air dry; avoid harsh solvents that strip the coating. Shake off standing water and snow from the top, since pools can sag and stress seams.
In winter, make sure the area around the grill is free of fuel leaks, and disconnect propane if your manual recommends it. A basic bristle-free grill brush keeps grates clean between uses, which helps the cover stay cleaner too.
Climate shapes what you need. In snowy regions, a cover with strong seams and a smooth top sheds weight better, while in hot, sunny regions UV resistance and a light color reduce heat buildup and fading. Coastal buyers should think about salt air, which speeds up rust on exposed metal and wears fabric coatings; a snug fit, good venting, and regular rinsing make a noticeable difference. If you store the grill near a wall or under an overhang, you may be tempted to skip the cover, but dust, pollen, bird droppings, and pests still find their way in, so a cover remains worthwhile.
Replace the cover if it has cracked coating, large tears, or if it no longer stays secure. A deteriorated cover lets in moisture and may do more harm than good by holding it against the grill. Most covers last a few seasons, depending on sun exposure and storage conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the cover touch the ground?
A cover that reaches slightly below the cart’s base is fine, but dragging on the ground invites dirt and wear. A snug hem with straps is better than excess length.
Are universal covers good enough?
They can be, if the dimensions match with a little room to spare. Model-specific covers fit more precisely.
Do covers prevent rust?
They help by keeping rain and debris off, but vents and dry storage are also important to prevent trapped moisture.
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