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The Spruce Eats / Lecia Landis
The key to maintaining your grill is keeping it protected and covered while it’s not in use. When you’re not using your grill, the outdoor elements can take a toll on it if it’s not properly protected. Not only are grill covers a great way to extend the life of your grill or smoker, but they also add a nice aesthetic touch to your outdoor cooking space when your grill is not in use. Getting in the habit of covering up your grill after it’s cooled from use will protect your grill from the elements, as well as any outdoor pests.
If you live in a climate that’s subject to rain or snow, keeping your grill covered is essential. Aside from the weather, grill covers can also protect against dust, dirt, pollen, leaves, tree sap, and bird droppings. The best grill covers should fit a grill like a glove, it should be made with durable, protective material, and it should add a nice touch to your outdoor cooking space.
Best Overall
Grillman Premium BBQ Grill Cover
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Amazon
Super high-quality material
UV- and wind-resistant
Offered in multiple sizes
Might be a little long
If you want the most coverage possible, this heavy-duty cover is sure to last you a long time. Available in a wide variety of sizes, you will definitely be able to find a model that fits your grill. The cover is made with a PVC-lined Oxford material that’s waterproof, UV-resistant, wind-resistant, and tear-resistant. The side strap makes for a secure fit and allows you to lift the cover on and off with ease. If the cover becomes dirty, it’s super easy to wash it off and let it air dry.
Reviewers are floored by the heavy-duty nature and quality of this cover. If quality is a top priority for you, these covers do not disappoint, plus they’re at a very reasonable price point. Some warned that their covers were a little long for their particular grill models.
Price at time of publish: $55
Material: Polyester | Options: 6 sizes, 3 colors | Vented: No | Features: Waterproof, UV-resistant, wind-resistant
"The first step is checking the website of your grill model and looking for their proprietary cover. Through this, you’ll find the exact measurements of the cover that are recommended for your model specifically. Read through their claims and customer reviews. If you’ve bought a high-end grill, the cover designed for it (possibly even included in the grill’s purchase and already in your hands) may be your best option." — Christian Stark, Culinary Director of Hill Country Barbecue
Best Budget
Vankada Grill Cover
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Amazon
Weatherproof
UV-resistant
Dust-proof
Comes with a storage bag
One reviewer noted the material was a little bit thin
Grill covers can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. For less than the cost of a good steak, the Vankada Grill Cover assures your grill is protected. Low price doesn’t have to mean low quality. Made of waterproof Oxford cloth, this cover is designed to resist elements including rain storms, heavy wind, and snow. And being UV-resistant protects your grill even during the hottest summers.
One of the best features of this grill cover is that it comes with a convenient storage bag to stash the cover while you're cooking. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, there's ample time to figure out if it’s the right grill cover for you.
Price at time of publish: $27
Material: Oxford cloth | Options: 3 sizes | Vented: No | Features: Waterproof, UV-resistant
In order to measure for a grill cover, you’ll need to know the height, length, and depth of the grill while the lid is in a closed position. Always include the knobs and handles in these measurements and any chimney heights on smoker grills. Most grill covers come with detailed size charts to help you understand which cover is the appropriate size for your grill.
Best Weber
Weber Spirit II 300 Series Grill Cover
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Amazon
Fasteners keeps it secure
Polyester is UV-resistant
Durable
Expensive
Only works with specific Weber models
If you own the Weber Spirit II E-310 (one of our top-ranked gas grills) or a similar model, buying the corresponding cover is a no-brainer. The polyester material is water-resistant and highly protective against UV rays but not so heavy that it is a burden to take on and off. Adhesive fastening straps allow you to firmly secure the cover but also easily maneuver it when it’s time to remove it.
At first it might be surprising that this grill cover has such a lightweight, vinyl-like material, yet the material is quite protective and does a great job at protecting the grill from any precipitation or heavy sun. Another useful feature is the fastening straps, which ensure that the cover will stay put even during windy, treacherous weather.
Price at time of publish: $96
Material: Polyester | Options: 2 sizes | Vented: No | Features: Water-resistant, UV-resistant, wind-resistant
"I’d much prefer to buy a relatively expensive option as opposed to replacing a cheap one a half dozen times. If you want a raincoat that actually keeps you dry, you’re going to spend some money on it. Why would a grill cover be any different? Are you planning on keeping this grill for the next decade? Did you spend enough on the grill to merit keeping it for a decade? Buy something worthy of your initial investment!" — Christian Stark, Culinary Director of Hill Country Barbecue
Best for Kettle Grills
SunPatio Heavy Duty Waterproof Grill Cover
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Amazon
Fits many brands
Great price
UV-resistant
One reviewer noted a somewhat snug fit
Kettle grills have a unique shape, so it’s essential to find a cover that’s designed specifically for this type of cooker. The SunPatio Heavy Duty Waterproof Grill Cover measures 27.5 x 27.5 x 38 inches and should fit a variety of brands including Big Green Egg, Char-Broil, and Weber grills.
An excellent value for the money, this grill cover is made of heavy-duty UV- and rip-resistant fabric. So, there’s no need to take your grill inside on a hot day or make sure it’s in the shade. This cover even has a waterproof lining, making it an optimal choice for all seasons. Sewn-in fabric handles make it easy to put on and take off when you’re ready to grill. You can even hang it from a wall for quick storage while you’re grilling up dinner.
Price at time of publish: $21
Material: Polyester, vinyl | Options: 1 size | Vented: No | Features: Waterproof, UV-resistant, windproof
Best Traeger
Traeger Pro 575 & Pro 22 Full-Length Grill Cover
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Walmart
Fits snug over pellet grill chimney
Waterproof and rip-resistant
Stylish
Expensive
No UV protection
If you need something to protect your pellet grill, this cover should do the trick. Since pellet grills often have an awkward chimney design, it’s important to find a cover that fits the accommodations of your specific pellet grill. This form-fitting, waterproof material drapes perfectly over your Traeger, giving it a stylish look. If you’re looking to extend the lifetime of your pellet grill, the easiest way to do that is to use a cover that fits well, is made of durable materials, and can protect the grill against any extreme weather.
You'll love how easy it was to set up over your Traeger, as well as the fact that it's sturdy and rip-resistant. Owning a Traeger pellet grill is such a great way to take your outdoor cooking setup to the next level, so make sure to maintain your grill as best you can between uses.
Price at time of publish: $70
Material: Vinyl | Options: 1 size | Vented: No | Features: Water-resistant
Best for Smoker
Nexcover Offset Smoker Cover
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Amazon
Waterproof
Fade-resistant
Good for any climate
Not designed for vertical smokers
Doesn't cover wheels entirely
Measuring 60 x 28 x 37.5 inches, the Nexcover Offset Smoker Cover is ideal for larger smokers. One of the most durable options, it has a mesh air vent and fastening straps, which not only allow air circulation but also keep the cover secure when it's windy outside. Better yet, with waterproof PVC coating, there’s no need to worry about your smoker getting wet in the rain.
In addition to being fade-resistant, the material is also engineered not to crack or become brittle during the winter months—making this an excellent choice for any climate. Christian Stark, culinary director of Hill Country Barbecue, tells us this is essential when making this purchase. “A grill cover should be as weather-resistant as humanly possible,” he says. The cover is also easy to clean, just hose it down and you’re done. And if you decide it doesn't live up to your expectations, there’s a money-back guarantee.
Price at time of publish: $29
Material: Canvas, vinyl | Options: 1 size | Vented: Yes | Features: Waterproof, wind-resistant
Best for Built-Ins
CoverMates Built-In Grill Cover
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Amazon
Inexpensive
Elastic fit
12-gauge commercial vinyl
No UV protection
It’s just as important to cover a built-in grill as it is a freestanding model. With dimensions of 30 x 26 x 14 inches, this cover perfectly fits a 30-inch built-in grill, and the elastic hem makes for a super-secure fit. The 12-gauge commercial vinyl is as tough and durable as materials for grill covers come, so this cover is certainly built to withstand the elements. It’s lined with polyester for added durability and structural integrity.
The cover's elastic hem that makes for a snug fit and keeps out any outdoor elements. For an affordable price, this cover is extremely well-made, durable, and can last you for many grilling seasons.
Price at time of publish: $43
Material: Polyester, vinyl | Options: 6 sizes, 3 colors | Vented: No | Features: Water-resistant, UV-resistant
The Grillman Premium 58-inch BBQ Grill Cover will offer protect your grill from rain and the sun, and it's snug enough to not blow off during afternoon storms. The Weber Spirit II 300 Series Grill Cover is another great pick to protect your new Weber grill.
What to Look For When Buying a Grill Cover
Material
The material is going to determine the protective capacity of your grill cover as well as its durability. Most grill covers are made out of polyester, vinyl, or canvas. Polyester is known for its durability, however, it is often not waterproof, so you want to make sure if your grill cover is polyester, that it’s been treated with a layer of PVC to improve its water resistance and protectiveness against the sun.
Vinyl covers are naturally waterproof, making them a great option. Vinyl may not be as attractive as some of the other materials, but it is certainly going to stand the test of time, especially for grills that do not sit in partially covered areas. Canvas covers are most common among the higher-end grills because canvas is super thick and durable, has a chic look, and is completely waterproof. Canvas can withstand super dry weather and high heat.
Size
Of course, if the cover doesn’t fit your grill properly, then there’s not really any point in having one. It’s important that the cover not only fits around all parts of the grill but also that the bottom of the cover sits a few inches off the ground, which allows for some ventilation and prevents any moisture from getting trapped. Make sure to buy a size that fits the dimensions of your grill as well as the shape—if you have a kettle grill or a smoker, your cover should reflect that shape.
UV Features
Understanding if the grill cover you are purchasing offers UV protection is essential to your decision-making. If your grill stays in an area that is shaded by trees or a porch overhang, seeking out a cover with heavy UV protection is not as essential as if your grill rests in an area that has no protection from the sun. Look for covers that offer special UV coatings that will extend the life and quality of your cover. Preventative covers also reduce shading and discoloration of the covers themselves.
FAQs
Do grill covers prevent rust?
Yes, one of the most common causes of a prematurely rusted grill is exposure to moisture. Especially during seasons with heavy precipitation, it’s always imperative to tightly cover your grill so that it’s not subjected to the elements. It is best to get into the habit of covering your grill after each time you use it. There is one caveat to this rule because moisture can still find its way to a grill in high-moisture environments, in which case you may need to resort to other options, like moving it inside (if possible) during tough weather seasons or occasionally using polish to remove any rust that starts to accumulate.
Are grill covers heat-resistant?
While some grill covers may be heat-resistant, it’s always a good idea to let your grill cool completely before covering it with a cover. This will ensure that there aren’t any lingering flames that could damage the grill or cover.
Can you leave a covered grill outside during the winter?
If you live in colder climates, you know that a harsh winter season can quickly weather even the most durable materials. But yes, if a grill is properly covered, it can stay outside during snow storms, blustery days, and bitter temperatures. Make sure to purchase a heavy-duty cover that completely covers your grill, that is waterproof, and has straps for tightening. You can also leave a propane tank attached to your grill during the winter, just make sure to close off the valve.
How We Researched
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best grill covers on the market, evaluating their key features—like material, durability, or price—in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to certain products on the list.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
Sara Tane has written nearly a dozen buying guides for The Spruce Eats, understanding what consumers and cooks need to consider before making a new purchase for their culinary adventures. She is a professionally trained chef in addition to a grilling and outdoor cooking enthusiast. With many weekends of outdoor cooking experience, she is no stranger to charcoal, propane, and wood-pellet-fired grills. As someone who knows the value of keeping grills in their tip-top shape, she understands the benefits of investing in a grill cover that will protect a grill from the elements.
It was also updated by Amanda Lauren, a seasoned writer and foodie. She loves smoked meats and veggies, especially when someone else does the cooking.
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