Are grill covers necessary?

While not strictly necessary, “to protect your grill from the elements and keep it looking its best, a grill cover is strongly recommended,” says Jamie Wallace , a senior category manager at Traeger. Keeping your grill covered when it’s not in use will prevent or delay wear and tear on the exterior, protect the interior from rust, and act as a deterrent for animals. Especially if you live in a harsh climate, keeping your grill covered will extend both its appearance and functional life.

Are grill covers heat-resistant?

“Covers are not heat resistant,” says Wallace. “Always allow your grill to cool completely before covering.” Putting a cover on a hot grill can cause it to melt and fuse to the exterior of your grill or, worse, create a fire hazard.

Are grill covers waterproof?

Most grill covers are water resistant, according to Wallace, which is different from being waterproof. While they are designed to prevent water from getting into your grill, they are not completely impervious to moisture. Keep an eye on your cover and replace it if the inner water-resistant lining begins to crack or peel away, or if you notice split seams or any holes.

The 8 Best Grill Covers of 2023

The Best Grill Covers for All-Year Weather Protection — Food & Wine / Amazon

A grill cover is the best way to maintain an outdoor grill's look and performance and, ultimately, extend its lifespan. Not only will it shelter your unit from elements like rain and snow to prevent rust, but it will also protect it from natural particles like tree sap, pollen, dust, and dirt that can contaminate your cooking surface — and your food. Additionally, a cover provides secure protection from nesting critters and pests that might find your grill a safe, dry, and comfy space to settle (because nothing kills the appetite quite like a surprise bug infestation).

To find the best grill cover, first assess the size and shape of your cooker to determine the right fit for you. Next, consider where you plan to store your grill to determine what types of environmental protection you'll need in a grill cover. Read on to shop our favorite grill covers for every shape, size, and brand.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Grillman Premium BBQ Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best Overall Runner-Up:

Classic Accessories BBQ Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best Value:

VIBOOS 58-Inch Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best for Weber Grills:

Weber Genesis II 300 Grill Cover at Walmart

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Best for Char-Broil Grills:

Char Broil Performance Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best for Blackstone Griddles:

Blackstone Gas Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best Charcoal Grills:

Weber Premium 22 in. Charcoal Grill Cover at Amazon

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Best for Built-In Grills:

CoverMates Built-In Grill Cover at Amazon

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Amazon

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Pros

Available in six sizes, this water-resistant cover keeps various gas and charcoal grills protected from harsh weather conditions.

Cons

Unlike some others, this cover doesn't attach at the bottom of the grill, so be sure to fasten the side straps tightly to prevent it from blowing away.

We love this option from Grillman because it's waterproof, windproof, UV-coated, and rip-resistant, protecting your grill from all types of weather — hot or cold, rain or shine.

Its PVC-lined 600 denier polyester canvas fabric features a UV-resistant finish, and unlike most grill covers on the market, it has a special dye to make the color more durable to sunlight and less prone to fading over time. The adjustable hook and loop closure straps enable a secure fit, plus it has padded heavy-duty handles at each side for easy maneuvering.

This grill cover is available in three color options: black, gray, and tan. It also comes in six sizes to perfectly fit all popular grill brands, including Weber, Char-Broil, and Brinkmann. The waterproof construction makes it easy to clean: Simply spray it with water and allow it to air dry.

Price at time of publish: $52

Material: Polyester
Sizes: Six options ranging from 30 to 72 inches wide
Attachment System: Adjustable hook and loop velcro side straps

Classic Accessories Veranda Water-Resistant BBQ Grill Cover

Amazon

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Pros

Durable fabric makes this weather-resistant cover extra strong, and vents allow air to flow freely, helping mitigate moisture.

Cons

The shape is more suitable for rectangular grills than circular charcoal grills.

As a close second to the Grillman cover, this heavy-duty option shields grills from every type of outdoor element. Made of woven polyester fabric, this weather-resistant shield stands strong against moisture from rain and snow and even includes air vents that minimize condensation and protect the cover from lifting off in heavy winds.

Padded handles on both sides make it easy to take off when it's time to get dinner going, and after cooling and cleaning your grill, click-and-close straps securely keep the cover in place to combat windy weather.

This grill cover comes in nine sizes to fit a wide range of grills and is compatible with many popular brands, including Weber, Brinkmann, Char-Broil, Jenn-Air, and more.

Price at time of publish: $68

Material: Polyester
Sizes: Nine options ranging from 38 to 80 inches wide
Attachment System: Click-close straps and drawstring bottom

Viboos Waterproof Weather Resistant BBQ Grill Cover

Amazon

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Pros

This versatile option fits a variety of different styles of grills at an affordable price.

Cons

Though it's made of durable material that will shield your grill from environmental factors, it doesn't have vented slots to decrease condensation and allow for free airflow.

If you've already splurged on a top-tier grill, you may not be willing to spend too much more on accessories, but a grill cover is a worthy investment to prevent damage, premature replacement, or repairs down the line. Luckily, this option from Viboos is waterproof, wind-proof, and dust-resistant at an affordable price.

At 58 inches by 24 inches by 46 inches, it's designed to fit several of the most popular outdoor grill brands, including Char-Broil and Nexgrill, as well as both of Weber's popular Spirit and Genesis models.

Not only is the heavy-duty fabric ideal for waterproof protection against storms and moisture, but it's also durable enough for long-term use. The UV coating can withstand intense sun without fading or cracking, so it can keep your grill looking and performing at its best year-round, even in the peak summer sun.

Adjustable fasteners on both sides and a drawstring at the bottom keep the cover snugly secure around your grill, even in heavy winds.

Price at time of publish: $30

Material: Oxford cloth
Sizes: 10 options ranging from 32 to 72 inches wide
Attachment System: Adjustable velcro straps on the sides and a drawstring bottom

Weber Genesis II 300 Series Premium Gas Grill Cover.

Walmart

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Pros

This versatile cover is compatible with three of Weber's most popular gas grill models.

Cons

Due to the shape of this cover, it's not suitable for Weber's smaller charcoal grills.

If you have a name-brand grill, buying a cover from that same brand means it's guaranteed to fit safely and securely. Made for three of the most popular Weber gas grill models, the Genesis II 3-Burner, Genesis 300 Series, and Genesis II LX 300 Series, this premium cover offers the perfect fit for your grill because it's made by and for the very same brand.

Its heavy-duty polyester fabric is both water and UV-resistant for year-round protection, no matter the weather. It's breathable for sufficient airflow on extra-hot days and comes with straps with hook and loop fasteners on both sides for a more fitted appearance, plus the security of it staying in place when the wind picks up. Keep in mind that this cover doesn't have handles, which might make maneuvering it more difficult.

Price at time of publish: $62

Material: Polyester
Size: 58 inches wide
Attachment System: Hook and loop side straps

Amazon

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Pros

This universal grill cover is made for Char-Broil grills but is completely compatible with other top brands like Weber and Nexgrill.

Cons

Make sure to secure the side straps tightly, so the cover won't blow away in heavy winds.

This collection offers the perfect cover for practically every Char-Broil grill, featuring multiple sizes for barbecues with two burners, three to four burners, and five or more burners, plus two additional options for grill or kettle smoker combos. Though it's made with the brand in mind, it's super universal and can also fit multiple Weber, Char-Griller, Broil King, Nexgrill, Kitchenaid, Dyna-Glo, and Expert Grill models.

Its 300 denier polyester fabric is extra thick to protect your grill from potential downpours, and sealed seams ensure a watertight fit from all angles. Additionally, a protective liner stands strong against UV rays — so much so that the brand offers a two-year fade-free warranty on their grill covers. It's also rip-resistant and features adjustable side straps that'll stay in place in windy weather.

Price at time of publish: $36

Material: Polyester
Sizes: Five options ranging from 22 to 72 inches wide
Attachment System: Adjustable side straps

Blackstone Heavy-Duty Flat Top Gas Grill Cover

Amazon

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Pros

The straps buckle closed for a secure lock, and the material is strong.

Cons

Some customers wish it was longer for more coverage toward the wheels.

With their long, wide surfaces, it’s no surprise that Blackstone griddles require specific covers. Fortunately, this one made by the brand is an excellent option. Where most grill covers fasten with straps or a rope, this one features buckles that clasp securely into place. The material is also unusual: Polyester is the standard for covers, but it’s made of a heavy-duty canvas instead. That means it can withstand extreme weather without suffering from the cracks or tears that can impact polyester and is less likely to fade from sunlight. Reinforced corners with heavy-duty stitching prevent tears due to wind, and also keep it looking tidy; in fact, the appearance of this cover overall is particularly well-kempt, and the black color is subtle and attractive.

To clean the cover, you need only to wipe it down, and for larger messes, such as bird droppings, you can hose it down and the stuck residue will slide off. It’s also available for purchase along with a grill conditioner treatment or other accessories, such as grease cup liners. This cover is compatible with the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle with Shelf Attached and the Blackstone Tailgater.

Price at time of publish: $35

Material: Polyester
Size: 36 inches
Attachment System: Strap and buckle

Weber Premium 22 in. Charcoal Grill Cover.

Home Depot

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Pros

Thanks to its compact size, this cover is easy to handle and fits tightly over smaller, more simple charcoal grills.

Cons

This cover is designed for smaller grills that don't have any accessories, so you'll need a separate cover for any side tables.

This petite option from Weber is made specifically for 22-inch grills without a side table, including the brand's most popular mini model, the Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. Though it's one of the most affordable grills on the market, even small grills need major protection, and this cover is equally as heavy-duty as the options made for bigger barbecues with all the expensive bells and whistles.

It's made of 100 percent polyester material that's just as durable as vinyl, but still soft, pliable, and breathable enough for easy placement and removal — even in extreme winter weather. It's water-resistant for protection against natural elements and features UV inhibitors in the fabric to resist fading over time in the sun. Included fastening straps help keep the cover secure on extra windy days, and a handle at the top makes it easy to take on and off.

Price at time of publish: $50

Material: Polyester
Size: 27 inches wide
Attachment System: Loop and hook side straps

Amazon

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Pros

You can choose from different materials and sizes depending on your needs and climate.

Cons

The polyester versions are better than the vinyl.

Thanks to Covermates’s various cover options for built-in grills, you can find the perfect material, size, and color to fit your needs. Different price points have different materials, some of which will stand up to fierce wind and others designed for more moderate climates, as there is no need to overspend on features you won’t use. All versions will defend your grill against rain, sun, and dirt throughout the year and won’t offset the general look of an attractive built-in.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes — from 30 to 54 inches — and can accommodate side burners and separate pieces. An elastic hem runs around the edges to keep water and snow out, providing a snug fit.

Price at time of publish: $43

Material: Polyester and vinyl
Sizes: Six options ranging from 30 to 54 inches wide
Attachment System: Elastic hem

Our Favorite

You can’t go wrong with the Grillman Premium BBQ Grill Cover, which is tough on elements while being easy on the eye and having a moderate price. It’s compatible with a wide range of grills and built to last. We also love the Classic Accessories Veranda Water-Resistant BBQ Grill Cover for its wind resistance and matching bench cover offerings to give your yard a cohesive look.

Factors to Consider

Size

To ensure your cover will fit, you’ll want to check the brand and size of your grill. The cover’s length and width should be larger than the grill; we recommend choosing one 1 to 2 inches wider than your grill for a secure fit that can also be easily applied and removed. Depending on the cover, it may come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll want to double-check you select the one most appropriate for your grill.

Material

Most grill covers are made of polyester. Some are breathable to prevent condensation, while others have sealant on both sides to keep water out. Canvas and vinyl are also popular choices. Polyester is the most common because it works in any weather, but it isn’t ideal for extreme conditions because it needs to be enhanced with a coating to be waterproof. Vinyl is waterproof on its own, and thicker vinyl is ideal because it takes longer to crack than a thinner one. Canvas is naturally waterproof, and as a thicker material than vinyl or polyester, it can offer increased durability. It also keeps your grill dry through intense weather and is long-lasting.

Features

You should choose a cover with features suitable for your climate. If you live somewhere hot and sunny, UV protection is important to prevent fading and cracking. Conversely, if you’re in a location that is stormy through the winter, fastening straps to keep it secure in the wind and ventilation to fight condensation will be very useful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are grill covers necessary?

While not strictly necessary, “to protect your grill from the elements and keep it looking its best, a grill cover is strongly recommended,” says Jamie Wallace, a senior category manager at Traeger. Keeping your grill covered when it’s not in use will prevent or delay wear and tear on the exterior, protect the interior from rust, and act as a deterrent for animals. Especially if you live in a harsh climate, keeping your grill covered will extend both its appearance and functional life.
Are grill covers heat-resistant?

“Covers are not heat resistant,” says Wallace. “Always allow your grill to cool completely before covering.” Putting a cover on a hot grill can cause it to melt and fuse to the exterior of your grill or, worse, create a fire hazard.
Are grill covers waterproof?

Most grill covers are water resistant, according to Wallace, which is different from being waterproof. While they are designed to prevent water from getting into your grill, they are not completely impervious to moisture. Keep an eye on your cover and replace it if the inner water-resistant lining begins to crack or peel away, or if you notice split seams or any holes.

Our Expertise

This piece was written by Laura Denby, a food writer and former chef with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education. Laura uses her years of experience cooking in professional kitchens to guide her expert product reviews, which can be found at FoodNetwork.com, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Taste of Home, and more.

Contributor Ariane Resnick updated this piece. She is a special diet private chef, a certified nutritionist, and a lifestyle writer with two decades of culinary and literary experience, and her work has been featured in Simply Recipes, The Spruce Eats, Clean Plates, Huffington Post, Verywell, and more. For this article, she conducted market research and drew on her experience of grilling for work on both coasts. Stacey Ballis, a freelance writer, recipe developer, and product reviewer, also contributed to this piece.