A grill lives outside, so the weather works on it every day. A good cover keeps rain, snow, pollen, bird droppings and UV off the lid and controls, and it slows rust on grates and burners. This guide covers how to pick one and how to put your grill away properly for the cold months.
Why a cover is worth it
- Rust: water sitting on painted steel and inside burners is the main cause of early grill failure.
- Sun: UV fades paint and cracks plastic knobs and side shelves.
- Critters and debris: a cover keeps leaves, insects and nesting mice out.
- Mildew: damp, enclosed grills grow mildew on grease and drip trays over winter.
How to measure
Measure the grill’s width (including side shelves), depth and height. Choose a cover a little larger in each dimension so it slides on easily and doesn’t stretch at the seams. A cover that drags on wet ground wicks water up, so aim for one that ends just above the ground.
Materials and features to look for
- Waterproof fabric: coated polyester (often listed by denier, such as 420D or 600D) is the common choice. Higher denier generally means tougher fabric.
- UV resistance: important in sunny climates.
- Vents: let trapped moisture escape, which is the secret to avoiding mildew under the cover.
- Straps or a drawstring: keep the cover from blowing off in wind.
- Handles: make it easier to pull off a wet cover.
A universal waterproof drawstring grill cover fits most standard gas grills and kettles if you size it correctly.
Never cover a hot grill
Let the grill cool completely before you cover it. A hot lid can melt the coating, and trapped heat creates condensation inside.
How to winterize your grill
- Clean it. Burn off residue, then scrub the grates and scrape the inside. A dedicated grill degreaser cuts the built-up grease that attracts mildew and pests. See our guide to grill mat care if you use mats.
- Empty the grease tray and ash catcher.
- Oil the grates lightly to protect them.
- Gas grills: turn off and disconnect the propane tank. Store the tank upright outdoors, never in a garage or basement. You can bring the grill itself into a shed, but the tank stays outside.
- Charcoal grills: remove all ash, which holds moisture and rusts the bowl.
- Cover it and check it after storms.
Grilling through winter?
Plenty of people grill year-round. Keep the cover on between cooks, brush snow off before lighting, and allow extra time to preheat.
Cover materials in more detail
- Polyester with a PVC or PU coating: the most common. Light, water-resistant and affordable. Look for thicker fabric (higher denier) for longer life.
- Vinyl: very waterproof, but can crack in cold weather and trap moisture.
- Canvas: breathable and tough, but heavier and less water-resistant unless treated.
Features that make a difference
- Vents to let moisture escape and reduce mildew.
- Straps or drawcords to keep the cover on in wind.
- Handles to make it easy to pull on and off.
- UV protection if the grill sits in direct sun.
- Double-stitched seams that won’t split.
Built-in, kamado and pellet grills
- Built-in grills need covers sized for the grill head only.
- Kamado and egg-style grills need round covers with room for the hinge and vents.
- Pellet grills need a cover long enough for the hopper and chimney.
Measure with the side shelves up or down, depending on how you store the grill.
Moisture and mold
A cover traps water if the grill is put away wet. Before covering:
- Let the grill cool completely.
- Wipe off rain or condensation.
- Leave the lid open briefly to dry after rain.
- Check under the cover after storms.
Cleaning your cover
Brush off dirt, hose it down and scrub with mild soap. Let it dry completely before refitting. Avoid washing machines and harsh cleaners, which damage the coating.
Storing a grill over winter
If you won’t grill until spring:
- Deep clean the grill, inside and out (see our grill cleaning guide).
- Brush cast iron grates with a light coat of oil.
- Disconnect the propane tank and store it upright outside, never indoors or in a garage.
- Cover the burners’ openings to keep insects and mice out.
- Fit the cover and secure the straps.
- Check under it once a month for moisture or pests.
Choosing color and fit
Darker covers hide dirt but absorb more heat in summer; lighter covers stay cooler but show stains. A snug fit with a little room is best: too tight strains the seams, and too loose catches wind like a sail. Measure the width, depth and height of your grill and add a few centimeters to each.
Cover alternatives
If your grill is very large or unusually shaped, a custom-made cover or a vented storage cabinet can work better than an off-the-shelf cover. A garage or shed is an option for charcoal grills, but never store propane tanks indoors. Whatever you choose, keep the grill dry and covered.
Frequently asked questions
Should I cover my grill all year?
Yes, if it’s outdoors. A cover protects from sun, rain, dust, pollen and bird droppings.
Can a cover cause rust?
It can if moisture gets trapped. Choose a vented cover and keep the grill dry.
How long does a grill cover last?
Typically two to five years, depending on material and sun exposure.
Do I need a cover if my grill is under a roof?
It still helps against dust, pollen and pests.
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Top image: “Areál hotelu Kouty 42” by Pohled 111 (resized and cropped), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.