Waterproof Outdoor Patio Furniture Covers: 7 Things to Look For

By John Funk, June 03, 2025

Outdoor furniture is a great investment — it makes your patio feel like an extension of your home. But without proper protection, weather can wear it down quickly. That’s why waterproof outdoor patio furniture covers are a must. They shield your furniture from rain, dust, sun, and other elements so it stays clean and lasts longer.

However, not all covers offer the same protection. Some may look good at first, but fall apart after a single season. To help you choose wisely, here are seven key things to look for when buying waterproof outdoor patio furniture covers. Performing these easy inspections can greatly improve your furniture’s durability over the years.

Waterproof (Not Just Water-Resistant)

It might sound obvious, but make sure your patio cover is truly waterproof, not just water-resistant. Water-resistant covers only hold up in light drizzles — they can't handle a full-on rainstorm. If water seeps through, it can cause rust, mold, or fabric damage to your furniture. That completely defeats why you put the cover on to begin with!

When shopping, check if the cover is made from vinyl, PVC-coated polyester, or has a thick waterproof layer. A good waterproof cover won’t let any moisture in, keeping your furniture completely dry. Some even have sealed or taped seams to block water from sneaking in through stitching holes. This one feature alone can save you from a lot of cleanup later.

UV Protection

Rain isn’t the only thing that can damage your furniture. Constant exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause fabric fading, cracking, or weakening of the furniture frame. Over time, that nice patio set you bought may start to look dull or worn if it’s not protected from the sun.

That’s why it’s smart to pick covers that have built-in UV protection. These covers block harmful rays and prevent discoloration or heat damage. Even if you live in a cooler area, UV rays can still break down materials slowly over time. A cover with UV resistance means your furniture stays vibrant and strong, regardless of how sunny it gets.

Durable Material

A good patio furniture cover should be able to handle more than just rain. Think of strong winds, accidental snags, or even curious pets — your cover needs to hold up. Thin, flimsy materials may tear easily or blow away with the first gust of wind, leaving your furniture exposed.

Choose covers crafted from durable materials like polyester, vinyl, or canvas. Materials with high denier ratings (like 500D or 600D) are especially tough. Double-stitched or reinforced seams are also a good sign of durability. Spending a little more upfront for better quality will save you from replacing covers every year.

Secure Fit

Imagine waking up after a windy night only to find your furniture cover blown off and your chairs soaked. A loose-fitting cover doesn’t offer much protection. That’s why it's important to look for a snug and secure fit that stays in place during bad weather.

Choose covers that come with adjustable drawstrings, elastic hems, buckle straps, or even Velcro. These features help anchor the cover and keep it from flying off or shifting. Some covers even have corner loops you can tie to a table or chair legs. A good fit not only protects your furniture better but also looks neater on your patio.

Breathability or Ventilation

Even waterproof outdoor patio furniture covers need to breathe. Without airflow, trapped moisture inside the cover can lead to mold and mildew, especially if the furniture is made of wood or has cushions. That means your furniture could still get damaged, even though it’s covered.

Look for covers with built-in air vents or mesh panels. These features allow moisture to escape while keeping rain out. Good ventilation reduces the risk of condensation and keeps the inside of the cover fresh and dry. This little touch can have a significant impact on how well your furniture stays protected.

Easy to Use and Store

Let’s be honest — if the cover is too bulky or complicated, you’re less likely to use it regularly. Covers should be easy to put on and take off without needing a second person or a manual. Convenience matters, especially when you’re rushing to cover your furniture before a surprise rainstorm.

Choose waterproof outdoor patio furniture covers that are lightweight but strong, and consider ones that come with handles or storage bags. When not in use, they should fold up conveniently for easy storage in a garage or shed. The easier they are to manage, the more likely you are to use them consistently, and that means better protection for your patio set.

The Right Size and Shape

Not all patio furniture is the same size or shape. Using a cover that's too small won't fully protect your furniture, while one that’s too big can be clumsy and trap water. It’s important to choose a cover that fits your specific furniture pieces well.

Make sure to measure your furniture’s length, width, and height before purchasing, and check these against the cover’s size. Some brands offer fitted covers for tables, chairs, sectionals, and even BBQ grills. A well-fitting cover gives your setup a polished look and keeps water and dirt from sneaking in underneath.

Why Choose Seal Skin’s Semi-Custom-Fit Waterproof Outdoor Patio Furniture Covers

At Seal Skin, we offer high-quality semi-custom waterproof outdoor patio furniture covers that are thoughtfully designed to fit your furniture’s shape and size without the high cost of fully custom covers. Our covers strike the perfect balance between great fit and affordability, making them an excellent choice for protecting your outdoor setup year-round, including during the tough winter months.

Designed for durability, these covers also promote good ventilation to stop moisture from causing mold or mildew. This smart design keeps your furniture dry and your patio fresh, avoiding that unwanted greenhouse effect. Made from premium materials, our covers offer a snug, secure fit so that you don’t have to worry about them slipping or blowing away. The tough outer layer stands up to harsh weather, while the soft fleece inner lining protects your furniture from scratches and wear.

Our products are not just reasonably priced, but we will also ship your order right to your doorstep at no additional cost, without any delay. We offer a full 30-day money-back guarantee and a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty with every purchase.

You can call us at 800-915-0038 during our office hours (Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST), and we will help you find the right waterproof outdoor patio furniture cover that fits your needs and budget. We will also help you if you have any questions about our products, shipping policies, and exchange/refund policies.