Do you need a BBQ cover?

What a cover protects against

The value of a cover depends on the grill. The table shows what matters most for each type.

Gas BBQs gain the most, because burners, igniters and valves are the parts that cause the most faults when damp gets in. Kamados gain the least in terms of the cooker itself, but their gaskets, wooden shelves and metal bands still last longer under a cover.

Are BBQ covers waterproof?

Most decent covers are waterproof or highly water resistant on top, usually polyester or vinyl with a waterproof coating. Seams are the weak point: taped or welded seams keep water out far better than plain stitching. Cheaper covers often become less waterproof as the coating ages in sunlight.

Fully waterproof is not the whole story, though. A cover that seals completely traps moisture from dew and temperature changes. On a cold night that moisture condenses on the metal underneath, which can cause more rust and mould than leaving the grill uncovered. Look for vents near the top or a breathable fabric that lets vapour out while keeping rain off.

What to look for

A maker's own cover usually fits best. For third-party covers, measure the grill with shelves up or down as you store it; our how to measure for a BBQ cover guide shows how.

• A good fit: room to slide over the grill with lid handles and side tables, but not so loose that it flaps and wears.
• Taped or welded seams and a coated, UV-resistant fabric.
• Vents to reduce condensation and stop the cover ballooning in wind.
• Drawcords, buckles or straps to hold it on in wind.
• Handles or loops to lift it off easily.
• For kamados and kettles, a shape made for round grills.

Using a cover properly

1. 1

   Let the grill cool completely before covering. A hot grill can melt the fabric.

2. 2

   Brush the grates and empty grease trays, as food residue under a cover attracts pests.

3. 3

   On gas BBQs, close the bottle valve. Never store a gas bottle inside a closed space with the grill.

4. 4

   Fit the cover and secure the straps or drawcord.

5. 5

   After a long spell of wet weather, take the cover off on a dry day to air the grill.

Note:Never cover a BBQ while it is still warm or while charcoal could be smouldering. Hot embers can last for hours in ash, so wait until the next day after charcoal cooks.

Cover, shed or garage?

Storing a cool grill in a shed or garage over winter protects it better than any cover, as long as the space is dry and gas bottles stay outside, upright and away from drains. Kamados are usually too heavy to move and are designed to live outdoors, so a good cover matters more for them.

A cover is also a good idea in summer between cooks. Pollen, tree sap and bird droppings are hard to clean from enamel and stainless steel. Our can you use a BBQ in the rain article covers wet-weather cooking. If you are buying a new grill, our best gas BBQs guide and best charcoal BBQs guide note which come with covers.

See the best gas BBQs →

Frequently asked questions

Do BBQs need covers? In the UK it is strongly advisable for any grill kept outdoors, to limit rust, damp and dirt.

Can a BBQ cover cause rust? A fully sealed cover can trap condensation. Choose one with vents or breathable fabric and air the grill now and then.

Should I cover my BBQ in summer? Yes, between cooks, once it has cooled. It keeps off rain, pollen and bird mess.

Is a waterproof cover better than a breathable one? The best covers combine both: waterproof on top with vents or breathable panels.