How to measure for a BBQ cover

What to measure

Covers are sold by width x depth x height, usually in centimetres. Measure the BBQ cold, on its normal surface, in the shape it will be stored in.

1. 1

   Decide whether side tables will be up or folded down when covered; measure in that position.

2. 2

   Width: measure side to side at the widest point, including side tables, handles and any side burner.

3. 3

   Depth: measure front to back at the deepest point, including knobs, handles, the lid hinge and the thermometer.

4. 4

   Height: measure from the ground to the top of the lid, or to the top of the chimney or handle if higher.

5. 5

   Write the three numbers down as width x depth x height.

6. 6

   Add about 5 cm to width and depth for easy fitting, and compare with the cover's stated size.

Measuring different grill types

Kettle barbecues are round, so measure the diameter of the bowl and lid, plus any side table or handle that sticks out, and the height from the ground to the lid handle. Round covers for 47 cm and 57 cm kettles are widely sold. Kamado grills are measured the same way, including the stand or nest and any side shelves.

Cart gas grills and pellet grills are rectangular. Watch for the pellet hopper, side burners and chimney stacks, which add width or height. Tabletop grills such as a Weber Q can be covered on their own or together with their stand, which needs a much taller cover.

Example sizes from listings

These dimensions come from the product listings in our guides and show how much grills vary. Always measure your own, because listings sometimes give packed sizes.

Choosing a cover for UK weather

Look for a heavy, coated polyester fabric; covers often quote a denier such as 600D, where a higher number usually means a thicker weave. A waterproof coating keeps rain out, but the cover also needs vents or a breathable fabric so condensation can escape. Trapped moisture under a cover can cause more rust than rain.

Useful details include a drawcord or straps to stop wind lifting it, handles to pull it on and off, and a length that reaches close to the ground. Some grills come with a cover in the box; the CosmoGrill Pro Deluxe 6+1 and George Foreman Large charcoal BBQ both list one.

Note:Only cover a BBQ once it is completely cold and the gas is turned off at the bottle. Charcoal and embers can stay hot for many hours and can melt or ignite a cover.

Looking after the cover and the grill

Clean the grill before covering it for the winter, because grease attracts mice and insects. Empty the grease tray and ash catcher and let everything dry. Brush leaves off the cover regularly and shake off standing water, which can wear through the fabric.

If your BBQ is beyond saving after a winter outside, our best gas BBQs for UK gardens and best charcoal BBQs guides compare replacements, and how to clean a gas BBQ covers the end-of-season clean.

Compare charcoal BBQs →

Frequently asked questions

Should a BBQ cover touch the ground? It should come close, to keep driving rain out, but leave a small gap at the bottom for air to circulate and condensation to escape.

Is it better to buy the maker's own cover? A fitted cover from the grill maker is shaped for the model, so it is the easiest option. Generic covers work well if you measure carefully.

Do I need to cover a stainless steel BBQ? Stainless still marks and its internal parts can rust, so a cover helps in a wet climate.

Should side tables be up or down under the cover? Folded down if they fold, which allows a smaller cover. Measure in the position you will store the grill.