BBQ Cover Buying Guide: How to Protect Your Equipment

Your barbecue or plancha is more than just a cooking appliance; it's an investment in enjoyable outdoor gatherings. But without protection, even the most robust equipment will eventually suffer from the elements: rain, sun, frost, or simply dust. Rust, discolouration, and premature wear and tear are never far behind.

To preserve its appearance and extend its lifespan, using a suitable BBQ protective cover is the simplest and most effective solution. This guide will help you navigate the options to choose the perfect protection for your needs. The goal: to keep your equipment in pristine condition and ready to use, season after season.

How to Choose the Right Cover for Your Barbecue or Plancha

Choosing a BBQ cover shouldn't be taken lightly. For optimal protection, three essential criteria should guide your decision.

1. Dimensions: The Foundation of Effective Protection

A cover that's too small is simply unusable. If it's too large, it will flap in the wind and allow dust and moisture to seep in from underneath. The first, non-negotiable step is to precisely measure your appliance (length, width, and height).

Remember to account for any protruding elements, such as handles or side shelves, especially if you don't want to fold them down after each use. For uniquely shaped units (like a kettle-style round barbecue), opt for a dedicated model. A rectangular BBQ cover will be perfect for a classic gas grill. A snug fit is the first secret to successful protection.

2. The Material: Your Guarantee of Durability

The material determines the cover's ability to withstand the elements. The most common ones are:

• Polyester (often Oxford fabric): Highly valued for its robustness, it has the advantage of remaining flexible even in freezing temperatures. A waterproof BBQ cover made of polyester with a PVC or PU coating provides an excellent barrier against rain.
• Polyethylene (PE): Lighter in weight, it offers basic but effective protection against dust and light showers.
• PVC: Completely waterproof, but be aware: it is more rigid and can become brittle when exposed to frost and UV rays if not properly treated.

A crucial point: always check that the material is UV-treated. Without this treatment, the sun's rays will eventually fade the cover and weaken its fibres, leading to tears.

3. The Fastening System: Your Wind-Proof Guarantee

A cover that blows away in the first gust of wind is useless. A good fastening system is therefore non-negotiable. The most reliable options include:

• A drawstring: Usually located at the base, it allows you to tighten the cover firmly around the base of the barbecue or the plancha cart.
• Clip-on straps or hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro): Ideal for securely fastening the cover to the legs or frame of the appliance. This is an essential safety feature in windy regions.

These systems ensure the cover stays perfectly in place, even in high winds, for flawless protection.

Protective Cover Recommendations

To guide you, our editorial team has selected a few models that stand out for their quality and suitability for different types of appliances.

Rectangular BBQ Cover 95 x 62 x 95 cm

• Key feature: Made from high-density polyester (Oxford fabric), it stands out for its ability to remain flexible even in freezing weather, which prevents cracking. Its cut is optimised for medium-sized gas barbecues.
• Benefits:
  • Waterproof and UV-treated material.
  • Secure fastening with adjustable straps and/or a drawstring.
  • 360° protection against rain, frost, dust, and pollen.
• Who is it for?: For owners of rectangular gas barbecues looking for reliable, durable protection that can withstand all seasons.

Cover for La Plancha Fran?aise Cart by Le Marquier

• Key feature: This plancha cover is tailor-made for carts in Le Marquier's "La Plancha Fran?aise" range. The fit is therefore perfect, providing protection that is as elegant as it is effective.
• Benefits:
  • Designed with PVC-coated polyester for optimal waterproofing.
  • Integrated drawstring for a perfect fit.
  • Designed for models on a cart (side shelves will need to be removed).
• Who is it for?: The obvious plancha protection solution for owners of a Le Marquier model on a cart who want impeccable compatibility and finish.

Universal BBQ Cover 72 x 100 cm

• Key feature: Its versatility. Lightweight and practical, it's an all-rounder option for protecting most standard-sized barbecues from daily hazards (rain, dust).
• Benefits:
  • Lightweight yet durable material, with UV-protective and water-repellent treatment.
  • Secure fit with a drawstring or hook-and-loop straps at the base.
  • Easy to install, remove, and store.
• Who is it for?: Ideal for those looking for a simple and effective BBQ cover that is compatible with most standard grills, without needing a millimetre-perfect fit.

Explore Other Protection Options

Does your barbecue have non-standard dimensions, or are you looking for a specific material? If the models in our selection don't match your equipment, don't worry—other solutions are available.

Discover our full range of protective covers to find the size and style that will perfectly fit your appliance.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About BBQ Covers

When should you put the cover on the barbecue?

Golden rule: Always wait until the barbecue or plancha is completely cool before covering it. Placing a cover on a still-warm appliance risks melting the fabric, creating a fire hazard, and trapping condensation, which accelerates rust. Wait at least 45 to 60 minutes after you've finished cooking.

How do you clean a BBQ cover?

To avoid damaging its waterproof coating, skip the washing machine and harsh detergents. A simple hand wash with a soft brush, some warm water, and mild soap will do the trick. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it air-dry completely before storing it or putting it back on the barbecue.

Is a BBQ cover really necessary?

Absolutely, if you value your equipment and want it to last as long as possible. A good cover doesn't just protect against rain and rust. It also blocks UV rays that fade paint and weaken plastics, as well as dust, pollen, bird droppings, and even frost. It's a small investment to protect a much larger one.

By the Joybuy Editorial Team