How do you measure garden furniture for a fitting cover?

You measure garden furniture for a fitting furniture cover by taking the length, width, and height in the position it is normally used. Always measure the outer dimensions, including protruding parts such as back- or armrests. Always check the section “Suitable For” to see if extra space is needed. A few centimetres of clearance makes it easier to put the cover on and off, ensures proper ventilation, and prevents tension. This way you choose a cover that fits securely, does not blow away, and protects your furniture from weather and dirt.

Parasol covers and BBQ covers require a different approach. For a parasol, measure the height from the ground to the highest point in closed position. For a barbecue, take width, depth and height, including handles, knobs or protruding parts. Again: allow a little extra space so the cover fits smoothly and is easy to attach without squeezing or rubbing.

Why is measuring your garden furniture important?

A well-fitting cover protects your garden furniture from more than just a summer shower. Think of autumn leaves, bird droppings, UV radiation and frost – all factors that speed up wear. Accurate measuring prevents the cover from being too tight and tearing, or too loose and flapping in the wind.

The right size ensures the cover fits neatly, lasts longer and truly protects the furniture instead of damaging it. This extends the lifespan of your lounge set, BBQ, parasol, or other outdoor furniture.

Read this article about non-standard garden furniture sizes.

Which garden furniture is suitable for a cover?

Most garden furniture can be protected with a cover. Examples include:

• Lounge sets (straight or L-shape)
• Garden chairs, benches, and loungers
• Tables (round, square or rectangular)
• Parasols (centre pole or cantilever models)
• Barbecues (gas, charcoal or electric)
• Footstools and side tables
• Complete dining sets (table + chairs)
• Beach chairs and swing seats
• Fire tables and patio heaters

If your furniture is outdoors or in an unheated, damp space like a veranda or canopy, a cover is almost always recommended to prevent wear, discolouration and dirt build-up.

What do you need to measure your furniture?

A good preparation makes measuring easier and more accurate. With just a few tools, you’ll know the best cover size within minutes. Make sure you have:

• A tape measure: preferably flexible to measure around curves.
• Pen and paper (or your phone): to write down dimensions.
• Possibly a second person: handy for larger sets or tall objects like parasols.

Ensure the furniture is fully unfolded or in use position. This avoids a cover that doesn’t fit or rubs against protruding parts.

Step by step: how to measure

1. Place the furniture as you use it. Push chairs under the table, unfold backrests or place cushions. Do not measure loose parts separately unless you use individual covers.
2. Measure the length: from the furthest left to the furthest right point. For example, armrest to armrest or leg to leg.
3. Measure the width (depth): from front to back, including protruding edges. For dining sets: from backrest to backrest.
4. Measure the height: from ground to the highest point, e.g. backrests, armrests, or parasol knobs.
5. Note measurements carefully: write in cm and round up. A slightly larger cover is better than too small.
6. Check for protruding parts: knobs, handles or curved armrests also need to fit inside the cover.

Want to cover multiple pieces with one cover? Measure the total outer dimensions of the full setup.

How much margin should you allow?

A cover should not be too tight, nor too loose. Always check the “Suitable For” tab for required clearance. Correct margins prevent tearing, flapping and ensure ventilation. The table below gives an indication:

You only need clearance on one side – length OR width. Too tight causes wear, slightly looser ensures easier fitting and airflow, extending the lifespan of both cover and furniture.

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Measuring seems simple, but mistakes are common. Choosing by sight instead of measuring often leads to poor fit. Forgetting to measure in use position means backrests, knobs, or handles are missed. Measuring parts separately instead of the full setup is another error. Finally, margins are often underestimated or overestimated, leading to covers that tear or don’t seal properly.

Avoid this by always measuring in use position, taking outer dimensions and leaving clearance. This way you ensure a cover that truly fits.

View our full range

• Lounge set covers
• Garden furniture covers
• Parasol covers
• BBQ covers
• Garden accessories

Need advice? Get help choosing

Choosing the right cover starts with accurate measuring, but picking the right size or model can still be tricky. Unsure about margin, model, colour, or material? Contact us for personal advice via +31-10–4508017, email info@gardenfurniturecovershop.com or WhatsApp (green button bottom right on mobile).