How Long Do Garden Furniture Covers Last?

September 1, 2025

A garden furniture cover should protect your set against rain, dirt and UV radiation. But how do you know when it’s time to replace that cover? On average, a quality garden furniture cover lasts about 2 to 5 years, depending on the material and how intensively you use it. Tears, discolouration, and leaks are clear signals that the cover is no longer doing its job. Here you’ll read what to look out for and how to avoid replacing too late.

How long does a garden furniture cover typically last?

The lifespan of a garden furniture cover depends greatly on the material, quality, and the conditions in which you use the cover. As a rule, a standard polyester or PVC cover lasts 2 to 3 years with normal use. High-quality, breathable covers with UV protection can last up to 5 years, provided you maintain them properly.

Factors such as intense sunlight, heavy rain, frost or prolonged exposure to moisture can significantly shorten the lifespan. Standing water on the cover is especially harmful. If you leave the cover outside during winter or store it while wet, this directly affects the condition of the material. By handling the cover with care, you can achieve the maximum lifespan. But even the best cover wears out over time, and then replacement is the wisest choice.

Which garden furniture cover brand lasts the longest?

Not every garden furniture cover is the same. Lifespan depends heavily on the materials used, ventilation options, waterproofing, UV protection and included Water Shedding Poles or Cushions. Some brands are known for high-quality and last years longer than simple alternatives. The table below gives an indication of the average lifespan of popular brands.

Brand	Average lifespan	Quality	Notes
Raffles Covers	3 – 5 years	High	Own brand, premium materials, highly breathable, free Water Shedding Cushion
AeroCover	3 years	High	Known for breathable fabric and snug fit, often supplied with a free Water Shedding Pole.
EuroTrail	3 years	Mid	Solid basic protection.
Garden Impressions	3 years	Mid	Functional, performs well across the board.
Classic Accessories	3 – 5 years	High	With air vents, especially popular in the US.
Landmann	3 years	Mid	Focused on barbecues.
Madison	3 years	Mid	Known for design and simplicity.
4SO – 4Seasons Outdoor	3 – 4 years	High	Strong quality, especially parasol covers.
AquaShield	2 years	Low	Water-repellent, but limited breathability.
Garland	1 – 3 years	Low	Budget option, less durable under intensive use.

Signs your cover needs replacing

Watch for the following signs that your garden furniture cover is no longer performing well:

Small tears or wear spots, especially at seams, corners or folded areas.
Discolouration or fading of the material due to prolonged UV exposure.
Water ingress, whereas the cover was previously water-repellent.
Peeling coating on the inner or outer side of the fabric.
Musty odour or mould spots, despite ventilation openings.
Brittle or stiff texture, indicating material ageing.
Hard-to-fasten or loose closures due to wear or deformation.

Notice one or more of these points? Then it’s likely time to replace the cover. Take a look at our full range:

Tip before you order: measure your garden furniture carefully!

What happens if you wait too long to replace?

A worn cover may seem somewhat usable, but in reality it offers little protection. If you wait too long, moisture can easily get in. This leads to mould growth, unsightly stains on your garden furniture and, ultimately, permanent damage to wood, textiles, or coatings.

In addition, a damaged cover develops tears or openings more quickly, giving the wind-free rein. The cover flaps or comes loose, causing extra friction and wear to both the cover and the furniture itself. Ventilation is often lost with an old cover, leading to condensation underneath. Storing your set dry then has little effect.

In short: postponing replacement can lead to higher costs for repairs or even replacing your garden furniture.

How can I extend the lifespan of my garden furniture cover?

Want to enjoy your cover for longer? Follow these practical tips:

Clean the cover regularly with lukewarm water and a soft brush.
Avoid harsh cleaners, as they damage the coating.
Let the cover dry completely before folding or storing.
Store the cover in a dry, well-ventilated place during the off-season.
Use the storage bag to keep out dirt and dust while stored.
Tension the cover properly with drawstrings or hook-and-loop closures so water can’t pool.
Use a Water Shedding Cushion during rainy periods.
Avoid contact with sharp or pointed parts of the furniture or BBQ.
Use clamps and bungee cords for a better fit.

By following these simple steps, your cover stays in top condition and functional for longer.

Need advice? Let us help you choose

Unsure about which cover to order? Then it’s wise to get personal advice. Contact us on +31-10–4508017 or by email info@gardenfurniturecovershop.com. You can of course also use the WhatsApp button.