How to Measure Patio Furniture Covers
Patio furniture cover size guide
Learning how to measure patio furniture covers helps you avoid an incorrect size, an awkward fit and unnecessary returns. This outdoor furniture cover measurement guide starts with your actual furniture, not just a photo or a furniture-type name.
Why measurements matter
Two chairs or sofas can have very different dimensions. Measure the furniture in the arrangement and position you intend to cover, including arms, backs and protruding edges. Record your units and compare width, depth and height with the exact cover variant before ordering.
Three steps: width, depth and height
- Measure width: measure the maximum side-to-side span, including armrests or other projections.
- Measure depth: measure from the furthest front edge to the furthest back edge, not just the seat.
- Measure height: measure from the ground to the highest point, including the back.
Choose the right shape and arrangement
- Chairs: include armrests and the full back, not only the seat.
- Sofas: include the complete frame and both arms. For a sectional, check both outer lengths, arm depth and orientation against the specific cover diagram.
- Tables: decide whether the chairs will be covered together with the table. For a set, measure the entire arrangement with chairs in their intended positions.
- Round furniture: record the maximum diameter and height.
- Air conditioners: use the appliance manufacturer's fitting, clearance and operating instructions. A furniture-cover sizing rule is not an AC sizing rule; check whether the selected model is a top cover, full cover or indoor window-unit cover.
How to choose a suitable cover size
Compare all dimensions and the cover shape with the exact variant you intend to buy. A slightly larger furniture cover may be easier to fit, but excessive looseness can create folds, collect water or move in wind. Do not select a cover by appearance alone.
Should patio covers be larger than furniture?
A small allowance of about 1–2 inches can be a useful starting point for some furniture covers, but it is not a universal specification or a guaranteed fit. Follow the selected product's recommended furniture range and fit guidance; do not automatically add this allowance to every dimension. For AC covers, follow the appliance manufacturer's requirements instead. If a fit allowance is not stated, ask us before ordering.
Common measurement mistakes
- Measuring only the seat and missing the chair back.
- Leaving armrests, handles or projecting edges out of the measurements.
- Measuring only the tabletop when chairs will be covered as part of a set.
- Choosing from a product photo without checking the offered dimensions.
- Mixing inches and centimeters or swapping width and depth.
- Assuming every dimension printed on a reference chart is an available variant.
Size and measurement FAQs
How do I measure patio furniture covers before ordering?
Measure the furniture you want to protect at its maximum width, depth and height in the stored arrangement. Then compare your measurements with the exact cover variant, its shape and its fit instructions.
What size patio chair cover do I need?
Measure the widest point including arms, the deepest front-to-back point and the floor-to-top height. Compare all three measurements with the selected model in Chair Covers; the chair name alone does not establish fit.
Should I always add 1–2 inches?
No. That is only a general starting point for some furniture covers. Check the specific product's fit guidance, and do not apply it to an AC cover or to every dimension without confirmation.
How do I measure a table and chair set?
Arrange the chairs as they will be stored under the cover, then measure the full footprint and highest point. Do not measure the table alone if the cover must also enclose the chairs.
How do I measure round furniture or an L-shaped sectional?
For round furniture, measure maximum diameter and height. For an L-shaped sectional, record both outer lengths, arm depth, height and orientation, then match these to the selected product diagram.
What if my measurements fall between two offered sizes?
Do not assume the larger size will fit correctly. Check the product-specific fit range and shape. If these are unclear, send your measurements, units and the cover you are considering to our support team before ordering.
What should I do if I ordered the wrong size?
Check the shipping and returns policy and contact us with your order number and measurements. Our return policy allows a return request within 30 days after delivery for an unused, clean cover; customer-selected wrong-size returns have customer-paid return shipping. Read the full conditions before sending anything back.
Need help with measurements? Contact us.
Model-specific size diagrams
These examples belong to individual products, not to every cover. Check the offered size on the product page; other dimensions pictured in a reference chart may not be offered.
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