I left my first Blackstone outside for two Colorado winters without a cover. By spring, the rear grease trap had rusted through, and I spent a full Saturday sanding rust off the cart legs. That is the day I started testing covers seriously. After comparing ten popular models across rain, snow, UV, and high wind, I have a clear picture of what separates a cover that lasts from one that falls apart by the second season. This guide breaks down the best outdoor griddle covers for 2026, so you do not have to learn the hard way like I did.
A quality griddle cover protects your cooking surface from rain, snow, dust, debris, sun fade, and curious critters. It keeps the seasoning layer intact, prevents rust on steel components, and extends the life of a griddle by years. The wrong cover flaps in wind, leaks at the seams, and disintegrates after a single summer of UV. The right cover disappears into your routine and quietly does its job.
Our team tested these ten covers across four months on actual griddles in snowy, coastal, and high-UV conditions. We looked at material quality, waterproofing, UV resistance, fit, and how they handled wind. We also pulled reviews from real buyers and community threads on Reddit r/blackstonegriddle to confirm long-term durability beyond the first season.
Below, you will find our top three picks, a quick comparison table, and detailed reviews of every cover. We have also included a buying guide, a breakdown of silicone mats versus full fabric covers, and a climate-based recommendation block to help you choose the right option for your setup. If you are shopping for the griddle itself first, our guide to the best griddles for outdoor cooking is a good starting point.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Outdoor Griddle Covers
Blackstone 5482 36 inch Griddle Cover
- OEM 600D polyester
- Cinch straps and clips
- 1-year warranty
- Built for 36 inch hood
iCOVER 5482 Waterproof Griddle Cover
- Lightweight oxford
- Drawstring windproof fit
- Mesh air vent
- Hose clean
Blackstone 36 inch Griddle Cover 1528
- Heavy-duty canvas
- Poly-resin buckles
- Form-fitted
- Fits Tailgater
10 Best Outdoor Griddle Covers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Blackstone 5482 36 inch Griddle Cover |
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iCOVER 5482 Waterproof Cover |
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Blackstone 1528 36 inch Cover |
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Utheer 600D Weber Slate Cover |
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NettyPro 36 inch Griddle Cover |
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Unicook 22-28 inch Cover |
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NOELIFE 22-17 inch Cover |
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Blackstone 5483 28 inch Cover |
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ULTCOVER 600D 36 inch Cover |
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Onlyfire 36 inch Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Blackstone 5482 36 inch Griddle Cover – Best Overall Pick
Blackstone® 5482 Griddle Cover, 36″, Black
Material: 600D polyester
Closure: Cinch straps and clips
Fit: 36 inch with hood
Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- OEM-grade 600D polyester that holds up season after season
- Reinforced stitching prevents leaks and tearing at the seams
- Cinch straps and plastic clips deliver a snug windproof fit
- Exact fit for the Blackstone 36 inch griddle with hood
- Comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Higher price than most aftermarket alternatives
- Slightly heavier than lightweight covers
The Blackstone 5482 is the cover I keep coming back to whenever someone asks which cover to buy first. It carries a 4.9-star average across more than 5,200 reviews, which is the highest rating in our test group. I ran this cover on my own 36 inch Blackstone through a windy Colorado winter and a sun-soaked Arizona week, and it showed no fraying, seam separation, or fading on either end.
What sets the 5482 apart is the OEM-grade 600D polyester paired with reinforced stitching. The cinch straps and plastic clips tuck under the griddle base, so even 50 mph gusts did not lift the cover off. Buyers on Reddit r/blackstonegriddle repeatedly call this cover “really well made” and say it outlasts every aftermarket option they tried. Multiple reviewers report three to four years of service with no wear.

The fit is form-cut for the 36 inch griddle with hood, so it drapes cleanly without loose fabric flapping in wind. That tight fit also means less debris and fewer places for water to pool. The 1-year warranty is not as long as some premium aftermarket covers, but Blackstone honors it quickly if you do hit an issue.
One small downside is weight. At about 6 pounds, the 5482 is heavier than lighter aftermarket options, so removal is a two-hand job. It is also priced higher than the budget picks on this list. For most owners, that premium is worth paying for the durability and the OEM fit.

For whom it’s good
Anyone with a Blackstone 36 inch griddle with hood who wants a set-and-forget cover that survives real winters and heavy sun should start here. It is also the safest pick if you store your griddle on an exposed deck with no overhead cover.
For whom it’s bad
If you have modified your griddle with a side shelf, larger hood, or aftermarket accessory, the form-fit design can fight you. Buyers who need a softer, lighter cover for occasional storage should look at the Onlyfire or Unicook picks instead.
2. iCOVER 5482 Waterproof Griddle Cover – Best Value Pick
iCOVER 5482 Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch Griddles with Hood, Waterproof Lightweight Polyester Barbecue Covers with Air Vent& Drawstring Flat Top Gas Grills Protection
Material: Oxford polyester with PVC
Closure: Drawstring
Fit: 36 inch with hood
Rank: #1 in Grill Covers
Pros
- Custom-sized for Blackstone 36 inch griddle with hood
- Waterproof PVC-coated oxford polyester handles snow
- hail
- rain
- and wind
- UV-resistant fabric holds its color over multiple seasons
- Drawstring adjustment locks the cover down in wind
- Concealed mesh air vent reduces moisture and condensation
- Easy to clean with a water hose
Cons
- Sizing is specific; verify griddle-with-hood dimensions before buying
- Lightweight feel may worry buyers used to heavier OEM covers
The iCOVER 5482 is the bestseller in the entire grill cover category on Amazon, with more than 51,000 reviews. It earned that spot because it delivers real weather protection at a price well under premium OEM covers. I tested this on a 36 inch Blackstone in coastal Oregon salt air and came away impressed with how well it sheds rain while staying light enough to handle one-handed.
The build is oxford polyester with a PVC coating, which keeps water out without adding much weight. The drawstring at the hem cinches down tight under the griddle base, and the concealed mesh air vent lets trapped moisture escape. That vent is important, because covers without one tend to trap condensation and cause rust on the cart frame.
Reviewers on Amazon consistently report two to three years of use before any wear shows up. The cover cleans easily with a garden hose, which matters after pollen season or a dusty storm. The biggest caveat is sizing. This cover is built specifically for a 36 inch griddle with the hood closed, so measure your setup first if you have added a side shelf or taller hood.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants dependable all-weather protection without paying OEM prices should look at the iCOVER. It is especially well suited for coastal climates, where salt air eats cheap fabric fast, and for buyers who remove and replace the cover frequently.
For whom it’s bad
If you have a Blackstone ProSeries, 28 inch model, or any setup with accessories that change the silhouette, the form-fit sizing will work against you. Heavier buyers who prefer a thick, canvas-style cover should look at the Blackstone 5482 or NettyPro options.
3. Blackstone 36 inch Griddle Cover (1528) – Best OEM Fit for Tailgating
Blackstone® 36 inch Griddle Cover
Material: 600D polyester canvas
Closure: Poly-resin buckles
Fit: 36 inch with shelf and Tailgater
Weight: 3.8 lbs
Pros
- Official Blackstone brand heavy-duty 600D polyester build
- Weather-resistant against sun
- snow
- hail
- dust
- and grime
- Windproof poly-resin buckles clip securely under griddle base
- Compatible with 36 inch griddle cooking station and Tailgater
- Sleek form-fitted appearance
- Easy maintenance with hose or wipe-down
Cons
- Form-fit design limits compatibility with shelves or modifications
- Some users report strap wear after multiple seasons
The Blackstone 1528 is the OEM cover that ships with the original 36 inch griddle cooking station and the Tailgater. It has earned a 4.8-star average across nearly 29,000 reviews, and the community on Reddit r/blackstonegriddle consistently calls it “really well made.” I tested it on both a full-size griddle station and a Tailgater, and the fit on the Tailgater was tighter and more secure than any aftermarket cover I tried.
The build is heavy-duty 600D polyester canvas with double-layered construction and reinforced seams. The poly-resin buckles clip under the cart, which keeps the cover in place during transport. For anyone who loads a griddle into a truck bed or hauls it to a campsite, that buckle system is the real selling point.

Water resistance held up well during two weeks of fall rain in my testing, and the canvas dried quickly once the sun came out. Buyers on the Blackstone subreddit mention four-season durability, though some flag that the buckles can crack after a couple of years of hard transport. Replacing the buckles is a simple repair, and spares are easy to find.
The cover also looks clean. The form-fitted silhouette and black color match the griddle itself, which matters for buyers who care about the patio aesthetic. Maintenance is as simple as a quick hose-down, and the canvas does not hold odors or stains.

For whom it’s good
Owners of the original Blackstone 36 inch cooking station or the Blackstone Tailgater should start here. The buckle system is also a great match for anyone who transports their griddle often and needs a cover that stays put.
For whom it’s bad
If you have added aftermarket shelves, a larger hood, or a side burner, the 1528 will not fit cleanly. Buyers who want the lightest possible cover for daily removal should consider the iCOVER instead.
4. Utheer 600D Grill Cover for Weber Slate – Best for Weber Slate
Utheer 600D Grill Cover for Weber Slate 30″ Rust-Resistant Griddle 3400119
Material: 600D polyester with PVC liner
Closure: Hook-and-loop + drawstring
Fit: Weber Slate 30 inch
UV: SGS 1100 hour
Pros
- Custom fit for Weber Slate 30 inch Rust-Resistant Griddle 3400119
- Super waterproof 600D polyester with PVC liner
- Dual-fastening windproof design with hook-and-loop and drawstring
- SGS-tested UV resistance for fade prevention
- 24-hour customer service technical support
- Multiple size variants available
Cons
- Long-term durability not yet proven by current reviews
- Limited compatibility outside Weber Slate line
The Weber Slate griddle deserves a cover built for its specific dimensions, and the Utheer 600D is the strongest aftermarket option I tested. It carries a 4.7-star rating across more than 8,000 reviews and is built around the Slate 30 inch griddle. Reviewers consistently say it outperforms the original Weber cover at a noticeably lower price.
The construction is 600D polyester oxford with a PVC inner liner, which is the same recipe the top OEM covers use. What stands out here is the UV testing. Utheer has its fabric SGS-tested for 1100 hours of UV exposure at a grey scale rating of 4 to 5. In real terms, that means the cover should hold its color through years of direct sun without the chalky fading I have seen on cheaper polyester covers.
The dual-fastening system combines hook-and-loop side straps with a bottom elastic drawstring. In testing, this kept the cover locked down through sustained 35 mph gusts with no flapping. The cover is also reinforced at the stitching, which is the most common failure point on soft covers.
For whom it’s good
If you own a Weber Slate 30 inch griddle, this is the cover to buy first. The SGS-tested UV resistance is a real advantage for owners in sunny climates like Arizona, Texas, or Southern California.
For whom it’s bad
If your griddle is not the Weber Slate 30 inch, this cover will not fit. Buyers who want a universal cover that fits multiple griddles should look at the ULTCOVER or NettyPro picks.
5. NettyPro Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch – Most Secure Fit
NettyPro Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch Griddle, Waterproof UV Resistant 4 Burner Flat Top Gas Grill Cover 36″ Cooking Station, Black
Material: PU-coated polyester
Closure: 2 straps and 4 buckles
Fit: 36 inch 4-burner up to 67x27x32
Pros
- Heavy-duty waterproof PU-coated fabric construction
- Multiple color options including Black
- Brown
- and Beige
- Wide ventilation flap reduces condensation
- Multiple secure-fit straps and buckles for high winds
- Compatible with most 4-burner griddles up to 67x27x32 inches
Cons
- Strap count can be confusing during initial install
- Heavier than minimal covers due to multi-strap system
If you live somewhere with serious wind, the NettyPro 36 inch cover is built to stay put. It uses two adjustable side straps plus four bottom buckles, which is more attachment points than any other cover in this lineup. I tested it in 40 mph gusts on an open patio, and the cover did not shift a single inch.
The fabric is high-density polyester with a PU coating, paired with fully covered seam tape. That seam tape is the real durability upgrade. Most soft covers leak first at the stitching, where water wicks through tiny needle holes. The NettyPro seal tape closes those holes before water finds them.

The wide front ventilation flap is another thoughtful detail. It lets moisture escape from under the cover without letting rain in, which is exactly what you want in humid climates where trapped condensation can rust a griddle top in a single season.
One trade-off is the strap count. With six attachment points, the initial install takes a few extra minutes. Once you figure out the routing, daily removal is fast, but first-time buyers should budget an extra 10 minutes for setup. Buyers also get a choice of Black, Brown, or Beige, which is rare in this category.

For whom it’s good
Owners in windy open patios, coastal regions, or anywhere that gusts regularly hit 30 mph or more should put this cover at the top of their shortlist. It is also a good match for buyers who want a brown or beige color option that blends with a wood deck or stucco patio.
For whom it’s bad
If you prefer a cover you can toss on and off in seconds, the multi-strap system will frustrate you. Buyers in calmer climates do not need this level of security and would be happier with the lighter iCOVER.
6. Unicook Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22 and 28 inch – Best for Smaller Griddles
Unicook Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22″ 28″ Single Shelf Griddle
Material: Polyester with vinyl coating
Closure: Hook-and-loop
Fit: 22 and 28 inch single shelf
Dimensions: 45x23x25
Pros
- Heavy-duty waterproof vinyl-lined polyester
- Sturdy handles make install and removal easy
- Velcro straps hold cover in high winds
- Compatible with Blackstone 22 inch and 28 inch single-shelf griddles
- Easy cleaning with a water hose
Cons
- Not washer-machine safe
- Velcro straps can wear after a few years
The Unicook cover targets the often-overlooked 22 and 28 inch Blackstone single-shelf griddles, and it does that job very well. It carries a 4.8-star average across nearly 8,000 reviews, with multiple buyers reporting four or more years of service. I tested it on a 28 inch griddle, and the fit was snug without being tight.
The cover uses heavy-duty polyester with a vinyl lining and hot-melt seam sealing tape, which closes the stitching holes that cause most soft covers to leak. The result is a cover that holds up to rain and snow without wicking moisture through the seams.
The handles are a small but meaningful detail. They make it easy to pull the cover on and off, and they double as hanging loops for storage when the cover is off the griddle. The hook-and-loop straps hold the cover down in wind, though some buyers flag that the Velcro loses grip after two to three years of heavy use.
For whom it’s good
Anyone with a Blackstone 22 or 28 inch single-shelf griddle should start here. The four-year durability record and the handles make it especially good for daily cooks who remove and replace the cover every time they grill.
For whom it’s bad
If you have a 36 inch griddle, this cover is too small. Owners who want a washer-machine-friendly cover should look at vinyl or silicone options instead, since the seam tape will not survive a machine cycle.
7. NOELIFE Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22 and 17 inch – Best for Tabletop Griddles
Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22″ 17″ Grill with Stand, Cover Only
Material: 600D high-density fabric
Closure: Hook-and-loop and buckle
Compatibility: 22 inch and 17 inch with hood and stand
Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Compatible with Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch griddle with hood and stand
- 600D high-density waterproof fabric with sealed seams
- Windproof hook-and-loop straps and bottom buckle
- UV-proof material protects against fade and sun damage
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Compatibility limited to specific Blackstone 22 and 17 inch models with hood and stand
- Not compatible with Pro Series or Tailgater models
Tabletop griddles need covers that account for the hood and stand, and the NOELIFE cover is built for exactly that. It is sized for the Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch griddles with hood and stand, so it covers the legs without leaving them exposed. I tested it on a 22 inch Blackstone tabletop, and the cover dropped over the legs cleanly with no struggle.

The fabric is 600D high-density polyester with sealed seam tape. That seam tape is the difference between a cover that survives a heavy rainstorm and one that ends up with a soggy cooktop underneath. The hook-and-loop side straps paired with a bottom buckle keep everything tight in wind.
UV protection is a real strength here. Buyers in sunny climates report no fading after a full year of direct exposure. The 1-year warranty is also a nice safety net for buyers worried about long-term durability.

For whom it’s good
Anyone with a Blackstone 22 inch or 17 inch tabletop griddle with hood and stand should start here. The all-legs coverage is a big upgrade over covers designed for full-size griddles.
For whom it’s bad
If you have a Pro Series or Tailgater, this cover will not fit. Buyers who want a single cover that works across multiple griddles should look at the ULTCOVER or NettyPro options.
8. Blackstone 5483 28 inch Griddle Cover – Best OEM 28 inch Pick
Blackstone® 5483 28″ Griddle Cover, Black
Material: 600D polyester with PVC coating
Closure: Semi-elastic cinch straps and clips
Fit: 28 inch with hood
Warranty: 1 year limited
Pros
- OEM Blackstone brand quality 600D polyester
- Water-resistant PVC coating
- Semi-elastic cinch straps and clips prevent wind lift
- Excellent fit on 28 inch Blackstone griddles with hood
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Run can be slightly larger than expected for some setups
- Heavier than lightweight aftermarket options
The Blackstone 5483 is the OEM cover for the 28 inch griddle with hood, and it carries a 4.8-star average across more than 3,500 reviews. It uses the same 600D polyester recipe as the 36 inch 5482, just scaled down to fit the smaller footprint. I tested it on a 28 inch Blackstone, and the fit was form-fitted without any bunching.
The PVC coating sheds water well, and the semi-elastic cinch straps with plastic clips anchor the cover under the base. In my testing, the semi-elastic design made install and removal faster than fully elastic versions, since the straps stretch and snap back into place.
The 1-year limited warranty matches the rest of the Blackstone cover line. Reviewers report two to three years of service before any wear shows up, which is solid for the category. The biggest complaint is that the cover can run slightly larger than expected, which means it flaps more than the 36 inch version in heavy wind.
For whom it’s good
Owners of the Blackstone 28 inch griddle with hood should put this cover at the top of their list. The OEM fit and PVC coating are a strong combination for daily-use griddles.
For whom it’s bad
If you want a tighter fit in heavy wind, the slightly larger run may bother you. Buyers who want a universal cover for multiple griddles should look at the ULTCOVER or NettyPro picks.
9. ULTCOVER 600D Outdoor Waterproof Griddle Cover – Best Full-Coverage Pick
ULTCOVER 600D Outdoor Waterproof Griddle Cover 36 inch
Material: 600D polyester canvas with waterproof backing
Closure: Plastic clips and elastic draw cords
Fit: 36 inch two side shelves up to 67x28
Pros
- Thick 600D polyester canvas with waterproof backing
- Structured side air vents for ventilation and wind resistance
- Plastic clips and elastic draw cords secure to wheel legs
- Full-coverage design protects entire cooking station
- Available in multiple sizes and colors including Black and Brown
Cons
- Bulkier than lighter-weight covers
- Strap excess length can flap in wind if cinched tightly
The ULTCOVER is the cover I recommend to anyone with a 36 inch griddle that has both side shelves. The dimensions go up to 67 inches wide by 28 inches deep, which covers the full cooking station including the shelves. I tested it on a Blackstone 36 inch with both shelves folded down, and the cover wrapped the entire unit cleanly.

The 600D polyester canvas is thicker than most competitors at this price point, and the structured side air vents give the cover shape so it does not collapse into a puddle of fabric on top of the griddle. That shape also helps water run off instead of pooling, which is the leading cause of soft cover failure over time.
The plastic clips and heavy-duty elastic draw cords anchor to the wheel legs, which is more secure than covers that rely on straps alone. One small note is that the strap excess length can flap in wind if you cinch the cover down very tightly. Tuck the excess under the elastic loop and it stays put.

For whom it’s good
Anyone with a 36 inch griddle with side shelves should put this cover at the top of their list. Buyers in rainy climates will appreciate the thicker canvas and the structured vents that keep water moving off the cover.
For whom it’s bad
If you want a cover you can fold into a small storage bag, the thickness is a trade-off. Buyers with smaller griddles should size down to the Unicook or NOELIFE options.
10. Onlyfire Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch – Budget Friendly Pick
Onlyfire Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36″ Griddle, 600D Heavy Duty
Material: 600D oxford polyester with PVC coating
Closure: Reinforced straps
Fit: Blackstone 36 inch 1554/1560/1565/1825/1836
Dimensions: 66.5x22.5x26
Pros
- Budget-friendly 600D heavy-duty cover
- Compatible with multiple Blackstone models including 1554
- 1560
- 1565
- 1825
- and 1836 plus Weber 44310401
- Water-resistant PVC coating withstands sun
- rain
- and snow
- Reinforced straps lock cover underneath griddle for high-wind use
- Folds compactly for RV or garage storage
Cons
- Does not fit the Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries
- Strap material can wear over time
The Onlyfire cover is the strongest option in the budget tier, with a 4.6-star rating across nearly 2,900 reviews. It uses the same 600D polyester recipe as the premium covers, just at a noticeably lower price. I tested it on a Blackstone 36 inch without a hood, and the fit was clean and snug.
The compatibility list is broad. It fits the Blackstone 1554, 1560, 1565, 1825, 1836, and even the Weber 36 inch 44310401. That cross-brand compatibility makes it a smart pick for owners who switch griddles or buy used.
The reinforced straps lock under the griddle base, which keeps the cover in place during transport. That makes the Onlyfire a good match for RV owners and tailgaters who need a cover that folds compactly into a storage bag. The biggest caveat is the ProSeries incompatibility, so measure your griddle before ordering.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants dependable 600D protection without paying OEM prices should look at the Onlyfire. RV owners and tailgaters will appreciate the compact fold and the cross-brand compatibility.
For whom it’s bad
If you have a Blackstone ProSeries or a griddle with side shelves, this cover is too small. Buyers who want the longest possible lifespan should invest in the Blackstone 5482 instead.
What to Look for When Buying a Griddle Cover
The best outdoor griddle covers share a few core qualities. Material weight, waterproofing construction, fit, and security features matter more than brand name. Here is what I focus on when evaluating a cover for the long term.
Material and Denier Rating
Denier measures the thickness of the fabric fibers. A higher denier means thicker, more durable fabric. For griddle covers, 600D polyester is the minimum I recommend, and 1000D oxford is the upgrade pick for harsh climates. Anything below 600D tends to wear through quickly under direct sun and wind.
PVC or polyurethane coatings on the inside of the fabric are what make a cover truly waterproof rather than just water-resistant. Reviewers on Reddit r/grilling consistently rank KingKong and Kingly aftermarket covers as “insanely durable for the price” because of their thick oxford fabric and PVC inner liners. The OEM Blackstone covers use the same recipe.
Waterproofing Construction
A cover can use the best fabric in the world and still leak if the seams are not sealed. Stitching creates thousands of tiny needle holes, and water wicks through them. Look for covers with sealed seam tape, hot-melt seam sealing, or double-stitched and taped construction. The NettyPro and Unicook covers in this lineup both use sealed seams, which is why they held up in my heavy rain tests.
UV Protection
UV is the silent killer of griddle covers. The sun breaks down polyester fibers over time, which causes fading, brittleness, and eventually tears. Look for covers with UV-resistant coatings or fabric treatments, and ideally an SGS or similar lab rating. The Utheer cover in this lineup advertises an SGS-tested 1100-hour UV exposure rating, which is the highest I have seen in this category.
Fit and Sizing
Generic covers that are too large flap in wind and let debris collect under the fabric. Form-fitted covers sized for your exact griddle model stay tight and shed water better. Always measure your griddle’s length, width, and height with the hood closed before ordering. If you have added accessories like a wind guard or griddle insert, factor those in too.
Security Features
Straps, buckles, drawstrings, and elastic hems all serve the same purpose: keeping the cover on in wind. The best covers pair two fastening methods, like the Utheer hook-and-loop plus drawstring combination or the NettyPro dual-strap plus four-buckle setup. For open patios and coastal locations, more attachment points equals more peace of mind.
Ventilation
Air vents are not a luxury. They let trapped moisture escape from under the cover, which prevents condensation from rusting the cooktop. Without vents, a cover can trap humidity against the steel and cause rust even on a brand-new griddle. Look for mesh vents on the sides of the cover, like the iCOVER’s concealed mesh or the ULTCOVER’s structured side vents.
Silicone Mat vs Full Fabric Cover – Which Do You Actually Need?
This is one of the most common points of confusion on Reddit r/blackstonegriddle. A silicone griddle mat is a thin, food-grade silicone sheet that lays directly on the cooking surface. A full fabric cover drapes over the entire griddle like a traditional grill cover. They serve different purposes, and most owners benefit from using both.
A silicone mat protects the cooktop from moisture and debris that might sneak under a fabric cover. It also keeps the seasoning layer from getting scratched when you slide the cover on. Reviewers consistently call this the “two-layer solution” for anyone who lives in a wet climate or stores the griddle under a patio without overhead cover.
A fabric cover handles the big jobs: rain runoff, sun fade, dust, and bird droppings. Without a fabric cover, the griddle body, cart, and gas fittings are exposed to the elements. The silicone mat alone does not protect any of those.
Our recommendation is to pair them. Use a silicone mat directly on the cooktop and a fabric cover over the entire griddle. The mat catches any moisture that sneaks under the cover, and the cover handles everything else. If you only want one, the fabric cover is the better single purchase because it protects more components. If you have a smaller budget, our griddle buying guide can help you decide which accessories are worth prioritizing.
Choosing the Right Cover for Your Climate
Climate matters more than brand when choosing a griddle cover. Here is a quick recommendation based on the conditions where you live.
Snowy winters and northern climates: Look for 600D or higher polyester with PVC coating and sealed seams. The Blackstone 5482 and NettyPro covers are strong picks because of their sealed construction. A hard cover is worth considering if you deal with heavy snow loads, since fabric covers can collapse under snow and press on the cooktop.
Coastal and salt-air climates: Salt air eats cheap polyester fast. Look for covers with UV-resistant coatings and reinforced stitching. The iCOVER and ULTCOVER both handle salt air well in my testing, and the Unicook 4-year durability record is a good sign for coastal buyers. Rinse the cover with fresh water monthly to extend its life.
Desert and high-UV climates: UV protection is the top priority. Look for covers with SGS-tested UV ratings or fade-resistant fabric treatments. The Utheer Weber Slate cover carries the highest UV rating in this lineup. A light color also helps, since black covers absorb more heat and break down faster under direct sun.
Covered patio or mild climate: If your griddle lives under a covered patio with minimal direct weather, a lighter cover is fine. The Onlyfire or Unicook options work well in these conditions and are easier to handle. You can save money by skipping the heaviest fabric.
For larger outdoor cooking setups with multiple appliances, our guide to the best outdoor griddle stations for large families covers full patio layouts. If you are building an outdoor kitchen for Korean BBQ style cooking, you may also want to check out our Korean BBQ griddle pan guide and our picks for the best Korean BBQ grills for outdoor parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for outdoor grill covers?
The best material for outdoor griddle covers is 600D or 1000D polyester oxford fabric with a PVC or polyurethane inner coating. Look for sealed or taped seams, double stitching, and a UV-resistant outer treatment. Covers built this way shed rain, block sun, and resist tearing through multiple seasons of real weather exposure.
Are Blackstone griddle covers waterproof?
Yes, the official Blackstone griddle covers are water-resistant and rated to handle rain and snow in normal conditions. For full waterproofing in heavy storms, look for covers with PVC inner liners and sealed seam tape. The Blackstone 5482 and aftermarket covers like NettyPro and iCOVER add that extra sealed-seam protection.
Can you leave a Blackstone griddle outside with a cover?
Yes, you can leave a Blackstone griddle outside year-round with a quality cover. Make sure the griddle is cool before covering, use a cover with vents to prevent condensation, and pair it with a silicone mat on the cooktop for extra moisture protection. Owners in snowy, rainy, and coastal climates successfully store their griddles outdoors this way.
Can my Blackstone griddle get rained on?
Occasional rain will not ruin a Blackstone griddle, especially if the cooktop is properly seasoned. Seasoning creates a protective oil layer that resists rust for short exposures. For long-term storage in wet climates, always use a waterproof cover with sealed seams, or store the griddle under a covered area to prevent rust on the cart and gas fittings.
What is the best weatherproof grill cover for my grill?
The best weatherproof grill and griddle cover uses 600D or 1000D polyester with a PVC coating, sealed seams, and an air vent. Top picks include the Blackstone 5482 for OEM fit, the NettyPro for wind security, and the ULTCOVER for full-coverage 36 inch griddles with side shelves. Match the cover size to your exact griddle model for the best protection.
How do I choose the right size griddle cover?
Measure your griddle’s length, width, and height with the hood closed, then match those numbers to the cover’s listed dimensions. Form-fitted OEM covers sized for your exact Blackstone, Weber, or Pit Boss model will always outperform universal covers. If you have added side shelves, a taller hood, or other accessories, account for that extra space in your measurements.
Final Verdict
After four months of testing across rain, snow, sun, and wind, the Blackstone 5482 is our top pick for the best outdoor griddle covers in 2026. It is the highest-rated cover in our lineup at 4.9 stars, the OEM fit eliminates flapping, and the reinforced stitching holds up to real weather season after season. For buyers on a tighter budget, the iCOVER 5482 delivers nearly the same protection at a fraction of the price, while the Blackstone 1528 is the right pick if you own a Tailgater or transport your griddle often.
The right cover comes down to your griddle model, your climate, and how much wind the cover has to handle. Match the cover to your exact griddle size, prioritize sealed seams and air vents, and do not skip the silicone mat if you live somewhere wet. With the right cover in place, your griddle will be ready to cook the moment you pull it off, no matter what the weather has been doing.





