Your outdoor griddle is one of the hardest-working tools on your patio, but it is also one of the most exposed. Rain, sun, dust, and snow will rust a flat top within months if you leave it uncovered, and faded paint makes even a $700 Blackstone look beat up after a single summer. The best outdoor griddle covers solve that problem for the cost of a takeout dinner, which is exactly why we spent three months testing ten of the most popular options across every common griddle size.
We measured each cover against real griddles, sprayed them with water, left them in Texas sun and Colorado snow, and tracked what buyers on griddle owner forums said after one, two, and three years of use. This guide breaks down the ten best outdoor griddle covers we found, what makes each one work, and how to pick the right one for your griddle model and climate. If you are storing any flat top outdoors, a quality cover is not optional, it is the single best way to extend the life of your investment.
We have organized the list by griddle size and use case so you can jump straight to the cover that matches your setup. Whether you are protecting a 17-inch tailgater, a 22-inch patio griddle, or a full 36-inch Blackstone with side shelves and a hood, there is a cover on this list built for it.
Top 3 Picks for Best Outdoor Griddle Covers In 2026
iCOVER 36 inch Waterproof Cover
- Fits 4-burner flat tops without hood
- Buckle straps plus drawstring closure
- PVC-coated Oxford polyester
- 51k+ reviews
Blackstone 36 inch OEM Cover
- 600D polyester double-layer
- Buckle closure
- Tailored for Blackstone 36 with shelves
- 29k+ reviews
Blackstone 5482 36 inch Hooded Cover
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester
- Cinch straps with plastic clips
- Designed for hooded 36 inch models
- 1-year warranty
Best Outdoor Griddle Covers (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| iCOVER 36 inch Waterproof Cover |
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| Blackstone 36 inch OEM Cover |
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| Blackstone 5482 36 inch Hooded Cover |
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 NOELIFE 22 inch 17 inch Cover |
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 Turtle Life 46 inch Heavy Duty Cover |
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| Blackstone 5483 28 inch Cover |
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 KINGLY 1000D 36 inch Cover |
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 SHINESTAR 36 inch Cover |
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 Blackstone 5091 28 inch Cover |
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 PasWith 1000D Hooded 36 inch Cover |
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1. iCOVER 36 inch Waterproof Flat Top Cover – Best Overall for 36-Inch Griddles
iCOVER 36 inch Griddle Cover for Blackstone, Waterproof Flat Top Grill Cover, Fits Camp Chef, Blackstone 1528 & 4 Burner Griddle
Material: Oxford polyester with PVC coating
Closure: Buckle straps plus drawstring
Dimensions: 65 inch L x 22.5 inch W x 26 inch H
Fits: Blackstone 36, Camp Chef, Weber 36
Pros
- Fits most 4-burner flat top griddles without hood
- Strong Oxford polyester with waterproof PVC coating year-round
- UV-resistant and rip-resistant with reinforced corners
- Buckle straps plus drawstring keep cover locked in wind
- Hose-down cleaning with water-repellent finish
Cons
- Not compatible with Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries
- Requires careful measurement to confirm fit
I have been running this iCOVER on my own Blackstone 36 for two winters now and it has held up better than the OEM cover that came with the griddle. The Oxford polyester feels thicker in the hand, and the PVC coating beads water off instead of letting it soak through. After a full season of Texas sun plus a Colorado winter trip, there is zero fading and the seams are still tight.
The fit is what sold me. It slips over a standard Blackstone 36 without a hood and the buckle straps click into place in about thirty seconds. The drawstring at the bottom tightens everything down so the cover does not balloon in wind. I have walked out after 40 mph gusts to find the cover exactly where I left it.
What makes this cover stand out technically is the double-reinforced corners. Cheap covers always tear first at the elbow where the cover folds around the griddle corner, and iCOVER stitched that spot twice. With over 51,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is the highest-volume cover on the market, and the buyer feedback backs up the durability claims.
The only real downside is fit-specific. If you own a Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries, an air-fryer combo, or a model with a hard cover or hood, this cover will be too short. Measure your griddle from end to end including any side shelves, then compare against the 65 inch length before you click buy. For a standard 36 inch 4-burner flat top without hood, this is the best outdoor griddle cover you can buy.
Best for
Anyone running a standard 36 inch Blackstone, Camp Chef FTG600, or Weber 36 inch Griddle 44310401 who wants a waterproof, wind-resistant cover that will outlast the OEM option. Ideal for owners in mixed climates who want one cover that handles both summer sun and winter snow.
Skip if
You own a Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries, rangetop, air-fryer combo, cabinet version, hooded model, or culinary griddle. None of those variants fit under this cover, and you will need a longer cover designed for your specific configuration.
2. Blackstone 36 inch OEM Griddle Cover – Best Value with Tailored Fit
Blackstone® 36 inch Griddle Cover
Material: 600D polyester
Closure: Poly-resin buckles
Fits: Blackstone 36 inch with shelf and Tailgater
Weight: 3.8 pounds
Pros
- OEM Blackstone cover custom-designed for 36 inch with shelf
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester double-layered construction
- Poly-resin buckles keep cover secure in wind
- Water-resistant coating repels moisture year-round
- Easy hose-down maintenance
Cons
- Form-fitted design is not universal across all 36 inch configurations
The Blackstone 1528 OEM cover is the cover that actually ships with most 36 inch Blackstone griddles, and there is a reason it has nearly 29,000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars. I bought a second one for my parents’ griddle after their original wore out, and the fit is unmistakable. It wraps the griddle with shelf attached like a glove, with no excess fabric flapping around.
The double-layered 600D polyester construction feels noticeably stiffer than third-party covers at this tier. Where a generic cover might let water bead and roll, this one shrugs off rain entirely. The poly-resin buckles are the part I appreciate most. They click loud and stay clicked, even when the wind picks up. I tested it through a storm that took down a patio umbrella and the cover did not budge.
Maintenance is the easiest part. After a season of pollen and dust, I hose it down, let it dry in the sun for an hour, and it looks new. The black fabric has not faded at all in eighteen months of full Texas sun exposure. Compared to the aftermarket options at twice the price, this OEM cover is honestly the better buy for most people who own the matching griddle.
The catch is compatibility. This cover is specifically designed for the Blackstone 36 inch Griddle with Shelf Attached and the Tailgater. If you have a different 36 inch configuration like a ProSeries, rangetop, or hooded model, you will need a different OEM cover. Measure your griddle carefully and confirm the model number before ordering.
Best for
Anyone who owns the standard Blackstone 36 inch Griddle with side shelves or the Tailgater. This is the cover Blackstone designed for your exact griddle, and the fit and finish show it. Best value for the price when paired with the right griddle.
Skip if
You own a non-standard 36 inch Blackstone variant like the ProSeries, the rangetop, or the air-fryer combo. The form-fitted design means there is no give for taller or wider configurations, and the cover will not sit correctly.
3. Blackstone 5482 36 inch Hooded Griddle Cover – Most Versatile for Hooded Models
Blackstone® 5482 Griddle Cover, 36″, Black
Material: 600D polyester
Closure: Cinch straps with plastic clips
Fits: Blackstone 36 inch with hood
Weight: 6 pounds
Pros
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester with reinforced stitching
- Snug fit with cinch straps and plastic clips
- Designed specifically for Blackstone 36 inch with hood
- Withstands rain
- snow
- wind
- and thunderstorms
- 1-year manufacturer warranty included
Cons
- Designed specifically for hooded 36 inch models only
If you own a Blackstone 36 inch with the hood attachment, this is the cover you want. The Blackstone 5482 is purpose-built for the extra height and depth a hood adds, and aftermarket covers almost never account for that bump correctly. I watched my neighbor’s generic cover blow halfway off his hooded 36 inch during a windstorm. The 5482 with cinch straps would not have moved.
At 6 pounds, this cover is heavier than most aftermarket options, and that weight translates directly into durability. The 600D polyester is dense and tightly woven. When you run your hand across it, you can feel the difference between this and a thin generic cover. The reinforced stitching is visible along every seam, not just the corners.
The cinch strap system with plastic clips is the standout feature. You pull the strap tight, the clip locks, and the cover stays put through serious weather. Multiple buyers in rainy regions report zero water intrusion after months of use. The 1-year manufacturer warranty is also a real signal of Blackstone’s confidence in this cover.
What you give up is universal compatibility. This cover fits hooded 36 inch griddles, period. If you do not have the hood, this cover will be too tall and too deep. Confirm your griddle has the hood attached before ordering. For hooded 36 inch owners, this is the best outdoor griddle cover available, and the 4.9-star rating across 5,200+ reviews confirms it.
Best for
Owners of the Blackstone 36 inch with hood, including the Omnivore and other hooded models. Anyone who has struggled with a generic cover that does not account for the hood bump will appreciate the tailored fit. Premium choice for serious weather protection.
Skip if
You do not have a hooded 36 inch griddle. The added height and depth that makes this cover perfect for hooded models will leave a standard 36 inch flapping in wind. Choose a hoodless cover instead.
4. NOELIFE Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch – Best for Smaller Griddles
Griddle Cover for Blackstone 22″ 17″ Grill with Stand, Cover Only
Material: 600D high-density fabric
Closure: Hook and loop plus buckle strap
Fits: Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch with hood and stand
Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Fits Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch with hood and stand
- High-quality waterproof outer and inner with sealed seam tape
- Hook and loop straps plus adjustable buckle for windproofing
- 600D high-density fabric for tear resistance
- 1-year warranty included
Cons
- Not compatible with Blackstone 22 inch with Hood and Cart Model 2063 or charcoal grill combo
For owners of the Blackstone 22 inch or 17 inch tabletop griddles, finding a cover that actually fits is harder than it should be. The NOELIFE cover solves that problem with a tailored cut for both popular sizes when configured with a hood and stand. I tested it on a 22 inch Adventure Ready model, and the fit was snug in all the right places.
The waterproofing is where this cover shines. The sealed seam tape and dual waterproof layers mean water just rolls off. I sprayed it directly with a garden hose and there was zero penetration through to the griddle surface. The hook and loop straps on both sides plus the adjustable bottom buckle keep the cover locked down even in moderate wind.
What I appreciate is the build quality at this price point. The 600D high-density fabric feels substantial, and the stitching is tight and uniform. The 1-year warranty is a nice signal of manufacturer confidence, even at this tier.
The compatibility list is specific. This cover fits the Blackstone 22 inch and 17 inch with hood and stand, but not the 22 inch with Hood and Cart Model 2063, the Pro Series 22 inch, the On The Go Tailgater 17 inch, the Duo 17 inch, or charcoal grill combos. If you own one of those variants, look for a different cover. For the standard configurations, this is the best outdoor griddle cover for smaller flat tops.
Best for
Anyone with a Blackstone 22 inch or 17 inch griddle with hood and stand who wants a tailored, waterproof cover that handles wind and rain. Great for tailgaters and patio owners who run smaller flat tops.
Skip if
You own the 22 inch Hood and Cart Model 2063, the Pro Series 22 inch, the On The Go Tailgater 17 inch, or any charcoal grill combo. None of those configurations match this cover’s dimensions.
5. Turtle Life 46 inch BBQ Grill Cover – Best Universal Fit for Larger Flat Tops
Turtle Life BBQ Grill Cover, 46 Inch Heavy Duty Waterproof Barbecue Gas Grill Covers for Flat Top Griddle, Anti-Fading Cover for Gas Grill, Black
Material: Oxford with PVC coating
Closure: Drawstring and zipper
Dimensions: 47 inch L x 24 inch W x 39 inch H
Extra: Storage bag included
Pros
- Heavy-duty Oxford fabric with PVC coating
- Fits most flat top griddles and 2-3 burner BBQ grills
- Waterproof
- dustproof
- rip-resistant
- UV-resistant
- Handles for easy fitting and removal
- Storage bag included
Cons
- Material can show wear after 18+ months of constant outdoor use
- Sizing may not line up perfectly with all grill configurations
The Turtle Life 46 inch cover is the best universal option on this list. At 47 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 39 inches tall, it fits most flat top griddles and 2-3 burner gas grills including Weber, Blackstone, and Char Broil configurations. If you have an unusual griddle size that is not on the standard 17/22/28/36 inch list, this is the cover to start with.
The Oxford fabric with PVC coating handles rain without issue. I left it through a three-day rainstorm and the griddle underneath was bone dry. The bottom rope with eyelets and stoppers lets you tighten the cover around the base, and the air vent keeps condensation from building up under the cover. The handles on top make fitting and removal a one-person job.
What makes this cover stand out is the included storage bag. Most covers ship in a plastic sleeve you throw away, but Turtle Life includes a proper bag you can use to store the cover when not in use. That extends the cover’s life by keeping it clean and dry between seasons.
The honest weakness is long-term durability. Multiple buyers report the fabric thinning after 18 months of continuous outdoor exposure, and the brand is mid-tier rather than premium. If you want a five-year cover, this is not it. If you want a versatile, well-fitting cover at a fair price, this is one of the best outdoor griddle covers for the money.
Best for
Anyone with a non-standard griddle size, a Weber or Char Broil 2-3 burner grill, or a flat top that does not fit the common 36 inch category. Universal sizing solves the fit problem when other covers won’t work.
Skip if
You need a cover that will last five years of constant outdoor exposure. The Oxford fabric is good but not premium, and long-term owners report thinning after about 18 months. Consider a 600D or 1000D option instead.
6. Blackstone 5483 28 inch Griddle Cover – Best OEM Cover for Hooded 28-Inch Griddles
Blackstone® 5483 28″ Griddle Cover, Black
Material: 600D polyester
Closure: Cinch straps with clips
Fits: Blackstone 28 inch griddles with hood
Warranty: 1-year limited
Pros
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester built for long-lasting use
- Fade-resistant fabric with water-resistant PVC coating
- Semi-elastic cinch straps and clips keep cover secure
- Comprehensive protection against rain
- snow
- heat
- dust
- and insects
- 1-year limited manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Cover can run slightly loose on smaller 28 inch configurations
- Initial stiff creases take time to relax
The Blackstone 5483 is the OEM cover for 28 inch griddles with hood, and it earns its 4.8-star rating across 3,500+ reviews. I tested this on a 28 inch Blackstone Omnivore, and the fit was tailored with extra room for the hood bump. The cover drops over the griddle cleanly and the cinch straps cinch down tight.
The 600D polyester is the same heavy-duty material Blackstone uses across their OEM cover line. After six months of full sun and three rainstorms, there is no fading and no water penetration. The cinch straps with clips are sturdy, and the semi-elastic design lets you pull the cover snug without over-stretching.
What sets this cover apart from generic 28 inch options is the height clearance. Hooded 28 inch griddles sit taller than non-hooded versions, and most aftermarket covers do not account for that. The 5483 has the extra vertical room built in, so the cover does not press down on the hood or bow out at the top.
Two minor complaints show up in reviews. The cover can feel slightly oversized on the smallest 28 inch configurations because the cut is generous to fit the hood. And the cover ships with stiff creases from folding that take a few days in the sun to relax. Neither is a deal-breaker. For hooded 28 inch owners, this is the best outdoor griddle cover.
Best for
Owners of the Blackstone 28 inch griddle with hood, including the Omnivore and similar hooded models. The taller cut and tailored fit make this the obvious choice over generic 28 inch covers.
Skip if
You own a non-hooded 28 inch griddle. The taller cut designed for hoods will leave excess fabric flapping in wind. Consider the Blackstone 5091 instead for hoodless 28 inch models.
7. KINGLY 1000D Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch – Best Heavy-Duty Aftermarket Cover
Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36″ Griddle Compared to Blackstone 1528,1000D
Material: 1000D tear-resistant oxford
Closure: Velcro and adjustable straps
Dimensions: 67 inch L x 23 inch W x 26 inch H
UV: UPF 50+
Pros
- 1000D tear-resistant oxford fabric - twice as durable as 420D/600D
- 100% waterproof with sealed double-stitching seam tape
- UPF 50+ UV-resistant fabric blocking 99.99 percent of UV rays
- Lengthened adjustable side straps plus bottom straps for windproofing
- Air vents and portable handles included
Cons
- Not compatible with Blackstone 36 inch pro series
- hooded
- or cabinet models
- Some buyers report fit is snug for certain configurations
The KINGLY cover is the best outdoor griddle cover if you want aftermarket durability that rivals or exceeds OEM. The 1000D oxford fabric is twice as thick as standard 600D polyester, and you can feel the difference immediately. This is the cover I recommend to friends who want set-it-and-forget-it protection for the next five years.
The UPF 50+ UV protection blocks 99.99 percent of UV rays, which means no fading even after multiple summers of full sun exposure. The sealed double-stitching seam tape keeps water out completely. I tested this cover during a four-hour downpour and the griddle top was dry underneath when I lifted the cover.
The strap system is what makes this cover stay put. The lengthened side velcro straps run the full height of the cover, and the bottom straps add a second layer of security. I have not seen this cover move in any wind condition I have tested. The air vents on both sides allow moisture to escape, which addresses the rust concern that comes with fully sealed covers.
Compatibility is the trade-off. This cover fits the standard Blackstone 36 inch without hood, but not the ProSeries, rangetop, air-fryer, cabinet, hooded, or culinary variants. If you have one of those configurations, look elsewhere. For a standard 36 inch hoodless griddle and you want maximum durability, this is the cover to buy.
Best for
Anyone who wants the heaviest-duty aftermarket cover available. The 1000D fabric and sealed seams outperform most OEM covers. Best choice for full-sun patios and four-season climates.
Skip if
You own a Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries, rangetop, air-fryer combo, cabinet version, hooded model, or culinary griddle. The cut is specific to standard hoodless 36 inch griddles only.
8. SHINESTAR Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 inch – Best Budget 36-Inch Cover
SHINESTAR Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 Inch Griddle Without Hood, Heavy Duty Waterproof Flat Top Gas Grill Cover with Click-Close Straps, UV-Resistant BBQ Cover for More 4-Burner Griddle
Material: Tear-resistant Oxford fabric
Closure: Click-close bottom straps
Dimensions: 66.5 inch L x 22.5 inch W x 26 inch H
UV: Inner silver lining
Pros
- Fits Blackstone 36 inch and many 4-burner griddles
- Tear-resistant heavy-duty polyester with reinforced stitching
- Waterproof coating with upgraded sewing technique
- Click-close bottom straps keep cover locked in wind
- Inner silver lining reflects UV rays to prevent fading
Cons
- Not compatible with Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries
For buyers on a budget, the SHINESTAR cover delivers solid protection at one of the lowest prices on the market. At 66.5 inches long, it fits the standard Blackstone 36 inch without hood plus Camp Chef FTG 600 and Royal Gourmet 4-burner configurations. The fit is close to OEM without the OEM price tag.
The tear-resistant Oxford fabric feels lighter than 600D options, but the reinforced stitching and waterproof coating hold up well in real-world conditions. I tested this cover through two months of mixed weather and the griddle underneath stayed dry. The click-close bottom straps are a nice touch at this price point, locking the cover down in wind without needing separate buckles.
The inner silver lining is the feature that surprised me most. It reflects UV rays back outward, which slows fading and cracking on the inside of the cover. That extends the cover’s life in sunny climates where cheaper covers typically break down fastest.
The trade-off is long-term durability. This cover will not last five years like a 1000D option, and the fabric is thinner in the hand. But for the price, it is hard to beat. If you want solid protection without spending premium money, the SHINESTAR is the best outdoor griddle cover in the budget tier.
Best for
Anyone who wants solid 36 inch griddle protection without paying premium prices. Great for new griddle owners who want to start with a reliable cover and upgrade later if needed.
Skip if
You own a Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries. The cut is designed for the standard 36 inch hoodless griddle. You also may want to skip if you live in extreme sun or coastal conditions where premium 1000D fabric would last longer.
9. Blackstone 5091 28 inch Griddle Cover – Best OEM Cover for 28-Inch Without Hood
Blackstone® 5091 28 inch Griddle Cover, 52′ W x 27′ D x 27′ H, Black
Material: 600D polyester canvas
Closure: Side buckles and drawstring
Dimensions: 52 inch L x 27 inch W x 27 inch H
Fits: Blackstone 28 inch with or without hard cover
Pros
- Precise 52 inch width conforms around hard cover models
- Fits Blackstone 28 inch griddles with or without hard cover
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester canvas with reinforced stitching
- Water-resistant to prevent pooling and debris buildup
- Side buckles and straps tighten for secure fit
Cons
- Does not fit 28 inch griddles with a hood
- Does not extend down over the legs for full coverage
The Blackstone 5091 is the OEM cover for 28 inch griddles without a hood, and it is the cover most 28 inch owners end up buying. The 52 inch width is specifically cut to fit the 28 inch griddle with or without the optional hard cover, which is a configuration most aftermarket covers do not address.
The 600D polyester canvas has the same heavy feel as the larger 36 inch Blackstone OEM covers, and the side buckles tighten the cover down against the griddle body. I tested this on a 28 inch griddle plus hard cover configuration, and the fit was noticeably tighter than generic 28 inch options. The water resistance held up through a heavy rainstorm with no pooling on top.
What I appreciate about this cover is the long-term durability. Multiple buyers report using the same cover for three or more seasons with no fading or seam failure. The reinforced stitching shows on every seam, and the buckle hardware is solid plastic that does not crack in cold weather.
The two main complaints are real. The cover does not fit 28 inch griddles with a hood, so if you added the hood attachment, you need the 5483 instead. The cover also does not extend down over the legs, so the lower frame is exposed. Neither issue is a deal-breaker for most buyers, but worth knowing before you order.
Best for
Anyone with a Blackstone 28 inch griddle without a hood, especially with the hard cover accessory. The tailored fit for that specific configuration is unmatched by aftermarket covers.
Skip if
You own a hooded 28 inch griddle. The cut does not have the height clearance for the hood attachment. Choose the Blackstone 5483 instead for hooded 28 inch models.
10. PasWith 1000D Hooded 36 inch Griddle Cover – Best Heavy-Duty Cover for Hooded 36-Inch Griddles
Griddle Cover for Blackstone 36 in Griddle with Hood 5482,1000D Heavy Duty
Material: 1000D extra-dense oxford
Closure: Hook and loop straps
Dimensions: 68 inch L x 29.5 inch W x 33 inch H
UV: 3+ years UV aging resistance
Pros
- Fits Blackstone 36 inch with hood and most 4-burner griddles
- 100% waterproof dual-layered fabric with sealed seam tape
- 1000D extra-dense oxford with 1000N tearing strength
- UV-resistant material withstands 3+ years of UV aging
- Windproof adjustable straps on each side
- Air vent and padded handles included
Cons
- Not compatible with Blackstone 36 inch pro series or air fryer cabinets
- Minor pooling reported during extreme rainstorms by one buyer
The PasWith cover rounds out our list as the best heavy-duty aftermarket option for hooded 36 inch griddles. It is the direct competitor to the Blackstone 5482 OEM cover at a lower price, and the 1000D Oxford fabric gives it an edge in raw durability. If you want aftermarket toughness plus hooded fit, this is the cover to buy.
The dual-layered fabric with sealed seam tape is fully waterproof. I tested this through a sustained rainstorm and the griddle top was completely dry when I removed the cover. The 1000N tearing strength is a real number that translates into practical durability. Even after dragging the cover across concrete and catching it on patio furniture corners, there are no snags or tears.
The hook and loop strap system on each side pulls the cover snug against the griddle, and the air vent at the top releases moisture that would otherwise condense underneath. The padded handles make on-and-off easy, even with wet hands. After three months of testing, this cover has handled sun, rain, and wind without any visible wear.
The compatibility list is similar to other aftermarket 36 inch covers. It fits the Blackstone 36 inch with hood and most 4-burner configurations, but not the ProSeries, the air-fryer with cabinets, or the air-fryer with hood. One buyer reported minor pooling during an extreme storm, but this is rare feedback. For hooded 36 inch owners who want 1000D durability, this is the best outdoor griddle cover in the aftermarket tier.
Best for
Owners of a Blackstone 36 inch with hood who want aftermarket 1000D durability at a lower price than the OEM 5482. Great for full-sun patios and four-season climates where UV and tear resistance matter most.
Skip if
You own a Blackstone 36 inch ProSeries, the air-fryer combo with cabinets, or the air-fryer with hood. The cut is specific to standard hooded 36 inch griddles. You may also want to skip if you live in a region with extreme rainfall and pooling concerns are a deal-breaker.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Griddle Cover?
Choosing the right griddle cover comes down to three things: matching the cover to your exact griddle model, picking a material that handles your climate, and confirming the closure system matches your wind conditions. Get those three right and any of the covers on this list will protect your griddle for years.
Measure Your Griddle Correctly Before You Buy
The single biggest mistake griddle owners make is buying a cover based on the griddle’s marketing size. A “36 inch Blackstone” actually measures around 65 inches long including the side shelves, plus another 5 to 10 inches if you have a hood attachment. Always measure your griddle end to end including any side shelves, hood, or hard cover accessory. Then add 1 to 2 inches of clearance for easy fitting.
If your griddle has side shelves, you need a cover specifically labeled as fitting the “with shelf” or “with side shelf” configuration. If you have a hood or hard cover, you need a hooded-specific cover that accounts for the extra height. Buying the wrong size leads to covers that blow off in wind, pool water on top, or tear at the seams from being stretched too tight.
Material Comparison: 600D vs 420D vs Vinyl
Griddle covers come in three main material families, and each has trade-offs. 600D polyester is the most common option and the best balance of durability, weather resistance, and price. 420D oxford is lighter and cheaper, but typically lasts only one to two seasons before fading or tearing. Vinyl is fully waterproof but cracks in cold weather and is rarely the best choice unless you live in a mild climate year-round.
The newest premium option is 1000D oxford fabric, which is twice as thick as 600D and lasts noticeably longer. The KINGLY and PasWith covers on this list both use 1000D and represent the top tier of aftermarket durability. If you have a $700 griddle and plan to keep it outdoors year-round, the upgrade to 1000D is worth it.
Weatherproofing and UV Protection
Waterproof and water-resistant are not the same thing. Waterproof means the cover stops liquid entirely, even under pressure. Water-resistant means the cover slows water down but will eventually let it through. For griddle covers, you want waterproof or near-waterproof, especially if you live anywhere with regular rain.
UV protection matters more than most buyers realize. Cheap polyester covers fade dramatically after a single summer of full sun, and faded fabric is weaker fabric. Look for UPF 50+ ratings or covers with an inner silver lining that reflects UV rays. The SHINESTAR cover on this list is a good example of an inner silver lining at a budget price.
Wind Resistance: Drawstrings, Straps, and Elastic Hems
A griddle cover that blows off is worse than no cover at all because it exposes the griddle to the elements while giving a false sense of security. Look for covers with multiple closure systems. The best outdoor griddle covers combine a drawstring at the bottom with side straps or buckles to lock the cover in place.
If you live in a windy region like the Texas plains, the Midwest, or anywhere near the coast, prioritize covers with both a drawstring and side straps. The iCOVER, KINGLY, and PasWith covers on this list all use this combination. Avoid covers with elastic hems alone, which stretch out over time and lose grip.
Side-Shelf and Hood Compatibility
Side shelves and hood attachments are the two most common reasons aftermarket covers fail to fit. Always check whether the cover you are buying specifically lists compatibility with your configuration. The covers on this list include options for hoodless 36 inch, hooded 36 inch, 28 inch hooded, 28 inch no-hood, 22 inch, and 17 inch configurations.
For a complete guide to protecting your outdoor investments, see our picks for the best ATV covers for outdoor storage and our roundup of the 5 best boat covers if you have other outdoor gear to protect. Also check out our picks for refrigerator handle covers if you want to upgrade your kitchen accessories too.
Coastal and Cold Climate Considerations
Salt air at the coast is brutal on griddle covers. The salt corrodes metal hardware and breaks down fabric stitching faster than inland conditions. If you live near the coast, choose a cover with plastic hardware instead of metal, and rinse the cover with fresh water every few months to remove salt buildup. The KINGLY and PasWith 1000D covers are excellent choices for coastal homes.
Cold climate owners should avoid vinyl covers entirely. Vinyl cracks and becomes brittle below freezing, and most vinyl covers fail within one winter in northern states. 600D or 1000D polyester handles cold weather far better. If you deal with heavy snow, look for a cover with reinforced seams that will not split under snow load. The reinforced double-stitched seams on the KINGLY cover make it a strong choice for snowy regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do outdoor griddles need covers?
Yes, outdoor griddles need covers to prevent rust, fading, and debris buildup. Without a cover, rain and morning dew will start oxidizing the steel top within weeks, and sun will fade painted finishes within one season. A quality cover extends griddle life by 3-5+ years and protects a $300 to $1000+ investment for the cost of a takeout dinner.
What is the best material for a griddle cover?
600D polyester with PVC coating is the best all-around material for griddle covers. It balances durability, weather resistance, UV protection, and price. 1000D oxford is the premium upgrade and lasts twice as long. Vinyl is fully waterproof but cracks in cold weather and is not recommended for northern climates.
Are Blackstone griddle covers waterproof?
Most Blackstone OEM covers are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They handle rain well but may let water through during extended downpours or if water pools on top. Aftermarket covers with sealed seam tape and dual-layer construction offer better waterproofing at a similar price point.
How do I choose the right size griddle cover?
Measure your griddle end to end including side shelves and any hood or hard cover attachment. A 36 inch Blackstone actually measures 65+ inches long once you include shelves. Add 1-2 inches of clearance for easy fitting. Match the cover to your specific configuration like hoodless 36, hooded 36, 28 inch hooded, or 28 inch no-hood.
Can you leave a griddle outside without a cover?
You can leave a griddle outside for short periods, but extended exposure without a cover will cause rust on the steel top, fading on painted surfaces, and debris buildup in the grease trough. Even oiled griddles will show wear within months. A cover is the cheapest insurance against premature replacement.
How long do griddle covers last?
Quality 600D polyester covers last 2-3 years with continuous outdoor exposure. Premium 1000D oxford covers last 4-5+ years. Cheap 420D covers often fail within 1-2 seasons. UV exposure, wind, and snow load all affect lifespan. Rinse covers periodically and store them in the included storage bag during extreme weather to extend life.
Do griddle covers prevent rust?
Yes, covers prevent rust by keeping rain, dew, and snow off the steel griddle top. The main rust risk is trapped moisture, so look for covers with air vents that allow condensation to escape. Avoid fully sealed covers without vents if you live in a humid climate, or wipe down the griddle top before covering it.
Final Verdict: Which Outdoor Griddle Cover Should You Buy?
After testing ten covers across every common griddle size and configuration, our top pick for the best outdoor griddle covers overall is the iCOVER 36 inch Waterproof Cover. It fits the most popular 36 inch griddles without hood, handles serious weather, and has the strongest buyer feedback of any cover on this list at over 51,000 reviews.
If you own a hooded 36 inch Blackstone, the Blackstone 5482 OEM cover is the premium pick and worth every penny for the tailored fit. For the heaviest-duty aftermarket option, the KINGLY 1000D cover delivers OEM-beating durability at a lower price. And if you are running a 28 inch griddle, the Blackstone 5091 (no hood) or 5483 (with hood) OEM covers are the obvious choice for their specific configurations.
Whichever cover you pick from this list, your griddle will thank you. The difference between a covered and uncovered griddle after three years of outdoor exposure is the difference between a griddle that looks new and one headed for the scrap yard. Take the time to measure your griddle correctly, match the cover to your configuration, and you will not need to think about your griddle cover again for years. For more outdoor cooking gear recommendations, check out our picks for the best Amazon Prime Day Blackstone griddle deals if you are still shopping for your griddle.