If you have yet to invest in an outdoor table cover you should put it on your shopping list today. It is amazing how often people will spend a lot of money on their patio furniture only to leave it at the mercy of the elements when the weather changes. It doesn’t matter if the pieces you bought were described as weather resistant or not. Well made and beautifully crafted furniture may be resistant to most bad weather but it certainly doesn’t hurt to give them added protection by putting on a table cover.

But it isn’t just the weather that you have to worry about. If you are going to be eating at your outdoor table it makes sense to protect the wood or plastic from damage by first covering the table. It can also add atmosphere to a meal if you are celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a romantic evening for two.

What type of outdoor table cover?

Outdoor furniture covers come in a range of materials. The type that you choose will depend on your budget, where you live and your personal taste. If you live in an area of extreme temperatures and own expensive patio furniture set you may want to store them in the garage for the winter months.

The type of cover you buy will depend to a large extent on the shape and size of the table. You can buy an outside table cover that ties underneath which are helpful as it stops the wind blowing them away. You still need to pick the right size as if it is too big, the wind will go under the cover and may generate sufficient force to blow the furniture piece over. Alternatively you can buy the ones that are a perfect fit for the furniture piece and hope that they do not shrink.

The materials you can choose from will include vinyl or polyester. If buying vinyl try to buy the ones with built in air vents as sometimes wrapping a furniture piece in vinyl can cause mold and other problems if there is insufficient aeration. This is less of a problem with polyester as it is a naturally breathable fabric.

How much does an outdoor table top cover cost?

Generally outdoor table covers are not very expensive. You can find ones ranging from $20 upwards. The price will be dictated by the size, shape and the materials the cover is made from. You can buy readymade covers in a variety of sizes and shapes. If you have a standard size round or oval table you should be able to find sizes to suit. If you have an unusual shape or size you may have to buy a custom fit either from the furniture manufacturer or by employing someone to make the covers for you but this will work out more expensive than buying them ready made. Of course if you are handy with a sewing machine you could always look at making some.

If you have children, using machine washable table covers is a great way to keep your patio furniture in great condition while at the same time allowing your kids to enjoy the great outdoors. Children love picnics and will often eat more food and of different varieties then when sitting at the usual dinner table. But kids and mess go hand in hand so if you don’t want your wooden patio table stained with juice or covered in crumbs, cheap and cheerful protective covers are a great thing to own.

Don’t be worried about not being able to find the perfect outdoor table covers. They are in plentiful supply either via the internet or in your local hardware store.