If you own a terrace sofa, a balcony dining set or a pair of sunbeds, you already know how hard the climate is on them. A good cover is the cheapest way to protect that furniture, but not every cover works well here. This guide explains how to choose outdoor furniture covers in Dubai that fit properly, last longer, and keep your furniture clean, with a short FAQ at the end.
Why outdoor furniture needs covers in Dubai
During Dubai summer, temperatures frequently hit 40 °C, the sun is intense for the majority of the year, and dust is carried in from the desert and construction. Humidity and salty air are also factors of wear near the coast. Combined, these wear down fabric, dry out cushion foam, fade finishes, and promote mold growth on any moisture wetting.
A good selection of cover is the key to providing your furniture with a barrier between itself and all of this. Shields from the UV rays, stops dust and guards against a rare downpour. It will also save you time, as you will not spend as much time cleaning and replacing cushions.
Step 1: Choose the right fabric
Fabric determines the cover’s longevity. These are the most popular choices:
- Coated polyester (e.g., 600D Oxford): A strong, widely used fabric with a water-resistant coating on its underside. It is resistant to the sun and rain and is generally a good value.
- PVC-coated fabric: Heavier, harder to breathe on, very water-resistant and easily wiped down; requires a vent to prevent moisture buildup.
- Solution Dye Acrylic or similar outdoor fabric: High-quality fabric that has great resistance to fading and is soft to the touch. It costs more and is best for visible, high-end furniture.
- Uncoated fabric: Low cost, but very little protection against rain and rapidly deteriorates in strong sunlight. We would not use it for something we would want to use outdoors permanently.
Check for UV-resistant or UV-stabilized fabric. If you’re paying for a cover that fades and crumbles at the end of the summer, then you’re not saving any money.
Water-resistant or waterproof?
If it is completely waterproof, it seems like it would be good, but a non-breathable material will keep moisture trapped and lead to mold. As far as Dubai is concerned, it’s typically best to go with water-resistant fabric and vents, or a breathable weave, which allows moisture to pour out while keeping rain out.
Step 2: Get the fit right
A loose cover flaps in the wind, scoops up dust at the bottom, and collects water on top. If the cover is too tight, it will rip open at the seams. Do measure your furniture carefully:
- Longest, widest, tallest: Measure the longest, widest, tallest points, such as arms, backs and legs.
- Include an allowance: A few extra centimeters will make it easier for the cover to be put in and taken out.
- Record the shape: L-shaped sofas, corner sets, round tables and sunbeds require different patterns. They are not rectangular, so a rectangular cover won’t fit.
If your furniture is an unusual size or shape, custom-made covers are worth considering. They are cut to your measurements, so they stay in place and protect corners that one-size covers leave exposed.
Step 3: Look for useful features
- Air vents: Small vents allow hot, humid air to escape and keep condensation inside the cover to a minimum.
- Straps, drawcords or elastic hems: These hold the cover down in strong wind, which is common on balconies and rooftops.
- Reinforced seams: Seams are stitched and taped to be long-lasting in rain and sun.
- Handles or pull tabs: These allow for easier removal of a large cover without pulling across furniture.
- Easy-clean surface: A smooth surface is easy to wipe clean, saving time when dust accumulates.
Step 4: Look after the cover
Even the best cover will last longer with a little care. Before taking the dust off, wipe it with a brush to prevent damage to the furniture. Clean with mild soap and water as necessary and completely dry it in the shade. It should never be returned to damp furniture or damp cushions, as moisture is one of the quickest ways of collecting mold. Examine straps and seams regularly for small tears if the sun is very strong, and small tears should be mended early.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Price only: If the cover is very low, it will usually fade in a season, or develop cracks or leaks in a season, and you will be paying twice the price.
- Wet furniture covered up: This retains moisture and is likely to lead to mold and odors.
- The wrong size: A too loose or too tight cover will reduce its lifespan and expose furniture. Neglecting ventilation: In humid areas, a cover without ventilation or breathability can be detrimental.
Frequently asked questions
Do outdoor furniture covers work in Dubai’s heat?
Yes, if they are made of UV-resistant fabric. A good cover will help to prevent fading, drying, and dusting due to exposure to sunlight and dust. The air is kept moving under the vents, and light colors reflect more heat.
What fabric is best for outdoor furniture covers?
Coated polyester is a good general-purpose material for most houses. Solution-dyed outdoor fabric is more fade-resistant than other types of outdoor fabric in visible, high-quality furniture where color is important, but it is more expensive.
How do I measure my furniture for a cover?
Measure the length, width, and height at the longest, widest and tallest points, including arms and backs. Provide a small allowance and specify the shape – L, round or corner. If you are ordering an unusual size, request a custom size.
Are custom-made covers worth it?
Yes, frequently for corner sofas, L-shaped sofas, round tables (and sunbeds). Custom covers will fit snugly and securely, and one-size covers can flap, leak, and have gaps.
Can I leave the cover on all year?
It is possible, but inspect under frequently. Be sure the furniture is dry before covering, and take off the cover periodically to allow the air to escape, particularly after rain or in humid weeks.
How do I clean an outdoor furniture cover?
Gently dampen with mild soap and water, rinse, and dry thoroughly in the shade; brush off dust. Avoid harsh chemicals and high-pressure washers, which can damage the coating.
How long does an outdoor furniture cover last?
It relies on the type of fabric, the exposure to direct sunlight, and the quality of maintenance of the cover. Ingenuity has actually been found to be the difference in the life of a cover due to its improved material, a proper fit, and routine maintenance.
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Final thoughts
Deciding on the best outdoor furniture cover is a four-part process: you need to select the appropriate fabric for UV resistance, get the water resistance and breathability right, ensure a proper fit for your furniture, and consider a few useful aspects like vents and straps. Take a moment to make these decisions, and you’ll find that your terrace or balcony furniture will remain cleaner and last far longer during Dubai’s hot, dusty summer and winter months.
