Best Tarps for Covering Grills & Outdoor Furnishings (2026)

How to Choose the Right Product

How to Choose the Right Tarp

Choosing a tarp for grills and outdoor cushions comes down to three main factors: size and fit, material/thickness, and attachment quality. Size: measure the widest, tallest and deepest points of the item(s) you want to cover and add at least 2–3 feet of overlap on all sides so you can secure the tarp without exposing edges. If you have a grill with side shelves or an umbrella above, account for those extra inches. For cushions, a single large tarp is usually better than multiple small pieces because it minimizes seams where water can intrude.

Material & thickness: polyethylene (PE) is the most common, often coated for UV protection. Thickness is measured in mils — 5–6 mil is lightweight and fine for seasonal or short-term use; 10–12+ mil is more tear resistant and better for long-term, heavy-duty protection. Remember that construction alone (woven vs laminated) and corner reinforcement matter as much as the mil rating.

Attachment & durability: look for rust-resistant grommets, reinforced corners, and tighter grommet spacing if you expect windy conditions. Grommets every 12–24 inches give more anchor points and a snug fit; many economical tarps space grommets farther apart. Also check for taped or double-stitched seams and any corner patches—these small features extend life. Finally, consider color and UV treatment: darker/UV-treated tarps will better protect cushion fabrics from fading.

Installation & Care

Secure tarps with bungee cords, ratchet straps or shock-corded tie-downs to avoid tearing. Avoid pulling a tarp taut over sharp edges—use a soft barrier or wrap corners. Store tarps dry and folded; mildew and trapped moisture will shorten life. Patch kits and reinforced grommets can extend service life if small tears occur.

Budget Tiers

Budget tarps (low price tier) will give you coverage and typically work well for short-term or occasional use; expect thinner material and wider grommet spacing. Mid-range tarps balance price and durability and are a good choice for seasonal protection. Premium tarps often provide extra-large sizes, better seam work and heavier-duty fabric—but size alone doesn’t guarantee higher mil thickness; check both price tier and specs before buying.