Ask the Experts: What Is a Slipcover?

Whether you're looking to update old furniture, change your look according to the season or prevent nasty stains, our guide can help you find the slipcover for your needs.

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What Is a Slipcover?

More commonly known as a sofa cover, slipcovers are removable, fitted covers that are secured around pieces of furniture. They're an easy way to update old furniture and change the feel of your home. They also allow you to be worry-free when it comes to kids and pets and potential stains. Slipcovers can be used on sofas, loveseats, futons or daybeds, recliners, chairs or stools and even ottomans. Before purchasing a slipcover, there are three things that you should consider: material, design and measurements.

Types of Slipcovers

When choosing a type of slipcover, there are different options to choose from. Decide on a material and design that best suits your style and needs.

Slipcover Material

Choosing the right material for your slipcover depends on how much your furniture will be used. Slipcovers come in a variety of materials including cotton, microfibre, denim, polyester, linen and more. Here are a few of the most popular materials to consider:

Cotton: Cotton is light and machine-washable. It tends to be on the softer side and adds a casual feel to the piece. Cotton slipcovers are durable but can become wrinkled, so try to keep this in mind if you remove your slipcover regularly.

Microfibre: Microfibre is a popular option as it's stain-resistant and easy to clean. Microfibre is soft to the touch but thick enough to protect your furniture. Any spills can be easily cleaned before turning into a more permanent stain.

Denim: Denim is composed of durable twill-weave fabric and can withstand daily use. Denim is durable and gives your furniture a relaxed and traditional feel.

Polyester: Polyester is one of the most common materials for slipcovers as it's durable and easy to clean, which will keep your slipcover looking nicer for longer. The durable, synthetic material makes it a great option when deciding on a type of sofa cover as the strong fibres help to keep its shape and resist wrinkling.

Linen: While it's soft and smooth, linen can be cooling and extremely durable. Linen slipcovers are great for giving your sofa a casual and comfortable look. Linen can wrinkle easily, but you may prefer the natural wrinkle if you are looking for a casual option.

Twill: Typically made from cotton, twill is a popular slipcover choice for when a heavy and sturdier material is required.

Faux Leather: If you find that your leather sofa or chair is getting a lot of wear, consider a faux leather slipcover to protect it. Faux leather is durable and is a great option if you're looking for a slipcover that can be easily cleaned with a wet cloth.

Slipcover Design

When shopping for your slipcover, you'll find there are different options when it comes to designs. You should consider the purpose of your slipcover as well as the style you're going for.

Furniture Protectors: These are the most common type of slipcovers as they protect your basic pieces of furniture, such as sofas, chairs and ottomans from daily wear and tear, stains or spills. If you have a home with pets and young children, furniture protectors will help you keep your furniture in good condition. Furniture protectors are usually one piece of fabric and tend to be attached by hook-and-loop fasteners or ties. They can be easily removed, which makes it easier to clean in case of a spill.

One-Piece Protectors: One-piece protectors are easily taken on and off, which makes them ideal for washing on a regular basis. One-piece protectors typically have ties along the skirt that allow you to tighten the fabric around the base. When putting a one-piece protector on your furniture, you may need to tuck the extra fabric into the crease. If you are having trouble getting a tight tuck with your hands, a wooden spatula will do the trick.

Stretch-Fit Protectors: Stretch-fit covers give your furniture a form-fitting look. They're easy to set up and the stretch helps keep the slipcover secure, makeing them great options for households with small children and pets.

Separate Seat Protectors: These types of sofa covers tend to come in two separate pieces and are most commonly used on sofas or loveseats. One piece is meant for the body of the sofa and the other piece for the cushions. Depending on your cushion design, you could have more pieces. Separate seat protectors give your sofa a more custom and tailored look.

Cushion Design

There are two different cushion designs for slipcovers: regular cushion or T-cushion. It is important to know which design you will need when choosing your slipcover.

Regular/Box Cushion: These are rectangular or square cushions.Due to their shape and straight lines, these cushions can be flipped as a quick fix to hide a stain.

T-Cushion: These cushions have an outline of a T shape. T-cushion slipcovers are commonly used on sofas or chairs. The slipcover layers over the back and seat cushion, giving it the classic T-shaped look.

How to Find the Right Slipcover Size

Knowing the size of your furniture will help you confidently choose the right type of slipcover. Whether you are measuring a sofa, chair or ottoman, it's important to measure the overall length, width, height and depth. If you're purchasing a slipcover with a dust ruffle or skirt, you will need to measure from the top of the legs to the floor.

For some types of sofa covers, you will need to measure the cushion width. Measure from the outer edge of the left cushion to the outer edge of the right cushion. Measure the cushion depth by measuring the front of the cushion to where the cushion meets the back of the sofa.

If you're looking for a recliner slipcover, some slipcovers will require reclining length. Put your recliner in the fully reclined position and measure the recliner from the top edge to the bottom of the footrest.