We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (2024)

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (1)

The right slipcover provides an added layer of protection from dirt and spills—and gives your couch a fresh look—in seconds. “People who may want a slipcover are those looking to protect their upholstered furniture from everyday wear and tear; people with pets [or] children; or those who entertain frequently,” says Carmelo Carrasco, a realtor, property manager, and co-founder of Axel Property Management.

We researched dozens of slipcovers, judging them on durability, fit, ease of care, as well as overall value. In our research, we sought out products that were easy to care for and durable, in addition to stylish and attractive, paying attention to details like whether a cover was machine-washable, budget-friendly, and sized to fit a variety of sofa styles. But if you’re looking for something different—maybe something durable enough for pets or for a sleeper sofa—we’re highlighting plenty of other great options, too.

Our Top Picks

Jump to Review
Jump to Review
Jump to Review

In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • What to Look For

  • FAQ

  • Why Trust The Spruce

Best Overall

Easy-Going Stretch Couch Cover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (2)

What We Like

  • Stretchy spandex material

  • Comes in over 25 colors

  • Individual covers for seat cushions

  • Machine-washable

What We Don't Like

  • Not compatible with certain sofa shapes

Some slipcovers can look like they belong in grandma’s house, but not this one! The Easy-Going 4-Piece Slipcover is a standout solution for anyone who’s hoping to keep their sofa’s sleek style while adding a layer of extra coverage. This cover features a much more sleek and modern aesthetic than most. That’s all thanks to its construction—it’s made of a stretchy, durable spandex and polyester blend that provides a snug fit around the couch and its cushions. It’s also available in over 25 different colors, including neutrals like gray and vibrant shades like peaco*ck blue, which makes it easy to find just the right hue.

No matter what size you opt for (there are five available options), this slipcover has a unique construction that makes it more attractive and easier to take care of. Instead of being made out of one piece of fabric that stretches over the whole couch, it’s made of individual covers for the frame of the couch and three seat and back cushions.

But it’s not all about looks. This slipcover’s polyester-spandex material is also supremely soft and comfortable, and it can withstand a lot of wear. It’s also machine-washable, so you can wash the slipcover whenever you need to without worrying about affecting fit and quality. Plus, if only one cushion gets dirty, you can remove and wash that individual cover alone.

If there’s any downside, it’s that you can’t get this great slipcover for all of the couches and chairs in your home. While it is available for smaller loveseats and armchairs, there aren’t options to fit sectionals or L-shaped couches.

Material: Polyester, spandex | Dimensions: 35 x 79 x 33 inches (size large) | Furniture Type: Couch, sofa, loveseat, chair

Best Budget

PureFit Super Stretch Slipcover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (3)

What We Like

  • Non-skid elastic bottoms to stay in place

  • Stretches to fit a wide range of sizes

  • Available for sofas, loveseats, recliners, and more

  • Machine-washable

What We Don't Like

  • Single piece design

  • Not water-resistant

There are plenty of budget-friendly slipcovers to choose from, but PureFit’s Super Stretch Slipcover is one that stands out. It’ll save you a little bit of money without the need to sacrifice much at all. Made out of polyester and spandex material, this slipcover may be one piece, but it’s super stretchy and soft, so it’s a breeze to install on your couch, sofa, chair, or recliner. (Just pick the appropriate product and size for your furniture.) It even has non-skid elastic bottoms to help its material stay securely in place—even if you have kids and pets who are always jumping around.

Like other great slipcovers, it’s also machine-washable for easy cleanup should it get soiled. While this cover doesn’t offer individual cushion covers, it does cover your sofa or loveseat from the back to the floor. The bigger downside, according to users? The slipcover isn’t at all water-resistant, so you’ll have to do a decent clean up if anything other than water spills on the cover.

However, we like that this budget-friendly slipcover comes in more than 20 shades ranging from white to bold red, so you’re sure to find just the right thing for your space. And because of the price point, you could easily stock up on more than one to change things up every once in a while.

Material: Polyester, spandex | Dimensions: 35 x 77 x 33 inches (size large) | Furniture Type: Sofa, couch, chair, recliner

Best for Recliners

Red Barrel Studio Spandex Box Cushion Slipcover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (4)

What We Like

  • Works with electric and manual recliners

  • Anti-slip foam cushioning

  • Includes side pocket

  • Machine-washable and wrinkle-free

What We Don't Like

  • Not compatible with two-piece recliners

  • May not fit thicker or oversized recliners

If your recliner is one of the most-loved items in your living room, you’ll be glad to know you can keep it in tip-top condition with a dedicated slipcover; we like Red Barrel Studio’s Spandex Box Cushion Slipcover, which is made just for these lounge-ready chairs. We love this microsuede cover because you won’t have to sacrifice comfort for cleanliness and longevity. The material is incredibly soft to the touch, with a subtle check pattern that makes the cover look more like a true piece of furniture rather than something you covered to preserve.

The slipcover, which can be installed on either a manual or electric recliner with a right-side handle, is most suitable for recliners between 24 and 33 inches wide and 29 to 37 inches tall. (Just note: It’s not compatible with two-piece recliners, and you may run into sizing issues if your recliner is particularly wide.) It’s easy to install, too, thanks to its unique design that features two elastic loops at the back corners. All you have to do is pull them through to the back of the recliner to create a form-fitting look—even when the seat is fully reclined. It also has anti-slip foam inserts to keep the fabric in place, no matter how many times you go from upright to vertical and back again.

In the event of any mishaps, simply toss the wrinkle-free fabric in the washing machine before replacing it and kicking your feet up. For the ultimate relaxation experience, the slipcover even has a built-in pocket on the side for your favorite reading material or other essentials.

Material: Microsuede | Dimensions: One size fits all (for one-piece recliners) | Furniture Type: Recliner

Best for Sectionals

Subrtex L-Shape Sofa Cover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (5)

What We Like

  • Two-piece set for sofa and chaise

  • Stretchy, one-size-fits-most design

  • Holds up to pets, kids, and general wear well

What We Don't Like

  • Only works on two-piece sofas

  • Colors can vary in person

Because of their grandiose size, it can be difficult to find a slipcover that’s big enough—and flexible enough—for a sectional sofa. But if you’re on the hunt, the Subrtex 2-Piece Sofa Cover is specially designed to fit an L-shaped sectional. We love how flexible and adaptable this slipcover is, with a stretchable one-size-fits-all design that can adapt to various sectionals without difficulty. There’s an impressive selection of 19 colors to choose from, all with a subtle textured grid pattern that fits into any living room aesthetic.

Of course, there are some dimension constraints to keep in mind. For the best fit, the main portion of your sectional should be between 63 and 76 inches long; the chaise should be between 55 and 70 inches long. And unfortunately, this slipcover only works on two-piece sectionals. However, if your sectional fits within these measurements, you’ll love how easily the cover slips into place and holds up to wear and tear (yes, even with kids and active pets climbing on its surface!)

This slipcover will delight you due to its soft, smooth, and stretchy polyester construction. The material stretches easily, making it easy to remove and toss in the wash when dirty. Plus, it’s highly comfortable to sit on. The fabric is also highly resistant to just about anything, from spills to stains to pet hair and more.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 76 x 37 inches (sofa cover), 70 x 37 inches (chaise cover) | Furniture Type: L-shaped sectionals

Best Cotton

Classic Slipcovers Brushed Twill Sofa Slipcover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (6)

What We Like

  • Durable brushed twill construction

  • Adjustable fit with side ties

  • Designed for a looser, flowier fit

What We Don't Like

  • Prone to wrinkles

  • Sizing can be tricky to get right

The vast majority of easy-on, easy-off slipcovers are made of synthetic materials like polyester and spandex—that’s what makes them simple to install and gives them a stretchy feel. But if you prefer the look and feel of good old-fashioned cotton, the Classic Slipcovers Brushed Twill Sofa Slipcover is a fantastic option for your furniture. We love how easy this slipcover is to drop over your couch. Thanks to its adjustable ties, you can leave it loose and flowing or opt for more of a slightly structured fit. The durable brushed twill weave of the fabric is soft to the touch yet impressively durable, and it’s super simple to care for when messes happen.

Made from 100 percent cotton, this slipcover is comfortable to lounge on and machine-washable for spills and stains. It also comes in several colors—mostly neutrals like cream and khaki, which are great options for any living room, but you can also choose a more vibrant alternative like red. No matter what color you select, this particular slipcover has a more casual appearance thanks to the more structured material and one-piece construction.

Just remember: Cotton has a tendency to wrinkle, so you might need to put in some extra effort ironing the slipcover after a spin in the machine. Additionally, customer reviews note that sizing can be a bit tricky to get right. While this cover is looser and more of a one-size-fits-most, it may not completely cover all sofas. Make sure to measure first; it’s designed for sofas up to 96 inches wide.

Material: Cotton | Dimensions: Not listed | Furniture Type: Couch, sofa

Best for Chairs

House of Hampton Box Cushion Armchair Slipcover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (7)

What We Like

  • Stain- and fade-resistant

  • Sewn-in stretch corners for a secure fit

  • Includes separate cushion cover

  • Fits wide range of chair styles

What We Don't Like

  • Colors can vary in person

  • Signs of wear can appear over time

House of Hampton’s Damask Armchair Slipcover features a very traditional damask pattern, and we love that it can instantly upgrade chairs in a variety of sizes and styles. This product looks more like a true furniture fabric than a synthetic cover, infusing some style and blending in flawlessly without drawing extra attention. With two pieces—one for the chair, and one for the cushion—you’ll be able to protect every inch of your chair with a durable and hardy fabric that won’t easily show dirt or debris.

The two-piece slipcover is relatively versatile, fitting T-cushion or barrel armchairs that are 32 to 47 inches wide and 32 to 42 inches deep. We also love that the cover is a breeze to install because this armchair slipcover, thanks to stretchy but snug elastic paired with sewn-in stretch corners that offer total coverage for cushions of many thicknesses. Everything stays snugly in place, too. Both pieces are made from a relatively rigid polyester-spandex blend, plus has elastic edging to help hold them in place—despite heavy use.

Material: Polyester blend | Dimensions: 42 x 47 x 41 inches | Furniture Type: Armchair

Best for Couches

Sure Fit Stretch Metro Box Cushion Sofa Slipcover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (8)

What We Like

  • Soft to the touch

  • Contours to sofa shape

  • Two-piece set for sofa and cushion

  • Includes elastic and zipper closures

What We Don't Like

  • Expensive

  • Doesn’t work on sofas with multiple cushions

For couches with just a single cushion, Sure Fit’s Stretch Metro Box Cushion Sofa Slipcover is a highly convenient option and one we like because of its secure fit and soft-to-the-touch fabric. It comes with just two pieces—one for the frame of the sofa and one for the seat cushion—so you won’t have to fumble with a ton of pieces every time you recover the couch. It’s comfortable to lounge on, and its snug fit ensures the cover stays in place regardless of how your family likes to sit, lay, or move around from day to day.

Besides the simple construction, we also like that the slipcover is made from a polyester-spandex blend that allows the whole thing to effortlessly stretch over the far corners. This is also part of what makes the slipcover so comfortable to sit on. The fabric, which comes in two colors, won’t budge until you’re ready to toss it in the washing machine. The edges are even lined with elastic for a tight fit around your couch.

This slipcover is easy to care for, too, and isn’t prone to wrinkling. However, it does come with a higher price and will only work on certain couch styles–but we still think it’s a quality cover worth the investment if you need an option that won’t slip or slide.

Material: Polyester, spandex | Dimensions: 36 x 89 x 22 inches | Furniture Type: Couch, sofa

Best for Loose Cushions

H.Versailtex Super Stretch Cushion Covers

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (9)

What We Like

  • Durable polyester material

  • Machine-washable wrinkle-free fabric

  • Comes in nearly 20 colors

  • Works for T-cushion and box cushions

What We Don't Like

  • Material is relatively thin

  • Fabric pattern doesn’t match all couches

Sometimes, you don’t want to cover your entire couch—just the part more prone to wear and tear. If your cushions could use some extra protection or need a fresh update, a set of H.VERSAILTEX Super Stretch Individual Seat Cushion Covers give you the flexibility to cover just the seats alone. Available in nearly 20 colors with a simple box pattern across their surface, these covers make it easy to find an option that suits your sofa.

We particularly like the polyester blend these covers are crafted with; it’s super soft and stretchy, which makes it comfy to lounge on and easy to apply or remove. The high elasticity allows the cushions to collectively cover a total of 58.8 to 88.5 inches for sofas, both small and large. The material is highly durable, too, so there’s no worry about active kids and pets. Though the material is a bit thin for some users, it won’t pill and is resistant to spills, stains, and tears. The thin construction also keeps the cushions underneath nice and breathable to ensure your comfort while you relax.

When they need a good clean, just toss the covers in the washing machine. The fabric will hold up on cold, gentle cycles and comes out perfectly wrinkle-free.

Material: Polyester blend | Dimensions: 15 x 12 x 2 inches | Furniture Type: Couch

Best for Sleeper Sofas

Chun Yi Stretch Sofa Cover for Couch

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (10)

What We Like

  • Two-piece construction provides access to mattress

  • Machine-washable and dryer-friendly

  • Elastic bottom stays put

  • Wide range of size options

What We Don't Like

  • Colors appear a bit different in person

If you have a sleeper sofa, you don’t want a one-piece slipcover since you’ll have to take the whole thing off to bring the bed out. Instead, opt for a two-piece selection like the CHUN YI Stretch Sofa Slipcover, which keeps the whole couch covered but leaves the mattress open for easy access—all you have to do is take the top cushion off like you would if the couch didn’t have a cover. The convenience of this slipcover makes it a favorite for us, along with its versatility, soft-to-the-touch fabric, and easy maintenance.

Made with a polyester and spandex blend, this sleeper sofa slipcover comes in an impressive 27 colors, five different sizes that accommodate couches 57 to 118 inches, and a sleek no-pattern style that blends in easily in any room. (Just note: Users say the colors look a bit different on the screen than they do in person, so expect the shade to vary somewhat.) Plus, the addition of the spandex makes the whole cover super stretchy, meaning it’s easy to put on but clings to your couch in all the right places to prevent sliding or loose fabric. An elastic bottom makes sure it all stays firmly in place, too.

Like other great slipcovers, cleaning is a breeze. Just toss it in the washing machine on a cold and gentle cycle before tossing it in the dryer on low heat. The whole thing comes out wrinkle-free and ready to go right back onto the couch.

Material: Polyester, spandex | Dimensions: Varies | Furniture Type: Couch, loveseat, chair

Best for Leather Couches

Mambe Waterproof Furniture Cover Sofa

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (11)

What We Like

  • Extra thick microfiber fleece design

  • Waterproof

  • Reversible, with two colors in one

  • Highly versatile

What We Don't Like

  • Doesn’t cinch around furniture

  • Can expose the leather when it moves

Leather sofas present a unique dilemma because the material is so fragile. It looks and feels fantastic, but when exposed to sunlight, water, and even regular wear, leather can wind up easily damaged—but with Mambe’s 100 Percent Waterproof Cover, you can protect your costly couch from these common woes. This slipcover features a super soft microfleece material on the underside, making it thicker and more cushioned than your average slipcover (and gentle enough to prevent scratches on your leather.) It’s also fully waterproof to keep any liquids from soaking through and staining that soft leather underneath.

The cover may not cinch around cushions the same way the over slipcovers do, which means things can shift—especially if your household is home to kids and pets—but this detail does make it highly versatile. You can use the two-sided blanket-style cover on your leather couch or an armchair recliner, loveseat, or even your bed. Flip it over for a switch in color, or adjust as needed to protect areas that are seeing more wear than others. When the cover becomes dirty, we also like that it’s easy to wash. Send it for a spin in a cold cycle and then tumble dry on medium or hang dry.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 2.17 x 6.3 x 7.28 inches | Furniture Type: Any

Best for Pets

Sofa Shield Patented Couch Cover

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (12)

What We Like

  • Nearly 30 color choices

  • 2-inch thick stay-put straps

  • Stain-, fade-, and tear-resistant

What We Don't Like

  • Doesn’t cover the entire couch

  • Can slip and move

We all love our pets, but they sure do put a lot of wear and tear on our furniture. Between drool and shedding fur and muddy paws and sharp claws, a pet-friendly slipcover is a worthwhile purchase for any pet owner. Sofa Shield’s Patented Couch Cover can keep your sofa—or other pieces of upholstered furniture—well-protected in the face of rough and tumble pets. We love how many different sizes it comes in, which can suit all different types of furniture your pet might jump up on, from couches to recliners to sectionals and more. And there are nearly 30 colors and patterns to choose from. Who said you have to sacrifice aesthetics if you need to cover your couch for your pet?

Unlike most slipcovers, which cover the entire sofa, this one mainly protects the seat, arms, and back of your couch, but this design protects the most-trafficked areas and does make it easier to remove for washing. Just note that it can move around and expose your furniture’s upholstery, so it may require some adjusting over time. However, it does come equipped with two-inch thick slip-resistant straps to keep the whole thing in place. The material is also stain-, fade-, and tear-resistant, so your furniture will stay dry, even if your wet pooch decides to take a nap on it or stretch their sharp claws. Just throw the whole thing in the washing machine, then tumble dry.

Material: Fabric | Dimensions: 0.5 x 68 x 74 inches (Couch Sofa size) | Furniture Type: Couch, sofa, recliner, chair, sectional

Final Verdict

For a standard sofa, the Easy-Going 4-Piece Soft Stretch Couch Cover is an unbeatable option. We love that it provides a neat, defined look, plus you can wash individual cushion covers if they get dirty. If you're looking for something even more budget-friendly, though, consider the PureFit Super Stretch Chair Sofa Slipcover. It’s just as soft and stretchy as the more expensive options, plus it’s a breeze to install, easy to wash, and comes in over 20 color choices.

What to Look for in a Slipcover

Fabric

The main appeal of a slipcover is its durability, so you'll want to look for one that's made with easy-care materials. Popular options include cotton, polyester, canvas, denim, and linen. Polyester and microfiber slipcovers are typically the least expensive options, while linen, denim, and canvas tend to be priced a bit higher. Cotton and linen have a breezy, more casual look, while canvas and denim are more heavy-duty and are best for pet owners or those with kids.

Style

Slipcovers aren’t the most stylish home accessory, so if aesthetics are really important to you, you might want to seek out custom options that look more like true furniture. That said, blanket styles tend to be the least attractive. So if you’re not in the market for a custom option, consider polyester blends or cotton slipcovers that fit the entirety of the couch and skip those draped blankets.

Durability

Look for thick slipcovers that have touted features like stain- and tear-resistant. These options will be better equipped to protect your furniture from liquid spills, as well as long-lasting damage like tears from pet claws. If you have a leather couch, pay special attention to the construction of the slipcover. You may want to invest in one that features a microfleece underside since this will offer an additional layer of protection against scratches and stains.

Care and Maintenance

The most important part of a slipcover? Ease of care. Make sure you choose a slipcover that's machine-washable. Plus, how often you'll need to wash it will influence the material and fit you choose. Slipcovers for furniture pieces that aren't used very often can be a lighter weight and come in multiple pieces, while frequently used slipcovers should be a heavier weight and be easy to take on and off.

FAQ

  • Are slipcovers worth it?

    If you don’t mind covering up the couch you chose, slipcovers are definitely worth the expense, time and effort. They work hard to protect the furniture underneath from everyday wear and tear and can be especially useful for those with pets and children, plus families who entertain frequently. This is because they provide an extra layer of protection against spills, dirt, pet hair, and more. At the end of the day, slipcovers can help extend the life of your furniture and are much cheaper than buying new upholstered furniture.

  • Can any couch be slipcovered?

    Pretty much any couch can be slipcovered but look carefully at the specifications on any products you’re considering. Not all slipcovers fit all couches, so make sure to check that the dimensions on the couch and slipcover line up. Also, consider how many pieces the slipcover comes in. A one-piece slipcover that stretches over the entire couch isn’t the best choice for a sleeper sofa, for example, since you’ll have to take the whole thing off any time you want to pull out the bed.

  • What is the best fabric for slipcovers?

    In general, polyester-cotton blend slipcovers reign supreme, says Carrasco. “This material is durable, comfortable, and easy to care for.” Additionally, this type of fabric expertly resists wrinkles plus won’t shrink or fade despite many trips through the washing machine. But if you’re looking for something more luxurious, consider velvet or twill slipcovers. These fabrics offer a richer feel and look more elevated overall.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a freelance writer with nearly 15 years of experience writing about consumer products, including home decor like couches and slipcovers. To curate this list, Earley scoured the most popular retailers to find the best, most highly-rated options. Then, she vetted each, reading all of the specs and hundreds of reviews. To make her top picks, she consulted a realtor with experience in home-staging, and then used that guidance as she analyzed the durability, fit, ease of care, and overall value of each product.

Our Experts:

  • Carmelo Carrasco, an experienced realtor, property manager, and co-founder of Axel Property Management.
  • Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer who’s an expert on all things home conducted additional reporting for this article.

We Found the Best Slipcovers to Keep Your Couches Clean (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Neely Ledner

Last Updated:

Views: 6640

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Neely Ledner

Birthday: 1998-06-09

Address: 443 Barrows Terrace, New Jodyberg, CO 57462-5329

Phone: +2433516856029

Job: Central Legal Facilitator

Hobby: Backpacking, Jogging, Magic, Driving, Macrame, Embroidery, Foraging

Introduction: My name is Neely Ledner, I am a bright, determined, beautiful, adventurous, adventurous, spotless, calm person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.