Pool Table Covers – Why You Need One & How to Choose the Best Cover

You need a pool table cover because it protects the cloth from dust, sunlight, spills and pets, helping you avoid expensive repairs like re-felting. Choose one that matches your table’s measured length, width and height: indoor covers can be lighter, while Outdoor Pool Tables need a heavy-duty waterproof cover with UV protection.

A pool table cover acts as a simple barrier. It helps protect the surface, preserve playability, and avoid expensive repairs like re-felting.

If you want your table to stay in top condition, a cover is one of the easiest upgrades you can make.

Pool Table Covers – Why Every Pool Table Needs a Cover

A pool table is a long-term investment. Without protection, wear builds up gradually, even if you don’t notice it straight away.

A good cover reduces that risk. It keeps your playing surface cleaner and helps maintain consistent performance over time.

Protecting Pool Table Cloth and Playing Surface

Preventing dust and debris buildup

Dust settles quickly on an uncovered table. Over time, it works into the cloth and affects how your balls roll.

A cover keeps that layer from forming in the first place.

Protecting billiard cloth from sunlight

Sunlight might seem harmless, but it slowly fades cloth colour and weakens the fibres.

This can change both the look and the way your table plays.

Reducing wear on the table surface

Even light exposure to air and movement causes gradual wear.

A cover helps limit this, keeping the surface smoother for longer.

Protecting Pool Tables From Damage

Preventing accidental spills and scratches

It only takes one drink spill or dropped object to damage your cloth.

A cover adds a layer of protection against everyday accidents.

Protecting tables in family homes

If your home is busy, your table is exposed to more activity.

A cover helps reduce the chances of accidental knocks or damage.

Keeping pets and children off the table

Pets and children are naturally curious.

A cover discourages contact and helps prevent unnecessary wear.

Indoor vs Outdoor Pool Table Protection

Covers for indoor pool tables

Indoor covers mainly protect against dust and minor spills.

They are usually lighter and easier for you to remove for regular play.

Outdoor pool table covers

Outdoor tables need stronger protection.

Rain, wind, and sun all require more durable materials. For more on choosing one, see the outdoor pool table buying guide.

Waterproof protection for garden tables

If your table is outside, a waterproof cover is essential.

It prevents moisture from seeping into the cloth and frame.

Pool Table Cover Sizes and Types

Getting the right size and type makes a noticeable difference. A poorly fitted cover won’t fully protect your table.

Pool Table Cover Sizes

6ft pool table covers

These are designed for smaller home tables.

They’re ideal if you have a compact space or casual setup.

7ft pool table covers

A common size across UK homes and pubs.

A snug fit gives you better protection.

8ft and 9ft pool table covers

Larger tables need wider coverage.

These sizes are typical for American pool or tournament-style setups.

Types of Pool Table Covers

Fitted pool table covers

Fitted covers wrap closely around your table.

They stay in place and offer a cleaner overall look.

Drop covers and dust covers

These simply sit over the surface.

They’re easy for you to use, though slightly less secure.

Elasticated and drawstring covers

Elastic or drawstring edges help hold the cover in place.

This is especially useful in busy rooms or outdoor areas.

Hard-top covers

A hard-top cover is a rigid, sectioned board that sits on the rails, protects the cloth from knocks and spills, and turns the table into a flat surface for dining or serving. US maker Heartland Table Pads explains on its hard-top billiard table cover page that its tops are made from a 7/8-inch core board in hinged sections that fold flat for storage. To order one, it asks for the table's overall length and width, the corner shape, the height from the playing surface to the top of the rail, and whether the pockets sit higher than the rails, so measure all four before you buy.

Materials Used in Pool Table Covers

Vinyl pool table covers

Vinyl is a practical and affordable option.

It offers good resistance to water and everyday wear.

Leatherette billiard table covers

Leatherette gives you a more premium appearance.

It combines durability with a softer, more refined finish.

Heavy-duty waterproof covers

These are built for outdoor use.

They provide strong protection against rain and changing weather.

How to Choose the Best Pool Table Cover

The right cover depends on how you use your table and where it’s located. A balance of fit, durability, and ease of use is key.

Choosing the Right Cover for Your Table

Measuring your pool table correctly

Take accurate measurements of your table’s length, width, and height.

This ensures your cover fits properly.

Matching cover size to table dimensions

A well-fitted cover prevents gaps and slipping.

It also improves overall protection.

Covers for dining pool tables

Dining tables often need slightly different fits.

Make sure your cover matches the table design.

Durability and Protection Features

Waterproof and UV protection

These features help protect against moisture and sunlight.

They play a big role in preserving your cloth quality.

Tear-resistant cover materials

Stronger materials last longer with regular use.

They handle movement and handling better over time.

Indoor vs outdoor durability

Indoor covers focus on convenience and light protection.

Outdoor covers are built for tougher conditions.

What Are the Downsides of a Pool Table Cover?

A cover is a barrier, not climate control. It keeps dust, spills and sunlight off your cloth, but it cannot stop damp in a cold garage or outbuilding. One owner on the AzBilliards forums describes heating their shop for at least an hour before uncovering the table in the rainy season, because taking the cover off too soon left the cloth damp as moisture settled on the cold slate. If your games room is unheated, you will still need heating or a dehumidifier.

Outdoors, a cover helps but is not the whole answer. Brunswick's outdoor table guidance recommends a UV-resistant cover whenever the table is not in use, yet still advises placing the table in a protected, covered area out of direct rain and sun. The guide to keeping a pool table outside under a cover goes into more detail.

Covers also add a small chore to every game: taking it off, folding it and putting it back.

And you may not need a premium cover at all. If your table sits in a clean, heated room away from windows, pets and young children, a basic lightweight dust cover does the job, and a heavy-duty or leatherette cover adds cost without adding much protection. Save the tougher options for outdoor tables, sunny rooms and busy family homes.

When a Pool Table Cover Is Worth Buying

Homes with regular table use

If you play frequently, the risk of wear and damage increases.

A cover helps keep your surface in good condition.

Protecting expensive slate pool tables

Higher-end tables benefit most from consistent protection.

It helps you avoid costly repairs later on.

Long-term table maintenance benefits

Using a cover regularly helps maintain performance.

It’s a simple habit that protects your table for years.