The Best Armchair Slipcovers

Buying Guide for Armchair Slipcovers

Why buy an armchair slipcover?

An armchair slipcover is a fitted, removable fabric cover that envelopes and is secured around an entire armchair. An armchair slipcover is intended to stay on the armchair whether it’s being sat on or not, and it molds to the shape of the armchair for a more secure fit, so it resembles actual upholstery. While these armchair slipcovers shield your furniture from daily wear and tear and spills, they’re as much a stylistic investment as functional. They allow you to change the color and pattern of your armchair or hide any stains and cosmetic rips without needing to buy a new one or re-upholster it. Thus a slipcover is a much less time-consuming and more affordable way to upgrade your armchair.

What should you look for in an armchair slipcover?

• Materials: Because it will most likely become a part of your regular furniture collection, you should invest in a slipcover that you’ll want to sit on. Look for a slipcover made of high-quality, stretchy fabrics, such as a comfortable spandex and polyester blend. These materials will also work well to protect your furniture from spills, stains, and scratches. They tend to be machine washable for easier and more convenient cleaning.
• Fit: The slipcover should fit snugly over your furniture to be undetectable from the actual armchair upholstery. Look for a slipcover that features elastic-lined edges that conform to the shape of your chair, as this will give the slipcover the best fit and help prevent it from coming undone. If you have a one-piece slipcover, make sure that it comes with nonslip foam inserts to fill the gaps between the slipcover and the armchair.
• Color: The sky’s the limit for the color and pattern selection of armchair slipcovers. There are solid colors in almost every shade imaginable; dark, light, jewel tone, earthy hues, pastels, neutrals, etc. If you prefer something more colorful, there are bicolored and multicolored options a-plenty and patterns like stripes, florals, geometric shapes, paisleys, vines, leaves, and more.

How much should you expect to pay for armchair slipcovers?

The price varies depending on the quality and type of material, the size of the armchair, and if it has any detailing (skirts, welting, fringes, buttons, etc.). On average, however, you should be able to find a good armchair slipcover in the $30 to $100 range. Remember that a slipcover won’t make an old armchair any less saggy or lumpy or re-plump cushions; they’re great for covering up cosmetic issues or changing your chair’s look, but they won’t fix any structural damage.

Our Picks for the Best Armchair Slipcovers

Pros: This slipcover is crafted from durable, high-stretch jacquard fabric to protect your armchair from spills, stains, and damage. It’s incredibly easy to install; all you have to do is drape, align, pull down, and smooth out the fabric. Thick elastic loops attach to the bottom of your chair, while the nonslip foam anchors allow you to adjust the slipcover to fit its exact shape once it’s attached. It’s available in two sizes to better fit your armchair’s size. There are an impressive 36 colors to choose from, and the entire cover is machine washable for your convenience.

Cons: Keep in mind that this armchair slipcover isn’t waterproof, so it doesn’t offer the greatest spill protection against various liquids. It also can’t be ironed.

Bottom Line: If you’ve been looking for the best all-in-one protection for your armchair, this one-piece slipcover may be the right choice. With its rugged, stretchy yet colorful fabric, this slipcover can give new life to your furniture.

 

Pros: If you want a slipcover on the striking and attention-grabbing side, this is the model for you. It’s available in seven color options, including four unique, bold patterns. This slipcover is crafted from a plush, velvet-like fabric that is super soft and stretchy. This thick, durable texture is designed to last for years yet will look and feel luxurious and cozy. The elastic, slip-resistant bottom makes it easy to put on and take off when it is time to wash and dry it in the washing machine and dryer or iron out any wrinkles.

Cons: This slipcover only comes in one size.

Bottom Line: Slipcovers are a great way to refresh your decor without buying entirely new pieces of furniture. This slipcover comes in various unique designs that allow you to easily change up your armchair’s appearance into a more bold, eye-catching piece.

 

Pros: If you own a club chair that needs a little pick-me-up, this slipcover is just the ticket. Made out of polyester and spandex, it’s resistant to wrinkles and machine washable for convenient and easy cleaning. This slipcover is quite durable and incredibly easy to care for. The elastic bottom makes it easy to attach and remove, while the included foam stickers help to keep it from sliding around when you or your family or roommates sit on it. Best of all, it’s available in a whopping 43 different colors and patterns, so there’s a style that suits your living space.

Cons: As nice and durable and easy to care for as the polyester and spandex-blend fabric of the slipcover is, it’s a bit on the thin side.

Bottom Line: Most armchair slipcovers are designed for standard, square-shaped armchairs.  Fortunately, this particular slipcover was intended to fit club chairs and their more unique shape.

 

Pros: This isn’t your basic armchair slipcover, as you and your guests will be able to tell at a glance. The raised, textured, woven fabric is crafted from plush velvet-like fabric that is irresistibly soft and cozy to curl up with. The included skirt around the hemline (which also helps prevent dust from gathering underneath) brings an extra chicness to your old armchair. But don’t let its more elegant look fool you—this slipcover works to shield your furniture from stains, spills, and everyday wear and tear and is machine washable. Instead of using sewn-on straps, the slipcover features an anti-slip, elasticized bottom that conforms to fit your chair perfectly. It’s available in three sizes to fit a wider array of armchairs.

Cons: While this is hardly an outrageously priced item, it’s worth noting that this product is a bit more expensive than many other armchair slipcovers.

Bottom Line: If you have an eye for design, this standout slipcover may be the right choice. It combines elegance, comfort, and protection in one piece of fabric, ensuring that the slipcover will protect your chair and look good while doing it.

 

Pros: Since this was made with wingback chairs in mind, this slipcover is a set of two pieces: a larger slipcover to protect the chair’s taller back and sides and a smaller slipcover meant to fit the individual seat cushion. It is made of a high-quality textured, jacquard fabric that is super soft and ultra-comfortable. It’s also resistant to wrinkles and is machine washable on a cold, gentle cycle for added convenience (though it shouldn’t be bleached). The straps that fit each chair leg are nonslip and velcro together, so you can slightly adjust how loose or taut you want them to fit your chair.

Cons: It’s restricted only to wingback chairs, it should fit other taller-backed armchairs just fine, but it’s not suited for any other type.

Bottom Line: Does your old wingback chair need a makeover? This slipcover will add a modern touch to your furniture. It can be tricky to find a slipcover that properly fits this chair style since they tend to be made with standard, boxier armchairs in mind. This slipcover has you and your wingback chair covered.

Final Thoughts

Armchair slipcovers are one of those household items that are an excellent blend of aesthetically pleasing and practical. They’re a quick, simple, and affordable way to change up your armchair’s look while also protecting it from daily wear and tear and thus extending its service life.