Everything you need to know about couch covers and how to pick the right ones

What are couch covers?

Couch covers are protective, removable fabric coverings designed to fit over sofas, helping to refresh their look while shielding them from stains, spills, and everyday wear.

The birth of couch covers? Now that’s a tale to unfold.

While some might think they started with the gaudy and loudly patterned slipcovers of the 80s or the plastic protectors of the 40s, this invention dates back a little further.

In mediaeval times, a simple cloth was often thrown over furniture and possessions to protect it from dust and insects.

For fashion editor Laura Reilly, throwing a sheet over your sofa has some aesthetic appeal today. 

“I’d always loved the look of furniture draped in big white reams of fabric, like in that scene in Jumanji where they revisit the abandoned manor,” Reilly says.  

“I tried to achieve that mysterious, romantic look with linen and cotton top sheets, but both were too thin and ended up looking like a dorm room sleepover.”

While Reilly recommends something with a heavier drape to achieve this feel, it’s not a look for everyone. 

They chose a simple cloth for its practicality, but as people started focusing more on design, it simply wouldn’t suffice.

In the 17th century upholstered armchairs, referred to as sleeping chairs, burst onto the scene. This was quickly followed by sofas with backs and arms. 

Comfort was prioritised, but so was style. 

People used rich velvets and silks with decorative needlework to upholster these vessels of comfort.

While the fabrics were beautiful, they weren’t very durable or easy to clean. 

Residents began throwing antimacassar, a stiff white crochet-work, over the back of headrests or arm cushions to protect them.

With time antimacassar came in different colours and softer materials, however, they did not stay in vogue for long. 

These old fashioned pieces were traded up with couch covers, also known as sofa covers, settee covers or slipcovers. 

The evolution of couch covers: Embodying practicality and style

Back in the day, couch covers acted like the summer wardrobe for the furniture of the wealthy. 

More decorative and fitted settee covers became popular, turning functional furniture protection into a fashion trend. 

They were designed to protect beloved sofas from summer sweats or dust, especially as grand parlours were not always in use. 

These slipcovers were not just about practicality and protection. 

In the 17th century those of noble birth had covers made of lightweight canvas or white muslin, as a status symbol of their wealth. 

Specially tailored furnishings were also at the height of fashion in the 18th century.

The wealthy adorned their sofas with elaborate linen, cotton or a blend of the two, accented with buttons, ruffles and bows. 

These stylish couch covers were essential for those who loved hosting, making their fancy breakfasts and dinners all the more special. 

Luxury slipcovers were the stars of interior design and during the Victorian era they got more elaborate. 

It was only in the 1940s when plastic couch covers became popular, a trend that didn’t disappear as quickly as one would have hoped. 

These transparent protectors had one main advantage: they allowed you to see the loud floral and chintz patterned sofas in all their glory.

People considered this vintage chic aesthetic a symbol of affordable elegance, which made it a crucial benefit.

Its purpose was to keep sticky fingers and clumsy spills at bay. 

Some think that the squeaky discomfort of sitting on a plastic cover might outweigh the benefit, and we’re inclined to agree.

Couch covers of the 21st century

No longer just for grandma’s living room, modern slipcovers come in a variety of fabrics and styles. 

At this point, you might be wondering: why not just reupholster my couch instead of using a slipcover? 

While reupholstering can give your sofa a brand-new look, it’s often expensive and permanent. 

It makes more sense to upholster if the padding needs replacing or you have misshapen cushions.

Slipcovers, on the other hand, are a flexible and budget-friendly option if your sofa is still in shape. 

They allow you to change your mind (and the sofa’s style) whenever you want — without committing to a single look forever.

You can continue to make use of your sofa (which you may have invested a lot in), while giving your space a fresh new look. It’s certainly a more sustainable option. 

There are also the practical benefits. For instance, some sofa slipcovers come with handy features and technologies that ensure scratch or stain resistance fabrics. 

And let’s not forget the durability factor. Advances in fabric technology lead to scratch-resistant and UV-protected materials, ensuring that modern slipcovers are designed to last. 

That’s a win for you, your home, and the environment.

With options ranging from high-traffic, durable materials to pet-friendly, stain-resistant fabrics, Comfort Works offers slipcovers that have all the bells and whistles to make your life easier (and your home prettier). 

Before you purchase a slipcover, it is important to consider your lifestyle and needs. 

Have you got kids? Perhaps something that can withstand stains and spills would be ideal. 

Just got a new puppy? Then scratch resistance and spill resistance are a priority.

Do you entertain often? A durable couch cover that can withstand high traffic is the goal. 

Do you want something neutral that blends into your decor, or are you looking for a statement piece? 

With customisable options, you can choose fabrics that suit your taste — whether that’s a classic solid, textured weave, or something more vibrant.

Choosing the right couch cover can be a tricky affair, but we’ve got a list of slipcovers that combine practicality and style.

10 of the best couch covers according to your lifestyle

For families

Everyday Cotton

With OEKO-TEX certification and Better Cotton standards, Everyday Cotton is both family-friendly and eco-conscious. 

Its machine washable nature makes it ideal for frequent cleaning, so you can handle sticky fingers and spills with ease.

Everyday Weave

With EzCare technology this couch cover is easy to clean, so it can stand up to active kids. 

Everyday Weave is designed to handle everyday wear and tear, keeping your living room looking fresh and vibrant no matter what life throws at it.

For pawrents

Signature Velvet

Made with pet-friendly PawSafe technology, Signature Velvet resists scratches from those zoomies while staying soft to the touch. 

It’s also stain-resistant and easy to clean, perfect for dealing with fur, muddy paws, and the occasional mess.

Care+ Canvas

This settee covers fabric combines style with durability, using PawSafe to offer protection against pet scratches. 

Care+ Canvas has a tough, easy-to-clean surface that makes it the ideal choice, so your fur babies can snuggle up without leaving a mark.

For party people

Mod Chenille

Mod Chenille is perfect for homes that love to entertain. 

Its DuraStitch technology ensures the seams are strong enough to withstand heavy use, while EzGuard makes it spill-resistant, keeping your couch protected from party mishaps. Celebrate freely knowing your couch is safe from spills and stains!

For the carefree

Mod Basketweave

For those who want a no-fuss, stylish solution, Mod Basketweave’s EzGuard technology provides superior protection from stains and spills, making it perfect for carefree living. 

Its low-maintenance nature lets you enjoy life without worrying about messes.

Signature Microfibre

With this sofa cover, you will enjoy anti-fade and wrinkle-free convenience, with the added benefit of PawSafe technology for pet owners who want the ultimate carefree couch cover. 

Signature Microfibre’s durability means you can be as carefree as your sofa looks.

For the outdoorsy

Sunbrella

Designed for outdoor use, Sunbrella is equipped with WeatherLock technology, providing UV and mildew resistance. 

Whether the sun hits your sofa or the rain pours down, this fabric lasts and keeps your outdoor furniture looking great.

Care+ Tweed

This couch cover is perfect for adventurers who need a cover that can withstand the elements. 

With WeatherLock technology, Care+ Tweed is water-resistant and mildew-proof, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor spaces where nature and style meet.

For fashionistas

Mod Boucle 

Those who are style conscious adore that Mod Boucle combines luxury with practicality. 

Its ColourLock technology keeps its vibrant colours intact, ensuring your couch looks runway-ready, even after extended use. 

The rich texture and bold hues make it a chic addition to any stylish home.