Is there a more annoying feeling than when you approach your parked car only to see that it is covered in bird droppings?
Rain, snow, dust, debris, UV rays, and even wind are determined enemies of your car’s glossy shine and cleanliness. They can cause minor to severe damages, and make the maintenance difficult to a large extent.
What you need to protect your valuable car is a useful asset that protects it from harsh weather conditions and other influences – the best car cover.
There is a slew of options, and generally, it’s better to look for the best waterproof car cover, as you will be sure that it’s going to protect it from anything.
Read my article and vest up!
The 10 Best Waterproof Car Covers in 2020
1. Budge B-3 Lite Car Cover
There’s a good reason why the Budge B-3 Lite car cover is so popular and one of the best-selling waterproof car covers.
During my testing, it showed to be a completely weatherproof car cover. Its protective qualities reduce sun damage and prevent anything that you can encounter outdoors (dust, dirt, pollen, tree sap, etc.) and indoors (objects that may cause scrapes).
What accounts for this quality is the durable single polypropylene layer enhanced with double-stitched seams. In this way, it manages to stay reliable while not being too tough, as a single layer of this material is entirely breathable.
I consider breathability one of the crucial characteristics of a good water resistant car cover because it prevents mold and mildew accumulating underneath it.
Moreover, during the testing, this cover stayed in place even in the fiercest wind due to its elasticized hem and sewn-in grommets.
With as many as nine different sizes of this cover, it will 99% fit your car. Remember to check the compatibility of your vehicle and a particular cover if you’re shopping on Amazon, as there is a handy drop-down menu for that purpose!
If you need a waterproof car cover that will protect your car from intense UV rays, however, search elsewhere – this one only offers mild protection for that purpose.
Pros:
- Lightweight, yet durable
- An excellent defense against everything
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Grey color that doesn’t get dirty easy
- Completely elastic hem
- Built-in grommets to tie down the cover
Cons:
- Not the best for UV-ray-protection
I’m adamant that you will be pleased with the Budge B-3 Lite car cover as much as I was. I wholeheartedly recommend it!
2. Leader Accessories Mid Grade Car Cover
As an expert in car accessories and tools, I always have high expectations, and let’s just say that products by Leader Accessories often meet them. Their water repellent car cover was no different.
It outperformed many other car covers in both indoor and outdoor circumstances.
As for the former, I tested it against dust, dirt, heavy rain, and scorching sun, and I can confirm that it withstands everything. Not a single trace of these was found on the surface of the car. Indoors, it protects your vehicle from dust that may accumulate, as well as potential scratches.
It’s also 100% windproof with the straps and the buckle at the bottom, lined with an elastic hem. While these features are mainly for wind protection, they also scare away any thief!
Finally, I always like to see that manufacturers include extra accessories with a product. With this one, you get a drawstring-type storage bag so that you can easily transport and store this cover in your trunk.
My only negative remark is about the stitches – they feel a bit less durable than with other covers.
Pros:
- Blocks UV rays completely
- Easy to install
- There’s a lot of size options
- Great for outdoors
- Excellent value for the price
Cons:
- Stitches could have been better
What separates the Leader Accessories waterproof car tarp from the competition and makes it stand out is the carefully utilized three-layer construction for maximum protection.
3. Classic Accessories OverDrive PolyPro Car Cover
As we’re approaching the heavy-duty car cover category, Classic Accessories hit a home run with their OverDrive PolyPro heavy-duty waterproof car cover.
“PolyPro” stands for the charcoal triple-ply fabric that promises superb protection in theory, but naturally, I had to try it out and see whether that’s the case in practice, as well.
Indeed it is – this sturdy construction repels rain, snow, dirt, UV rays, and anything else that might get in its way during all seasons.
Although the fabric is quite thick, it won’t scratch the paint of your car, and it features a unique design so that it remains breathable.
There is an efficient mechanism for a secure fit that I liked very much. Namely, the bottom ham is elasticized so that you can quickly put the cover on, but the grommets and rope are tight so that it stays in place.
I always admire the manufacturers when they take the next step and up the ante on bonus features and accessories, which they certainly did with this model. There is zippered access to the driver’s door so that you do not have to remove the whole cover if you want to grab something from the car, and a handy storage bag is included in the purchase.
The only negative side I want to point out is that this cover isn’t very versatile. It is just for sedans and has only three available sizes.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty protection
- Durable
- Easy access to the driver’s car
- Three-year warranty
Cons:
- Limited size options
Is a heavy-duty sedan car cover what you need? Then definitely buy this one!
4. OxGord Signature Car Cover
Were you amazed by three-layer protection that my previous pick offers? Prepare yourself, as it’s going to get even better.
The 5-layer protection that the OxGord Signature car cover offers will not leave you indifferent. It features three layers of spun-bond polypropylene (100% waterproof), one layer of microporous film for UV & moisture resistance, and one layer of soft fleece for breathability. I also want to add that it is impossible to tear!
This combination of materials was easy to clean and maintain, which is another paramount factor for me. I don’t want the cleaning process to be slow and cumbersome as it can get sometimes.
Furthermore, when exposed to wind, this car cover did not move even a tiny bit thanks to its elastic hams and drawstrings combined with tie-down grommets and an antenna patch.
If anything goes wrong, you’re covered with a one-year warranty card.
As a consequence of this dense material, this cover requires more work than some others when it comes to installation. Once you set it up for the first time, though, it’ll quickly become a part of your routine.
Pros:
- Rip-resistant
- 1-year warranty
- Excellent fit
- Durable and sturdy
- Provides protection for all seasons
Cons:
- Complicated to install
In the category of cheap waterproof car covers, the OxGord cover usurps the throne with its remarkable heavy-duty construction and equally desirable features.
5. Kayme Car Covers
Back to the lightweight category, the Kayme car deserved a review on my top-top list with everything it has to offer.
When I say “lightweight,” it means that a cover has a single layer, but it is very important that the material is durable and efficient at protecting your car as if it was a thick multilayered one.
High-quality polyester fulfills all those criteria: it is durable, completely water-repellant, dustproof, and yet soft and breathable.
In addition to the premium material, the Kayme car cover sports a lot of extra features.
Namely, there is a zipper to access the driver’s door easily, straps for wind protection, and a fluorescent reflective stripe so that your car is safe during nighttime. It also has dedicated mirror pockets, which shows how much effort was put into the production of this cover.
However, I feel that I’m obliged to note one thing: if you live in an area with heavy winter conditions (frequent snow & ice), opt for another, thicker, car cover. In all other cases, this is a great pick.
Pros:
- Suitable for almost any sedan & hatchback model
- Has a reflective strip to warn other drivers that your car is parked
- Sturdy windproof buckles
- Elastic
- Separate mirror pockets
- Quick driver’s side access
Cons:
- Not the best for winter
All this being said, the Kayme car cover is a viable cover for your car, and it fits all of the standards of quality protection!
6. Autsop Waterproof Car Covers
I cannot claim with absolute certainty that a specific car cover is better than all the rest. But the Autsop waterproof car cover is really close.
If heavy-duty protection against all kinds of weather ranks high on your list of priorities, you’ll want to consider this 6-layer car cover.
Each layer has its purpose, and yet it perfectly complements the others to create a tough cover in such a manner that I was left without words.
It has a non-woven upper layer that sort of encapsulates all the layers, followed by two PE layers (completely waterproof), EVA layer in between (dustproof), an aluminum film (anti-UV and sunlight protection, and cotton for a soft finish and prevention of scratches.
Unbelievable as it sounds, this is not where the breathtaking features of the Autsop car cover end.
I keep an eye on details, and Autsop has them all: a reflective strip for the night, mirror pockets, zipper on the driver’s side, a windproof buckle, and a storage bag.
Yes, with its heavy-duty construction, it is on the heavier side, but that’s a small price to pay for such a premium waterproof car cover.
Pros:
- Tough & durable
- Soft finish
- Efficient at protecting your car from all weather conditions
- Reinforced seams
- Easy installation
Cons:
- A bit heavy
This heavy-duty waterproof car cover deserves to be laurelled for its fantastic design and features; buying it certainly won’t be a mistake!
7. Budge URB-2 Rain Barrier SUV Cover
We’ve come to a product that is worth buying if you’re looking for an excellent car cover for rain.
While this is not the most advantageous car cover out there, it is a simple-but-high-quality one.
It offers the basic features that you need: the three layers of spun-bond polypropylene that is entirely waterproof. Pair that with a soft, non-abrasive lining, and you get a bingo!
The material is breathable, as well, so you can rest assured that there will be no mold or mildew while your SUV is covered.
As its primary purpose is to protect the car against the rain, I subjected it to all kinds, from a light shower to pouring heavy rain. And I can confirm that your car will stay dry no matter what the conditions are!
With four available sizes, from 162 to 229 inches, I’m sure you’re going to find the one that is right for you.
The elastic hem that should hold your cover in place has no additional straps or strings. On a very windy day, a part of the cover was blown off the tire. Then I noticed that there were reinforced holes at the bottom of each side and that you can use them to secure the cover yourself. I did it with a wire, but you can use anything that you have.
Pros:
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Completely waterproof
- A lot of size options
Cons:
- You have to attach security ropes yourself
- No separate pocket mirrors
If a rainproof car cover is what you need, look no further than the Budge URB-2!
8. FH Group C501-XXXL Car Cover
The FH Group C501-XXXL car cover looks like most of the other best car covers. It was built of a high-quality material that protects your car from snow, pollen, rain, and dust.
I noticed that it also provides indoor protection with the soft finish it has so that your car remains scratch-free. The cover is tight with double-stitched edges and the elastic hem.
You can get it in sizes that range from 97 to 229 inches, so it will fit almost any car, from sedans to SUVs.
Did I mention that you get a compact storage bag with the purchase?
Although it doesn’t come with many other extras, I liked this waterproof car cover. Coming with a low price tag and offering reliable protection, it deserved to be mentioned today.
One of its weaknesses is that the UV rays somewhat degraded the material after some time. While it is completely waterproof, if you’re dealing with strong sunlight on a regular basis, I do not recommend this car cover.
Pros:
- Excellent protection against snow and rain
- Sturdy buckle straps attached to the hem
- No moisture & condensation
- You also get a free bag
- Versatile
Cons:
- Not the best for sun
This car cover by FH Group is all about snow and water protection, making it a great solution if you live in a humid area.
9. HAIL PROTECTOR CAR2 Size Portable Car Cover
The Hail Protector CAR2 car cover decidedly looks different than most of the other car covers on the market and packs several distinctive features.
The manufacturers have patented a whole new system of protection – the regular car cover that spawns a sort of an air-bag hail protector powered on a constant airflow once you activate it via remote control.
Once it is inflated, your car is surrounded by the virtually indestructible membrane.
While I’ve never encountered this system before, it was clear to me from the very first moment that it protects you from literally anything – UV rays, snow, heavy rain… It feels as if it would withstand even tornadoes.
Another revolutionary feature is that you can install an early-warning hail alert mobile app that notifies you about the weather in your area.
You get everything you need for this advantageous system to function: 3 power sources, aka an AA battery pack, a car accessory plug, and an AC adapter.
Even though it turned out to be straightforward, I must admit I had some trouble when I first tried to install this car cover. I am to blame, though, as I should have consulted a manual, considering that I’ve never used this system. Thankfully, there is their YouTube channel with everything you need to know!
Pros:
- Aerodynamic design
- Six different sizes
- UV-resistant
- Breathable
- Wireless control
- Comes with all the necessary accessories
Cons:
- Installation takes a bit longer than with other car covers
I cannot say more but sing praises to this patented system by Hail Protector! Everyone deserves such a high-end car cover.
10. Covermates Outdoor Truck Covers
Truck drivers, did you think I forgot about you? Of course not!
Covermates has produced the best waterproof car cover for trucks, and it comes in seven different sizes, so it fits pretty much all the models out there.
Besides versatility with regard to its size, I want to emphasize that this is also the most versatile cover when it comes to color options.
The material of construction, 300D polyester, seemed lightweight to me (and it isn’t heavy), but in reality, it is very sturdy and durable. It provides excellent protection against dirt, water, and fade.
And the 7-year manufacturer warranty is amongst the longest I’ve stumbled upon!
While it came with instructions and it’s fairly easy to set up once you locate the “front” label on the inside, it is a bit of a pain that you have to make a hole if you need to accommodate your radio antenna.
Pros:
- Durable
- Built-in tie-down loops for a secure fit
- Long warranty
- Versatile
- Sleek design
- Great for all weather conditions
Cons:
- You have to make a hole in the cover if your antenna isn’t retractable (though it is not complicated)
Obtain the Covermates cover if you own a truck, and you can rest assured that your truck won’t be damaged when you leave it parked outside.
Types of Waterproof Car Cover
And now that I have covered the top products competing for the title of the best waterproof car cover you can currently find in stores, let me quickly go through some important features that will help you find the ideal pick for your four-wheeler.
I will start with the type of the cover, since this makes one of the primary buying considerations.
All waterproof car covers that can be found on the market can be roughly divided into three main groups. Let me break them down for you:
- Universal covers – These waterproof car coves are designed not to fit specific models but whole ranges of vehicles like hatchbacks, trucks, etc. As a result they don’t offer some stellar protection from rainstorms and excessive humidity. But, they are very cheap and work quite well as a protection against dangerous UV rays.
- Semi-custom covers – This type of waterproof car covers probably offers the best value for the money out of the three. In direct comparison with universal covers they are a bit more reliable since they are designed to fit the general measurements of the most popular car models. So, for the added price you get a tighter fit and less room for water to crawl in.
- Custom covers – As the name suggests, these covers are made to fit specific car models. And as you can probably guess this novel approach to design means that the cover will perfectly cover all vehicle surfaces with little to no breathing room. Of course, this novelty also comes at a price so you will have to pay substantially more than you would with the previous two cover types. However, if you want to top-tier protection for your favorite four-wheeler this is probably the only reasonable option you get.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Car Cover
Ok, with that out of the way let me go through some other important consideration that will help you find the best waterproof car cover for your ride.
Water Resistance
This is, by far, the most important property of one waterproof car cover. But, how is this level of protection achieved?
Well, most of the quality waterproof car covers are made from various layers all of which provide some level of water isolation. The most important outer layer is usually made from synthetic microfiber which repels water with pretty strong efficiency. So, we can say this became the industry standard by now.
However, if you want to get the best possible resistance you should aim for the units with ultrasonic seam technology which holds the fabric together with double stitching and prevents water from slipping in.
Breathability
How is this topic relevant for the protection against water? After all, breathability implies that the material is soft and permeable. Isn’t the whole point of these things to keep the water out?
Well, yes but there are a couple of other things to consider here.
For a start, rainfalls and heavy storms are not the only way in which your car picks up humidity. Much like dew, moisture can collect under the cover even if the surface is not directly exposed to rain.
If that moisture is not allowed to pass through the cover it may cause corrosion, mildew and mold – all the things you were trying to avoid in the first place.
Therefore, you should try to get the cover with the added level of breathability. Usually, you can recognize one by the inscription on the package.
Even though they are not as water-roof as some all-synthetic products, these units allow water to evaporate very quickly so the small amount of moisture that passes through will create far less damage than keeping that water captured underneath.
Interior Materials
This is yet another example where hard materials can create more harm than good. As I mentioned above, synthetic microfiber is incredibly efficient when it comes to keeping water off the surface of your vehicle.
However, this material is far from paint-friendly. If you keep it rubbing against the paintwork over the extended periods of time (and heavy wind can cause a lot of rubbing) the hard surface can seriously compromise the upper layer of paint.
The solution for this problem can be found in the form of soft cotton interior that is perfectly safe to come in contact with the surface of your ride. So, if you can get one – get one.
Securing Mechanism
Last but not least, the efficiency of your future waterproof car cover will largely depend on how tightly the unit is attached to the vehicle. If the cover is too loose even the modest wind will create enough room for water to march in underneath.
When it comes to the current industry standards, a good car cover should be equipped with multiple durable cable locks and clips that keep the unit well-stretched tight and firmly in place.
FAQ
How to clean a waterproof car cover?
The process is quite simple, but it is crucial that you clean your car cover regularly so that it can protect your car efficiently.
Simply put – clean your car cover properly so that you don’t have to clean your car as often.
What you need is:
-
- A garden hose (if you don’t have one, you can use a bucket filled with water)
- Washing detergent
- Sponge
Simply spray your waterproof car cover using the hose, then apply detergent and scrub it with the sponge. Rinse with water after you’ve removed all the dirt and hang it until it dries completely.
If you own a waterproof car cover that is machine-washable, do not wash it on temperatures higher than 40C (F) or use a “delicate” cycle if available.
Conclusion – Does Simplicity Reign Supreme?
The best waterproof car cover can boost your car performance as it helps maintain it regularly, and it is the best protection against unprecedented accidents that may arise due to harsh weather.
Finding the best waterproof car cover for your car and your needs isn’t so simple. That’s why I decided to review those that proved to be the best after my extensive research and testing, with the hope that I will make the whole matter simpler to you.
Out of all waterproof car covers that I evaluated, the Autosop car cover is the best overall. It comes with a sleek design and even more impressive features.
I am Dave McCurdy I am the content developer on the ecodrivingusa.com website. I have 6 years of experience in marketing as an automotive major.