Related Articles
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
Your piano sure looks nice in your living room, but if you actually intend to play the thing, you’re likely aware that dust, moisture, sunlight, curious cats, and rowdy children can all cause lasting damage to your instrument. A good piano cover will protect the piano from the elements (both natural and domestic), but without spoiling the whole aesthetic of the room.
An old blanket thrown over the instrument would perform the basic protective function of a piano cover, but since this is a permanent feature of your home and not an estate sale, you’ll want something specifically designed for a piano’s shape and size, which can be easily removed or pushed aside when you want to play. Most are made of a velvety material, and may include additional protective layers for concerns like waterproofing. As for style, decorative flounces run the gamut from simple and unfussy to grand and glamorous.
What to Consider When Buying a Piano Cover
There are just a few things to think about before buying a cover for your piano, including the quality of the material and what it’s going to look like in your house.
Material: Thick velvet is ideal, but other fabrics, commonly pleuche, have the same plush texture and rich appearance. We appreciate additional protective layers that have some degree of waterproofing, but it is most important that the cover be soft enough not to damage the piano’s surface.
Size and Shape: Because pianos differ widely in size and shape depending on type, it is a good idea to double check first the size of the piano cover, and what kind of piano it is designed for. Whether for a grand piano or an upright, the cover should be large enough to neatly fit the entire instrument. Some include additional covers for keys or benches, and upright piano covers can often be easily pushed aside so you can play without having to remove it. We found a dust cover for a piano keyboard too.
Appearance: In general, we think an understated style is best, as this suits the widest variety of interior decors and is unlikely to veer dangerously into tacky territory. Commonly, piano covers will include some decorative pleats or ruffles along the edges, and may come in a variety of colors too.
