Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Don’t trust a tarp or blanket to shield your expensive generator from the elements—opt for one of these protective accessories instead.

Whether you’ve purchased a portable generator for disaster preparation, are working on a job site without a power hookup, camping, or RV-ing, having your generator work properly at all times is non-negotiable.

A generator cover will protect your machine from dust or moisture that can effect its operation, and will ensure that you won’t encounter any surprises when you try to start it up. While full-cover generator covers are meant to simply cover your generator during storage, some are even designed to stay in place while the machine is being used. Regardless of the cover you choose, make sure you never operate your generator indoors, lest you risk carbon monoxide poisoning, and always follow your machine’s user manual.

If you plan on keeping the cover on while running the generator, make sure to choose one that is specifically designed for that purpose. A full-cover option won’t allow for the airflow the engine needs to run, and with nowhere for the exhaust to go, will overheat or set off CO detectors. “Running” covers are designed with enough ventilation for the engine to work properly, and also allow you to access the controls without having to remove the cover. A running cover could really come in handy during weather-related power outages, since you won’t need to wait for the rain to stop before turning it on.

You should also make sure the cover you choose will fit your existing generator. This should be fairly simple, since most generator covers will clearly state the sizes of machines that they’re compatible with. If you’re not sure, feel free to reach out to the company first with the brand and model number of your generator. This step may take a few minutes, but could help avoid a much bigger headache down the line.

To ensure that we included the most popular and well-reviewed products on our list, we compared the results of multiple online review and testing sites, and used actual customer reviews to disregard any options that had common red flags or quality control issues. We also included a good mix of both full-cover and running covers, as well as those with all-weather tent-style designs for use in rain, snow, and windy conditions. Plus, since many inverter generators are becoming more popular, we included a few options for them as well.

If you're thinking of buying a new generator or upgrading your old model, check out our picks for the best home generators and the best standby generators.

If you’re looking for a cover that can be used while your generator is running, this IGAN model could be the perfect choice. Its roll-up sides allow you to operate the controls easily, and a stainless steel frame provides the structure it needs to be used effectively.

Plus, what separates this Pro-Max model from other IGAN covers is the fact that it includes a set of tie-down ropes and stakes, making it a great choice for use in windy conditions.

This model also comes with a 3-year limited warranty, so you should be covered if any quality control issues arise.

This low-cost cover would be a great option for those who already own a WEN brand inverter generator and want to ensure that it’s protected from the elements. This vinyl cover also features a soft cotton interior that won’t scratch or scuff any delicate components or controls.

Even though it’s specifically designed for WEN products, this cover should still work well with most inverter generators between 3,000 and 4,500 watts, and uses a helpful drawstring and elastic base to ensure a nice tight fit.

This universal WEN cover can fit extra-large generators over 9000 watts, and for less than $20, you probably won’t find a name brand model that’s much cheaper. Just like all WEN covers, this one features an integrated elastic band and drawstring to create the tight fit needed for keeping out dust and moisture.

The cotton interior is soft enough to prevent cosmetic scuffs on your generator, and since it's also UV-resistant, you won’t have to worry about sun damage if it's kept in sunlight.

No need to stop work if it begins to rain or snow—simply pop this tent-style cover on your generator and you can finish the job without worrying about damaging your machine. Despite the somewhat complex appearance, this cover is actually easier to set up than you might think, and uses fiberglass tension rods—like a tent—to keep everything in place.

These heavy-duty rods are also strong enough to withstand wind speeds up to 70 MPH, and snow loads up to 18 inches. A convenient refueling door also allows you to top it off without having to remove the cover.

This running cover may cost significantly more than the other options on our list, but its heavy-duty construction and versatile design could be worth it to the right customer. It’s also compatible with a range of brands, and thanks to four frame adapters, it’s even more likely that it will fit your specific shape and type of generator. The clear skirt allows you to easily keep an eye on the controls, and the cover itself is classified as flame-retardant.

Perfect for inverter generators being used in the elements, this GenTent cover will keep your machine running effectively and safe from snow and rain. The steep dome design ensures that water flows right off and doesn’t pool up, and the rip-proof vinyl material should be durable enough for heavy-duty use.

The visual instructions clearly walk you through the setup process, too—just strap the case to your generator, frame it with the fiberglass rods, and cover it with the canopy. Not only is this cover rated to withstand up to 18 inches of snow and 70 MPH winds, it’s also flame-retardant!

Constructed of heavy-duty polyester with a water-resistant coating, this cover uses seam-sealing tape to ensure maximum protection from rain and snow, as well as other debris like bird droppings and tree sap.

Large, flip-up panels allow for easy access to the controls, and a large storage pocket is the perfect spot to store your generator accessories like an oil funnel, dipstick, or power cord. It’s designed with windproofing in mind as well, with hook-and-loop straps to attach it securely to the frame of your machine.

This heavy-duty cover combines maximum durability with a multifunctional design. The water-repellent fabric is also thick enough to prevent rips, tears, and snags during use, and the elastic hem cord ensures a tight, secure fit all the way around.

Convenient openings also allow the handles to remain uncovered, making it easy to transport the machine around without fully removing the cover. We’re fans of the reflective piping around the air vents, which makes it easy to locate your generator in low-light conditions or during nighttime use.