Not all chair covers fit the same way. Some are made for banquet chairs, others for folding chairs, and a few are designed to fit several chair styles. You'll also come across spandex, polyester, and satin covers, which can look quite different once they're on the chairs.
If you want a snug fit without loose fabric, stretch covers are worth looking at. Traditional polyester covers tend to hang more loosely, while Chiavari chairs need covers made for their distinctive frames. Below, we'll go through the different types, what they look like, and which chairs they're best suited for.
What Are the Different Types of Chair Covers?
Chair covers are generally classified by the chair they're designed to fit or the fabric they're made from. These six popular options cover most wedding receptions, banquets, parties, and other special events.
1. Banquet Chair Covers
Banquet chair covers are made for the padded chairs commonly used in hotels and event halls. They fit over the original upholstery, whether the chair has a round or square back, so you don't end up with a mix of different chair colors at your reception.
Polyester covers usually hang a little looser, while fitted styles sit closer to the chair. Either can work for weddings, banquets, or formal dinners. Just check the backrest shape and chair measurements before ordering.
You can find different colors and fabrics in the banquet chair covers collection.
2. Folding Chair Covers
Folding chair covers are made for the narrower backs and seats of folding chairs. They're especially useful for dressing up basic metal or plastic seating at outdoor weddings, ceremonies, and large gatherings.
You can choose a smooth polyester slipcover for a traditional appearance or a stretch version for a more fitted look. Just check the chair's measurements, since not all folding chairs have the same dimensions.
Explore folding chair covers to find options suited to your event seating.
3. Spandex Chair Covers
Spandex chair covers stretch over the seat and backrest, with pockets at the bottom that hook around the chair legs to hold everything in place. Unlike loose slipcovers, they don't leave extra fabric hanging down or bunching around the seat.
They're handy when you're covering dozens of chairs for a wedding, company event, or banquet. The stretchy material generally doesn't need much ironing, which can save time during setup. Just make sure you're buying the right version. Spandex covers for banquet chairs aren't necessarily going to fit folding chairs.
You'll find fitted styles for different seating types in the chair covers collection.
4. Universal Chair Covers
Universal chair covers give you a little more flexibility when the chairs aren't all exactly alike. Instead of fitting tightly around one particular shape, many have extra fabric that you can adjust or tie at the back.
They're useful for venues with a mix of compatible chair styles, especially if you like the look of fabric draped around the backrest. You can leave the ties simple or make them into bows for a wedding reception.
The name can be misleading, though. A universal cover won't necessarily stretch over a wide chair back or fit properly around armrests. Check the dimensions before ordering, particularly if your chairs are larger than standard banquet seating.
Take a look at the universal chair covers collection to compare styles and sizes.
5. Chiavari Chair Covers
Chiavari chairs already have decorative, open backs, so covering the whole chair can take away from their design. For weddings and formal dinners, you might only want to add fabric to the backrest or put a cushion on the seat.
A slipcover can soften the look of the chair without hiding its frame, while a cushion makes it more comfortable for guests sitting through a long reception. Both are worth considering for garden weddings and indoor celebrations.
Browse Chiavari chair cushions and slipcovers for options made specifically for this chair style.
Polyester chair covers are worth considering if you need something you can wash and use again for future events. Traditional woven polyester doesn't stretch around the chair like spandex does. It hangs more loosely, covering the seat, backrest, and legs for a fuller look.
You'll often see these covers at weddings and banquet halls where dozens of chairs need to match. They're generally durable, easy to wash, and available in different sizes and styles. If the plain fabric looks a little too simple, try adding chair sashes in a matching shade or a contrasting color.
Chair Cover Types at a Glance
Not sure which option suits your event? This quick comparison highlights the main differences.
| Chair Cover Type | Best Suited For | Typical Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Banquet | Padded banquet chairs | Formal, uniform |
| Folding | Metal or plastic folding chairs | Neat, tailored |
| Spandex | Compatible banquet or folding chairs | Sleek, fitted |
| Universal | Multiple compatible chair shapes | Loose, draped |
| Chiavari | Chiavari chairs | Decorative, partially covered |
| Polyester | Compatible banquet or folding chairs | Classic, flowing |
Keep in mind that spandex and polyester describe materials, not chair shapes. For example, you can purchase either a polyester banquet cover or a spandex banquet cover, provided the design fits your chairs.
How to Choose the Right Chair Cover for Your Event
Before picking a chair cover, get the measurements of the chairs you'll be using. Check the height and width of the backrest, the seat size, and the chair's overall height. Don't assume that every cover marked "banquet chair" or "folding chair" will fit. The dimensions can vary between products.
Once you've found covers that fit, think about how you'd like the chairs to look. Spandex gives you a snug, smooth finish without fabric hanging around the legs. Polyester and universal covers tend to look softer and more relaxed, while satin adds a bit of shine.
For company events, plain fitted covers may be all you need. Wedding chairs can take a little more decoration, such as satin chair sashes tied around the backrests.
If you're unsure which style or size to buy, our guide on how to choose a chair cover walks through what to check before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common type of chair cover?
Banquet and folding chair covers are widely used for events because these chair styles are common in reception venues and ceremony setups. Both are available in different materials, including polyester and spandex.
What's the difference between spandex and polyester chair covers?
Spandex stretches around the chair for a snug, fitted appearance. Traditional woven polyester covers have less stretch and usually provide a looser, draped finish. Both can be reusable, depending on their construction and care instructions.
Do universal chair covers fit every chair?
No. Universal chair covers accommodate a range of chair shapes, but they still have size and design limitations. Always compare the product measurements with your chairs before ordering.
Which chair covers are best for weddings?
It depends on the seating and wedding style. Fitted spandex covers suit modern receptions, polyester covers offer a traditional look, and Chiavari slipcovers can add decoration without concealing the chair's distinctive frame.
