As a retailer that has helped thousands of customers order properly fitted grand piano covers, we consistently see the same sizing and material-selection mistakes. This guide outlines the most common issues we run into and how to avoid them, so you can choose a cover that fits correctly and protects your piano long-term.
This article supports our Grand Piano Covers Collection, which serves as the main hub for brand-specific covers (Steinway, Yamaha, Kawai, Baldwin, and more).
Mistake #1: Not Knowing the Exact Model or Size of the Piano
The key to a proper fitting piano cover is to know the make, model and exact length of your grand piano. With the model, you can look up the length of your grand piano. If that is not available, or if your piano model has come in multiple sizes over the years (like the Steinway model A), then you need to measure the overall length of your piano. The most common mistake we see is customers only measuring the lid of the piano, and not including the piano keys. When measuring, you want the longest possible measurement, starting from the front of the piano keyboard to the tail end of the piano. The piano keyboard is approximately 6", so skipping this measurement creates a cover that will be much too small to fit the piano.
A precise measurement ensures the cover sits smoothly without pulling or excess fabric.
Pro Tip: The most common measurement mistake we see is customers measuring the lid instead of the keyboard edge. Always measure from the very front of the keys to the farthest point of the tail.
Mistake #2: Choosing a Material That Doesn’t Match How a Grand Piano Is Used
If you're getting a protective cover because your piano setting has specific needs, it's important to line it up with the proper material. For example, if you are an institution with a piano in a high-traffic area, or your piano is going to be in storage, you will want to select the material with the most padding (heavy-duty quilted black mackintosh). If you want a cover to protect your piano from direct sunlight and heat from an exposed window, choose the material that breathes the most (premium quilt).
How to choose correctly for a grand piano specifically:
- Homes: Choose a cover with moderate padding that protects the rim and lid without feeling heavy.
- Schools & rehearsal spaces: Select a heavier, more durable quilt that withstands frequent movement and contact.
- Performance halls: Use a protective cover that tolerates constant stage setup and lighting equipment movement.
For an in-depth explanation of the different material options and their best-case use scenarios, please visit our Piano Cover Materials Guide
Mistake #3: Guessing Measurements Instead of Using a Tape Measure
Grand pianos have significant size variation—even within the same brand. Relying on memory, visual estimation, or what the person who sold you the piano size was, can result in selecting the wrong cover size.
To avoid this mistake:
- Use a standard tape measure
- Measure from keyboard front → tail tip
- Double-check the length before ordering
- Reference our “How to Measure Your Piano” guide.
Exact measurements ensure the cover hangs evenly and covers the rim completely.
Pro Tip: Even being off by just a few inches can cause the cover to sit unevenly and look baggy on small to mid-size grands. Measure twice—this prevents nearly all fit issues we see.
Mistake #4: Buying on Price Alone Instead of Fit and Protection Needs
Lower-priced covers—especially imported ones—use thinner layers that provide minimal rim and lid protection. Their often generic fits, and have issues with inner-linings shedding. Not only do the imported covers break down faster, they also look cheap. As pianos are often a prized instrument that are the focal point of your home, it's worth investing in a quality cover that will not only properly protect the instrument, it will also be an attractive accessory in the home.
Good covers last for years, maintain better drape, and protect high-value instruments more effectively. With piano covers, you really do get what you pay for.
Mistake #5: Not Considering How Often You Play the Piano
If you will be playing the piano regularly, we recommend getting the side slit option. This allows you to flip the front of the piano cover over and play it, without having to take the entire piano cover off. It's a convenient time saver, and something we recommend for most orders.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right grand piano cover is simpler when you avoid the most common sizing and material mistakes. Whether your piano is in a home, school, church, or performance space, the right fit and fabric will protect the instrument for years.
If you’d like help confirming your piano’s size or selecting the ideal material, we assist customers with this every day. You can explore our Grand Piano Covers Collection or contact us anytime for personalized recommendations.
