The best way to cover a fireplace opening is to choose a fitted cover that suits the fireplace frame, opening dimensions, and installation surface. Magnetic blankets are convenient for metal frames; covers with hook-and-loop attachment can work for some brick or stone surrounds. Among these options, the NABOWAN and CADARA covers offer more than one attachment method, while the decorative barn-gate cover emphasizes appearance. Measure before buying, and only cover a fireplace when it is completely cold and not in use.
| Cover | Best for | Size | Attachment |
|---|---|---|---|
| UQM Store Magnetic Cover | Metal frames and straightforward installation | 39 x 32 inches | Magnets |
| Fillis Store Magnetic Cover | Metal frames and a dust-repelling inner layer | 39 x 32 inches | Magnets |
| Buy Store Barn-Gate Cover | Decorative farmhouse-style coverage | 36 x 30 inches | Magnets |
| NABOWAN Fireplace Cover | Metal frames or brick installations | 32 x 39 inches | Magnets or hook-and-loop |
| CADARA Fireplace Blocker | Large openings and multiple attachment options | 45 x 34 inches | Magnets, hook-and-loop, hooks |
UQM Store Magnetic Fireplace Cover
Best for: Households with a metal fireplace frame that want a simple, removable cover. This 39-by-32-inch blanket uses thickened Oxford fabric, sponge filling, and 12 built-in magnets. The product listing says it is ready to install on a compatible metal frame without extra accessories.
The cover is intended to help block drafts in winter and retain cooled indoor air in summer. It is also described as a barrier against fireplace ash entering the room. Its magnetic attachment makes it a practical choice when drilling or adding adhesive fasteners is not wanted.
Limitation: The listed installation method is for metal fireplace frames only. Measure the opening and check that the frame provides a magnetic surface before choosing it. The listing says to use the cover only after the open fire has been extinguished.
Fillis Store 36-Magnet Fireplace Cover
Best for: Buyers with a 39-by-32-inch iron fireplace frame who want a cover with numerous magnets around its edges. The listed design has 36 magnets, including stronger magnets at key points, to hold the cover against the frame. It is intended to reduce drafts, limit dust and ash entering the room, and help retain conditioned air.
The inner-facing side is described as Teflon material that resists heat and flame, while the outward side is Oxford cloth. The listing also says the inner material is designed to repel dust, ash, and stains for easier cleaning. These materials may make it a better fit for buyers who prioritize a wipe-clean surface.
Limitation: This cover is described for a standard 39-by-32-inch iron frame. It is not listed with a brick-or-stone attachment method, so choose another option if the fireplace has no magnetic metal frame. Do not treat material descriptions as permission to cover an active or hot fire.
Buy Store Decorative Barn-Gate Cover
Best for: Buyers who want a fireplace cover to serve as a decorative accent as well as a barrier. The 36-by-30-inch cover has a barn-gate or wood-grain design, thickened Oxford fabric, and an insulation-cotton insert. Magnets along the edge are intended to attach it to an iron frame.
The product is described as reusable, foldable for storage, and designed to help keep out odors, debris, and dust. Its patterned surface may suit a living room where a plain blanket would look out of place. Choose this option if its decorative style and dimensions match the room and fireplace.
Limitation: The listing describes magnetic attachment to an iron frame, and says the 36-by-30-inch size fits most fireplace vents. “Most” does not guarantee a fit: measure the opening and check the frame before ordering. It may not suit larger openings or surrounds without a magnetic surface.
NABOWAN Magnetic And Hook-And-Loop Cover
Best for: Buyers comparing a metal-frame option with an attachment method for brick. This 32-by-39-inch cover includes 16 magnets and hook-and-loop material; the listing says to use the magnets on a metal frame or the hook-and-loop method for a brick installation. That choice makes it more adaptable than covers listed only for metal frames.
The cover is described as thickened Oxford cloth with polyester-fiber filling and a four-layer construction. The fireplace-facing side is described as fire-resistant and coated with fiberglass fabric. The listing also says it is waterproof, nonstick to grease, foldable, and designed for easy cleaning and storage.
Limitation: The listing does not provide a universal fit claim for every brick surround. Confirm the opening dimensions and whether the installation surface is suitable for the included hook-and-loop material. Its fire-resistant description does not make it appropriate for use while a fire is burning or embers remain hot.
CADARA Large Fireplace Blocker Blanket
Best for: Buyers who need a larger 45-by-34-inch cover and want several attachment options. The listing describes thick Oxford cloth with two polyester layers, 16 built-in magnets, hook-and-loop tape on four sides, and four additional hooks with glue. It names iron, brick, and stone fireplaces as possible installation settings.
The combination of magnets and other fasteners gives buyers more flexibility than a magnetic-only blanket. The cover is intended to block drafts, odors, and debris and help keep indoor air from escaping through the opening. Consider it when a smaller standard-size cover would not provide enough coverage.
Limitation: Although the product listing provides multiple installation methods, the fit depends on the opening and frame. Check the dimensions and choose an attachment method appropriate for the surface. The included glue and hook-and-loop tape may not suit every finish, so consider the surface before applying them.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Fireplace Cover
Should you use a magnetic cover or hook-and-loop attachment?
A magnetic cover is a convenient choice when the fireplace has a metal frame that attracts magnets. It usually attaches and comes off without drilling. Check the frame itself rather than assuming a nearby metal-looking trim is magnetic. Covers in this selection that are described as metal-frame options include the UQM, Fillis, and decorative barn-gate models.
Hook-and-loop attachment can offer an alternative when a fireplace surround is brick, but the product and surface need to be suitable for that method. NABOWAN lists hook-and-loop installation for brick, while CADARA lists magnets, hook-and-loop tape, and hooks with glue for different fireplace types. Read the installation instructions and consider whether adhesive could affect the finish.
How should you measure a fireplace opening?
Measure the width and height of the opening and compare those measurements with the cover dimensions. Also check how the cover is meant to sit: some attach to the frame around the opening, so the usable mounting area matters as well as the opening itself. A product’s stated size does not guarantee a tight fit on every fireplace.
For openings around 39 by 32 inches, the UQM and Fillis covers list that size. The decorative barn-gate option measures 36 by 30 inches, the NABOWAN model is 32 by 39 inches, and CADARA measures 45 by 34 inches. Confirm orientation and dimensions with the seller’s listing before ordering.
Which material and features matter?
- Outer fabric: Oxford cloth appears in several listings and is described as a durable cover material.
- Filling: Sponge or polyester-fiber filling is intended to add insulation. Compare the listed construction rather than assuming all covers have the same thickness.
- Inner surface: The Fillis listing describes a Teflon inner-facing side, while NABOWAN describes fiberglass fabric and a fire-resistant facing. These are product descriptions, not permission to cover a hot fireplace.
- Storage: Foldable designs can be put away when the fireplace is in use, provided the cover is removed before lighting a fire.
- Appearance: A patterned cover, such as the barn-gate design, may better suit a room where the fireplace opening remains visible year-round.
When is it safe to cover a fireplace?
Cover an opening only when the fireplace is completely cold and not in use. Remove the cover before lighting a fire, and do not put it over flames, glowing embers, or hot surfaces. A cover can obstruct ventilation or a flue, so check the fireplace and appliance instructions before using one. Do not cover an opening that serves a gas appliance or other equipment requiring an open vent unless the manufacturer or a qualified professional confirms it is safe.
Can a fireplace cover help with drafts?
A fitted cover can act as a barrier over an unused fireplace opening. The product listings describe their covers as intended to limit cold-air drafts in winter and help retain cooled indoor air in summer. The result depends on the fit, attachment, and condition of the fireplace. A cover is not a substitute for repairing a faulty damper, addressing structural air leaks, or maintaining the chimney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to cover an unused fireplace?
A fitted magnetic blanket is often straightforward when the fireplace has a compatible metal frame. Measure first, attach it only when the fireplace is fully cold, and remove it before using the fireplace.
Can a magnetic fireplace cover attach to brick?
Magnets require a magnetic metal surface, so they generally will not attach directly to brick. Choose a cover that lists a suitable hook-and-loop or other nonmagnetic installation method, and check whether that method is appropriate for the brick or surrounding finish.
Will a fireplace cover fit any opening?
No. Covers have specific dimensions and attachment requirements. Measure the opening and mounting area, then compare them with the product dimensions and instructions before buying.
Can I leave a fireplace cover on while a fire burns?
No. These covers are intended for an unused fireplace. Remove the cover before lighting a fire and wait until the fireplace is completely cold before replacing it.
Do fireplace covers stop all drafts?
A properly fitted cover may reduce air movement through an unused opening, but it cannot guarantee that all drafts will stop. Gaps, a damaged damper, or other air leaks can still affect comfort.