Hard faucet covers provide great insulation and durability. They are perfect for standard wall-mounted faucets. Soft faucet covers offer a snug fit and flexibility. They work best on freestanding or oddly shaped faucets. For extreme cold, use hard covers. Soft covers are better for mild winter conditions. Both help prevent frozen pipes and costly damage.

As winter comes, it’s important to protect your outdoor faucets. This helps stop pipes from freezing and avoids expensive repairs. Faucet covers provide an easy and effective solution. But which is better—hard or soft faucet covers? Understanding their differences helps homeowners make an informed decision.
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ToggleWhy Faucet Covers Matter
Every year, 250,000 homes suffer from burst pipes due to freezing temperatures. A frozen faucet can back up water into your home’s plumbing, causing leaks or pipe bursts. Faucet covers insulate by trapping heat around the faucet. This helps prevent freezing and damage.
Types of Faucet Covers
Faucet covers come in two main types: hard (foam) covers and soft (fabric) covers. Each type offers distinct benefits and drawbacks.
What Are Hard Faucet Covers?

Hard faucet covers, made from thermal foam or hard plastic, insulate the faucet. They also reflect cold air away. These covers fit tightly over the faucet. They create an airtight barrier against the cold.
Pros of Hard Faucet Covers
- Superior insulation: Foam construction retains heat, keeping faucets above freezing temperatures.
- Durability: More resistant to wear and tear compared to fabric covers.
- Waterproof: Hard covers provide better moisture protection.
- Affordable: Generally priced between $2–$5, making them cost-effective.
Cons of Hard Faucet Covers
- Less flexible: Doesn’t conform to oddly shaped faucets or freestanding spigots.
- Limited reusability: If damaged, foam covers are harder to repair.
What Are Soft Faucet Covers?

Soft faucet covers consist of weather-resistant fabric. They are packed with insulation materials such as polyester or fiberglass. They are designed to wrap around the faucet and tie securely with drawstrings or Velcro.
Pros of Soft Faucet Covers
- Flexible fit: Easily adapts to faucets of various shapes and sizes.
- Better for freestanding faucets: Ideal for garden spigots and irregularly shaped fixtures.
- Reusable & adjustable: Fabric covers can be removed and stored for reuse.
Cons of Soft Faucet Covers
- Less effective insulation: May not retain heat as well as foam covers.
- Not fully waterproof. It can soak up moisture over time unless treated with a water-resistant coating.
- Higher cost: Prices typically range between $4–$10, depending on material quality.
Do Faucet Covers Really Work?
Yes! Faucet covers reduce the risk of freezing by 80% in moderately cold regions. But, for areas with prolonged freezing temperatures below 20°F (-6°C), more precautions like:
- Shutting off exterior water valves.
- Draining water from pipes.
- Using heat tape for extra insulation.
How to Install a Faucet Cover (Step-by-Step)
- Remove hoses and attachments. Detach any connected garden hoses to prevent trapped water from freezing inside.
- Drain the faucet. Turn off the outdoor water supply and allow excess water to drain completely.
- Attach the faucet cover.
- For hard covers: Place the foam shell over the faucet and tighten the drawstring or clamp.
- For soft covers: Wrap the fabric cover around the faucet and secure the ties.
- Ensure a snug fit. Check that there are no gaps where cold air can seep in.
How to Make Your Own Faucet Cover
If you need a quick fix, here’s how you can DIY a faucet cover:
Materials Needed:
- Old towel or rag.
- Plastic bag
- Duct tape or bungee cord
Steps:
- Wrap the towel around the faucet for insulation.
- Cover with a plastic bag to prevent moisture build-up.
- Secure with duct tape or a bungee cord.
This DIY method gives some protection, but it’s not as good as store-bought hard or soft faucet covers.
FAQs
Can I leave my faucet cover on year-round?
While it’s not necessary, you can leave the cover on to prevent dust and debris buildup in warm months.
Are faucet covers reusable?
Yes! Soft covers last 2–3 winters, while hard covers can last up to 5 years with proper care.
Can faucet covers be reused each year?
Yes! Both hard and soft faucet covers can be reused if they are in good condition. Check for cracks, mold, or insulation breakdown before reusing.
Are faucet covers waterproof?
Most hard covers are waterproof. Soft fabric covers may have water-resistant coatings, but they can still absorb moisture if not sealed properly.
Do I need faucet covers in mild climates?
If temperatures rarely fall below 32°F (0°C), faucet covers aren’t necessary. However, they can help your outdoor faucets last longer.
Where can I buy faucet covers?
You can find faucet covers at home improvement stores, Amazon, Walmart, and local hardware shops.
Conclusion
Both hard and soft faucet covers protect well against freezing. Your choice should depend on your specific needs. If you want durability and strong insulation, go for a hard faucet cover. If you need a versatile fit for unique faucets, a soft fabric cover is your best bet.
For the best winter protection, use faucet covers, shut-off valves, and insulated pipes. This will help keep your home safe from freezing damage.