Radiator cover ideas

Radiator covers are a great way to turn something purely functional, like a radiator, into something that’s multi-functional and decorative.

For example, radiator covers not only turn a plain old radiator into something visually appealing, but they also create storage space, protect your radiator, and serve as a safety barrier.

What is a radiator cover?

Radiator covers are decorative casings that go over radiators.

They’re often custom-built so they fit snugly and match the surrounding decor, but cheaper, mass-produced ones are also available. These are more affordable, but they might not fit as well.

Radiator covers consist of a frame, typically made from wood or metal, a flat-top panel that can be used for shelving space, side panels, and a front panel that usually has a grille or lattice design to let heat escape.

Radiator cover benefits

As touched on earlier, there are several benefits to radiator covers, both functional and aesthetic. Here are some examples:

• Turns an unsightly radiator into a decorative item
• Gives you storage space on the top of the cover
• Acts as a barrier, which can prevent scaldings
• The barrier also protects and preserves the radiator
• Some designs can improve heat distribution
• Integrates with your interior design

Some of these benefits may be more appealing to you than others, and the option to customise and personalise an otherwise dull-looking radiator is usually what entices people to buy them.

They’re also relatively inexpensive. Check out this article on the cost of radiator covers.

Radiator cover ideas

If you’ve got your heart set on a radiator cover, but aren’t sure which material or style to choose, check out these awesome ideas for inspiration:

Bench-style radiator cover

Radiator covers aren’t strictly limited to being shelves; the top panel can also function as a seat, making it the perfect, warm-and-cozy spot to sit by the window and read a book on a Sunday afternoon.

Depending on where your radiator is located, you could also apply this idea in an entryway or hallway, giving you a place to perch while you tie your shoes or get the dogs ready for a walk.

Cabinetry style

If you’re going for a more classic look, this type of design can work excellently. It’s designed to make the radiator blend in with other furniture pieces, often featuring ornate designs, handles, and sometimes glass panels.

Cabinetry style radiator covers perfectly combine modern innovation with vintage aesthetics, which can elevate your room while also providing all the functional benefits.

Built-in shelves

As shown in the image, radiator covers can easily be made to feature shelves on either side of the grille or lattice, with additional storage space on the top panel.

This allows you to store items like books on the lower shelves and decorative items like plants, framed photographs, candles, and ornaments on the space above.

Just be careful not to put anything near to the radiator that could be badly impacted by the heat!

Metal radiator cover

Sometimes wood can look out of place, particularly if your home has a more modern look or if you want to install the cover in your kitchen.

This is where metal radiator covers come in. They offer many of the same functional benefits, such as protecting your radiator and offering additional storage space, but they’re less effective in terms of safety due to the heat-conducting properties of metal.

In any case, they can work well if you’re trying to achieve a more contemporary, minimalist appearance.

Cheap radiator cover ideas

If you like the idea of getting a radiator cover but don’t like the idea of spending lots of money, consider some of these budget-friendly options:

Floating shelf

By installing a floating shelf directly above your radiator, you can redirect heat and add a new space for shelving items, like plants or framed photographs.

While it’s not a conventional radiator cover, as it only covers the top part and not the sides or front, it can still add some utility and make the radiator look more attractive.

Repurposed furniture

This is one of the simplest ways to create a radiator cover on a budget. If you’re good at DIY, you’ll be able to convert a range of things into a radiator cover, such as an old cabinet or sideboard.

You can simply cut out a section from the back and add some ventilation holes in the front.

Also, if you have a thin table that’s tall enough to slot over the top of your radiator, you can simply push this into place and use it as a cover. Alternatively, you can make some adjustments to the table so it fits better.

Build your own

If you have some basic carpentry skills, you could always build your own radiator cover. All you need is some plywood, a lattice, nails, paint and possibly some hinges if you want the front to be easily accessible.

Then, you can measure the radiator to figure out the dimensions, cut the wood to size, then sand, paint, assemble, and install it.

Or, for the perfect radiator cover, we recommend hiring a carpenter.