Best Round Bale Covers and Tarps for Farm Hay Storage and Ring Feeders
Powerful protection for round hay bales and ring feeders starts with the right tarp. This guide highlights five durable options designed to fit 5.5-foot rounds or circle-style feeders, offering rainproofing, UV resistance, and reinforced edges. Each pick suits different needs—seasonal storage, frequent weather exposure, or heavy-use farms. Read on to see who each product is best for and why it’s a strong choice for long-lasting feed protection. A quick summary table follows to compare core specs at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| CrystalSylara 5.5ft Round Hay Bale Cover | Small to mid-size hay setups | Double-layer waterproof PE, reinforced hems | Fits only 5.5ft rounds |
| Wavecover 5.5FT Round Tarpaulin | 5.5ft bales and ring feeders | Heavy-duty, UV-treated, 33ft rope | Limited to 5.5ft diameter |
| Woanger 20′ x 48′ Hay Tarp | Large hay stacks and multiple bales | 260 GSM, 12 mil, 1200D design | Bulkier & heavier |
| GUARD SHIELD 10 Feet Round Tarp (Green/Silver) | Multi-use circular covers | 10 mil, reinforced stitching, rustproof grommets | Not bale-specific |
| Kesfitt 20x20FT Tarp | Outdoor camping and general protection | 16 mil, UV resistant, reinforced edges | Not bale-specific |
CrystalSylara 5.5ft Round Hay Bale Cover
This 5.5ft round tarp is designed specifically for standard round hay bales and ring feeders, delivering a snug, wind-resistant cover that cuts feed waste and spoilage. It uses double-layer waterproof PE for long-lasting protection against rain and snow. The reinforced hemmed edge with an integrated rope channel helps seal out moisture and prevent edge fraying. Best for smaller farms or setups with 5.5ft rounds and ring feeders.
Who it’s best for: small to medium operations needing a tight fit and solid weatherproofing for 5.5ft bales. Why selected: purpose-built size with heavy-duty construction and strong edge reinforcement. Caution: not compatible with larger feeders (6ft or bigger) and may be loose on mis-sized rounds; measure before purchasing.
Wavecover 5.5FT Round Tarpaulin
Designed to conform to standard 5.5ft rounds and ring feeders, this tarp shields hay bales from rain, snow, and dew while offering a tying rope for secure installation. It features heavy-duty, reinforced PE material with UV treatment to resist fading. Best for users who want an easy-to-install, weather-resistant cover that helps minimize spoilage and waste. Caution: size is fixed at 5.5ft; use on other diameters may require alternative covers.
Woanger 20′ x 48′ Heavy Duty Hay Tarp
This large hay tarp is built for demanding agricultural use, offering a 20×48 foot footprint with a 260 GSM rating and 12 mil thickness. Its green outer layer with an inner lining provides tear resistance and reliable weather protection for big round bales, hay stacks, or silage piles. Best for farms with multiple bales requiring a single, long cover. Caution: heavier and bulkier to handle than smaller covers.
GUARD SHIELD 10 Feet Round Tarp (Green/Silver)
This round tarp delivers multi-use capability with a 10 mil thickness and reinforced double stitching. It includes a PP rope hem and rustproof aluminum grommets every 18 inches for secure anchoring. Best for general round-cover needs beyond bale protection. Caution: not bale-specific; sizing versatility means it may be oversized for small rounds.
GUARD SHIELD Round Tarp 10 Feet (Green/Silver) For Pools Or Grounds
This 10-foot green/silver round tarp is designed for multi-purpose outdoor use, including under pools and general ground coverage. It features a woven and coated polyethylene construction with reinforced double stitching and rustproof grommets. Best for flexible outdoor applications where a round shape is needed. Caution: not bale-specific; verify fit for bales or feeders prior to use.
TARPAL 6ft Round Small Tarp
This 6ft round tarp provides durable waterproof protection in a compact size. It’s built from high-density PE with a circular design ideal for small round feeders or compact storage solutions. Best for smaller setups or as a secondary cover. Caution: diameter is limited to 6 feet and is not suitable for larger round bales.
Kesfitt Tarp Heavy Duty 20x20FT
This tarp offers 16 mil thickness for tear and fade resistance, UV protection, and reinforced edges with grommets every 23.6 inches. Although not bale-specific, it provides robust outdoor protection for large areas, including hay stacks or equipment. Best for general-purpose outdoor coverage where size and durability matter. Caution: not tailored to round bale diameters; ensure proper fit for your setup.
Buying Guide
- Size matters: match tarp diameter to bale diameter or feeder opening to minimize wind catching and water seepage.
- Material and thickness: choose double-layer or UV-treated PE for better rain resistance and longer life; thicker tarps resist tearing in windy conditions.
- Reinforcements: reinforced hems, rope channels, and rustproof grommets improve sealing and durability, especially in exposed locations.
- Fit vs versatility: bale-specific covers provide a snug fit, while larger or multi-purpose tarps offer flexibility for stacks or equipment.
- Installation considerations: look for tied edges or included ropes to simplify securing tarps on round feeders or bales; ensure you have anchors suitable for the surface (soil, concrete, etc.).
FAQ
- Q: What size round bale tarp should I buy for a 5.5-foot bale? A: Choose a tarp specifically designed for 5.5-foot rounds or a tarp with a snug, near-diameter fit for minimal wind lift.
- Q: Are reinforced hems important? A: Yes. Reinforced hems reduce water seepage and edge fraying, extending the tarp’s life in harsh weather.
- Q: Can I use a general round tarp for a ring feeder? A: It’s possible, but a bale-specific design usually provides a tighter seal and better wind resistance.
- Q: Do I need UV protection for outdoor use? A: UV protection helps prevent fading and material degradation when tarps are exposed to sun for long periods.
- Q: How should I secure tarps on windy days? A: Use the provided rope channels, grommets, and sturdy anchors to prevent lifting and ensure a snug fit.
- Q: Is a larger tarp always better for multiple bales? A: Not always; too large a tarp can snag on fences or trees and may be harder to secure evenly. Choose a size that covers the bales with some overlap.