Quick answer: A universal stretch cover can fit an IKEA Ektorp, but not the way the original tailored cover does. Ektorp models are named by seat count, yet what matters for a cover is total width, so measure your settee and match the centimetre band rather than the name. A stretch cover gives a smoother, fitted look and an easy colour refresh.
The IKEA Ektorp is one of the most common settees in UK living rooms, and its removable covers are a big part of the appeal. When the original cover looks tired, gets stained, or the exact colour is discontinued, a lot of owners ask the same thing: can a universal stretch cover go on an Ektorp instead of hunting for a model specific replacement? The short version is yes, with a couple of honest caveats about look and sizing. This guide walks through how Ektorp sizes translate to a stretch cover, what to measure, and which Covaba covers suit the job.
Understanding the Ektorp and how covers work
IKEA designs the Ektorp with a relaxed, slightly skirted loose cover that drapes over a boxy frame. A made to measure Ektorp replacement (the kind sold by specialist brands) copies IKEA's exact pattern, so it recreates that same loose, tailored look. A universal stretch cover is a different product: one elasticated cover that stretches to hug many shapes, sold by total sofa width rather than by model. It will not reproduce the skirt and seams of the original, but it does deliver a clean, close fit and a fresh colour in minutes.
That difference is the whole decision. If you want the exact Ektorp silhouette, buy a model specific cover. If you want a quick, affordable refresh that looks smooth and modern, a stretch cover is the easier route, and it is not tied to whether IKEA still makes your version.
What to check before you buy
1. Measure total width, not the seat name
IKEA names Ektorp by seat count (2 seat, 3 seat, 3.5 seat), but a stretch cover is chosen by the full external width, arm to arm. An Ektorp 2 seat is around 179 cm wide, which is wider than many sofas people call a 3 seater. So measure across the widest point, write the number in centimetres, and match it to the size band. Going by the seat name alone is the single most common sizing mistake.
2. Note the arm shape and depth
The Ektorp has full, rounded arms and a deep seat. Stretch fabric handles rounded arms well, but very deep seats need the cover tucked firmly into the gaps to stay put. Measure seat depth so you know how much fabric you will be tucking.
3. Decide on look and fabric
Because you are changing the style anyway, this is the moment to pick a texture: smooth plain stretch, ribbed corduroy, cosy teddy, plush velvet, or a woven or knit finish. Covaba covers are stretch fabrics with an elasticated hem, and most are machine washable on a cool cycle (always check the care label on your chosen cover).
Ektorp sizes and the stretch cover to order
The table below maps common IKEA Ektorp widths (IKEA's own published figures, which have changed slightly over the years) to the Covaba stretch size band. Always measure your own settee first, since IKEA has revised the Ektorp several times.
| IKEA Ektorp model | Typical width (cm) | Typical width (inches) | Covaba stretch size to order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ektorp armchair | 84 cm | 33 in | 1-Seater (80 to 130 cm) |
| Ektorp 2 seat (loveseat) | 179 cm | 70.5 in | 3-Seater (160 to 200 cm) |
| Ektorp 3 seat | 218 cm | 85.9 in | 4-Seater (200 to 260 cm) |
| Ektorp 3.5 seat | 249 cm | 98 in | 4-Seater upper range / 5-Seater |
| Ektorp corner / sectional | measure each run | measure each run | one cover per straight section |
Notice how the Ektorp 2 seat lands in the 3-Seater band: that is the width lesson in action. When two bands overlap your measurement, size down for a tighter finish or up for easier tucking. For a full walkthrough, see our guide on how to measure a sofa for a cover, and browse the full stretch sofa covers range.
Which cover for which need
For a bright, family friendly refresh
If the Ektorp is the main family settee, a durable everyday texture makes sense. The Corduroy Olive Green cover (from £49.99) has a ribbed, hard wearing surface that hides daily use, and the Waffle Almond Cream cover (from £49.99) keeps things light and neutral.
For a soft, textured update
To lean into cosy, the Teddy Sand Gold cover (from £49.99) adds a warm sherpa pile, while the Knit Cream Linen cover (from £49.99) gives a relaxed, natural look that suits the Ektorp's classic shape.
For a smarter, more polished finish
For a living room you want to feel more considered, the Velvet Sage Green cover (from £49.99) brings a plush sheen, and the Woven Ivory Cream cover (from £69.99) offers a refined, upholstered look.
Common mistakes to avoid
The first mistake is choosing by seat name instead of width, as covered above. The second is skipping the tuck: a stretch cover only looks tailored once the excess is pushed firmly into the seat and back gaps and the elasticated hem is set under the frame. The third is expecting the original Ektorp skirt: a stretch cover is intentionally smoother and more fitted, so if the skirt is essential to you, a model specific cover is the better buy. Our step by step guide on how to fit a stretch sofa cover shows the tucking method in detail.
Caring for your cover
Most Covaba stretch covers are machine washable on a cool, gentle cycle. Wash on cold (around 30C), avoid tumble drying on high heat, and refit while the fabric is very slightly damp so it settles smoothly. A quick reshape and tuck after washing keeps the fit crisp. Keeping a spare in a second colour also lets you rotate covers between washes, which is handy on a busy family Ektorp.
Recommended covers and collections
Ready to refresh your Ektorp? Start with the full stretch sofa covers collection to see every colour and texture in one place. If pets or a slippery seat are your main concern, the non-slip sofa covers collection adds extra grip. Popular picks for an Ektorp include the Knit Cream Linen, Corduroy Olive Green, Velvet Sage Green and Teddy Sand Gold covers. If you also own other IKEA models, our Soderhamn cover guide and Kivik cover guide follow the same universal stretch approach.
Frequently asked questions
Do stretch covers fit an IKEA Ektorp sofa?
Yes. A universal stretch cover fits an Ektorp when you order by total width rather than by the seat name. It gives a smooth, fitted look rather than the original loose, skirted style, and it works even if your Ektorp version is discontinued.
What size cover do I need for an Ektorp 3 seat?
An Ektorp 3 seat is roughly 218 cm (85.9 in) wide, so it falls in Covaba's 4-Seater band (200 to 260 cm). Always measure arm to arm first, because IKEA has revised the Ektorp over the years.
Can I put an Ektorp cover on a non-Ektorp sofa?
A model specific Ektorp cover is cut to Ektorp dimensions and rarely fits other sofas well. A universal stretch cover is the opposite: it is designed to fit many shapes, so it is the better choice when your sofa is not an exact Ektorp.
Will a stretch cover look like the original Ektorp cover?
No, and that is by design. A stretch cover sits smoother and more fitted, without the Ektorp skirt. If the relaxed skirted look is important to you, choose a model specific cover instead.
Are Covaba covers machine washable?
Most Covaba stretch covers are machine washable on a cool, gentle cycle. Wash cold (around 30C), skip high heat drying, and refit while slightly damp for the neatest result. Check the care label on your specific cover.
Do you make covers for discontinued Ektorp models?
You do not need a model specific cover for that. Because Covaba covers are sized by width and stretch to fit, they work on older and discontinued Ektorp versions as long as you measure and match the correct size band.
The bottom line
A universal stretch cover is a practical, affordable way to refresh an IKEA Ektorp, especially when the original cover is worn or discontinued. Measure your settee arm to arm, match the centimetre band, choose a texture you love, and tuck it in well. Shop the stretch sofa covers collection to give your Ektorp a new look today.