7 Best Double-gang Outlet Covers for Multiple Outlets
Upgrade your home with our top 7 double-gang outlet covers. We review durable, stylish, and safe options to help you organize and protect your wall outlets.
Upgrading your outlet covers is one of the quickest, most affordable ways to refresh the look of your home while ensuring your electrical components remain protected. Whether you are a renter looking to hide yellowed plastic or a homeowner finishing a renovation, choosing the right double-gang wallplate is a simple task that makes a major visual impact. This guide will help you navigate the options to find the perfect balance of durability, style, and ease of installation for your space.
Leviton 80703-W Standard Duplex Wallplate Review
If you are dealing with the classic "two-hole" receptacles common in older homes, the Leviton 80703-W is the industry standard for a reason. Its thermoplastic construction is lightweight, making it incredibly easy to install even if your wall box is slightly recessed.
Because this plate features a smooth finish, it is surprisingly easy to wipe clean after a kitchen spill or hallway scuff. It lacks the modern "decorator" look, but for utility rooms or garages, its functional simplicity is hard to beat.
The bottom line is that this is a budget-friendly workhorse. It may not win design awards, but it provides a clean, uniform appearance that fits perfectly into most traditional home setups.
ENERLITES 7732-W Polycarbonate Decorator Cover
For those who have upgraded to modern rectangular "decorator" style outlets, the ENERLITES 7732-W is an excellent choice. The polycarbonate material is virtually unbreakable, which is a significant advantage if you have children or high-traffic areas where vacuum cleaners often bang into the walls.
This cover is slightly thicker than standard plastic, providing a robust feel that prevents warping over time. It sits flush against the wall, giving your outlets a professional, built-in look that elevates the aesthetic of a living room or bedroom.
If you are looking for durability without the high cost of metal, this is your best bet. It offers a sleek, modern profile that hides the mounting screws well, providing a clean finish that is both practical and polished.
Lutron Claro CW-2-WH Gloss Finish Wallplate
Lutron is well-known for their lighting controls, and their wallplates carry that same reputation for quality. The Claro CW-2-WH is designed with a subtle, elegant curve that feels softer and more high-end than standard flat plastic plates.
The finish is exceptionally smooth, which resists dust accumulation better than cheaper alternatives. It is a fantastic option for homeowners who want to add a touch of sophistication to their common areas without undergoing a full renovation.
Keep in mind that this is a premium plastic product, so it carries a slightly higher price tag. However, the visual difference is noticeable; it’s a small investment that makes your walls look intentionally finished rather than just functional.
Mulberry 93241 Steel Double-Gang Outlet Cover
Sometimes, plastic just won’t cut it, especially in a workshop, basement, or utility space where tools might strike the wall. The Mulberry 93241 is made of stamped steel, providing a level of impact resistance that plastic simply cannot match.
Because it is metal, it offers a grounded, industrial aesthetic that looks great in lofts or modern minimalist homes. It is also fire-resistant, providing an extra layer of peace of mind for areas with high electrical activity.
Be aware that metal plates require careful installation to avoid scratching the paint on your walls. They are heavier and more rigid, so ensure your outlet box is level before tightening the screws to avoid a crooked look.
Kyle Switch Plates Custom Metal Wallplate
If you have a unique electrical configuration or a historic home with non-standard box spacing, Kyle Switch Plates is the go-to resource. They specialize in custom metal plates, allowing you to find specific configurations that aren’t available at big-box hardware stores.
These plates are often crafted from heavy-duty brass or steel, offering a weight and quality that feels substantial in your hand. While they are significantly more expensive than mass-produced options, they solve the "odd-ball" outlet problem that frustrates many renovators.
Consider this an investment in the longevity and character of your home. If you have an older house with custom trim, spending a bit more for a plate that actually fits correctly is worth every penny.
Amerelle 88201W Traditional Plastic Wallplate
The Amerelle 88201W is a reliable, no-frills option that you can find in almost any local hardware store. It is designed for the standard duplex outlet configuration, making it the perfect "quick fix" for a weekend DIY project.
It features a classic, slightly textured finish that blends well with most standard paint colors. It is not the most high-end product on the market, but its consistency and availability make it a staple for property managers and landlords.
If you have multiple outlets to replace on a tight budget, this is the most economical choice. It gets the job done without any fuss, providing a clean, white appearance that looks fresh and tidy.
Eaton 2032W-BOX Decorator Style Wallplate
The Eaton 2032W-BOX is a solid, mid-range choice for those who prefer the decorator look but want a product that is easy to source. Its design is clean and unobtrusive, featuring a slightly matte finish that resists fingerprints.
This plate is particularly good for families because it is easy to sanitize with a damp cloth. It offers a reliable fit, and the screws are typically color-matched, which is a small detail that prevents the "industrial" look of exposed silver screws.
If you are looking for a reliable, everyday wallplate, this is an excellent middle ground. It balances cost, durability, and aesthetics perfectly, making it a safe choice for any room in the house.
How to Match Wallplate Materials to Your Decor
Choosing the right material is about balancing your home’s traffic patterns with your desired aesthetic. For high-traffic areas like entryways or kids’ rooms, prioritize polycarbonate or metal for their impact resistance.
- Plastic/Thermoplastic: Best for budget-conscious projects, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
- Polycarbonate: Ideal for high-traffic areas where durability is the top priority.
- Metal (Steel/Brass): Perfect for industrial styles, workshops, or high-end architectural finishes.
If you are unsure, stick to a matte or gloss white finish, as it is the most versatile. Remember that while metal looks great, it can be cold to the touch and requires more careful handling during installation to prevent wall damage.
Safety Tips for Replacing Your Outlet Covers
Replacing a wallplate is a simple task, but safety must always come first. Even though you are not dealing with live wires directly, you should always turn off the power at the breaker box before removing an old plate.
Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off before you touch any screws near the outlet. If you notice any cracked or frayed wires while the plate is off, stop immediately and contact a licensed electrician.
Never force a screw if it doesn’t seem to fit; you might be piercing a wire behind the wall. Always ensure the plate is properly aligned and flush, as gaps can allow dust and debris to accumulate inside the electrical box.
Common Wallplate Sizes and Configuration Types
Understanding your wallplate size is the most common hurdle for DIYers. "Standard" size is the most common, but "Mid-size" or "Jumbo" plates are often necessary if your drywall was cut too large around the electrical box.
- Duplex: The classic two-hole configuration for traditional outlets.
- Decorator: A rectangular opening for modern rocker-style outlets.
- Blank: Used to cover an electrical box that is no longer in use.
Before you buy, measure the current plate and check the configuration of your outlet. If you are replacing a double-gang plate, ensure you are buying a "2-gang" model, which covers two side-by-side electrical devices.
Replacing your double-gang wallplates is a low-risk project that yields high-reward results in home presentation. By choosing the right material for your lifestyle and ensuring you have the correct configuration, you can easily elevate your home’s interior. Don’t be afraid to mix and match materials based on the needs of each room, as this practical approach will serve your household for years to come.
