• Switch plate covers are used to cover the wiring and mechanical components of light switches, both for safety and for aesthetic reasons. If you are thinking of installing new switch plate covers, there are many options for you to consider.
  
  Switch plate covers differ in a number of ways, including the materials they are made from (plastic, metal, ceramic or wood), the type of switches they are designed to cover (toggle vs. GFCI), and whether or not they are decorative.
  
  

Toggle Switch Plate Covers

• Perhaps the most commonly used covers are toggle switch plate covers. They cover standard toggle switches, and come in different sizes to cover both single switches and multiple switches.
  
  

GFCI Switch Plate Covers

• There are also switch plate covers available, both in single and multiple switch formats, for GFCI light switches or "rockers." These are the larger, flatter switches that you push or "rock" on and off. Because these switches are so large, the covers use less material and have less surface space
  
  

Decorative Switch Plate Covers

• Using a decorative switch plate cover is a great way to add excitement to an otherwise boring wall space. According to SwitchPlateGallery.com, there are switch plate cover designs available that can match almost any taste, and can feature, for example, floral patterns, animals, landscapes and even commercial products like vintage soda bottles.
  
  

Plastic Switch Plate Covers

• The most commonly used and least expensive variety of switch plate cover, in terms of materials, are plastic switch plate covers. They come in a variety of colors, making matching your existing décor a cinch, but are prone to cracking.
  
  

Metal Switch Plate Covers

• Metal switch plate covers are the most durable variety available, and offer a sleek and professional look. According to Remodelista.com, manufacturers make switch plate covers from a number of metals, including aluminum, brass, bronze, chrome, nickel, pewter, stainless steel and silver-plated brass.
  
  

Ceramic Switch Plate Covers

• When it comes to creating or maintaining an elegant atmosphere in a room, ceramic switch plate covers, with their rich, glossy surfaces, are the way to go. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, which may include decorative inlays or other contours. WallSwitchPlates.com recommends using ceramic switch plate covers in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.
  
  

Wood Switch Plate Covers

• For a more rustic look, try using unfinished wood switch plate covers. According to Remodelista.com, the most popular wood types used for this purpose include white oak, teak and poplar.