The Best Square Tablecloth

Buying Guide

Tablecloths help protect your table from stains and damage, but they also add an element of class to a dining experience. In fact, one study found that a fabric tablecloth even exceeded paper tablecloths in elevating the mood of diners. Restaurant customers perceived better-tasting food, more impressive service and an improved ambiance when fabric tablecloths were used.

Another great thing about a tablecloth is that you can change up the look of your dining space without having to buy new furniture. You could even change your décor to match the seasons or your mood. Best of all, when the meal is over, just toss the tablecloth in the washer and clean it. Your table will probably only need to be wiped down with a wet cloth.

Machine washability isn’t a given with a tablecloth, though. Some tablecloths require handwashing, which can make them high maintenance. If you do find one that’s machine washable, check the care directions before you toss it in the dryer. Some will need to be line dried.

Tablecloths can be made from a variety of fabric types. Polyester tends to be popular for its wrinkle, stain and water resistance. You’ll want a fabric that will absorb the water, keeping it from soaking through to the table below, without pooling on top of the tablecloth.

Sizing is one of the trickiest parts of choosing a tablecloth. They come in a variety of options, so you’ll need to measure your table before buying. You’ll also need to buy based on whether your table is square, rectangular or round. Some tablecloths can work for both, but for best results, find one that’s made for your type of table.

The “drop” of your tablecloth is important. This is the measurement that starts at the edge of your table and extends down to where it falls in front of your dining guests. More casual events should have a drop of between 6 and 8 inches, while formal events go for a long drop, at around 15 inches. Obviously, unless you’re entertaining guests you’re trying to impress, the most important factor is whether the tablecloth lands at a comfortable position.

• Your tablecloth may be stain resistant, but that doesn’t mean it can’t stain. For best results, make sure you wash it soon after using and even use stain remover to keep stains from setting in.
• For an extra layer of protection, some put a pad below the tablecloth. This will absorb any spills to keep the surface of your table safe.
• Placemats can also give you a little extra protection. The placemat will collect some of each spill, keeping both the tablecloth and the table safe.
• Wrinkle resistance is a valuable feature in a tablecloth. You likely won’t want to iron your tablecloth every time you use it, so go with a fabric that either doesn’t wrinkle or can be tumble-dried and pulled out immediately to keep wrinkling at bay.
• Neutrals tend to be the traditional way to go with tablecloths. But today’s options come in so many different colors, you can dress up your dining areas however you prefer. Look for a tablecloth that matches your décor, and consider changing things up occasionally to keep life interesting.
• It’s best to store your tablecloths in a dark, enclosed area when not in use. Keeping them on your table will cause the fabric to fade and wear out, which means it won’t be fresh when you’re ready to use it.
• If you have a white tablecloth, it can be tempting to try to get it back to that original white color using bleach. But many tablecloth fabrics won’t react well to bleach. For that reason, it’s best to always use detergents that don’t include bleach.
• Never use paper towels to wipe away a stain on a tablecloth. Paper towels can contain bleaching agents that will react with the material. Instead, find a white towel or cloth and blot the stain rather than rubbing it.