Linen tablecloths for your table design

The kitchen – and kitchen table in particular – is at the heart of the home. They are where we share meals, resolve arguments, entertain, do homework and work late.

But as well as being functional, the table is an important element of interior decor. It is often the largest piece of furniture in the room, so the way your table looks can affect the whole style and feel of your space.

From choosing machine washable tablecloths to linen care and kitchen decor, finding the right table linens needn't be a challenge. In this post we'll tell you everything you need to know about why you should choose linen, and how to care for your linen tablecloths, placemats and napkins.

Table linens for timeless style

Beautiful, good quality tablecloths are essential for a stylish table. You need something that looks great but can also withstand spills and regular use. Even better if your table linens are machine washable. Which has to mean a linen tablecloth, bringing style and easy-care to your table. For the ultimate elegant table add linen napkins, placemats or a table runner.

Adding a tablecloth has not only been shown to make food taste better, it's also an easy way to give your kitchen or dining room a pulled-together yet welcoming look, whatever's on the menu. Linen is renowned for its durability and luxe look. It also feels soft and comfortable against the skin, which is important for pleasurable dining.

Mix and match colors and patterns to express your individual style, or buy a selection to fit different seasonal meals and festive occasions.

Why choose a linen tablecloth?

• Linen tablecloths have been used for centuries to decorate and protect dining tables. Traditionally, linen yarns, originating from the flax plant, took a long time and significant effort to produce. This made them one of the most prized and expensive fabrics. Linen clothing and linen table linens were only used by the rich. But thankfully, now table linens are far more affordable, whilst staying popular interior designers and home residents alike.
• We love the calm, easy yet polished style they bring, and they are a great backdrop for floral arrangements, special table settings and all kinds of crockery and accessories. Whatever the trending interior decor styles, linen table linens will always be in vogue.
• The appeal of linen tablecloths and other table linens is thanks mainly to their luster and beautiful texture. They come in pastel, natural or bright colors, and a range of patterns. Table linens can also feature embroidery or hemstitched details, and they always feel luxurious to touch. Their tactile, soft-to-the-touch texture makes linen table linens (especially linen napkins) popular for all age groups.
• The most important advantage of pure linen tablecloths is their water absorbing capacity. If anything is spilled, drops of liquids vanish immediately.

Caring for linen tablecloths

As well as always being in style, linen tablecloths are very easy to care for. They store well because they are insect resistant, and thanks to their durability you can use them for years. As linen is machine washable you don't need to worry about stains or marks, and they will dry quickly if hung out (and can be tumble dried if you prefer).

If there is a spill, mop it up straight away and treat with a stain remover. Then, if your table linens or table runner are machine washable, run it through a gentle cycle with lukewarm water to prevent the stain setting in.

Whilst many of us love the easy, relaxed look created by the natural crinkles found in linen fabric, if you like an elegant, smooth finish you can iron your linen tablecloth when it's still damp.

How to shop for table linens

Choose quality

Buying a new 100% linen tablecloth is an investment. You can shop online to find the perfect table linens at a reasonable price - just look for reputable brands that use good quality linen in the right color for your kitchen or dining room. As these are heavy items check the delivery and shipping charges if buying tablecloths online, particularly if you're an international customer.

Go natural

A natural linen tablecloth is a great cost-per-use item as it will last for years, and can be passed from generation to generation. Linen is a sustainable material for table linen thanks to the minimal resources required to grow and process flax, its inherent biodegradability and its longevity.

Invest in a set or mix up

You can also purchase a table linen set consisting of a tablecloth, linen table runners and linen napkins for an easy co-ordinated look. Or mix up color and patterns for some simple, rustic charm.

Measure carefully

If your dining room or kitchen table is not a rectangle shop around for a linen tablecloth in a suitable shape - whether that's circular or oval - and make sure to measure accurately.

It's also important to get the right length tablecloth. You want a bit of drape, but no so much that the fabric is hanging down onto people's laps. a 15-20cm overhang is a good size and will create a smart yet homely look, without too much extra material.

No matter how fancy your table setting and other dining accessories, your dining room or kitchen table won't look complete without an elegant linen tablecloth or table runner. A simple way to refresh your home decor without resorting to painting or investing in new furniture, some fresh table linen is the perfect option.

For tips on washing your linen tablecloths go here.