How to Wash a Tablecloth: Cotton, Linen, Polyester and Vinyl

The right way to wash a tablecloth depends on the fabric: cotton and polyester usually go in the washing machine, linen needs a gentler cycle, and vinyl is wiped or hand washed. In every case, check the care label first, treat stains before washing and keep heat away from a stained cloth until the mark is gone. Hot water and a dryer can set stains permanently.

Check the label and sort first

Look for the care tag, usually on a hem or corner. It will tell you the maximum water temperature and whether the cloth can go in a dryer. If there is no tag, use the gentler option. Wash tablecloths separately from items that shed lint or dyes, and keep dark and bright colors apart from whites.

Remove food, candles and decorations, then shake the cloth outside. Scrape off any solids with a dull knife or spoon.

Treat stains before you wash

Blot, do not rub. Rubbing pushes the stain into the fibers.
Use cold water first for most food and drink stains, because hot water can set protein and tannin stains.
Apply a laundry stain remover or a small amount of liquid detergent, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wash.
Check the stain before drying. If it is still visible, repeat the treatment while the cloth is wet. Heat from a dryer will make it harder to remove.

For particular stains, see these guides on getting gravy out of a tablecloth, removing cranberry sauce stains and removing candle wax from fabric.

Use one product at a time. Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar or other cleaners, and follow label directions. Ventilate the area when using any stain remover.

Cotton

Cotton is durable and washes well. Use the warm or cold cycle, a regular detergent and a normal setting. Hot water is acceptable for white cotton if the label allows it, but it can shrink and fade colors. Dry on low or medium heat, or line dry. Take it out while slightly damp and iron on a medium to hot setting for a crisp finish.

Linen

Linen is strong but wrinkles easily and can shrink the first time it is washed. Use cold or lukewarm water and a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Avoid chlorine bleach, which weakens the fibers. Tumble dry on low for a short time, or hang to dry, then iron while still damp on a high setting. Many people like the relaxed look of linen with no ironing.

Polyester and blends

Polyester resists wrinkles and is easy to care for. Wash in warm or cold water on a normal or permanent-press cycle and dry on low heat. Oil-based stains, such as salad dressing or butter, can cling to polyester. Pre-treat them with a dish detergent or stain remover, let it sit and rinse in warm water before washing. Blends follow the gentlest fiber’s instructions.

Vinyl and coated cloths

Vinyl, PVC and plastic-coated cloths should not go in a dryer. Wipe them with a soft cloth and warm water with a drop of dish soap, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry. Do not use abrasive pads. If the label allows machine washing, use a cold, gentle cycle and hang to dry. Fold with care, since sharp creases can crack the surface.

Drying and storage

Check for stains before using heat.
Remove the cloth while still slightly damp to reduce wrinkles.
Store folded loosely or rolled on a tube, away from damp areas, to prevent creases and mildew.

If you wash large loads often, a similar approach helps with washing pillows and other bulky items: balance the load and give them room.

Quick answers

Can I wash a tablecloth with other laundry?

You can, but separate it from heavily soiled or lint-producing items, and give it room so it rinses well.

How do I get wrinkles out?

Iron cotton and linen while damp. For polyester, a cool iron or a short tumble in the dryer with a damp towel usually helps.

Why are there stains after washing?

The stain may have been set by heat or was not fully treated. Re-treat while the cloth is wet and wash again before drying.

Should I bleach a white tablecloth?

Only if the label allows it. Oxygen bleach is gentler. Follow the directions and never mix products.