An Expert Guide on the Best Fabric for Tablecloths

It may only seem like a backdrop for your dinnerware and centerpiece, but your tablecloth is a tremendous part of your table aesthetic. Luckily, there is so much you can do to elevate your design and transform your table. If you are ready to make an impression with your table, you’ll need to learn more about popular tablecloth fabrics and the advantages of each one. Our easy guide will make it easy to pick the right one every time.

How to Choose the Best Fabric for Tablecloths 

When it comes down to it, no material is unanimously considered the best fabric for tablecloths. That’s because each type offers pros and cons, so it’s best to consider circumstantial factors for the occasion. If you’re unsure of what’s best for you, consider the following:

Indoor or Outdoor: Outdoor tablecloths are more exposed to the elements, so they should be more durable than indoor tablecloths. 

Type of Event: Keep the kind of event in mind — children’s birthday parties have far different tablecloth needs than a wedding or formal event.

Aesthetic: You want your tablecloth to accentuate the rest of your space. For example, if you have a lot of flowers and greenery, you can make them pop with a white fabric tablecloth.

Taste: Often, several different fabrics will work. When that’s the case, it’s just a matter of preference. 

Create a list of your tablecloth needs and preferences, and then you can quickly narrow your search for the best fabric.

The 9 Best Fabrics for Tablecloths

Are you in the market for new table linens but still deciding which material to choose? Whether you need table runners to match your seasonal centerpieces or are looking to replace old table overlays, the following guide should help you choose the most suitable fabric.

1. Cotton Tablecloths

Dining room designers have long used cotton fabric for tablecloths, due to the incredible versatility of the material. Cotton tablecloths can be anything from plain white to intricately designed and dyed in any color. Cotton woven tablecloths also offer excellent absorbency, which means better protection for your table. 

2. Linen Tablecloths

For a lighter and more breathable fabric than cotton blend tablecloths can provide, linen can be a great option. This natural fiber tablecloth is lighter but still tough and absorbent. However, even the best linen tablecloth requires careful maintenance, as it is prone to wrinkling. 

3. Polyester Tablecloths

You can't go wrong with a polyester tablecloth for a super durable, affordable, lower-maintenance option. It’s also the best stain-resistant tablecloth. Plus, it’s wrinkle-resistant, which makes polyester tablecloths better for outdoor use than cotton blend table linens.   

Also, if you’re looking for something even more affordable without any maintenance, you can always use a disposable tablecloth. 

4. Lace Tablecloths

Easily one of the most attractive materials, lace is used mainly for decoration. Lace tablecloths are beautiful but fragile. The fabric requires you to handle it with care at all times, especially when you’re cleaning it. If you’re looking to beautify a decorative table, lace is a great choice. However, if you need fabric capable of withstanding the wear and tear of a dinner party, opt for a laminated cotton tablecloth instead.

5. Silk Tablecloths

Silk is renowned for its beauty, elegance, and luxury. Few materials can elevate a table like silk, but you should know that it will come with a significantly larger price tag than most other fabrics. However, suppose the look and presence of this beautiful material are of great value to you. Then, the high price tag may not be a deal breaker. 

6. Burlap Tablecloths

On the other end of the material spectrum is burlap, a biodegradable, environmentally friendly, simple, and affordable option. Burlap may not be the most beautiful fabric in the world, but it has plenty to offer. It can be a great option when planning a big outdoor event. 

7. Organza Tablecloths

Organza is often used on tables at significant formal events like weddings. It’s a thin, transparent material commonly used with something solid to add texture, shimmer, detail, and elegance. This delicate material should be handled carefully, but it can easily add a ton to your table design (or even your backdrop stands). 

8. Satin Tablecloths

If you love the glossy, attractive appearance of silk but not the flashy price tag, then satin tablecloths can be a great option. This material is similar to silk in many ways, but it’s a lot easier to make and, therefore, less expensive. 

9. Velvet Tablecloths

Velvet is a heavy, soft, textured material that offers a beautiful shimmer capable of elevating any table and bringing elegance to any event. The sumptuous quality of velvet tablecloths means they cost a bit extra, but their durability and attractive appearance can make them well worth it.

Find the Best Tablecloths at eFavormart

Now that you know the best fabric for tablecloths, you can choose the best products like a pro. You can create the perfect tablescape with eFavormart’s wide selection of high-quality, affordable tablecloths. Take a look today!

Written By Gabrielle Clarke - Updated: March 22, 2024 Gabrielle Clarke is an amazing party planner with over six years of experience in the event management industry. She often shares her insights and contributes various articles to helping others create their own memorable events.