Summary:
Taking care of your event linens ensures they last through multiple uses. Learn how to clean, dry, remove stains, and store your linen tablecloths properly to keep them rental-ready or party-perfect. Whether you use polyester tablecloths or sequin linens, this guide outlines how to maintain them from event to event.
Velvet Tablecloths
Tablecloth
Burlap Tablecloth
Why Proper Linen Care Matters
Table linens are a long-term investment for event planners, rental businesses, and DIY decorators. Proper care extends their life, helps you avoid unnecessary replacements, and keeps your setups looking polished. Whether you’re dealing with a chocolate fountain spill or post-wedding wine stains, knowing how to wash and store your linens correctly is key to maintaining their quality.
Step 1: Shake Off Debris and Pre-Treat Stains
After an event, shake out food crumbs or flower petals before laundering. For stains, treat spots as soon as possible. Use a mild stain remover or soak the stained area in cold water before laundering. Be cautious with bleach, especially on colored or delicate fabrics like sequin overlays.
Common stain types and treatments:
- Red wine: Cold water soak, then gentle detergent.
- Grease: Dish soap applied to the stain before washing.
- Wax: Freeze and gently scrape off before washing.
Step 2: Machine Washing Guidelines
Check care labels, but most polyester, satin, and even some velvet event linens are machine-washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid overloading the machine to prevent creasing and uneven washing.
Washing tips by fabric:
- Polyester tablecloths: Durable and wrinkle-resistant. Wash warm with like colors.
- Satin linens: Wash cold and use a laundry bag to avoid snags.
- Sequin linens: Spot clean when possible. For full washes, use mesh bags and cold water only.
- Velvet linens: Prefer dry cleaning or light cold washes.
Step 3: Drying Your Linens Safely
Tumble dry on low or air dry. Remove immediately to avoid wrinkles. High heat can damage delicate fabrics and set stains. If air is drying, lay linens flat or hang them to preserve their shape. Avoid direct sunlight for darker or brightly colored linens to prevent fading.
Step 4: Ironing and Steaming
Once dry, iron your linens on the appropriate setting. Use low heat for delicate fabrics and steam for stubborn wrinkles. You can also hang the linens and use a garment steamer for quick touch-ups. Wrinkle-resistant options like spandex table covers often skip this step altogether.
Step 5: Folding and Storage
Fold linens carefully along seam lines to avoid creasing. Use acid-free tissue paper between folds for extra protection during long-term storage. Store in breathable containers or cotton bags. Avoid plastic bins for long periods as they can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Best Practices for Long-Term Linen Storage
- Always store linens clean and completely dry.
- Use a cool, dry space with minimal light exposure.
- Label by size, color, or event type for easy access.
- Hang long linens or drapes on padded hangers when possible.
For professionals managing multiple events, investing in commercial linen carts or storage shelves can make organization more efficient. This is especially true for larger pieces like event draping or table skirting.
When planning your reception setup, adding chair covers for wedding can help create a polished, cohesive look.
FAQs
Can I use bleach on linen tablecloths?
Use bleach only on white polyester linens and avoid it on colored or sequin fabrics. Oxygen-based bleach is a gentler alternative for stain removal.
What is the best way to remove wrinkles from table linens?
Steam is the fastest and safest method. For severe wrinkles, iron on the reverse side using the correct heat setting for your fabric type.
How do I store tablecloths to avoid creases?
Fold them loosely along seam lines and store them flat when possible. Use tissue paper between folds to reduce creasing.
How do I wash sequin tablecloths?
Spot cleaning is preferred. If machine washing is necessary, place them in a mesh laundry bag, use cold water, and choose a gentle cycle.
