The Best Holiday Table Runners

Table runners come in a variety of designs and patterns. Adding one to your table adds interest to your tablescape with layers of color and texture. It even protects your tables from spills and damage from hot pans or candle wax.

Buying Guide for the Best Holiday Table Runners

Why buy a holiday table runner?

The holidays are a great time to decorate every corner of your house. Holiday table runners spread seasonal cheer and spruce up your dining table. They’re a great starting point to add decoration to your table since they work well on bare tables or over tablecloths, and candles, centerpieces, charger plates, and fancy silverware will complement a holiday table runner well.

What should you look for in a holiday table runner?

Here’s what you should consider before you make your purchase:

• Measurements: Table runners come in various lengths to fit most tables. Before you purchase, you should measure the length of your table to determine what runners will fit it properly. Some table runners are meant to hang over the edge, so keep that in mind when taking measurements.
• Fabric: Since table runners are often used on dining tables, it’s important to consider one that will be easy to clean up. Many table runners can be conveniently tossed in the washing machine to wash out food or drink spills and stains. You’ll likely want to steam iron them to get them perfectly wrinkle-free.
• Design: Table runners are available in many designs appropriate for various occasions and holidays. Consider what other decor you plan to put out on the table so that the runner matches or at least doesn’t clash with your decorations.

How should you style a holiday table runner?

Table runners can be styled in a few ways, though the most common is with the two ends hanging over the sides of the table. Some table runners just fit the length of the table and don’t hang off the sides, and that’s okay, too—just measure beforehand if you want a specific look. Other runners may have decorative elements incorporated, including beading, crystals, tassels, or fringe to spice things up. You might want to sprinkle confetti, rose petals, jingle bells, ornaments, candy canes, or pine needles on top of the table runner to add extra fun to the tablescape.

Our Picks for the Best Holiday Table Runners

Pros: This farmhouse-inspired table runner features a buffalo plaid design that seats tables of 8 to 12 people. This table runner will stand out in a great way and comes in a variety of sizes and colors. It is wrinkle-resistant and machine washable. It makes a great statement for the holidays but is simple enough that it can be used year-round.

Cons: If you’re looking for a table runner that can be thrown in the washing machine, this one may not be the right choice because it could shrink. Some found the pattern to be slightly off-center.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a table runner with holiday flair without being over-the-top, this one is a great choice. The price is fantastic, and it even makes a wonderful gift.

 

Pros: This linen table runner comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit your needs. The subtle aesthetic will match your decor easily since it is a solid color with no pattern, though it does have a nice texture. It’s easy to care for this table runner as it is machine washable and can be ironed on low or steamed for a crisp look. It requires minimal care and can be air-dried then ironed for a crisp look.

Cons: With linen blends, each batch is different, so there may be a slight color and texture variation in your purchase. This choice is not for people looking for thick table runners since it’s quite thin. You may have to iron it more than you like to get the wrinkles out.

Bottom Line: This linen table runner is a reasonable price and will seamlessly blend into almost any home and decor style. Allow your holiday decorations to be the statement piece with this table runner.

 

Pros: This poinsettia and holly embroidered table runner is the perfect way to bring warm holiday vibes into your home this season. It is a chic and elegant decoration that is durable and made of 100% polyester. The white background pops with red poinsettias and green holly. It’s easy to put this table runner through the washing machine or even hand wash. It can go in the dryer with no heat and can be lightly steam ironed as needed.

Cons: Some reviewers mentioned they placed a tablecloth underneath the runner since it is a thinner fabric. Others have mentioned this table runner is not very soft.

Bottom Line: This table runner looks great hanging over your table edges for a fanciful look. The beautiful detail makes this piece stand out, and it is available at a great price to dress up your home.

 

Pros: This 100% cotton table runner has a gorgeous red and gold snowflake pattern and will be a standout piece in your home. It’s reversible to feature another pretty snowflake pattern on the other side. It comes in several other pretty patterns, too. It’ll add an elegant touch to your holiday tablescape.

Cons: Some find the fabric doesn’t offer a very soft feel. Others have mentioned it may shrink in the washer. The wrinkles may also be a little tricky to get out.

Bottom Line: This unique table runner brings a finishing touch to your dining decor. It’s a high-quality product at a reasonable price and makes a great housewarming gift.

 

Pros: This tartan table runner will enhance your holiday decorations with its classic pattern. It’s easy to care for it because it’s machine washable on the gentle cycle and can be tumbled dry on low. The 100% cotton piece will bring good tidings and cheer to your table. It can easily be incorporated into many different styles of homes.

Cons: This table runner is on the thinner side. It can shrink in the dryer if the heat is too high. Some reviewers said it must be ironed after cleaning, so if you don’t like to iron, this may not be the best choice.

Bottom Line: This table runner is a great price, and it makes a great gift option. It’s a must-have for hosts and hostesses during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

While it may not always be the first thing you think of when decorating tables, table runners serve a great purpose beyond decoration. They’re functional pieces of protection for your table as well as a great way to welcome warmth and holiday cheer into your home all season long.