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, pattern, and texture. It even protects your tables from spills and damage from hot pans or candle wax.

Buying Guide for 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?

• 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, flowers, pine needles or branches, jingle bells, ornaments, candy canes, garlands, or pinecones on top of the table runner to add extra fun to the tablescape.

Our Picks for the Best Holiday Table Runners

Pros: The OurWarm Christmas Embroidered Table Runner is a great way to dress your holiday table. This 15- x 70-inch runner features an embossed pattern with an attractive openwork design. The white background pops with red poinsettias and green holly. This item is versatile; it’ll make a great addition to your dining room table, coffee table, or entryway console table. Care is straightforward; machine or hand wash without worrying that the colors will bleed. Then tumble dry with no heat and steam iron lightly when necessary.

Cons: This runner may be a bit thinner than some people prefer. 

Bottom Line: If you’re looking to add a festive floral touch to your table or anywhere else you may be decorating for the holidays, this runner is a solid option.

 

Pros: Add some sparkle to your decor with this winter snowflake sparkling jacquard table runner. The elegant design gives a shimmering effect in any room and makes for the perfect decoration for the holidays or any special occasion. This table runner is made of 100% cotton, making it easy to care for and machine washable. Its generous size of 14 x 72 inches makes it great for most dining room tables.

Cons: This runner is not lined, so the material is lightweight. Some users may prefer something heavier that will lie flatter on the table.

Bottom Line: This stylish snowflake table runner adds a festive atmosphere to your decorating needs. In addition to this 14- x 72-inch runner, this design is available as an extra-long 14- x 108-inch runner. A compatible napkin set and table topper are also available from this brand to complete your elegant table setting.

 

Pros: This table runner features lovely embroidery and is a great way to add a pop of color and detail to your holiday decor. It is made of 100% polyester and comes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to look great on any table. This runner is machine or hand-washable and can handle a warm iron when needed.

Cons: It’s good that this runner can withstand light ironing since it can be quite wrinkly straight out of the package.

Bottom Line: This Grelucgo Embroidered Christmas Tree Table Runner is an excellent addition to your holiday table. Matching placemats, table toppers, napkins, valances, and mantle scarves are available if you want to perfectly coordinate your embroidered holiday decor.

 

Pros: This 100% cotton table runner has a gorgeous red, white, and green Christmas greenery pattern and will be a standout piece in your home. It’s reversible to feature a pretty red and white Christmas star print 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 or holiday neighbor 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 users 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.

 

Pros: With its cheerful snowman design, this table runner is the perfect pick to pull your table setting together all winter long. Made of 100% spun polyester, it’s soft, durable, and machine washable on gentle, with low tumble drying. You can also use an iron if you want to ensure a neat, flat layout. This adorable winter-themed runner is appropriate for a table that can seat four to six people. 

Cons: If you’re looking for a true red runner for your table, this one might not be for you. It might be too dark for your liking.

Bottom Line: This decorative table runner adds a winter wonderland feel to your dining decor. It’s ideal for tabletop decorating, used alone or with other compatible table linens, and is available in various lengths.

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.