The Best White Tablecloths

A white tablecloth can be used at home to class up your dining room table or at the park to cover a public table for a private event. They’re often used by restaurants or hotels to provide classy and neutral settings. Some crafters and vendors use them to display colorful handmade crafts and fine art to make them pop. And disposable white tablecloths are great for children’s parties. Whatever you might need one for, there are many white tablecloth options available to help you complete your space. Read on to see our hand-picked selection of white tablecloths for your next event.

Buying Guide for White Tablecloths

Why buy a white tablecloth?

While decorating trends often change, the classics are timeless. A crisp, white tablecloth exudes cleanliness and refinement when used in your home or at your next party. There’s a reason professional event planners and vendors love to use white tablecloths. They create a great base to make table settings pop and will go with almost any decor style. Plus, many white tablecloths are easy to launder or dry clean.

What should you consider in a white tablecloth?

• Shape: Be sure to order the correct shape for your table, whether it’s round, rectangular, or square.
• Size: Whether you’re covering a round table, a square table, or a rectangular table, be sure to measure before you purchase a tablecloth. For round tables, measure the diameter of your table, then add 16 inches for a nice drape. For square or rectangular tables, measure the length and width of your table, then add 16 inches for a standard lap-length drop.
• Washability: Machine-washable tablecloths will be much easier to care for. A stain-resistant fabric like polyester should deter stains and wash out well in your washer.
• Fabric Choice: A sturdy fabric shouldn’t pill or collect too much lint. Be sure to read wash and care instructions carefully before laundering. If you’re choosing a disposable white tablecloth, it might be important to you that it’s not transparent. A thicker plastic will keep it looking white when spread out, rather than see-through.

Which tablecloth is better—stretch or traditional?

Stretch fabric tablecloths are ideal for events with tight spaces. The fabric won’t get caught on passersby. Stretch tablecloths are also great for DJs or AV coordinators who use electrical equipment to help keep wires contained. Also, some event stylists simply enjoy the look of a stretch tablecloth better than a standard, draping tablecloth.

Traditional tablecloths, however, are the standard for a wedding or special event. The draping creates drama that a stretch tablecloth just can’t duplicate. They add a little something special to almost any space.

Our Picks for the Best White Tablecloths

Pros: This rectangular tablecloth fits standard banquet tables, picnic tables, folding tables, and larger dining tables. The hem is carefully stitched with a folded border to ensure no loose threads. The easy-care instructions make it a snap to wash at home.

Cons: While it’s wrinkle-resistant, it’s not necessarily wrinkle-free. The cloth is thick, but it’s not the softest. When used outdoors for prolonged periods, the threads can become damaged.

Bottom Line: The classic design and long-lasting, washable fabric make this tablecloth a great selection for your next event. Because it’s made with thick material, it can protect your tabletops from stains and damage.

 

Pros: Made with heavier plastic, these disposable table covers are thicker and far less see-through than most on the market. The folds from the packaging come out after sitting out for roughly an hour. Since you can’t see through them, they can be used as decorative curtains or wall covers as well.

Cons: Since these tablecloths are made of plastic, they are non-biodegradable. While stain-resistant, they are not stain-proof. They can generally only be used once.

Bottom Line: These white plastic tablecloths are a great option for outdoor gatherings or children’s parties. They conveniently come in packages of six. They make an excellent and practical base for your tablescape.

 

Pros: Tightly woven fibers help to prevent stretching or fading so that your tablecloths will last for multiple uses. These are made to drape all the way to the floor for a classic, elegant look. A handy measuring guide is available to help you find your perfect fit.

Cons: Though they’re marked as machine washable, they hold up best if dry cleaned. Because of their shape, there may be some puckering in the hem. These white tablecloths are not water-resistant, so they will become saturated if left out in the rain.

Bottom Line: These tablecloths are the classic, elegant style that most people love to see at weddings and upscale banquets. Plus, they’re durable and functional.

 

Pros: Because of the stretchy fabric, this tablecloth is easy to slip onto your table. It’s great for tight spaces; you won’t have to worry about people tripping over your tablecloth because it’s fitted and secured to the table legs. Stretch tablecloths are highly recommended by crafters, vendors, and DJs because they’re great for hiding wires or equipment underneath the table and because they keep goods and expensive electronics on the tabletop in place. They won’t blow away in the wind, either.

Cons: The leg pockets can rip if not properly secured or if the table gets dragged across the ground. The stretch material may become snagged. Because this tablecloth is made to fit tightly, you should measure your table precisely before ordering one. A loose-fitting stretch tablecloth will look sloppy, and it won’t secure properly.

Bottom Line: These white tablecloths are sleek and functional, great for windy days, displays, and DJ tables. Because they’re made with stretchy fabric, you don’t have to worry about wrinkles.

 

Pros: The convenient two-pack means you get more bang for your buck. They’re greatly admired for their wrinkle-resistant fabric. The fabric is thick enough to keep the table from showing through.

Cons: They are not entirely stain-resistant, so any stains will need to be carefully pre-treated before you wash them. Lint is very attracted to the fabric, so they need to be stored away from towels, preferably in a covered container or storage bag.

Bottom Line: This is a great product to buy if you’re planning a party with multiple smaller tables. They’re made to last and can be washed at home. They’ll fit square and round tables.

Final Thoughts

There are so many white tablecloths on the market today. If you’re looking to buy a classic white tablecloth, consider what you need it for, how long you will need it, how you can clean it, and which shape you need. Then, take a look at our picks to find the one that’s best for you.