Table Linen

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is table linen, and what's included in the category?

Table linen is a catch-all term for the soft textile pieces used on a dining or kitchen table - tablecloths, table runners, placemats, napkins and tea towels. Originally made from flax linen (hence the name), today's table linen comes in cotton, linen, polyester and bamboo. The category covers everything between the table surface and the dinnerware. Our guide to table linens for home decor breaks down each piece.

What size tablecloth do I need for a round or rectangular table?

For a round table, measure the diameter and add 30–60 cm for a typical "lap" drop, a 120 cm round table needs a 150–180 cm cloth. For rectangular tables, measure length and width and add 30–60 cm to each side. A 6-foot (180 cm) rectangular table works best with a 220–240 cm cloth. Our tablecloth sizing guide covers floor-length drops and standard table sizes.

Cotton vs polyester vs bamboo table linen? Which should I buy?

Cotton is soft, breathable and easy to wash, the go-to for everyday tablecloths, runners and tea towels. Polyester resists staining and creasing better than cotton, making it practical for frequent use or kids' tables. Bamboo holds its shape, protects timber from heat and brings a natural textured look, best for runners and placemats. For a structured bamboo option, see our Talon Bamboo Runner and Placemat set.

What colour table linen suits a wood, marble or white table?

Warm timber tables look best with neutral tones: linen, taupe, mushroom and natural, that let the wood grain show. On white marble or painted tables, deeper colours (burnt orange, mustard, ruby, forest green) create contrast and warmth. On dark tables, lighter cloths (white, salmon pink, yellow green) lift the setting. A Langham Taupe tablecloth is a safe neutral that works on most table tones.

How do I coordinate a tablecloth with table runners and placemats?

Start with a neutral tablecloth as the base layer, then add a runner in a stronger colour or texture down the centre. Place placemats over both, a third of each placemat sitting on the runner, two-thirds on the cloth. Keep one piece neutral and let one piece carry the colour. Our guide to choosing a table runner covers length, width and matching tips.

How do I remove candle wax and stains from a tablecloth?

For candle wax, let it harden, pressing while wet pushes it deeper into the fibres. Scrape gently with a blunt knife, then place absorbent paper over the residue and iron on a low setting; the heat lifts the wax into the paper. For red wine, blot (don't rub), then cover with salt to absorb colour before washing. More care tips are in our tablecloth tips and tricks guide.