How to Keep Tablecloths and Napkins Looking New

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Table linens can last for many, many years with proper care. Without it, however, they can fade and look shabby very quickly. When you invest in nice linens, you want them to last. With proper care, good linens can last a lifetime.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Be cautious about washing and drying your linens. One of the fastest ways to ruin them--or any good fabric for that matter--is to keep tossing them in the dryer. Dry linens by laying them across a table. If you must put them in the dryer, use air or the lowest possible setting.

Step2

Dry linens outside for a clean fresh smell. Use clothespins gently so as not to pull threads on the fabric. The fresh air does linens good, but don't leave them outside for extended periods as the sun can bleach them out.

Step3

Don't iron linens on high heat either. Use your hands to smooth fabric when they're still damp, if you can. If you have wrinkles, toss the piece in the dryer with a damp towel or fabric softener sheet, on cool air. If you must iron, use the coolest setting possible.

Step4

Put your linens away clean. Shake them outdoors to remove crumbs then wash in a gentle cycle--cold water if possible--with a gentle detergent.

Step5

Fold linens with gentle folds, not crisp ones. Place tissue paper around them and between them when storing for any length of time. Keep them stored in a dark, dry place if they're only used seasonally or for special occasions. If you can fit them into a plastic bag without bunching, do so but keep tissue around the fabric so it doesn't lay on the plastic.

Step6

Refresh linens after storing in a cool dryer or air them outside for a short time. If there are creases despite your best efforts to prevent them, iron them on very low heat. Use a thin towel or piece of white cotton between the linen and the iron if they are really delicate.