How to Care for a Linen Tablecloth
A linen tablecloth is a beautiful complement fine china and crystal, especially during the holidays. Linen offers an elegance through its sheen and softness that other table coverings do not. Yet, caring for a linen tablecloth requires knowledge and attention to detail. If cared for properly, a fine linen tablecloth can offer years of service and beauty. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Stain dissolver
- Gentle laundry soap
- Steam iron
- Padded hanger, fabric bag, carpet tube, or acid-free tissue paper
Instructions
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Treat stains immediately, before laundering, with a stain dissolver that's safe to use on linen. Follow the product instructions for application.
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Launder the tablecloth in warm water on a gentle cycle with soap designated for fine washables.
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Remove the tablecloth from the washer and shake it out before placing in a medium-heat dryer. This will help reduce wrinkles.
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Remove the linen tablecloth from the dryer while it is still damp, and steam iron it using a medium-to-hot setting. Press the linen on the back before ironing the front. Stop ironing while the fabric is still damp and hang to finish drying.
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Fold the tablecloth in thirds and place it on a padded clothes hanger for storage or roll it around a carpet tube. If you want to wrap the linen, use acid-free tissue paper or fabric bags.
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Tips & Warnings
Place linens that are delicate or embroidered into a lingerie bag before laundering to help protect them.
Avoid using chlorine bleach for linen as it can yellow the fabric. Instead, use oxygen bleach.
Never wring damp linen. You may break the fibers.
Never store linen in a cedar chest, cardboard box, or plastic bag. The linen may rot, streak, or yellow in these containers.
