How to Clean Table Linens

Clean table linens to keep them fresh.

Bump your table setting up a notch and put away the paper napkins and tablecloths. Using fabric table linens on a dining room table adds an instant elegance to even an everyday table. As you use fabric table linens, inevitable soiling will occur. Clean table linens carefully to remove stains and keep the fabric bright and soft. With proper care, your table linens will add beauty and special charm to both casual and special dining occasions.

Things You'll Need

• Gentle laundry detergent
• Clothesline
• Clothespins
• Dryer
• Spray starch
• Iron

Instructions

1. Check the care labels on your table linens before you wash them to ensure you use the proper water temperature and washing process. Lacking specific care instructions, opt for cool water temperatures and gentle laundry detergent.

2. Place table linens of similar colors into the washing machine. Set the water temperature to cool and the wash cycle to gentle. Add an appropriate amount of gentle laundry detergent to the washing machine for the size of your wash load and start the washing machine.

3. Remove the linens from the washing machine when the wash cycle finishes.

4. Hang the linens out on a clothesline with clothespins or put them into the dryer. If you use the dryer, set the heat to low.

5. Remove the linens from the dryer or take them down from the clothesline when they are almost dry.

6. Set the iron to medium heat and place a napkin onto the ironing board with the wrong side facing up. Spray the starch onto the napkin, holding the can approximately 10 inches away from the napkin. Iron the napkin immediately while the starch is still moist. Turn the napkin over and repeat the starching and ironing on the right side of the napkin. Repeat this process with each linen.

7. Fold the linens and put them away in a linen drawer or closet.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find stains on the linens, pretreat the stains before you wash them. Soak the linen in warm water and add a small amount of dishwashing detergent over the stained area. Brush the soap into the stain with an old toothbrush and then wash the table linens in the washing machine. Assess the stains before drying the linens in the dryer because dryer heat may set stains and make them permanent.

References

• Table Linens: Table Linen Care