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Table Linens

Table Linens

Table linens are useful for beautification of any decor, ranging from informal, to a white tie affair. Table linens convert the most modest house into an elegant home. Linen is produced from the fibers of the flax plant and also from the fibers of cannabis. Table linens come in a variety of sizes shapes and colors. They can have patterns or be solid colors. Table linens can be table cloths, placemats, or napkins.

Generally, table linens are made out of either linen or cotton. Both of them are natural fibers however, linen is made out of the flax plant found only in western and northern Europe, while Cotton comes from the cotton plant found all over the world in hot humid climates. Both of these fabrics become soft after use, and are durable and absorbent. The only difference between the linen or cotton fabrics is that the linen is lighter in weight and does not collect lint, but Cotton is slightly heavier fabric and usually shrinks. Even if both are considered the best for formal occasions, yet linen is always preferred.

White is the common color for table linens because it is considered to be formal. Table linens in off white or ivory are also acceptable. If one has a choice of color, then select such a set that matches the decor but does not overpower it. A woven or embroidered pattern is also a best option.

When selecting a table linen, the "drop length" should be considered. Drop length means the quantity of the tablecloth hanging down from the edge of the table towards the floor. Elegance is checked by the drop length; the more it is, the more elegant and formal a table will be.
Most of the table linens can be washed at home in hot water using regular washing detergent. Tablecloths having lace, cut work, or delicate embroidery must be hand washed or dry cleaned, either at the dry cleaner or in the dryer with a home dry cleaning product. Stains from food, drink and lipstick must be washed immediately. Pre-treat the spot before washing with a stain remover, and then wash with detergent having chlorine bleach.

After washing the tablecloth, dry it on a low dryer setting, and remove it before totally dried in order to avoid wrinkles. Hang the tablecloth to finish drying. One must store the linen on a hanger or rolled around a gift wrap tube. While ironing table linens, keep a damp towel between the linen and the iron. A hot iron should not be kept directly on the linen.