How to Wash Holiday Table Linens

Piper Dumont

Author: Kate Amore

Another year, another Thanksgiving at my house (do any of you feel like they became the default host somewhere along the way?) So here we are, heading into the attic to pull out the holiday tablecloths and napkins from the last time I hosted.

My holiday linens always have a slight smell when I pull them out of storage – and it’s inevitable that I missed a stain or two – so I like to give them all a good wash before setting them out on the table. This extra wash makes sure they are fresh, free of stains and wrinkles.

Most linens require a little extra care when washing, which goes for mine too. My grandmother passed down the napkins and doilies so the material is very fragile.

Don't let those family heirlooms worry you – I've got you covered. Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to help you have the most pulled together holiday table yet! These tips will help you keep your table linens looking their best, whether you’re preparing for your upcoming holiday or dealing with post-dinner cleanup.

Why You Should Wash Your Holiday Linens

Let's be honest – those linens have been sitting in storage for almost a year (or maybe longer depending on when you last hosted). Even if you cleaned them after last year's celebration, they can benefit from a good wash.

Washing your table linens ensures your holiday spread will not only look amazing, but also will extend the life of the linens. Here’s how to clean your table settings in the washing machine.

Step 1: Assess Your Table Settings

Before throwing everything into the washing machine, take a moment to assess what needs cleaning. Common items include:

Tablecloths
Napkins
Placemats
Dish towels

Make sure to check for any stains or specific care instructions on the labels.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

For table linens with visible stains, pretreating is essential. Here’s how:

Identify Stains: Common culprits include wine, grease, and food spills.
Choose a Stain Remover: Use a mixture of water and half a HeySunday laundry sheet.
Apply: Dab the solution onto the stain and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can damage the fabric.

Step 3: Sort Your Laundry

Sorting is key to a successful laundry day. This step helps prevent color bleeding and fabric damage. Group items based on fabric type and color:

Cotton and Linen: These can typically handle a standard wash cycle.
Delicate Fabrics: If you have table settings made of delicate materials, such as silk or lace, consider washing them separately on a gentle cycle.

Step 4: Choose the Right Settings

When it’s time to wash, pay attention to the machine settings:

Water Temperature: For most table linens, warm water is best. However, check the care labels first; some items may require cold water to prevent shrinking or fading.
Cycle Type: Use a gentle or normal cycle for cotton and linen. For delicate items, opt for the delicate cycle.

Step 5: Use the Right Detergent

Selecting the right detergent can make a big difference. Here are some tips:

Mild Detergent: Choose a mild, eco-friendly detergent that won’t irritate sensitive fabrics.
Avoid Bleach: Unless specifically labeled safe for the fabric, avoid bleach to prevent damage or discoloration.

Step 6: Drying Your Table Settings

After you wash your holiday linens, next up is drying them. How you dry your linens is just as important as washing them. Here are the two options:

Air Dry: Whenever possible, air dry as it is the gentlest method. Hang tablecloths and napkins to prevent shrinkage and wrinkles.
Tumble Dry: If you choose to use a dryer, use a low heat setting and remove items while still slightly damp to minimize wrinkles.

Step 7: Ironing and Folding

Once your linens are clean and dry, you might want to iron them for a crisp finish:

Ironing: Use the appropriate heat setting for the fabric. For cotton, a higher setting is usually fine, while delicate fabrics should be ironed on a low setting.
Folding: Neatly fold your table linens. It’s a good idea to store them this way to help minimize creasing.

Conclusion

Cleaning your table linens in the washing machine and dryer doesn’t have to be daunting. With a few simple steps, you can keep your linens looking their best and ready for any special occasion. Regular care not only enhances their appearance but also extends their lifespan, ensuring you can enjoy beautiful meals for years to come.

For me, it is so special to keep the memory of my grandmother alive by using her holiday linens. Whether you're caring for family heirlooms or using your own collection of holiday linens, taking a few extra minutes to wash them properly means they'll be table-ready for many celebrations to come.

Now go tackle that storage bin of linens – you've got this! And remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect! What matters most is gathering around the table with the people you love.