When it comes to choosing a tablecloth that will be suitable for just about any informal occasion, many people turn to vinyl tablecloths as their material of choice. While other cloth fabrics can be elegant and offer a wide range of different colors, styles, and sizes, they are much harder to clean, and are often prone to permanent staining. With the latest advancements in technology, vinyl is now more natural looking than ever before, and can be made to fit just about any decorating scheme. However, some care must be taken with these tablecloths, so that they will last you longer.
After eating, particularly if you have served your meal outdoors, it's a good idea to wipe down vinyl tablecloths with a damp rag or sponge that has been dipped in soapy water or dish detergent.
The same cleaning principles that you would use to clean a dirty countertop apply to cleaning a tablecloth of this type. If the tablecloth doesn't have any lining, you can flip it over after the top side has already dried, and then repeat this procedure on the underside as well. Regular anti-bacterial kitchen cleaners are ideal for removing any stubborn stains, and at the same time will ensure that you have removed any meat particles or food that has clung to the cloth and could cause disease down the road.
If you are using vinyl tablecloths that have a flannel or cloth backing, which are all the rage at the moment, you may need to follow up this wiping procedure by cleaning the flannel with laundry detergent. This can be popped into the washing machine on the gentle cycle, using cold water so that there is no chance of shrinkage. If you are worried about damage, you could also choose to hand wash the cloth in a bucket of bleach or detergent and water.
To iron winkled vinyl tablecloths, be sure to use the lowest setting. To prevent the vinyl from melting or sticking to the hot iron, you can place a pillowcase in between the iron and the vinyl. This will help ensure a smooth and even finish. When storing your tablecloths, experts recommend that you roll them up rather than folding them, so that you don't leave any crease marks or other wrinkles. These easy maintenance tips will ensure that your vinyl table coverings look their best, and are fresh every time you use them.