Tips for Taking Care of Table Linens

How often do you use table linens?  If you are like me, the answer is likely Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, birthdays, and special family gatherings.  For the last two, I typically use a black table cloth and napkins which could be easily replaced by something from a department store.  The other three occasions require the ‘nice’ stuff; items that if were ruined, I’d probably be awfully sad about it.

Whether everyday or top of the line, all table linens need the proper care in order to last for more than one meal.  With that in mind, here are the do’s and don’ts of keeping your table linens in tip-top shape:

• If a spill occurs, don’t rub.  Instead, blot the excess with a clean white cloth and then stop.  Rubbing can push the stain further into the fabric and using a towel with color could cause that color to transfer to the tablecloth.  Finally, avoid using paper napkins because some contain bleaching agents which when rubbed onto the fabric could cause color loss.
• The type of stain dictates what you do next.  For oily stains like salad dressing, butter, and gravy, blot dry with a clean white cloth and apply some corn starch to soak up the excess, then drop if off at any A Cleaner World location.  For water-based stains like coffee, wine, or soda, first check the care label to see if it is machine washable.  If so try blotting with a damp white cloth and then blot with a dry white cloth.  Treat the stain and then follow the directions when laundering.  If it isn’t machine washable, blot the spill with a dry white cloth only and take it to a professional.
• If wax drips onto your table cloth, gently scrape it off with a dull butter knife.  Then check the care label to see how to provide the proper care.
• After your event is over, gather all soiled linens and shake off excess crumbs and such outside.  Then provide the proper care, based on the instructions from the care label, as soon as possible.  The longer stains and spills sit, the more difficult they become to remove.
• Finally, never put table linens away without cleaning first because insects are attracted to food and spills.  If you put them away dirty, the next time you pull them out for use, you may find small holes appearing after washing because of munching insects weakening fibers.

If you have questions or need help with your table linens, please call or stop by any one of our locations.  We are always available to help.