How to Measure Your Table for a Tablecloth

We frequently get asked how to determine what size tablecloth to use on your table. First you need the width of your table and then the length.  If you are going to add leaves to your table you need to measure those also.  Formal dining tablecloth length is 12 to 20″ on all sides. But very few people like the tablecloth to go beyond the seat of their chairs — so that is a good measurement to get also. 

Determine what you would like for your drop and add two times that to your length and width.  If you use table pads on top of your table to further protect it, add two inches to your width and your length.A nd then choose a tablecloth that comes close to those measurements.

Example -- the measurement of my table is 42" wide by 80" long with out leaves.  I'd like a 10" drop all around and I use table pads.  42 + 10 + 10 +2 = 64" tablecloth width would fit my profile.  A lot of tablecloths come 69-70" wide.  That means instead of a 10" drop on each side I'll end up with a 13" drop if I use a 70" wide tableloth.  For length, my math would be 80 + 10 + 10 + 2 = 102".  A lot of tablecloths are available in 98" long or 106-108" long.  Using the 108" I would have the same 3" extra on each side that I had with the 70" width.  

What’s too short for a tablecloth?  Generally we like at least an 8″ drop on the sides.  With 8-10 being what most people will end up with.  On the ends, you can get by with 6″ — because your tablecloth will have points that are longer at the corners of the table — making your 6″ drop look okay. But 8-10" is generally the best.

On a round table, 8″ can look more skimpy so try and go for something in the 10-12″ range.  You can also go European and use a square tablecloth on a round. In this case, you will have longer points so you can get away with a shorter drop — like 6″, as the points will compensate on the overall look.

In terms of fabric, cotton and/or linen are more treatable for stains. Polyester is hard to get stains out of.  There are, however, a number of poly tablecloths that have some built in stain resistance that make them more user friendly and machine washable and dryable.  Varenna is one we like that is currently being retired. 

And don’t forget to have Linen Wash on hand for taking care of your table linens.

Originally post November 2019 and revised and updated April 2025.