What Can I Do to Protect My Table?

I got a beautiful new dining room table -- now what? My sister-in-law did just that and she's so protective of it that she covers it with a thin layer of clear vinyl 24/7.  I had to tell her that this may keep spills away from the wood and scratches at bay, but it does not protect from heat.   The best way to protect your table is with traditional table pads custom made to fit your table.  The table pads go under the tablecloth and protect your table from the elements. I found lists of table pad companies using google -- but it is getting to be harder to find ta local source who will come out and measure your table. 

As an alternative that's easier to store and more affordable, I recomment silencer pads. I love the ones from Matouk and use them personally.  We have my huband's antique family dining table with the lions' feet pedestals and extra wide width.  I cover it with one of these pads and top it with a Le Jacquard Francais coated tablecloth (which adds further protection -- look for a separate blog post on coated tablecloths) -- as my spouse does use it daily for various things and I had begun to see wear on the table where he sits.

 It's always smart to protect your table from heat and stains.  Silencer pads will help prevent scratches and scuffs and keep the dining table pristine . The pads are both heat-resistant and water-repellent. Made from cotton and polyester, the table padding can be easily trimmed with a pair of scissors — so choose the size that is slightly smaller than your tablecloth. 

They have hard to find sizes -- like a 106" round that is not seamed -- letting your tablecloth fall smoothly into place. And they make three sizes to go under placemats -- which protects the table also. And custom sizes are available as well.