The Best Table Covers

OstepDecor Clear Plastic Table Cover

The clear winner

This versatile cover is easy to cut and customize to your household's needs.

Best Overall

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Plastic is generally the go-to if you want something to be completely waterproof and durable. OstepDecor’s clear table covers are made of  BPA-free PVC material — and they’re odorless, too. They’re heat-resistant up to 176 °F, so they can handle warm plates and cups. We love that you can use these for your desk or as a chair mat to prevent scuffs on your floor. We recommend warming the plastic lightly to smooth out any “waves” so that it lays perfectly flat on your surface. Heating it up also makes it easier to cut if you’re customizing your size.

Pros:

• Comes in two different thicknesses as well as in clear or frosted finishes
• Can still see the color and pattern of your table underneath while still protecting it
• Very easy to clean

Cons:

• Custom-cut plastic may not look completely neat on the edges

Laminet Elastic-Edged Printed Polyester Table Cover

A snug fit

This table cover has elastic around the edges to help prevent slipping.

Best For Round Tables

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This table cover is a cinch — literally. The edges have elastic sewn into them, so it fits your table easily without any need to customize its size. It’s made of polyester that has thick padding to provide extra cushioning and protect your home essentials. The material is water-resistant and wipes clean easily. We like that you don’t have to worry about any excess cloth or draping since the elastic means everything is tucked away, reducing the chance of anything getting snagged. Despite being made for round tables, we think this works great for chairs or side tables kept in storage since the elastic helps keep out dust and dirt.

Pros:

• Comes in different patterns if you want to add a different look to your table
• Elastic edge is loose enough to remove it when you want to but snug enough to reduce slipping

Cons:

• Not machine washable

Yourtablecloth Cushioned Vinyl Table Pad

Going undercover

Consider this an ideal middle layer to add some extra cushioning where you need it.

Best Under The Tablecloth

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If you want to give your table extra protection, go for Yourtablecloth’s pad. It has water-resistant vinyl on one side and a polyester flannel backing on the other side. Once you layer it under your primary tablecloth, it provides a great buffer to reduce scratches and other damage. It’s just the right amount of thickness to provide cushioning without being too soft for dishes and glassware to sit securely on top of it. Since vinyl isn’t heat-resistant, make sure you still use trivets for especially hot dishes. We love this option for use with thin fabric tablecloths that aren’t water-resistant.

Pros:

• Easy to fold and store away
• Customizable to whatever size you need

Cons:

• Can only wipe down the vinyl side; we don’t recommend trying to run this cover through the washing machine

RYB Home Waterproof Polyester Tablecloth

The multipurpose sheet

This waterproof sheet is great for indoor and outdoor needs — and it has plenty of uses beyond covering tables.

Most Versatile

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Those who want an actual fabric table cover without worrying about spills can consider RYB Home’s tablecloth the best of both worlds. It’s made of waterproof polyester that’s also scratch- and heat-resistant. Unlike most fabric tablecloths, which you have to change out as soon as a spill happens, you simply wipe spills off this tablecloth. The cloth also features a slightly textured weave that gives it an elevated feel, and it’s got a good heft to it. It’s a multi-purpose tablecloth you can use for picnics, beach days, or even as photo backdrops or furniture covers, making it an easy but impactful investment.

Pros:

• Ultra-convenient and low maintenance care — it’s machine washable, and you can iron it on low
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Wrinkle-resistant fabric

Cons:

• Oil stains are harder to clean

Tewene Cotton Linen Tablecloth

A little something special

This tablecloth adds a casual but elegant touch to any table for those who want a heaping helping of form with their function.

Best Look

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There are times when all you want is a pretty tablecloth that will instantly elevate your table, and Tewene’s tablecloth rises to the occasion. Made of a heavier-weight cotton-linen blend, it has an artisanal, rustic feel to it. It’s surprisingly easy to care for, too — it’s wrinkle- and shrink-proof. We love all the little details, from the tassels bordering the tablecloth to the stitching across the length of it. It’s machine washable, though we recommend handwashing it so that it lasts longer. If you do use your washing machine, go for a gentle cycle.

Pros:

• The heavier quality of this fabric makes it versatile as a throw for couches and beds
• Available in beautiful colors and different sizes

Cons:

• Not water-resistant

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when I’m buying a table cover?

We recommend thinking about how functional you need your cover to be. If you want a completely waterproof, sturdy surface, go for plastic. But if you’re going for fabrics, look out for options that are easy to care for since these will be getting daily use and will likely need to be cleaned frequently.

Any other tips?

Remember that even if your table cover is heat-resistant, you should always use coasters and trivets for hot pans and dishes. If a dish is too hot to set directly on your hardwood table, you shouldn’t set it directly on your table cover.