How to Choose the Perfect Tablecloth Size for Your Dining Table

A table without a  tablecloth  is like a bath without bubbles or tea without a biscuit. It's simply missing something. However, you can't just buy any old tablecloth and throw it on willy-nilly. It has to fit your table size and shape, with the right amount of 'drop' to look that Goldilocks amount of ‘just right’. Luckily, we're here to share all the secrets on how to measure your table for a tablecloth so you can find the picture perfect size.

Let’s explore how you can transform your bedroom into your little slice of luxury, evoking the magic of a dreamy holiday escape.

When picking out your perfect tablecloth, you need to think about the size of your table, and then adding a bit more. You need a ‘drop’, which is a few inches of tablecloth draping over the edges of your table. This ensures that your entire table is properly covered and protected by the tablecloth, even if it shifts slightly. Plus, it gives your table that lovely drape. 

Typically you’ll want a drop of about 6-8 inches. But, if you feel a little fancy, 10-12-inch drops are customary for formal settings. 

Dining tables come in all shapes and sizes, meaning slightly different measuring techniques will be needed depending on your table type. Not to worry, though. Whether your table is straight-edged and square or round as the sun, we’ve got the measuring tips you need - and you can head over to our tablecloth shape-choosing guide for advice on selecting a silhouette that suits your dining area.

Round tables are soft and intimate, and a gorgeous tablecloth only makes them all the more lovelier. 

To make sure you get the look you want, measure the diameter of your table, making sure your measuring tape stretches right through the centre. Then, decide how much drop you would like. Times your desired drop length by two then add this to your table’s diameter measurement. Then, hey presto, you have your perfect tablecloth size, with very minimal maths. Yippee. 

Rectangular and square tables are probably the most common shapes since they’re so versatile and easy peasy to position in any and every room. 

To match your square table with the right tablecloth, measure its width and length. Want more of our special secrets? Measuring along the straight edges will help you with accuracy, and you can double-check by measuring along the opposite side too. Nifty, eh?

Then decide how much drop you need. Double that measurement and add to both the table width and length. Voila, that’s how big your tablecloth should be.

Extendable tables are handy for when friends come to visit, but they can be a bit of a nuisance when measuring for a tablecloth since they’re prone to changing up their size with the season and occasion. 

If you know what size your table will be most of the time, we recommend using those measurements to choose your tablecloth. However, if you’re going to be using different sizes frequently, we suggest taking both sets of measurements and buying two different tablecloths, one for each size. More fabulous fabrics? Oh dear… 

You could also measure your table at its largest size, order a tablecloth to fit your fully extended table and style the tablecloth as oversized when your table isn’t extended. This works too and it’s completely up to you and your style preference. 

Once you’ve measured up, it’s time to pick out a wonderful tablecloth to complete your dining room. Our table size guide is here to help you figure out which of our table linens will fit your measurements. Plus, while you’re here, you could take a peek at our other table accessories. From table runners to napkins, we’ve got all the bits and bobs you need to be crowned dinner party host with the most.