Simplicity and efficiency are qualities to look for in wipe-clean tablecloths. Food & drink spills can make a table-top look an eyesore; it will prove simpler to keep clean with an easy-to-wipe surface. Wipe-clean tablecloths can be manufactured from a variety of materials, and you may wonder whether you can wash them once they get dirty.
Find out in the guide below how to go about washing your wipe-clean tablecloths properly and avoiding damaging them in the process.
1. Clean immediately
As soon as anything spills on your tablecloth, clean it up. Some spills such as curry or beetroot may cause stubborn stains when left to remain on the cloth. To wipe, you’ll need a sponge or similar soft material that won’t scratch the surface.
It would help if you acquired quality wipe clean tablecloths made of acrylic, oilcloth or vinyl PVC that won’t quickly succumb to wear & tear. Cloths are there to help protect your table-tops and, as such, shouldn’t be easily damaged by accidental spills or regular wiping and use.
2. Dealing with stains
Some food and drink spills on a tablecloth can cause stains. Water and washing up liquid will clean most food and drink marks. Avoid machine washing or tumble-drying.
To clean vinyl, dampen a clean colour-fast cloth with isopropyl alcohol to remove grease and ink stains. Begin cleaning from the outside, moving towards the centre to help reduce the spread of the stain.
Then, use water to rinse it off with a clean cloth and allow it dry. No matter how ingrained a stain is, don’t attempt to remove it using bleach as it tends to dry it out, causing cracks. Using abrasive cleaners is also not advisable due to their harsh nature that leaves scratches on the cloth.
For patterned oilcloth, test clean a small area first. If there are no ill effects, you can proceed with the rest of it.
Despite this type of tablecloth being easy to wipe down, you should give it a thorough cleaning once in a while. You’ll need a big surface such as a bath or large sink in which to wash it. A tumble dryer or a washing machine is not ideal for cleaning your tablecloths.
Lukewarm water is the most suitable to use with a mild detergent to avoid damage to the cloth. The use of harsh detergents or bleaches can damage your tablecloth. You can then rinse and then drip-dry it on a washing line rather than wringing it out.
3. Treating mildew & mould
Depending on where your tablecloths are, mould & mildew can affect them. The likelihood is outdoor tablecloths will be more affected than those located inside the house. Laying a tablecloth out in direct sunlight is the best remedy as it can kill mould naturally.
After airing it out, use water and washing up liquid to wipe it clean. Then, rinse off with clean, cold water. Finally, apply distilled white vinegar using a clean cloth and wipe it down with backward & forward movements. Without rinsing it, hang the tablecloth on a washing line to dry completely. Proper care is needed to keep wipe-clean tablecloths looking good for years to come.
[disclosure*]
