What size tablecloth should you get for a picnic table?

Picnic tables range from 6 to 8 feet in length and 27 to 30 inches in width. Tablecloths for picnic tables are at least 84 inches long for 6-foot-long tables and at least 104 inches long for 8-foot-long tables, and 54 inches wide. This won’t give you exactly the standard overhang of 8 inches on all sides, but a shorter overhang on a picnic table can be a good thing—there is less fabric to blow around.

How do you hold down an outdoor tablecloth?

Tablecloth clips or clamps keep a tablecloth from blowing away and secure it to the table. The clips are made of stainless steel or plastic and designed, so they won’t scratch the table or damage the tablecloth. In a pinch, you can secure a tablecloth with duct table or bungee cords or place heavy objects like dishes in the corners.

How do you keep a tablecloth from sliding?

Tablecloth clips or clamps accomplish two things at once: they keep the tablecloth from sliding and from blowing away. Instead of tablecloth clips, you can also place a piece of a non-slip rubber roll shelf liner underneath the tablecloth. The material comes in a roll so that you can cut it to the required size. Some products are available in different colors, and you can pick one that matches your tablecloth, especially if it’s made of a thin fabric and you don’t want the rubber liner to show through.

How do you get wrinkles out of a plastic tablecloth?

Gentle dry or moist heat helps soften the plastic and remove the wrinkles. For minor wrinkles, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting. Run the hairdryer back and forth over the wrinkles and smooth them out with your hand. Another option is to hang the tablecloth on a clothesline for a full day when the weather is warm or hot. A third option that works well for vinyl tablecloths is using an iron on low heat in combination with a thick damp bath towel, ensuring no part of the iron is ever placed directly on the plastic. Check if the crease is gone and repeat once, if necessary. Iron out the creases one by one and spray more water on the towel to keep it damp.

The 6 Best Outdoor Tablecloths of 2023

Weather-resistant linens are an excellent way to add character to your outdoor dining table—and make it easier to keep it clean. Whether you're looking for an option that is fitted to a tabletop and won't blow away, or you're looking for a more formal tablecloth that can be thrown in the washing machine, this roundup features the best options we've found on the market.

We've spent hours researching the best outdoor tablecloths, evaluating durability, style and sizing options, and overall value to help you turn your patio, deck, or backyard into an outdoor dining oasis.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Williams Sonoma Navy Oilcloth Outdoor Tablecloth at Williams-Sonoma

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Maxmill Jacquard Tablecloth at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Pottery Barn Sunbrella Indoor/Outdoor Tablecloth at Pottery Barn

Jump to Review

Best with Umbrella Hole:

DII Ikat Outdoor Tabletop Collection at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Picnic Tables:

REI Co-op Campwell Tablecloth with Organizer at REI

Jump to Review

Best Fitted:

smiry Elastic Fitted Table Covers at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Williams Sonoma

View On Williams-Sonoma

What We Like

Moisture-resistant
Available with umbrella hole
Oversized to fit most tables

What We Don't Like

Only available in one color

The Williams Sonoma Navy Oilcloth Outdoor Tablecloth, while a bit of a splurge, is our best overall pick because it's made from high-quality materials and designed to fit most table sizes and shapes. This cotton tablecloth is coated in acrylic to resist moisture, spills, and stains, so you can entertain and be at ease about the post-party cleanup. Just pop this tablecloth in a cold cycle and then tumble dry or line dry before storing until your next outdoor gathering.

While this tablecloth is technically only sold in two sizes, we appreciate that these sizes are large enough to cover a range of tables from small to larger in dimension. You can also purchase it with or without an umbrella hole. Although only available in one color, we think the navy is a subtle and classic option that harkens to all things nautical: days on the water, warm sunshine, and gulls crying overhead. Considering the attention to detail and careful design that went into this tablecloth, we think it's a worthy investment piece to add to your hosting regime.

Price at time of publish: $90+

_{Size: 70 x 108 inches or 70 x 70 inches | Shape: Rectangle or square | Material: Cotton with acrylic coating | Color: Navy}

maxmill Jacquard Table Cloth Swirl Pattern Spillproof Wrinkle Resistant Oil Proof Heavy Weight Soft Tablecloth for Kitchen Dinning Tabletop Decoration...

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Heavy-weight fabric
Spill-resistant
Matching napkins also available

What We Don't Like

Can shrink in the wash

If you want to dress up your patio table on a budget, the Maxmill Jacquard Tablecloth is an elegant way to do that. It’s made of a heavyweight polyester that’s both spill-proof and resistant to water, oil, and wrinkles. If you look closely, you can see the understated jacquard swirl pattern in the fabric that's understated yet formal enough for any type of outdoor gathering.

The tablecloth comes in 10 sizes in square, rectangle, and circle shapes, and you can also choose from over a dozen color options, from classic white to bright red to earth-toned rust. You can even purchase matching cloth napkins for this tablecloth. It is recommended that this tablecloth be washed in a cold, gentle cycle and tumble dried, so we recommend avoiding using heat in case it shrinks or damages the fabric. However, this tablecloth is still a great alternative to disposable options, plus with prices starting at under $20, you might even want to scoop up multiple colors.

Price at time of publish: $14

_{Size: 52 x 52 inches, 52 x 70 inches, 60 x 60 inches, 60 x 84 inches, 60 x 104 inches, 60 x 120 inches, 60 x 140 inches, 70 inches round, 70 x 70 inches, or 90 inches round | Shape: Rectangle, round, square | Material: Polyester | Color: Beige, black, burgundy, charcoal, ivory, light grey, navy blue, red, rust, sage green, sky blue, teal, turquoise, white, or yellow}

4.2

SunbrellaÂ® Awning Stripe Outdoor Tablecloth

Pottery Barn

View On Pottery Barn

What We Like

Designed to withstand mildew and fading
Classic pattern
OEKO-TEX certified

What We Don't Like

Not machine washable
Only one size

The Sunbrella Indoor/Outdoor Tablecloth is a splurge-worthy tablecloth designed for all occasions. It’s made of a soft, yarn-dyed acrylic Sunbrella fabric that’s specifically designed to stand up to the elements by resisting water, mildew, fading, and stains. While its nearly $200 price tag may feel steep, its durable design makes us confident that it will last for years to come and look just as attractive as it did out of the packaging.

Plus, this tablecloth is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified, which means it’s been tested and verified safe from over 350 harmful chemicals. The awning-stripe design is perfect for a sunny outdoor setting, and it comes in four classic colors—black, navy, gray, and teal—so you can find the one that works best for your patio or outdoor event. It's only available in one size, so it may not fit every table or shape; but we appreciate its larger size, accommodating tables that can seat at least six people. While we wish this tablecloth was machine washable, we think spot cleaning should be sufficient, given it's stored properly during colder seasons. Overall, we think this tablecloth is worth the higher price point if you don't want to constantly replace disposable or cheaper tablecloths that may stain or tear.

Price at time of publish: $179

_{Size: 50 x 108 inches | Shape: Rectangle | Material: Acrylic Sunbrella® | Color: Black, navy, cadet gray, or spa blue}

DII Ikat Outdoor Tabletop Collection Water Resistant, All Weather, 52" Round w/Zipper, Blue

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Easy to put on table
Durable material
Machine washable

What We Don't Like

Only two colors
Different patterns listed separately

If you're looking for a tablecloth compatible with patio umbrellas, we recommend the DII Ilkat Outdoor Tabletop Collection. This tablecloth is made with polyester fabric which is resistant to staining and can be thrown in the washing machine in a pinch. It's available in six sizes in both rectangular and circular shapes. While the Ikat pattern is a fun, summery option, DII has other patterns listed separately on its Amazon storefront.

The zippered closure on this tablecloth makes it easy to place securely around an umbrella pole without removing the umbrella from the table. We appreciate that table runner sizes and matching napkins are also offered. We recommend line-drying this tablecloth or tumble-drying it to avoid shrinkage.

Price at time of publish: $22

_{Size: 52 inches round, 60 inches round, 60 x 84 inches, 60 x 120 inches | Shape: Rectangle or round | Material: Polyester | Color: Navy or black}

REI Co-op

View On REI

What We Like

Compact when rolled up
Can be secured to table
Easy to clean

What We Don't Like

Not completely waterproof

We recommend the REI Co-op Campwell Tablecloth with Organizer for picnics and camping because it's a packable tablecloth to ensure a clean surface for eating while on the go. This tablecloth is made from recycled polyester and has a water-repellent coating to make spills no big deal. Keep in mind that this durable water repellent (DWR) may deteriorate over time, in which case, you can review REI's guidelines for caring for products that have a DWR.

When rolled up in its carry sack, this tablecloth is slightly taller than a 32-ounce Nalgene water bottle (as pictured in the product listing), which makes it ideal for packing in a camping or hiking backpack. The organizer pocket makes it easy to store extra utensils, napkins, or even plates while you strap the tablecloth to a picnic table with retention straps. The retention straps and organizer can also be removed to wash this tablecloth in a washing machine. Overall, we're impressed by this tablecloth's thoughtful and eco-friendly design. Plus, we think it's a great alternative to worrying about what germs, moisture, or dirt may be lingering on a public picnic table.

Price at time of publish: $50

_{Size: 72 x 45 inches | Shape: Rectangle | Material: Recycled polyester | Color: Blue shale}

smiry Rectangle Tablecloth, Waterproof Elastic Fitted Table Covers for 4 Foot Tables, Wipeable Flannel Backed Vinyl Tablecloths for Picnic, Camping, Indoor,...

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Windproof
Spill resistant
Multipurpose design
Multiple color and size options

What We Don't Like

Will deteriorate over time
Could tear

While the smiry Waterproof Elastic Fitted Table Covers may be closer in construction to most disposable cloths, we appreciate the elastic band, which ensures a snug fit and windproof table settings. Although it may not be as durable as other fitted table covers, we love the variety of colors and sizes that are offered with this pick. The spill-resistant vinyl shell makes it a great option for a kids' table or beverage cart. You could even use this tablecloth as a cover inside your home at a craft table.

We will point out that vinyl has a tendency to peel over time, and unfortunately, there aren't many ways to prevent it from happening. We recommend keeping this tablecloth stored in a cool, dry place that's not exposed to the elements for an extended period of time since it cannot be washed. However, this tablecloth is a great affordable option for hostesses who like to keep multiple themed options on hand.

Price at time of publish: $18

_{Size: 30 x 48 inches, 30 x 72 inches, 30 x 96 inches, 36 x 44 inches round, 45 x 56 inches round, 57 x 68 inches round | Shape: Rectangle or round | Material: Vinyl and polyester | Color: Black, blue, clear, grey, khaki, orange pumpkin, red, teal, white, wood, yellow.}

Final Verdict

Overall, we recommend the Williams Sonoma Navy Oilcloth Outdoor Tablecloth because the fabric is designed to withstand outdoor elements, and it's offered in two oversized dimensions to fit a variety of tables. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Maxmill Jacquard Tablecloth for a spill-proof that's offered in a variety of sizes and colors.

Fabric

When you’re taking a tablecloth outdoors, the fabric is one of the most important factors. The best fabrics for outdoor use are polyester, acrylic, and vinyl—each is machine washable and tends to be stain-resistant, making it easy to use the tablecloth all season. These materials also tend to be waterproof, which can be helpful for spills or unexpected rain.

For example, our best overall pick, the Navy Oilcloth Outdoor Tablecloth from Williams Sonoma, features a cotton construction with an acrylic coating that resists moisture and stains.

Size

Choosing a tablecloth size isn’t an exact science—some of it comes down to personal preference—but generally, it’s recommended that for casual events, you have an 8-inch drop, and for formal events, you have a 15-inch drop.

When it comes to round tables, measure the table diameter and then multiply the desired drop length by two and add the numbers together. For example, if your table is 30 inches and you want an 8-inch drop, you would add 30 plus 16 to come up with a round tablecloth size of 46 inches.

For a rectangular table, measure the length and width of your table. Multiply the drop length by two, then add that number to both the length and the width. For example, if your table is 36 x 48 inches, you would add 16 to each number to come up with a tablecloth size of 52 x 64 inches.

Style

Style is another important factor in the buying process. In addition to making sure you’re choosing the right tablecloth shape—round, oval, square, or rectangular—you want to consider the event or reason you need a tablecloth. For casual get-togethers, you can get away with laminated or vinyl fabrics, but for more formal events, you might want something that’s a little more high-end, like polyester or linen.

Also, be sure to choose a color and design you like. Opt for themed patterns for holidays or celebrations, or go for neutrals that can be reused all year long. Luckily, many options on this list, including our best budget option, come in a ton of gorgeous colors.

FAQ

What size tablecloth should you get for a picnic table?

Picnic tables range from 6 to 8 feet in length and 27 to 30 inches in width. Tablecloths for picnic tables are at least 84 inches long for 6-foot-long tables and at least 104 inches long for 8-foot-long tables, and 54 inches wide. This won’t give you exactly the standard overhang of 8 inches on all sides, but a shorter overhang on a picnic table can be a good thing—there is less fabric to blow around.
How do you hold down an outdoor tablecloth?

Tablecloth clips or clamps keep a tablecloth from blowing away and secure it to the table. The clips are made of stainless steel or plastic and designed, so they won’t scratch the table or damage the tablecloth. In a pinch, you can secure a tablecloth with duct table or bungee cords or place heavy objects like dishes in the corners.
How do you keep a tablecloth from sliding?

Tablecloth clips or clamps accomplish two things at once: they keep the tablecloth from sliding and from blowing away. Instead of tablecloth clips, you can also place a piece of a non-slip rubber roll shelf liner underneath the tablecloth. The material comes in a roll so that you can cut it to the required size. Some products are available in different colors, and you can pick one that matches your tablecloth, especially if it’s made of a thin fabric and you don’t want the rubber liner to show through.
How do you get wrinkles out of a plastic tablecloth?

Gentle dry or moist heat helps soften the plastic and remove the wrinkles. For minor wrinkles, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting. Run the hairdryer back and forth over the wrinkles and smooth them out with your hand. Another option is to hang the tablecloth on a clothesline for a full day when the weather is warm or hot. A third option that works well for vinyl tablecloths is using an iron on low heat in combination with a thick damp bath towel, ensuring no part of the iron is ever placed directly on the plastic. Check if the crease is gone and repeat once, if necessary. Iron out the creases one by one and spray more water on the towel to keep it damp.

Lindsay Boyers writes about lifestyle, home, and decor for The Spruce. She has a keen eye for detail and knows how important it is to create a space you love. Much to her younger self’s dismay, you can likely find her watching home improvement shows on HGTV. Additional reporting was done by Nadia Hassani, a writer and master gardener with over 20 years of experience. Emma Phelps, an Updates Writer for The Spruce, revised this roundup to include fresh products and additional buying context.

The 8 Best Patio Dining Sets of 2023

The 6 Best Outdoor Tablecloths of 2023

Best Overall

Williams Sonoma Navy Oilcloth Outdoor Tablecloth

Best Budget

Maxmill Jacquard Tablecloth

Best Splurge

Pottery Barn Sunbrella Indoor/Outdoor Tablecloth

Best with Umbrella Hole

DII Ikat Outdoor Tabletop Collection

Best for Picnic Tables

REI Co-op Campwell Tablecloth with Organizer

Best Fitted

smiry Waterproof Elastic Fitted Table Covers

What to Look for in an Outdoor Tablecloth

Fabric

Size

Style

Why Trust The Spruce?

More from The Spruce