Why should restaurants use table linen?
Fabric tablecloths and linen napkins can create a premium feel at any table, whilst white linen also complements white tableware and cut glass to make any meal feel refined and luxurious. Equally, however, PVC tablecloths are easy to wipe clean and also protect furniture from damage whilst also disguising existing flaws. In fact, with a 2012 Journal of Consumer Research study suggesting that table linen can drastically alter customers' perception of food, every restaurant should find table runners, tablecloths and napkins to optimise their customers’ dining experience.
Why don't some restaurants use tablecloths?
Although using table linen can save money by disguising damaged furniture and preventing the need to replace it, it can be expensive to continually wash, iron and replace cotton tablecloths and other linen which gets damaged. With this in mind, polyester linen can be more practical than cotton because it is more resistant to frequent washes and harsh detergents whilst still looking great on a table.
In reality, there are a range of table linen options which mean there’s a perfect tablecloth for most restaurants. Let’s take a look at the full range of tablecloths which you could use to transform your diners’ experience.
TIP: If you aren't sure table linen is right for the feel or theme of your restaurant, mix and match table tops and bases are another great way to create your perfect look.
Which table linen should I purchase?
Satin band tablecloths are the ultimate luxurious table linen. Made of 100% cotton and finished with a supremely sleek satin band, these tablecloths add refinement and poise to any restaurant. Satin band tablecloths are the classic way to finish a premium table setting, making them ideal for the finest restaurants and hotels.
Shop satin band tablecloths nowDespite not having an interwoven satin band, cotton tablecloths are still extremely elegant additions to any table. Slightly more affordable than a satin band tablecloth, cotton tablecloths are perfect for any fine dining environment. Our cotton tablecloths feature an understated damask ivy leaf pattern for a uniquely sophisticated finish.
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Polyester table linen is the extremely hardwearing and crease resistant option which a huge range of cafes, restaurants and pubs have come to rely on. Quick drying, durable and practical, we offer classic polyester tablecloths to suit restaurants which require hardwearing linen suitable for rapid turnovers.
How do I measure for a tablecloth?
When measuring a dining table for a tablecloth, you should measure the length and width of the table surface and then sit at the table. The distance between the top of your legs and the tabletop should be added to the dimensions to create the correct overhang. This measurement is usually around 20cm on each side.
TIP: Table clips can be a great way to keep table linen in the correct position and looking its best.
Tabletop glass
One way which some restaurants protect their table linen is by using tabletop glass above the tablecloth. Whilst this does protect the fabric, it also prevents diners from feeling the luxury of the table linen. What's more, the glass itself is likely to rapidly become scratched by cutlery, glasses and plates and is much more expensive to replace than the fabric underneath it!
What type of napkins should I buy?
Linen napkins are a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable paper napkins. Restaurants can also save money by not purchasing large quantities of new paper napkins for every single service. Combine this with the fact that linen napkins are also a more satisfying and effective way for diners to keep themselves hygienic, and linen napkins could make a real difference to most restaurants!
Unfortunately, however, linen napkins aren't practical for every restaurant. Unlike tablecloths, which are primarily marked accidentally, napkins are intended to be used to mop up food and are therefore almost guaranteed to become stained rapidly. With this in mind, restaurants with particularly greasy and staining foods such as curry houses, or particularly messy finger food such as barbeque should use paper napkins instead, avoiding the inconvenience and expense of trying to keep linen napkins clean.
TIP: Disposable paper napkins are also perfect for outdoor catering and can be placed beneath drinks to avoid getting a sticky bar.
Business benefits of table linen
Given that satin band, cotton and polyester table linen all suit distinctly different types of restaurant or cafe, every establishment can find the perfect table linen to save money and protect their furniture.
Equally importantly, the colours, shapes and textures of table linen can form a vital part of a restaurant’s identity. By understanding the ways tablecloths, napkins and other linen form part of diners’ lasting impression, savvy restaurants can use table linen to set themselves apart from the crowd.
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