Table Runner vs. Tablecloth vs. Bare Table: Which is Best for table?

What Is A Dining Table Runner?

A dining table runner is a piece of narrow cloth usually placed at the center of the table. It serves as a decorative item that highly contemplates the decor of the interior. The dining room table runners keep your tablecloth protected from heat and stains.

Best Table Runner Materials

The table runners are usually simpler in design, but they are not meant to be simple. You can choose any style or material for your table runner that goes with the other ornaments in the room. Following are some of the best materials that look extraordinarily beautiful and serve the purpose.

1: Cotton

The cotton table runners are easy to use and a budget-friendly option. Table runners made of cotton can be used everywhere, whether it is a party, wedding ceremony, dining rooms, or restaurants, and in all the places where dining tables are used.

Moreover, this material comes in a variety of sizes and colors based on the nature of the occasion and place.

2: Linen

Linen is a high-quality material that is exceptionally strong and lasts for years. It gets softer with time. You can avail of these table runners in different textures and weaves that allow greater customization options.

1: Polyester

Polyester is another widely used fabric for table runners. However, the polyester table runners are not strong enough to bear the hot tea or coffee spills over them. Yet these look attractive and captivating when placed on a table.

2: Cotton Blend

Cotton blend is material made of 80% cotton, and the rest is made of polyester, rayon, or linen. The cotton blended table runner gives the same feel as pure cotton, but it is less affected by wrinkles and is lighter in weight compared to cotton.

Pros

• Adds Visual Interest

  Using the dining table runner can add texture, color, and visual interest to your table. Plus, it won’t reduce the table’s beauty.

• Ideal For Tablecloth

  Table runners suit best on the tablecloths and bestow an interesting look.

• Extra Protection

  Using the table runners gives extra protection to the center of the table when you place hot dishes on your table.

• Acts As A Focal Point

  The table runners look extremely attractive and create a focal point in the dining room. It makes your space look better and gives your room an aesthetic appeal.

• A New Look To Tablecloth

  As the table runners enhance the appearance of the dining room, they also give a new attire to the tablecloth.

Cons

• Uneven Surface

  The table runners on the tablecloth give an uneven surface for the dishes. It might create some issues for you.

• Single Table Runner Is Not Enough

  A single table runner is not enough to protect your table from stains and hot dishes. For this, you have to place multiple table runners in a width-wise arrangement.

What Is A Tablecloth?

A tablecloth is used to protect the whole table. The tablecloth covers the entire surface of the table and is the best solution to avoid any hard stains and protect it from damage during a meal. Moreover, you can use the tablecloth to hide the imperfections of your old table. Using a tablecloth improves the appearance of your table and helps you meet the new dining room trends.

What’s the Difference Between a Tablerunner and Tablecloth?

A dining table runner is a long-length narrow piece of cloth or any other material which is mostly placed in the center of the table. Whereas tablecloths or table throws cover the whole area of the table.

Pros

• Hide Imperfections

  The tablecloths help you hide the imperfections of your table and create an attractive environment for eating.

• Easy Cleaning

  You can easily take off the tablecloth and shake off the bread crumbs or any other meal residuals and avoid them from spilling on the floor.

• Protect the Table

  The tablecloth protects the whole table surface from stains, hot dishes, and any damage during dining.

• Brings Color to the Interior

  The table throws freshens up the interior while bringing extra color to the place.

Cons

• Lessen the Visual Interest

  The long tablecloths decrease visual interest as they conceal the table legs. The hidden legs of the table don't appear to be good, and it reduces the visual interest.

• Create Discomfort

  The overly-long table cloth can create discomfort for the people to sit properly. Moreover, the hanging tablecloth on their laps may irritate them or cause little accidents if they get entangled.

What Does a Bare Table Look Like?

A bare table means, a flat table that holds no fixtures like a table runner or a tablecloth. Some people love to have bare tables to show off their table appearance and their natural beauty. It is a good decision if you feel that it compliments your dining room interior.

Pros

• Showcase the Beauty

  A bare table helps you showcase your table’s beauty and gorgeous finishings. So, let others see the beauty of your table and make a bold statement.

• Greater Comfort

  A bare table allows you to get in and out of the chairs simply and easily. There’s no hurdle in your way while sitting or getting up.

• Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

  It is easy to clean the bare table after meals. You don’t have to worry about your table surface as you get worried about the table runner or tablecloth.

Cons

• Water Rings Damage the Table

  The water rings damage the surface of the table. Consequently, you have to remove the marks by sanding and refinishing the table.

Bottom Line!

Deciding between a table runner, tablecloth, or having a bare table is solely your choice. However, covering the table is always a better choice for homeowners. You may opt to have a table runner or tablecloth according to your requirements. For practical and stylish purposes, you must look for a cotton table runner that gives protection as well as style to your dining table.