Tablecloth Size Chart: How to Measure Any Table in 2 Minutes

A tablecloth that is too short makes a table look underdressed, and one that is too long ends up in everyone's lap. The good news is that finding the right tablecloth size takes two measurements and one simple sum. This tablecloth size chart covers every common table shape, explains how to choose the drop, and lists the standard sizes you will find in shops so you can buy with confidence.

How to measure your table

Use a metal tape measure rather than a fabric one, which can stretch. Measure only the tabletop, edge to edge, and write the numbers down in inches or centimetres.

Rectangular tables

Measure the length along the longest side, then the width across the shorter side. If your table extends with a leaf, measure it both closed and open and decide which size you will use most. One cloth rarely fits both well.

Square tables

Measure one side. If the sides differ by more than an inch, treat it as a rectangle.

Round tables

Measure straight across the centre from edge to edge. This is the diameter. If you are unsure you have hit the centre, measure in two directions and use the larger number.

Oval tables

Measure the length at the longest point and the width at the widest point. Then choose an oval tablecloth, or a rectangular one if you do not mind slightly longer corners.

How to choose the drop

The drop is how far the tablecloth hangs over each edge. It is the single biggest factor in how finished your table looks, and the right drop depends on how the table is used.

If your chairs have arms, check that the cloth will not sit on them. A drop that ends just above the seat or arm height looks the most polished.

The formula, with worked examples

The calculation is the same for every shape: add twice the drop to each table measurement.

• Example 1: a 40 × 64 in rectangular table with a 10 in drop needs 40 + 20 = 60 in wide and 64 + 20 = 84 in long, so a 60 × 84 in tablecloth.
• Example 2: a 48 in round table with an 11 in drop needs 48 + 22 = 70 in, so a 70 in round tablecloth.
• Example 3: a 30 × 72 in (6 ft) banquet table to the floor needs 30 + 60 = 90 in by 72 + 60 = 132 in, so a 90 × 132 in tablecloth.

When your result falls between two standard sizes, size up. A slightly longer drop always looks better than a short one.

Rectangular tablecloth size chart

This chart assumes a dinner-party drop of about 10 in. For everyday use, the next size down is often fine.

Round tablecloth size chart

Square and oval tables

For square tables, a 52 × 52 in cloth fits a 30–36 in table for everyday use, and a 60 × 60 in cloth suits a 36–40 in table with a dinner drop. A 70 × 70 in cloth works on a 48 in square table.

For oval tables, use the same rule as rectangles. A 60 × 84 in oval cloth fits a table of about 40 × 64 in, and a 60 × 102 in oval cloth fits about 40 × 82 in. A rectangular cloth will also work if you do not mind the corners hanging a little lower at the ends.

Standard tablecloth sizes at a glance

• Square: 52 × 52, 60 × 60, 70 × 70 in
• Rectangular: 60 × 72, 60 × 84, 60 × 90, 60 × 102, 60 × 120, 60 × 144 in
• Banquet: 90 × 132, 90 × 156 in
• Round: 52, 60, 70, 90, 108, 120, 132 in

Sizes vary a little between brands and countries, so always check the listed measurements rather than the name of the size.

Runners, placemats and napkins

A table runner is usually about one third of the table's width. It can either stop around 6 in short of each end, for a modern look, or hang over by 6–12 in on each end. Standard runners are around 14–16 in wide.

Placemats are commonly 13 × 19 in. Allow about 24 in of table edge per person so place settings do not overlap.

Dinner napkins are typically 18–22 in square, lunch napkins around 16–18 in, and cocktail napkins around 9–10 in.

Plan for shrinkage

Cotton tablecloths, especially hand block printed ones, can shrink by around 3–5% on the first hot wash. On a 102 in cloth that could be 3–5 in. To avoid surprises, wash in cold or lukewarm water, dry in the shade or on low heat, and size up slightly if you are between sizes. Our guide to washing block printed cotton has full care steps.

How many people fit at your table?

Seating and tablecloth size go hand in hand, because the number of guests often decides whether you add a leaf. A good rule is to allow about 24 in of table edge per diner, or 30 in if you want room for serving dishes and elbows. Using that rule, a 60 in long table seats four comfortably along the sides, plus one at each end if the width allows. A 72 in table seats six, an 84–96 in table seats eight, and a 108–120 in table seats ten. Round tables are more forgiving: a 48 in round seats four comfortably and six snugly, and a 60 in round seats eight.

Once you know your guest count and the length of the table with any leaves added, read the matching row in the chart above and you have your tablecloth size.

Choosing the right tablecloth fabric

Size is only half the decision; fabric affects how a tablecloth drapes and how much care it needs.

• Cotton is the most versatile choice. It is breathable, takes print beautifully and softens with every wash. Hand block printed cotton adds pattern and character, and medium-weight cotton hangs neatly at any drop length.
• Linen drapes heavily and looks relaxed and elegant, but it creases easily and can shrink more than cotton.
• Cotton-poly blends resist wrinkles and stains and suit busy family tables, though they feel less natural.
• Coated or wipe-clean cloths are practical outdoors or for young children, but they do not drape well for long drops.

Heavier fabrics make a long drop look crisp and tailored. Lighter fabrics are better for short everyday drops, where they will not pull the cloth off the table edge.

Common tablecloth sizing mistakes

• Putting a round cloth on an oval table. The ends are left bare. Use an oval or rectangular cloth instead.
• Using a rectangular cloth on a square table. It hangs long on two sides and short on the others.
• Measuring the extended table but using it closed. The cloth pools at the ends.
• Forgetting chair arms. A drop that rests on chair arms makes it hard to pull chairs in.
• Ignoring shrinkage. A cloth that fits perfectly new can be short after one hot wash.

Styling tips by occasion

For everyday meals, a 6–8 in drop in a washable cotton print is practical and cheerful. For dinner parties, go to a 10–12 in drop and add a runner or contrasting napkins. For festive meals, a floor-length or layered look adds drama; see our festive table setting ideas for complete plans. If you are pairing a patterned tablecloth with patterned napkins, our guide to mixing patterns explains how to balance scale and colour.