Tablecloth Size CalculatorWhat Size Tablecloth Do I Need?

What size tablecloth do I need?

Measure the tabletop, then add the drop twice: once for each side. A table 150cm long with a 25cm drop needs a cloth about 200cm long. Do the same with the width.

Ready-made tablecloths come in set sizes, so the job is finding the stocked size that covers both measurements without hanging much lower than you want. The ends of a rectangular cloth often hang a little longer than the sides. That's normal and nobody notices once the table is laid.

How to measure a table for a tablecloth

1. Measure the length of the tabletop at its longest point. Use a metal tape and keep it flat on the surface.
2. Measure the width straight across the middle. For a round table, measure the diameter, edge to edge through the centre.
3. If your table extends, measure it at the size you use most. You can always buy a second cloth for the extended size.
4. Choose your drop. Most people go for 20 to 30cm.
5. Add the drop to each end of the length and to each side of the width. That's the cloth size you're looking for.

How much should a tablecloth hang over?

A drop of 20 to 30cm suits most dining tables. It covers the edge and the top of the table legs without getting in the way of anyone's knees. Around 15cm is the shortest that looks right, and works well on café tables and kitchen tables that get wiped down all day.

Longer drops of 35cm or more give a fuller, more formal look for dinner parties and events. A cloth that reaches the floor needs a drop equal to the table height, usually about 75cm. That's larger than ready-made sizes, so for full-length cover at events, overlay a ready-made cloth on a floor-length cover.

Standard tablecloth sizes

These are the sizes Homefords stocks, with the largest table each one covers at a standard 25cm drop. Not every design comes in every size, so check the product page for the sizes available.

All sizes are approximate. Ready-made table linen can vary by up to 5% either way, so if your table sits right on the limit, go up a size.

Round and oval tables

Round tables are the easiest to fit. Measure the diameter and add the drop twice. A 120cm round table takes a 160cm round cloth with a 20cm drop all the way round. A square cloth on a round table also works and hangs in four soft points, which suits a relaxed look.

For oval tables, an oval cloth follows the curve so the drop stays even. A rectangular cloth fits too, but the corners hang lower than the sides. Measure the oval at its longest and widest points and the calculator works out both options.

What size table runner do I need?

A table runner usually hangs 15 to 30cm over each end of the table, so add 30 to 60cm to the table length. For a modern look, you can stop it just short of the edges instead. Aim for a width of about a third of the table width, leaving room for place settings either side.

The calculator suggests a runner length with every result. Browse our table runners to match your tablecloths.

Tablecloth size questions