How to Store Tablecloths and Table Runners
Sep 3, 2026 / Public Storage
To store tablecloths and runners, clean them according to their care labels, let them dry completely and fold or roll them using a method appropriate for the fabric. Place the linens in clean containers, separate delicate pieces with acid-free tissue paper and keep them on a shelf or another stable raised surface.
Proper preparation can help keep table linens organized and make them easier to use for the next holiday, dinner party or special event.
Table-Linen Storage at a Glance
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| Clean | Wash or dry-clean according to the care label |
| Dry | Make sure every piece is completely dry |
| Sort | Group by fabric, size, color or occasion |
| Fold or roll | Choose a method based on the material |
| Separate | Use clean, acid-free tissue for delicate pieces |
| Pack | Use a clean bin, fabric bag or suitable archival container |
| Store | Place containers on shelving or a stable raised surface |
Should You Wash Tablecloths Before Storage?
Yes. Wash or dry-clean tablecloths and runners according to their care instructions before placing them in storage.
Crumbs, grease and other food residue can contribute to odors, attract pests or become more difficult to remove later. Check the entire cloth for stains, including the edges and underside.
Before packing:
- Treat stains according to the care label.
- Wash or dry-clean the linen.
- Allow it to dry completely.
- Check for remaining food residue or moisture.
- Remove dry-cleaning plastic before long-term storage.
- Make any needed repairs before folding.
Food and perishable items are prohibited in Public Storage units, so every crumb should be removed.
Should You Iron Tablecloths Before Storing Them?
Ironing is optional. If you choose to iron a tablecloth, follow the fabric’s care instructions and allow it to cool and dry completely before packing.
Do not pack fabric while it is warm or damp from steam. For many tablecloths, careful folding or rolling is more important than ironing before storage.
You may still need to iron or steam the linen after removing it from storage.
Should You Fold or Roll Table Linens?
Folding works well for many everyday tablecloths and runners. Rolling may be useful for long runners, coated cloths or materials that develop noticeable fold lines.
| Linen type | Storage method to consider |
|---|---|
| Cotton or linen | Fold loosely with acid-free tissue between major folds |
| Polyester blends | Fold or roll without compressing tightly |
| Lace or embroidered linens | Fold with tissue or roll around a suitable covered tube |
| Long table runners | Roll loosely to reduce the number of folds |
| Vinyl or coated cloths | Roll according to manufacturer instructions |
| Beaded or embellished pieces | Store flat when possible without stacking weight on top |
Always follow the care instructions for the specific material.
How Do You Fold a Tablecloth for Storage?
Use a clean, dry surface large enough to support the tablecloth.
To fold:
- Lay the cloth flat.
- Smooth the fabric gently without pulling it.
- Place clean, acid-free tissue paper along major fold lines if appropriate.
- Make broad, loose folds.
- Avoid pressing the linen into the smallest possible shape.
- Place delicate pieces near the top of the container.
For extended storage, consider refolding washable everyday linens along different lines occasionally. This changes where the fabric is creased.
How Do You Roll a Table Runner?
Roll a table runner loosely around an acid-free archival tube or another suitable tube covered completely with clean, acid-free tissue.
Avoid placing delicate fabric directly against an ordinary cardboard tube. Cardboard may contain dyes, adhesives or acids that can transfer to fabric over time.
To roll a runner:
- Place it face down on a clean surface.
- Smooth the material gently.
- Cover the tube with clean, acid-free tissue if needed.
- Roll the runner without stretching it.
- Add another layer of tissue around the outside.
- Store the roll horizontally with full support.
Do not place heavy boxes on top of rolled linens.
What Is the Best Container for Tablecloths?
The right container depends on the fabric, storage duration and surrounding conditions.
Clean Plastic Bins
Plastic bins with fitted lids can help keep table linens organized and limit dust exposure. Only place completely dry linens inside because sealed containers can trap existing moisture.
Choose a container large enough to avoid compressing the fabric.
Breathable Fabric Bags
Clean cotton or fabric storage bags may work for washable linens that benefit from airflow. Fabric bags do not block dust or moisture completely, so place them on clean shelving away from the floor.
Archival Containers
Acid-free boxes, tissue and tubes may be considered for delicate or older linens that are still appropriate for storage. Do not store a linen if it is irreplaceable or would cause the unit’s total contents to exceed the permitted stored-value limit.
Should You Use Acid-Free Tissue Paper?
Acid-free tissue can be placed between folds, colors or embellished surfaces. It may also be used to cover an appropriate rolling tube.
Use clean, unprinted tissue without dyes or fragrances. Avoid newspaper because ink can transfer to fabric.
Tissue paper does not replace proper cleaning or drying.
How Should You Pack Multiple Tablecloths?
Sort table linens before placing them in a container.
You can organize them by:
- Size
- Shape
- Fabric
- Color
- Season
- Holiday
- Event type
- Frequency of use
Place sturdier linens below lighter or more delicate pieces. Avoid making stacks so heavy that the bottom linens become tightly compressed.
Separate dark, brightly colored or embellished fabrics from lighter linens when appropriate. Acid-free tissue can provide a clean layer between pieces, but it does not guarantee against color transfer.
Where Should You Put Table Linens in a Storage Unit?
Place containers on freestanding shelving or another stable raised surface where permitted. Avoid placing linen containers directly on the floor or underneath furniture and heavy boxes.
Keep table linens:
- Away from the unit door
- Clear of vents or access points
- Below the shelving weight limit
- Separate from tools and outdoor equipment
- Away from anything that could leak
- Near the front if you rotate them seasonally
Make sure shelves and containers are clean and dry before use.
Is Climate-Controlled Storage Worth Considering?
Climate-controlled storage may be worth considering for eligible textiles or household goods made from materials that can respond to changing temperature or humidity.
These units are designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels than standard storage. They do not guarantee a particular temperature, humidity level or outcome.
Availability and features vary by location. Learn more about climate-controlled storage before selecting a unit.
How Should You Label Stored Linens?
Label every bin, bag or archival box clearly. Include enough information to identify the contents without unpacking the container.
For example:
- White rectangular tablecloths
- Fall table runners
- Holiday table linens
- Outdoor tablecloths
- Round dining-table linens
- Placemats and cloth napkins
A written or digital inventory can include each linen’s size, color and container number. You can also add a photo of the pattern when several folded pieces look similar.
Avoid taping labels directly to fabric.
What Should You Avoid When Storing Tablecloths?
Avoid:
- Packing dirty or damp linens
- Leaving crumbs or food residue
- Using newspaper as wrapping material
- Compressing delicate fabric
- Placing linens directly against ordinary cardboard tubes
- Stacking heavy boxes on top
- Storing containers directly on the floor
- Using products that could leak
- Applying fragrances or chemicals without checking the care label
- Storing irreplaceable or high-value linens
Public Storage prohibits food, liquids, hazardous materials, illegal items, perishable goods and living things. Rental agreements also prohibit storing property with a total value over $5,000 per unit.
Review the complete Public Storage storage policies before moving in.
What Should You Do When Removing Linens From Storage?
When you retrieve a tablecloth or runner:
- Remove it from the container carefully.
- Inspect the fabric.
- Check the care label.
- Wash, dry-clean, iron or steam it as appropriate.
- Allow it to dry before placing it on the table.
- Clean and dry it again before returning it to storage.
Do not use a linen if you notice an unexplained odor, dampness or damage that requires professional attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store tablecloths?
Clean and dry tablecloths completely, then fold them loosely with acid-free tissue where appropriate. Place them in a clean container on shelving or another stable raised surface.
Is it better to fold or roll tablecloths?
Either method may work. Folding is practical for many everyday linens, while rolling may reduce fold lines in long runners, coated materials or delicate fabrics.
Can you store tablecloths in plastic bins?
Yes, if the bins and linens are completely clean and dry. Choose a bin large enough to prevent tight compression.
Can table runners be rolled around cardboard tubes?
Avoid direct contact with ordinary cardboard. Use an acid-free archival tube or cover a suitable tube completely with clean, acid-free tissue.
Should you iron tablecloths before storage?
It is optional. If you iron or steam a tablecloth, let it cool and dry completely before packing.
Can you store tablecloths in dry-cleaning bags?
Dry-cleaning plastic is not recommended for extended storage. Remove the plastic and use a clean container or breathable fabric bag appropriate for the material.
Do tablecloths need climate-controlled storage?
Not all tablecloths require it. Climate-controlled storage may be worth considering depending on the fabric, storage duration and other belongings in the unit.
Should linens be stored directly on the floor?
No. Place linen containers on stable shelving or another appropriate raised surface.
Clean, dry and carefully packed tablecloths are easier to organize and retrieve for your next gathering. Choose a container based on the fabric, avoid tight folds and label everything clearly. Find Public Storage near you and compare available sizes and features.
