Tablecloth Calculator — Sizes & Quantities

A standard drop is 25-30cm for casual dining. For formal events, 30-40cm. Floor-length drops (75-80cm) are popular for weddings and gala events. The drop is the overhang on each side from the table edge to where the cloth hangs.

A 5ft (150cm) round table needs a 210cm round cloth for a 30cm drop, or a 230cm cloth for a 40cm drop. For floor-length, you need approximately a 300cm round cloth. Always measure your tables before ordering.

Hiring is usually better value and less hassle. Hire costs £3-£8 per cloth and includes laundering. Buying costs £5-£25 each plus washing. For a one-off event, hiring is almost always cheaper. Buy if you will use them multiple times.

Have 1-2 spare tablecloths for accidents (red wine spills are the classic problem). For events over 10 tables, have 2-3 spares. If hiring, add spare cloths to your order - they are cheap insurance.