Your Trusted Linen Supplier
Table Linen
Table linen sits in front of the guest for the whole meal.
Linen House supplies napkins and tablecloths to restaurants, hotels, function rooms, wedding venues and event caterers across the UK. Napkins are available in seven colours plus a satin band finish, with square and round cloths cut for hospitality tables. Orders placed before 12pm are dispatched the same working day.
Shop Table Linen
NapkinsNapkins in white, ivory, gold, red, burgundy, black and light pink, plus a satin band finish for occasions that call for it. Sized and hemmed for restaurant and banqueting service, in cloth that holds a fold and comes back square from the laundry.Shop Napkins
Table ClothsSquare and round tablecloths cut for hospitality tables rather than domestic ones, with the drop needed to sit properly over a covered table. Specified to launder repeatedly without shrinking away from the correct size.Shop Table ClothsA Buyer’s Guide to Restaurant Table Linen
Table linen does something the rest of your linen does not: it sits in front of the guest for the whole meal. A cloth that hangs unevenly or a napkin that will not hold a fold undermines the table before the first course arrives.
Getting the drop right
The drop is how far the cloth hangs below the table edge. Too short looks mean; too long is a trip hazard and gets caught under chairs. For most restaurant service a drop that reaches roughly to the chair seat is right, while banqueting and events usually call for a fuller drop that reaches closer to the floor.
Measure the table top and add twice the drop you want to each dimension. Round tables need the diameter plus twice the drop.
Choosing napkin colours
| Colour | Reads as | Commonly used for |
|---|---|---|
| White | Formal, clean, neutral | Fine dining, hotels, banqueting |
| Ivory | Softer than white, warmer | Weddings, country house venues |
| Black | Modern, hides marks | Bars, contemporary restaurants, evening service |
| Burgundy, red, gold | Warm, traditional | Seasonal service, events, function rooms |
| Satin band | Finished, occasion-led | Weddings, private dining, celebrations |
Darker napkins hide marks better between washes, which matters for evening service. White and ivory show everything but photograph best and remain the default for formal dining.
Folding and presentation
A napkin only holds a fold if the cloth has enough body. Over-washing at high temperature and heavy softener use both soften the fibre to the point where structured folds collapse. If your napkins have stopped standing up, the laundry process is usually the cause rather than the napkin.
Caring for table linen
Treat food and wine marks quickly — the longer a tannin or oil mark sits, the harder it sets. Wash table linen separately from kitchen cloths, which carry grease that will transfer. Iron or press while slightly damp for the crisp finish that table linen depends on.
Table Linen FAQs
How do I work out what size tablecloth I need?
Measure the table top, decide your drop, then add twice the drop to each dimension. For a round table, take the diameter and add twice the drop. If you are between sizes, size up: a slightly generous cloth hangs better than a tight one.
What size are your napkins?
Sizing is listed on each product page, with options shown in the dropdown. If you need a size not listed, we can manufacture to your specification.
Which colour is best for a restaurant?
It depends on service style. White and ivory remain standard for formal dining and events. Black and darker colours suit contemporary and evening service and are more forgiving between washes.
Why will my napkins no longer hold a fold?
Almost always laundering. Excessive softener and repeated very hot washing break down the fibre body that structured folds rely on. Reducing softener usually restores it over a few cycles.
Do you supply banqueting and event venues?
Yes. Alongside restaurants and hotels we supply function rooms, wedding venues and event caterers, where fuller drops and larger volumes are usually needed.