AD. Contrary to common belief, choosing the suitable tablecloths for your restaurant is no easy feat. A study in 2019 investigated the impact that table linen has on customer perceptions of restaurants. The study found that fabric table linen was a significant contributing factor to the preference of meal quality. According to the people under investigation, table linen signifies better ambience, service, and overall experience.
With various choices available on the market today, settling for suitable restaurant tablecloths from Richard Haworth can prove challenging. But how do you go about it? What factors should you consider?
How to choose suitable tablecloths.
1. Get the right size.
Before making any purchasing decisions, you should have an idea of the size of the table the tablecloth will cover. The measurements have to be accurate. You have to take out your tape measure and measure your table's length and width. This is especially useful if you need something a little more unique, such as custom oval tablecloths or runners. Note the measurements somewhere and take into account overhangs as you do not want to get a tablecloth that fits precisely.
Returning tablecloths because they are of the wrong size sucks. Make sure you get the correct dimensions.
2. Decide on your type of Linen.
What type of linen are you going for? Here are the common ones:
- Cotton Table Linen
- Polyester
- Vinyl & plastic
- Disposable table linen
Cotton is among the most popular types of table linen. Producing and processing cotton is easy, meaning you can get the tablecloths at a relatively low price. In addition, machine washing is possible, so the stock rotation can go on smoothly.
Another important attribute of the fabric is its durability. The tablecloths will serve you for lengthy periods, giving you value for your money.
3. Colour matching your interior decor.
The design and colour you go for will largely depend on your interior décor. Look at it this way: a white satin tablecloth would be appropriate for formal restaurants, while a table cloth with a red checked pattern will appear out of place.
Luckily for you, there is a vast range of designs and colours to make a selection from. However, it is crucial to be conservative when making your choice.
Most restaurant owners prefer white table linen because it’s a neutral colour that enables linen to blend with any aesthetic. In addition, most white tablecloths are stain-resistant, so you need not worry about a simple wine spill.
If white doesn't do it for you, it is advisable to picture how a particular colour will look in your establishment before making any purchases. This way, you can avoid wasting money on colours you'll never use.
4. Think about maintenance
Durability and ease of maintenance are among the top factors to consider when buying tablecloths for your restaurant. Ask yourself if you have the proper equipment in your restaurant to wash and store linens, or if you plan on outsourcing laundry requirements.
Different fabrics have different lifespans, but remember to get an extra number for rotational purposes when buying table linen. In cases where you plan to hire the services of an external cleaning company, you will have to factor in the time required to pick the tablecloths, wash them and bring them back.If you’re looking to get tablecloths for your restaurant, the above tips should be able to guide you.
