How to Iron a Round Table Cloth

Proper ironing ensures a wrinkle-free table setting.

Proper ironing ensures a wrinkle-free table setting.

Large swaths of fabric pose an ironing difficulty, since ironing boards aren't shaped or sized correctly for smoothing out the wrinkles in a large round tablecloth. Improper ironing can also cause dimpling around the hem, which interferes with the drape of the tablecloth when it's in use. Proper ironing begins with selecting the right heat for the fabric. Whether the wrinkles are caused by laundering or folding, a hot iron and the right technique can smooth them out.


Check the fabric label for recommended heat settings on the iron. If a heat recommendation isn't listed, use the hot setting for cotton and linen. Use the low setting for acetate and nylon. Polyester, rayon and synthetic blends typically require the medium heat setting.


Cover a tabletop with bath towels, laying the towels two layers deep to protect the table from the heat. Round tablecloths are too large and awkward to iron easily on an ironing board.


Spread the tablecloth out on the table face down, smoothing it as flat as possible. Preheat the iron to the required setting.


Spray the first section you are ironing with a light mist of spray starch if the tablecloth is made of cotton, linen or a natural fiber blend. Cover the first section with a press cloth if it is made of synthetic fibers.


Iron the the first section, moving the hot iron slowly in smooth, even strokes. Do not set the iron in one place, as it can burn or melt the fibers.


Iron the entire tablecloth, one section at a time. Carefully move the tablecloth onto the table as you iron if it is larger than the table and hanging over the sides.


Press around the hems so they don't roll or fold. Press the tip of the iron along the hem, holding it in place for approximately five seconds. Don't move the iron back and forth across the hem, as this can give it a ruffled or dimpled appearance.

Things You Will Need

  • Towels
  • Spray starch
  • Press cloth


  • After ironing the table cloth, fold it in half and then into quarters. Roll the folded tablecloth into a tube and wrap it in a towel for storage. This prevents heavy creases from forming during storage.
  • Mist heavy creases with warm water before ironing over them to help smooth them out more quickly. Alternatively, use the steam setting on your iron.


  • Always iron the fabric on the wrong side. The heat from the iron can give fabric a shiny appearance and damage decorative embroidery on the front of the cloth.

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