Linen Rentals 101: Complete Tablecloth Rental Guide
When you’re planning an event—whether it’s a waterfront wedding in Annapolis, a birthday in Montgomery County, or a corporate gala in Baltimore—your tables do a lot of visual heavy lifting. The easiest way to make them look polished? Get the tablecloth size right. As a go-to source for party rentals in Maryland, we’ve seen how the right linen fit transforms a room from “nice” to “wow” in seconds.
Why tablecloth size matters
Looks: Properly sized linens create clean lines and a cohesive style. Floor-length tablecloths instantly read formal (think weddings and galas), while shorter drops feel relaxed and perfect for showers, birthdays, and backyard graduations.
Comfort: Cloths that are too long get tangled with chairs and shoes; too short can expose table legs and look unfinished. The right drop keeps guests comfortable and your layout photo-ready.
Safety & Function: Long drapes can become tripping hazards or catch on chair legs. A correct fit reduces spills, snags, and mid-event fixes—especially important for high-traffic buffets and dessert stations.
Protection: The right coverage shields tables from scratches, spills, and heat, saving you cleanup time and protecting your rental investment.
Understanding “drop” (and why it sets the vibe)
“Drop” is how far the fabric hangs from the tabletop to the hem. For most tablecloth rentals in Maryland, you’ll choose between:
Casual/standard: ~8–12″ drop (ideal for luncheons, backyard events on the Eastern Shore, kids’ parties, and casual corporate meetings).
Formal/floor-length: 28–30″ drop (great for wedding linens in Maryland, galas, and black-tie fundraisers).
To-the-floor + overlay: Use a floor-length base with a smaller overlay for texture or color blocking—popular with Baltimore party rentals and downtown hotel venues.
Quick size guide for common tables
Every inventory varies, but here’s a handy rule of thumb you can use when browsing event rentals in Maryland:
-
Round tables (most common: 60″ & 72″)
-
60″ round: 120″ linen = floor-length; 108″ = standard/casual.
-
72″ round: 132″ linen = floor-length; 120″ = standard/casual.
-
-
Rectangular banquet tables (most common: 6′ & 8′)
-
6′ (30″×72″): 90″×132″ = floor-length; 60″×120″ = standard.
-
8′ (30″×96″): 90″×156″ = floor-length; 60″×126″ = standard.
-
-
Cocktail/hi-tops (24″–36″ diameter, 42″ tall)
-
120″ round for a fitted, to-the-floor look (tie with a sash for a cinched style).
-
132″ round for a puddled, ultra-elegant look.
Your Go-To Linen and Table Sizing Guide
Choosing the right tablecloth size can feel tricky, but our Linen and Table Sizing Chart makes it simple. Here’s how to use it:
1. Find Your Table Shape and Size
Start by identifying whether your tables are round, rectangular, square, or cocktail height. Common rental sizes include:
6’ or 8’ rectangular tables (banquet style)
4’, 5’, or 6’ round tables
30” cocktail tables (standard or low)
Smaller accent tables like 5’ squares
2. Match Your Linen Size
Each table size has a recommended linen size depending on the look you want:
Floor Length – For a polished, elegant feel (perfect for weddings, galas, and formal dinners).
¾ Length or Lap Length – For a more casual or budget-friendly option (ideal for birthdays, graduations, and backyard gatherings).
For example:
A 6’ round table (72″) needs a 132″ round linen to reach the floor, or a 120″ round linen for a ¾-length drop.
An 8’ banquet table looks best with a 90″ × 156″ linen for full coverage, or a 60″ × 120″ linen for a lap length fit.
A cocktail table (30″) can use a 120″ or 132″ linen depending on whether you want it tied at the base or puddled for a dramatic effect.
3. Plan for Guest Comfort
Our chart also lists seating capacity for each table size, so you can be sure your layout will feel comfortable. For example, a 5’ round table seats 8–10 guests, while a 6’ rectangular table is perfect for 6 guests.
4. Choose Your Style
Once you know the right size, you can decide between:
Floor length linens for a formal, uniform look.
¾ length for casual settings.
Mix and match – For example, floor length on head tables and cake tables, with standard drops on guest tables to save on budget while keeping a polished look.
With this guide and our easy-to-use sizing chart, you’ll never have to guess what linen size to rent again. Whether you’re setting up for a wedding in Baltimore, a corporate event in Bethesda, or a backyard celebration in Annapolis, the right fit will make your tables look intentional, comfortable, and picture-perfect.
Ready to dress those tables?
Our team is here to help you find the perfect fit. Explore party rentals in Maryland with confidence: choose your table shape, use our sizing chart, and pick from 30+ colors. From casual backyard celebrations to elegant black-tie weddings, we’ll make sure every table looks intentional, comfortable, and camera-ready.
Got any questions, or would you like to place a quote for any future gatherings? Get in touch with us by filling out the form below, or by calling our offices in Laurel and Waldorf.
Need guidance? Send us your floor plan or table list, and we’ll recommend sizes, drops, and color pairings tailored to your venue. Your perfect tablecloth fit is just a click away.
AAA Party Rentals is more than a rental company. We take care of your rental needs, so you can turn moments into unforgettable memories.
English