We all use a tablecloth to protect the precious surface of our dining table from scratching and tea or coffee spills. We then spend enough time to pick out the perfect tablecloth that matches the decor of the room and is also durable. But then someone leans over the table, or a kid tugs the cloth while playing, and every piece of crockery and dining that you kept on top of the cloth falls down. And so you are constantly thinking about a table cover slipping fix.

A slipping table cover isn’t just annoying but is also unsafe, as we keep hot, simmering dishes and glasses on the table. If the table cloth slips, then these slip with it. The good news is that a table cover slipping fix is usually simple, and one does not need to buy a new tablecloth all of a sudden to fix the problem. 

Why Does a Table Cover Slip in the First Place?

Before jumping to solutions, trying to find a fix, let’s learn about why a table cover slips in the first place. Your table cover might be slipping because:

• The fabric of the cloth is too smooth or lightweight
• The table cover is too small as compared to the surface it is on
• The table surface is either too polished or slippery (like glass or polished wood)
• The cloth does not have any gripping

How to Keep a Table Cover in Place

Your tablecloth sliding solution depends on the type of fabric the cloth is made from and the type of surface your table has. So the several options are:

1. Choose the Right Size and Try to Overhang

Oftentimes, people overlook the easiest of solutions, and that is getting the right size. If the table cover is too small, then the fabric will be uneven on the table, causing it to slip again and again. A good way to fix this problem is by overhanging about 20-30 cm (or 8-12 inches) on each side.

Buying the right size of table cover and then overhanging it makes a huge difference, giving your table a neat and elegant look. So remember to measure your table properly.

2. Use a Non-Slip Liner Underneath

One of the easiest non-slip table cover tips is using a non-slip liner underneath. The non-slip liner goes between your table and table cover, providing the necessary friction to keep the table cover from sliding. Non-slip liners are made of mesh or foam material and are cheap, durable, and can easily be trimmed to match your table shape.

All you need to do is to cut your liner to be just a little bit smaller than the size of your table cover, put it on the table, and put your table cover on top. The results will show immediately.

3.Try a Rubber Grip Mat

A rubber grip matter is another great option if you do not want a full liner underneath your cloth. These mats can be used on tables that undergo a lot of heavy use every day, like dining tables or a work table. They are usually thicker compared to non-slip liners and therefore provide a better grip. This helps with keeping bulky covers in place.

These mats are also ideal for glass-top tables, as glass is usually a tricky surface, and any type of cloth slips through it.

4. Use Table Cover Clips

If you want zero fuss of adjusting non-slip liners or rubber mats, then table cover slips might just do the trick for you. These are little clips that are placed on the corners or sides of your table cover to attach the cover directly to your table surface. These are most effective if you have:

• An outdoor table, as wind can blow the cloth away
• Tables that get bumped often (children's study table or kitchen tables)
• Table covers that are draped over and will catch clothes and chairs
  

Table cover clips are super affordable, easy to use, and do not cause any damage to the table. Most people use them along with liners for extra stability, especially if they are using their table cover for a table in the backyard. 

5. Choose Heavier or Fitted Cloths

All tablecloth fabrics are not the same. Different fabrics play a different role in determining if your cloth stays put or not. 

Lightweight fabrics move around and slip off easily, especially if fans are turned on the whole day. Whereas heavier fabrics stay put on the table naturally and do not shift or slip off even after everyday use. 

Cotton vs Silk Grip

When we try to compare between cotton and silk fabric grip, cotton always wins hands down. It is also a practical option for everyday use.

Cotton

• Texture fabric
• Good grip on all surfaces
• Easier to keep clean
• More stable

Silk/Satin

• Smooth fabric
• Tends to slip
• Perfect for ornamental use only

6. Double-Sided Tape 

 Though not the most sought-after solution, and people think that using double-sided tape might not work, they actually do work. It is a quick-fix option when nothing else is available. 

Obviously not all double-sided types are made for this purpose, so do not use a stationary one. As these aren’t very adhesive and leave behind a residue. Use either carpet tape or outdoor-reated double-sided tape, which are much better for hot and humid weather.

Why A Handmade Cotton Tablecloth Is Better

Handmade cotton table covers are made from natural materials that flow gracefully and do not slip easily off the tables. At Kala India, we recognise that home furnishings must serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose. 

Our hand-block-printed cotton dining essentials provide an age-old touch and are breathable. Unlike synthetic materials, these do not fall of polished surfaces. It is another good reason why handcrafted products are cherished in Indian homes and are good for everyday use.

Final Thoughts

A slipping tablecloth is a very common problem that is oftentimes one of the most annoying things to fix. Because if the table cover slips, everything lying on top of it will slip along with it.

So whether it is adding a non-slip liner, a rubber mat, overhanging the cloth or using a heavier material, these additions will make your life easier. 

You can go through our collection to find premium table covers and dining essentials, to make your dining area look neat, welcoming and elegant.

FAQ’s 

1. What is the easiest table cover slipping fix? 

One of the easiest table cover slipping fixes is placing a non-slip liner or a rubber grip mat below the table cover.

2. Why does my table cover keep slipping?

Your tablecloth keeps slipping all the time because either the cover is smaller in size, made up of smooth material or set on a highly polished table.

3. How can I keep my table cover in place without using clips?

You can either pick the right-sized table cover, use a non-slip liner, select a thick cotton material or put a centrepiece on the table.

4. Are cotton tablecloths better than synthetic ones?

Yes, cotton-handmade table covers are much better than synthetic ones. This is because they are made of natural materials, which make them have  agood grip and durability for long-term use.