Have you ever planned a big event and immediately thought it might be cheaper to buy linens than to rent them? You’re not the only one who’s been tempted. However, it seems that buying isn’t always the bargain.
In this blog, we’re going to show you, without a doubt, why renting table linens is not just a more convenient choice but a smarter financial move. We’ll break down what table linens are, guide you through choosing the right size for different tables, and reveal both the obvious and hidden costs associated with buying versus renting. Plus, we’ll delve into the aesthetic and practical considerations that make renting the superior option.
- What is Table Linen?
- Choosing the Right Size Linen for Different Tables
- Cost Considerations
- Aesthetic and Practical Considerations
What is Table Linen?
So, when we say “table linen,” what exactly are we talking about? Table linen includes all those fabulous fabrics used to cover tables at events—like weddings, banquets, or even a casual get-together at home. Typically, table linens refer to tablecloths, runners, placemats, and napkins that are specially designed to fit and flatter tables of all shapes and sizes. They might be made from luxurious satin, classic polyester, or quaint cotton. Each of these materials offers a unique look and feel!
Satin shines under the lights for a glamorous effect, polyester is wonderfully wrinkle-resistant and durable, and cotton brings a cozy, homey touch to your setup. That’s why the right type of linen can dramatically change the theme and atmosphere of your event. While the linens might seem like a small detail, they play a crucial role in the overall decor of your event.
Choosing the Right Size Linen for Different Tables
When you choose linens, you must consider not only the size of the table but also how much linen you want draping over the sides. This is called the “drop” of the tablecloth, and it can range from a casual few inches all the way to the floor, depending on the formality of your event.
Let’s break down the common types of tables used at events and the best linen sizes for each to help you make the perfect choice:
Linen Sizes According to Table Type
| Table Type | Size of Table | Recommended Linen Size | Drop Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round Cocktail Table | 24″ to 36″ diameter | 72″ to 96″ round tablecloth | 6″ to 30″ drop |
| Banquet Table | 6′ long x 30″ wide | 90″ x 132″ rectangular tablecloth | Standard 15″ drop |
| Round Banquet Table | 60″ diameter | 90″ to 120″ round tablecloth | 15″ to 30″ drop |
| Square Table | 30″ x 30″ | 54″ x 54″ to 70″ x 70″ square tablecloth | 12″ to 20″ drop |
| Rectangular Table | 8′ long x 30″ wide | 90″ x 156″ rectangular tablecloth | Standard 15″ drop |
This table should help you visualize what type of tablecloth you’ll need for different tables. Keep in mind that the longer the drop, the more formal the setting appears. Shorter drops are great for casual gatherings where ease of movement around the table might be necessary.
For a deeper discussion of what size tablecloth to choose, check out our blog, “What Size Tablecloth Do I Need?”
Cost Considerations
The cost of linens can vary widely based on several factors, including the material, size, and supplier. In this section, we’ll delve into the costs associated with both buying and renting linens, which should help you navigate your options and budget effectively.
How Much Do Linens Cost to Buy?
Buying linens might seem like a straightforward investment, but there are several costs to consider beyond the initial purchase price. The price of purchasing table linens varies depending on the quality and type of material. While cost-effective, polyester often lacks the luxurious feel and refined look of more premium materials. This can be perfectly acceptable for casual or semi-formal events where the focus might be more on functionality than style.
Higher-end materials like silk or satin may cost anywhere from $50 to over $100 per piece, but they offer a level of sophistication and elegance that polyester simply cannot match. But there’s a bit more to purchasing linens that cost-conscious consumers often overlook:
- Linens aren’t just used and stored; they require regular washing and ironing, demanding significant time and effort after each event.
- New linens often arrive with creases and sometimes a factory smell, requiring washing, ironing, and airing out before they are event-ready.
- If you host events only a few times a year, the cost and effort of maintaining linens may outweigh the benefits of owning them.
Even if you plan to sell them, the labor costs might overshadow the small amount of money you’ll save by purchasing and then selling. We’ll go over that a bit more later on!
How Much Do Linens Cost to Rent?
Renting linens usually offers a straightforward cost structure. Rental companies generally charge a flat fee per tablecloth, which typically covers cleaning and pressing services. Prices can range from $15 to $40 per linen, depending on the material and design complexity. High-end fabrics or unique designs may cost more, reflecting their quality and exclusivity.
One of the primary advantages of renting is that it eliminates your need to manage cleaning and storage, significantly reducing hassle and additional expenses. This benefit is especially valuable for individuals or organizations that do not host events regularly. Maintaining an inventory of linens not only requires space but also a commitment to ongoing maintenance, which can be burdensome and impractical if you host events infrequently.
Furthermore, the rental price often includes delivery and pick-up services, which is very convenient! This service ensures that the linens arrive in perfect condition and are returned for cleaning right after the event. This allows you to focus on other critical aspects of event management without worrying about logistics.
Example Scenario:
we’re planning this big event at school, and we’ve got our eyes on some gorgeous silver satin tablecloths. Renting them would cost us about $24.95 each, bringing the total to $1,247.50 for all 50. That sounds straightforward, right? But then, I stumbled upon a deal on Amazon where we could buy similar tablecloths for $16.78 each, which totals up to $839 for 50. Tempting, isn’t it?
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. After the event, we’d need to clean these tablecloths at our local cleaner for $11.50 each. That’s another $575, pushing our total cost to $1,414.
But wait, what if we try to recoup some of that by reselling them afterward for $8 each? Assuming a couple of them get stained and can’t be sold, we could potentially make back about $384. That drops our net cost down to $1,030. Simple math suggests we’d save about $217.50 by buying instead of renting. But is it really that simple? Let’s talk about what’s not in the numbers.
Imagine this: the tablecloths arrive with creases, and no one wants a wrinkly table at a fancy event! We might luck out with a volunteer to iron them, but that’s a whole day’s work right there. And if they show up dirty or smelly? That’s another round of cleaning before the event, hiking our total cost up to $1,605, more than what we’d pay if we just rented.
Here’s what we need to consider:
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The real cost of buying isn’t just about money; it’s also about time and effort.
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Stress on the day of the event? I’d rather not!
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Even with reselling, the savings are slim and come with the hassle of finding buyers.
So, should we really go through all this just to save a couple hundred bucks? Or would we rather have a hassle-free day with rented linens that arrive ready to go? Personally, I’m leaning towards renting—it might cost a bit more upfront, but it saves a lot of headaches.
Aesthetic and Practical Considerations
The colors and designs of your table linens play a pivotal role in setting the mood and complementing your event’s theme. Let’s explore how to choose the perfect linen colors and designs, and understand the practicalities of tablecloth length
How to Choose Linen Colors & Designs for Your Event
Choosing the right colors and designs for your linens can transform an ordinary space into a stunning event venue. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choices:
- Consider Your Theme: Are you going for a romantic, elegant, modern, or perhaps a rustic theme? Let your theme guide your linen choices. For instance, soft pastels complement a romantic theme, while bold colors like red or black might suit a more modern event.
- Seasonality: The time of year can influence your color choices. Lighter colors work well for spring and summer events, while richer tones like burgundy or navy are perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
- Venue Color Scheme: Consider your venue’s existing colors. Depending on the effect you’re aiming for, you’ll want linens that either harmonize with or stand out against the decor.
How Much Should a Tablecloth Hang Over?
As we briefly touched upon earlier, the “drop” of your tablecloth—that is, how much fabric hangs over the edge—significantly influences the formality and functionality of your event setup. For a relaxed and casual atmosphere, you should aim for a drop of about 6-8 inches. This is enough to add a touch of elegance without becoming a hindrance to guests moving around the table.
- Short Drop: A drop of 6-8 inches is considered short and casual, perfect for family-style meals, outdoor picnics, or informal gatherings. It provides enough coverage to dress the table while keeping things laid-back and accessible.
- Standard Drop: A 10-12 inch drop is typical for professional settings like conferences, business dinners, or semi-formal events. It hits the balance between formality and ease of use, covering the table legs without being too cumbersome for guests to sit comfortably.
- Long Drop: The most dramatic effect is delivered by a drop that extends to the floor, about 29-30 inches. Used for formal events such as weddings, galas, or upscale banquets, a long drop enhances elegance and transforms the space into a more refined setting.
Finding the Best Linen Rental Services for Your Event
At Reventals, we understand the intricacies of event planning and are committed to helping you make these decisions with ease and confidence. We offer a wide range of high-quality linens for rent, tailored to meet every type of event need—from the most formal gatherings to casual get-togethers.
But an event is more than just linens! We offer everything you could possibly need for an event—from tables and chairs to tents and beyond, all at the best prices. We’re committed to making your event planning as easy as possible by doing the legwork to find you the best deals, managing all vendor communications, and sending you consolidated invoices.
To learn more about how Reventals works, click here! Discover how easy and rewarding event planning can be when you have the right partners by your side.
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- How to Set a Table
- How Much Does it Cost to Rent Table Place Settings?
