What is better to choose for the table - a tablecloth or oilcloth?

The kitchen occupies a special place in any home. Here we not only cook food, but also get together with members of our household, discuss household chores, and have intimate conversations over a cup of hot coffee. Therefore, the room should be not only functional, but also cozy.

A special place in the kitchen is occupied by the table where family members gather. But for it to have an attractive appearance, it must be covered with a tablecloth or oilcloth. In addition, the coating will prevent scratches on the surface of the furniture.

But what to choose - a tablecloth or oilcloth? After all, the coatings are different and have their own advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at the nuances of the products together. This will help you make the right choice.

Types of table coverings

Before you start choosing a suitable coating, you should find out what mandatory characteristics it must have. The main parameters are:

1. Moisture resistance. The product should retain moisture well, preventing it from reaching the table surface.
2. Strength. The coating must be durable and withstand mechanical stress.
3. Appearance. An excellent option if the coating fits into the design of the room.
4. Heat resistance. Hot mugs and cups are often placed on the table.If the selected coating does not withstand high temperatures, then unsightly marks from the dishes will appear on it, and the risk of damaging the table surface also increases.

There are several options for kitchen table coverings on sale:

1. Tablecloth. It is a traditional option, but with the advent of oilcloth it began to lose ground. The product has an attractive appearance, but is not practical. After all, if liquid is spilled on the table, the tablecloth will have to be washed. If you use a low-quality powder, unsightly, difficult-to-remove stains may remain on the tablecloth.
2. Oilcloth. Modern models are not much similar to those that were released before. Now this is a stylish product made on a woven basis.
3. Silicone coating. The product is practical, so it is rapidly gaining popularity. But it cannot be used as a decorative decoration, because it is a sheet of colorless silicone, which is selected exactly to the size of the table.
4. Serving napkins. An original way to protect the surface of the kitchen table. But napkins are only suitable if you are not cooking on the table, because they are small in size. The products have an attractive appearance and can fit into any interior design. They are also easy to use - after finishing a meal, just wipe the table with a soft cloth.

Pros and cons of tablecloths

A beautiful tablecloth can decorate a room. It brings a touch of sophistication and comfort. A wide range allows you to choose a product for any occasion. It can be a tablecloth for everyday use, a formal one, etc. Such products differ in the material of manufacture, texture, and color.

Reference! When choosing a tablecloth model, keep in mind that it should fit into the design of the room and match the color of the walls, ceiling and other textiles.

The tablecloth can be made from either natural material or fabric with the addition of synthetic threads. For the first option use: cotton and linen.

They have a number of advantages:

1. Natural material. It looks expensive and stylish. Adds elegance to the interior.
2. Lifetime. With careful use and proper care, the tablecloth will serve you for many years.
3. Design. A wide selection of textures, colors, shapes allows you to choose a product for any interior.

The disadvantages include:

• absorbs liquid well, so it will have to be washed often;
• After washing the fabric shrinks.

You can also find tablecloths with acrylic or Teflon coating on sale. They are more practical because they do not absorb moisture and do not require special care.

Advantages and disadvantages of oilcloth

Many people mistakenly believe that oilcloth is a relic. Modern types of oilcloth have little in common with those produced earlier. Thanks to the use of modern technologies, oilcloth is made using durable material that resembles fabric in appearance.

The undeniable advantages of oilcloth are:

1. Practicality. It perfectly protects the table surface from dirt, thermal damage, and scratches.
2. Design. There is a huge selection of different colors and styles. Therefore, you can choose an option that will fit well into the overall design of the kitchen.
3. Easy to care for.
4. Low cost.

When choosing oilcloth, you need to remember the disadvantages. If you do not take care of it in time, mold and mildew may appear on the table. Oilcloth is not suitable for serving a holiday table.

What is better to choose

It's difficult to answer this question because you have to take into account personal preferences. However, it is advisable to have both options. After all, oilcloth is an excellent, practical material for everyday use, while a tablecloth will become an indispensable element of the festive table.