How to Clean Burlap Table Linens

Burlap table linens add a rustic and charming touch to any dining setting, making them a popular choice for various occasions. However, maintaining and cleaning burlap can be a bit challenging due to its coarse texture and susceptibility to stains and odors. But don’t worry, because Premium Table Linens is here to help! In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to effectively clean your burlap table linens and eliminate unpleasant odors, ensuring they remain fresh and beautiful for your next gathering.

Cleaning Instructions for Burlap Table Linens

Whether for your front hall, banquet hall, resort function, or your local reception hall/barn dance, burlap is ideal. It is strong, durable, and color and lightfast. It’s biodegradable and carbon neutral (meaning it balances the carbon dioxide required for its production and transport with the carbon dioxide the Jute plant removes from the air we breathe.) Burlap is the ultimate eco-friendly fabric and the most fashionable table linen fabric today. But knowing how to properly care for burlap is just as important, so you can ensure your linens will stand the test of time. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of instructions for cleaning burlap:

• Preparation and Pre-treatment
  Begin by shaking off loose dirt and debris from the burlap tablecloth or placemats. If there are any spills or stains, gently blot them with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the liquid as possible without rubbing or spreading the stain.
  
  
• Spot Cleaning
  For minor stains, you can spot clean using a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Dab the stained area with the solution and a clean cloth, working from the outside of the stain towards the center to prevent spreading. Rinse the spot with clean water and blot dry.
  
  
• Hand Washing
  For more thorough cleaning, you can wash the burlap table linens in a sink or bathtub using a small amount of gentle liquid detergent. Feel free to swish around the water but resist active agitation. Agitation can cause the fabric to release fuzz or fray at the edges, which is why you don’t want to put burlap into the washing machine in the first place!
  
  Note: Non-authentic burlap such as the Havana Faux Burlap can be machine-washed.
  
  
• Detergent Selection
  Choose a mild detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Harsh detergents can weaken the fibers and cause damage to the burlap. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can also degrade the fabric.

• Drying
  After washing, carefully remove the burlap from the sink or tub and allow it to air dry. Hang the linens outside or in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can shrink or distort the fabric.
  
  
• Ironing
  Once the burlap table linens are dry, you may need to lightly iron them to remove any wrinkles. Use a low to medium heat setting and maximum steam on your iron and iron on both sides across the crease.
  
  
• Storing
  Store your clean and dry burlap table linens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and maintain their quality until your next use.

How to Remove Odors from Burlap Table Linens

There are many benefits to burlap – it is a great fabric that is versatile enough to be used in a wide range of events, and it’s an eco-friendly choice for the environmentally conscious. However, Being Eco-friendly, however, doesn’t mean that it’s absolutely perfect in every way. There’s no getting around it – fresh burlap has an earthy scent. The odor’s strength depends on how the cloth was finished, how it was stored, and a variety of other factors. Here's how you can effectively eliminate unpleasant odors from your burlap table linens:

1. Baking Soda Odor Removal
   
   • Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the burlap table linens.
   • Let the baking soda sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb odors.
   • Shake off the baking soda and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any remaining residue.
     
     
2. Vinegar Deodorizing Solution
   
   • Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
   • Lightly mist the burlap table linens with the vinegar solution, focusing on areas with odors.
   • Allow the linens to air dry completely; the vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, taking the odors with it.
     
     
3. Sunlight and Fresh Air
   • Hang the burlap table linens outdoors on a sunny day.
   • Sunlight and fresh air are natural deodorizers and can help eliminate odors from the fabric.
     
     
4. Coffee Grounds Odor Absorption
   
   • Place the burlap linens in a large container or bag with coffee grounds.
   • Seal the container or bag and let it sit for a day or two. The coffee grounds will absorb the odors from the burlap.
     
     
5. Lavender or Citrus Deodorizing Sachets
   
   • Fill small sachets with dried lavender or citrus peels and place them alongside the burlap linens.
   • Lavender and citrus have natural deodorizing properties and will impart a pleasant scent to the linens.

Bring Rustic Elegance to Your Table with Burlap

We hope this post has helped answer any questions you have about cleaning burlap. By following these cleaning and deodorizing tips, you can keep your burlap table linens looking fresh and smelling delightful, ensuring they are always ready to adorn your table for any occasion. With a little care and attention, your burlap table linens will maintain their beauty and charm for years to come.

If you’re on the hunt for quality burlap fabric at an affordable price, feel free to check out our selection of genuine burlap & faux burlap linens today. We proudly offer a vast selection of the finest burlap that’s sure to transform your event into a rustic affair. Shop today!