However, a machine wash may be needed after every three uses.

Read on for our washing care guide.

Add Detergent

Add a mild laundry detergent to your machine using the recommended amount on the bottle.

Vinyl tablecloth with illustrated lemons and foliage with bowl of lemons and glass pitcher and drinking glasses with lemonade

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confirm it is bleach-free, and do not add straight bleach to the machine.

Chlorine bleach, or bleach-based cleaners, can dry out the vinyl and cause it to crack.

Hanging it in direct sun for several hours will kill any active mold.

Materials for washing a vinyl tablecloth

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Set the dryer on low heat for two to three minutes.

Stay nearby, and do not allow the tablecloth to overheat or melt.

If the wrinkles are still prominent, repeat the process.

Loading a vinyl tablecloth into the washing machine

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Use warm water, a soft cloth or sponge, and mild dishwashing detergent to avoid scratching the surface.

Pre-Rinse Your Tablecloth

Hang your cloth and rinse it well (using a garden hose).

(Your cloth will not smell like a pickle.

Adding detergent to the washing machine

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Saturate a clean, white cloth, and apply it to the stained area.

For heavy stains, try using straight hydrogen peroxide.

Clean grease stains right away with a fresh, damp cloth dipped in isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol.

Adjusting the washer cycle

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Work from the outside of the stain toward the center.

This will prevent it from spreading.

Vinyl Tablecloth Care and Repairs

Vinyl tablecloths can develop mold or mildew when used outdoors.

Hanging the vinyl tablecloth to dry

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Then, place the cloth out to dry in the sun for several hours.

Next, roll it around a heavy cardboard tube to prevent creases and wrinkles.

Lift the iron away often to prevent the vinyl from scorching or melting.

Adding the tablecloth to the dryer with heavy towels

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Flannel-backed tablecloths can be carefully ironed.

Use the lowest setting on your iron.

Tablecloth clips work best for securing your vinyl tablecloth to a table.

Promptly wiping up spills

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It will also cut down on laundering needs by keeping it from getting dirty.

you could also use heavy tablecloth weights or rubber bands to secure the corners.

Rinsing a tablecloth with a garden hose

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

White cloth dipped in white distilled vinegar cleaning off mold and mildew on illustrated lemon and foliage vinyl tablecloth

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Line drying a vinyl tablecloth outdoors

The Spruce / Sarah Lee