How to Wash (and Save) Your Table Linens After Thanksgiving
Between gravy spills, red wine drips, and cranberry sauce accidents, Thanksgiving can leave your linens looking like a crime scene. But don’t panic — most stains can be removed if you act quickly and use the right method.
Whether you're working with vintage linens, cotton napkins, or a linen-blend tablecloth, here’s how to clean them properly and make sure they last for future holidays.
Step 1: Identify the Fabric
Check the label if there is one — table linens are often made from cotton, linen, or polyester blends. If there’s no tag, go by feel: linen tends to wrinkle easily and feel crisp, while cotton is softer and thicker. This helps determine how aggressive you can be with your washing.
Step 2: Tackle Stains Immediately
Before you throw anything in the washer, pre-treat the major stains. Here’s how to deal with the most common ones:
Red Wine
Blot with a clean towel (don’t rub)
Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric
Apply an enzyme-based stain spray and let sit for 30 minutes
Gravy or Oil-Based Stains
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb the grease
After 15–20 minutes, brush it off and spray with stain remover
Wash in warm water if safe for the fabric
Cranberry Sauce or Pumpkin Pie
Scrape off any residue with a spoon
Rinse with cold water
Treat with stain spray and soak if needed
Recommended products:
Puracy Spray Stain Remove (Enzyme)
Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover *From the creators of Miss Mouth’s so you know its good.
& white vinegar (which you probably have in your pantry) to help deodorize.
Step 3: Wash Carefully
Wash linens on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water (depending on the fabric). Avoid hot water unless you’re confident the fabric can handle it.
Use a gentle detergent that won’t leave behind residue or damage natural fibers.
Recommended: Dirty Labs, The Laundress, or Tangent GC
Avoid fabric softener — it leaves a coating that makes linens less absorbent and harder to clean over time.
Step 4: Dry Flat or Line Dry
Tumble drying can shrink or weaken delicate fabrics. If possible, hang your linens to dry or lay them flat on a clean towel. Linen, in particular, benefits from air drying to maintain its texture.
If you do use the dryer, choose low heat and remove items while they’re still slightly damp to prevent set-in wrinkles.
Step 5: Iron or Steam (If Needed)
For crisp, wrinkle-free linens, use an iron while the fabric is still a bit damp — or hit them with a handheld steamer before storing. Fold or roll them loosely to prevent creases.
Optional: Long-Term Storage Tips
If you only use your linens a few times a year, store them in a breathable cotton bag or wrapped in acid-free tissue — not plastic, which can trap moisture. Toss in a cedar block or lavender sachet to keep them fresh.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving stains are inevitable — but they don’t have to be permanent. With the right prep and a little care, your linens can stay beautiful year after year. Bonus: clean, fresh-smelling tablecloths are just as satisfying as the leftovers.
You can shop all my go-to linen care products here