How Much Bigger Should a Tablecloth Be Than the Table?

If you've ever bought a tablecloth and laid it out only to realize it looks too short—or drags dramatically on the floor—you’re not alone. Figuring out the right size can be trickier than it seems. So let’s break it down in plain English: how much bigger should a tablecloth be than the table?

The short answer is: it depends on the drop length you want. But don’t worry—we’ll walk through what that means and how to measure properly, so your table always looks just right.

What’s a “Drop” and Why Does It Matter?

The drop is how far the tablecloth hangs over the edge of the table. And it makes a big difference in how formal or casual your setup looks.

• Casual dining or everyday use: 6–8 inches on each side

• More formal occasions: 10–12 inches

• Floor-length for special events (like weddings or trade shows): 29–30 inches (basically to the floor)

So when you're asking, "how much bigger should a tablecloth be?"—you're really deciding how much of a drop you want on each side.

A Quick Tablecloth Size Guide

Let’s go through some common standard table sizes, and how to calculate the right tablecloth size based on your drop preference.

For a rectangular table:

1. Measure your table – length and width.

2. Decide on your drop – let’s say you want 8 inches.

3. Add twice the drop to each dimension.

So if your table is 60" long and 30" wide, and you want an 8" drop:

• Length: 60 + 8 + 8 = 76"

• Width: 30 + 8 + 8 = 46"
  Your ideal tablecloth would be 76" x 46".

For a round table:

Same idea. Just add twice your desired drop to the diameter of the table.

Example: For a 48" round table with a 10" drop:
48 + 10 + 10 = 68" round tablecloth

What If You’re Using a Tablecloth for an Event?

If you’re prepping for something like a wedding, trade show, or banquet, you might want your tablecloth to reach the floor. In that case, you’ll need to know the height of the table—usually around 29–30 inches for standard banquet tables.

So, for a 6-foot table (72" x 30") and a floor-length look:

• Add 30" to each side

• You’d need a 132" x 90" tablecloth for full coverage

This is where fitted tablecloths or spandex covers come in handy—they're designed to stretch and give you a clean, floor-length look without bunching or overhang.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size

• Always measure your table first. Don’t eyeball it.

• If you’re in between sizes, it’s usually better to go bigger. You can always tuck it or let it drape.

• For outdoor events, shorter drops are better—less wind drama.

• Check if your table has thick legs or unusual curves. A full drop might look awkward on a pedestal table, for example.

And What About Oval Tables?

Oval tables can be tricky. The best option is usually to measure the length and width as if it were a rectangle, and then round the corners of your drop mentally. If in doubt, oval or oblong tablecloths are available and offer a better fit than using a round one on an oval shape.

Final Thoughts

Getting the right size tablecloth isn’t hard—it just takes a few quick measurements and knowing what look you’re going for. Whether it’s a casual dinner at home, a formal banquet, or a pop-up event, your table setting starts with a well-fitted cloth.

So next time you’re wondering, “how much bigger should a tablecloth be than the table?”—now you’ve got the answer.

Bonus Tip

If you're shopping online, look for retailers that offer a tablecloth size guide or even a sizing calculator. It saves time and removes the guesswork.