How to Make Plastic Tablecloths Not Look Cheap?

Let’s be honest—plastic tableclothsdon’t exactly scream “stylish” at first glance. They’re affordable, practical, and easy to clean, but they can also come off as flimsy or disposable-looking if you’re not careful. That said, with a few smart styling tricks, even a cheap plastic Table Cover can feel surprisingly polished.

I’ve used plastic Tablecloths for everything from kids’ birthday parties to casual backyard weddings. And over time, I’ve figured out a few simple ways to make them look way more expensive than they are.

1. Choose a Thicker Material

Not all plastic tablecloths are created equal. The really thin ones wrinkle easily and tend to blow around at the slightest breeze. If you want something that looks a little more high-end, go for vinyl tablecloths with flannel backing. They have more weight, they drape better, and they stay in place.

These also feel a bit more like fabric from a distance, especially if you’re using them indoors or layering them with other materials.

2. Layer for a More Luxe Look

One of the easiest ways to elevate a plastic tablecloth is to layer it. You can use a neutral plastic base (say, white or ivory) and then add a table runner, a strip of burlap, or a piece of lace down the center. This breaks up the plastic look and adds texture and depth.

If you’re doing a party or wedding, this trick works wonders. I once did a baby shower with cheapplastic tablecloths for parties and added paper runners in a muted pastel—people kept asking where I rented the linens from.

3. Use Real Table Settings

Nothing makes a table look cheaper than plastic on plastic. Even if you’re on a tight budget, mixing in a few real elements makes a big difference.

Try using:

• Real or ceramic plates instead of disposables

• Fabric napkins (you can find them cheap in bulk)

• Glassware instead of plastic cups

• A few simple centerpieces—candles, greenery, mason jars with flowers

The idea is to distract the eye from the plastic base and draw focus to the details.

4. Iron Out the Creases

Most plastic or vinyl tablecloths come folded in packaging, and the creases are a dead giveaway that it’s something you just unwrapped.

Here’s a quick fix:

• Open it up a day early and let it hang or lay flat.

• Use a hairdryer or steamer (on low heat) while gently smoothing out the folds.

• Or, place it in the sun for an hour—it helps soften the wrinkles naturally.

It takes 10 minutes but makes a world of difference in how clean the table looks.

5. Go for Solid Colors or Subtle Patterns

When shopping for plastic tablecloths, stick with solids or soft prints. Loud patterns or glossy finishes can sometimes make the plastic stand out more. Matte or lightly textured finishes look more refined.

Soft beige, ivory, charcoal, or deep navy tend to read “elegant” instead of “disposable.” And don’t be afraid to add tablecloth clips or weights—they’re practical and keep the look tidy, especially outdoors.

6. Keep It Clean and Tucked

You’d be surprised how many people throw a tablecloth over a table and call it a day. Take the extra few minutes to:

• Wipe it down completely

• Tuck or fold the corners neatly

• Make sure it hangs evenly on all sides

This is especially important with plastic tablecloths for outdoor events, where wind and movement can make things messy fast.

7. Set the Mood with Lighting

This isn’t directly about the tablecloth, but it helps. Good lighting—like string lights, candles, or soft bulbs—can make any table setting look cozy and inviting. Harsh lighting tends to highlight plastic surfaces, while warm lighting softens the whole look.

Final Thoughts

Plastic tablecloths might be budget-friendly, but that doesn’t mean they have to look cheap. With just a few thoughtful details—better material, strategic layering, clean lines, and real table settings—you can create a setup that looks intentional and pulled together.

So next time you grab a roll of plastic or a pack of party table covers, don’t stress. With the right touches, no one will care what it’s made of—they’ll just be impressed by how good it looks.