Dining Table Pads were once a thing of the '60s, but today, more and more households are digging out their old table coverings or purchasing new ones in a bid to protect their tables.
Are you currently thinking 'what on earth is a dining table pad?'. Well, dining table pads are a handy piece of material used to protect your table from a long list of potential dangers!
Spilled drinks, splashed foods, sharp knives, and dropped crockery are just some of the things that could ruin a table in next to no time.
Thankfully, interior design has come a long way since the 1960s. Today you can purchase a dining table pad that matches your home and blends seamlessly with your decor.
If you're already a fan of your home decor and don't feel like your dining room needs an extra feature, then worry not - we've found a transparent table pad just for you!
To help you pick the best dining table pad for your home, we've reviewed some of the best table pads on the market and narrowed them down to our top ten.
We'll discuss each table pad's pros and cons, including customer satisfaction levels and things to look out for before purchasing. Hopefully, by the end of this article, you'll have your eyes set on the perfect table pad that'll suit your home!
Best Pick
The LAMINET Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad is our top pick as it’s available in a variety of colors and sizes.
Budget Pick
The Deluxe Elastic Edged Table Cover is our budget pick. It’s easy to clean and features an elasticated edge to ensure it doesn’t move when in use.
Quick Comparison: The 10 Best Dining Table Pad
1. LAMINET Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad - Editor's Pick
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The Laminet Heavy Duty Table Pad ranks quite high in our opinions. One of the main selling points of this table pad is that it’s customizable and can be cut-to-fit most table shapes and sizes! Meaning you don’t have to spend ages meticulously measuring your table against the dimensions online.
This table pad is also easy to clean thanks to its waterproof material. Simply wipe it clean using a damp cloth or sponge, and it’ll look as good as new. The pads vinyl surface also works well against hot plates and dishes, preventing heat rings from forming on your table.
The table pad is also multipurpose and can be used as an extra layer under an already existing pad or as your table's sole protector.
There are four different color combinations to choose from, including Marble Blue, Mosaic Blue, Mosaic Green, and Heavy-Duty White. The Laminet Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad is a great buy for a no-nonsense, easy-to-clean, table pad.
2. Covers For The Home Deluxe Elastic Edged Table Cover - Best Waterproof
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The Deluxe Elastic Edged Fitted Table Cover is a large elasticated table pad that snuggly hugs your dining table. As all edges of the table are elasticated, you won’t have to stop the pad moving when plates are placed down, and people sit at the table.
The selling point of this particular table pad is the variety of colors and designs that are available. If you’re looking to add a little color to your dining room, or perhaps you enjoy funky patterns, the options are almost unlimited!
The table pads are particularly fun to use on outdoor tables to brighten up your garden. We love the Daisy print and the Botanical flowers!
Note that this table pad is not machine washable. However, it’s easy enough to clean with a damp sponge or hot water and a cloth. It also can’t be ironed, so if you’re after a crease-free finish, this might not be the table pad for you.
It’s worth noting that some users found the material easy to damage. Particularly when sharp blades such as knives were accidentally dropped. However, as the table pad is affordable, it would be easy to replace annually without breaking the bank.
3. OstepDecor Upgraded Version Thick Frosted Desk Pad
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If you don’t like patterned table cloths, then the Opstep Transparent Table Cover is the answer to your table pad problems! Wave goodbye to garish prints and funky patterns, and say hello to the transparent table pad that honors your table.
The table pad is available in two different thicknesses, including 1.5mm and 2mm. The thinner table pad is recommended for heavy-duty use as it’s hard to be displaced while the 2mm table pad is better suited for kitchen and dining room use as its more durable.
Some users noted that the table cloth isn’t particularly compatible with glass, glossy, and marble tabletops as it left bubbles. However, it’s perfectly suited for wooden tables so long as any oil or lacquer is dry.
The final selling point of this particular table pad is that it comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not impressed with the product, simply reach out to OstepDecor, and they’ll help resolve any issues you may have!4. Yourtablecloth Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad
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The Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad is a multipurpose table pad that is a non-slip and easy to clean. The pad features a vinyl surface, a polyester flannel backing, and an extra-thick polyester cushion that protects your table from heavy objects.
As for the design, this particular table pad has been designed to fold up nice and small, making storage a doddle. As for the size, there are six different sizes available, and you can choose between a round or rectangular pad.
If you have a funny shaped table and can't quite find the perfect pad to fit it, then the Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad could be perfect as it can be cut to fit! Simply take out your scissors and start cutting to size! Don't forget to order a table pad bigger than you need to allow for reshaping.
We love it when items come with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, and this table pad does so, if you purchase the Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad and aren't impressed then Yourtablecloth are on hand to help.5. Nuvantee Revolutionary Table Pad
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We gave the Nuvantee Revolutionary Table Pad a solid A. It’s easy to clean, can be cut to any size, and is perfect for most dining tables! Why do we love it?
It’s a simple table pad available in just one color which makes purchasing quick and easy. If you want fancy patterns or cool designs, there’s plenty of table pads on the market but for a quick purchase, you can’t beat this pad!
We love that you can buy the Nuvantee Revolutionary Table Pad with confidence, all thanks to the 100% lifetime money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t perform as it should, simply reach out to Nuvantee and ask for your money back.
6. Home Bargains Plus Quilted Heavy Duty Table Pad - Best for DIY Shaping
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The Quilted Heavy Duty Table Pad is a waterproof vinyl table pad that can easily be cut into any shape or size.
Whether your tables round, square, or rectangle in shape, all you need is a pair of scissors, and you can design your own table pad! As with all customizable pads, make sure you buy a size larger than your actual table to allow room for cutting.
This simple table cloth is white in color and features a faint floral design. If you’re after a minimalistic table cloth that doesn’t draw too much attention, the Quilted Heavy Duty Table Pad is perfect.
Note that this table pad isn’t heavy-duty and is quite thin. Some users found this a problem as they expected a more robust table pad that was both durable and sturdy. We’d suggest this table pad would be perfect for those experimenting with table pads, but not for those already used to heavy-duty pads.
This particular table pad is prone to wrinkles and can’t be ironed. That’s why we’ve only given it a C in our grade table, and wouldn’t say it’s the best dining table pad on the market.
7. Protex Cut to Fit Table Pad Vinyl Table Cover
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The Protex Cut to Fit Table Pad is a flexible, soft, and easy to use dining table pad. Not only is it waterproof (which prevents your table from being stained by spilled liquids), but it also boasts sound absorption properties!
Whether you’re looking for a primary table pad or a secondary table pad to layer under a decorative piece, the Protex Cut to Fit Table Pad impressed us. It’s also versatile, so if you buy a large enough piece of table pad, you can use the remainder to line draws, shelves, and desks!
This particular table pad is available in four neutral colors, and you have the choice of White, Camel, Ivory, and Sand. While not particularly pretty, this table pad serves its purpose as its heat-resistant, easy to clean, and easy to store. We’d suggest using it as a secondary pad for extra protection.
Some users noted that the table pad doesn’t lay flat without ironing it and that ironing isn’t recommended. For that reason again, we’d recommend this as a secondary pad instead of a feature piece of your dining table.
8. Miles Kimball Elasticized Table Pad
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If you’re in the market for a standard dining table pad that’s affordable yet durable, the Miles Kimball Elasticized Table Pad is probably what you’re looking for.
This table pad is only suitable for tables that are oval and around 48” x 66,” which is quite restrictive, but if you have this size table, then you’ve found yourself a bargain.
The material is waterproof and heat resistant and also easy to wipe down with a damp cloth. While it can’t be ironed, a couple of uses will straighten out any lumps and bumps, and you’ll have a flat table pad in no time.
As the edges are elasticized, this table can’t be customized and isn’t suitable for cutting into a smaller shape.
Note that some users found the actual size to be a little smaller than suggested, which made attaching it to a table a little bit of a struggle. Once on, the Miles Kimball Elasticized Table Pad is well secured (thanks to the elastic) and shouldn’t move when in use.
Once again, we suggest using this particular table pad as a secondary cover for extra protection. You’ll likely prefer something a little more aesthetically pleasing on your dining table!
9. Brilliant Home Design First Quality Quilted Table Protectors
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The Brilliant Home Quilted Table Protectors is available in a range of sizes, including 52” x 70”, 52” x 90”, 60” (for round tables), 60” x 84”, and 60” x 120”. Whether you’ve got a small rectangular table or a large round table, it’s likely that you’ll find a Brilliant Home Design that fits!
The selling point of this particular dining table pad is the thickness of the product. While most dining table pads are fairly thin, this is thick and quilted.
Not only does this prevent liquid from leaking through to the table, but it also allows you to place more substantial pots down, and place hot pans down without fear of leaving burn ring marks.
This table pad is also a great companion with tablecloths as its design prevents the two from slipping off the table. If you’re looking to double-up, this is definitely a contender. The quilted diamond pattern doesn’t show through to your top tablecloth, which makes it a seamless addition to your dining room table.
Some users noted that the table pad is prone to creasing and that ironing failed to help. In this case, the users continued to use the table pad, and over time, the creases flattened out.
So, in short, you might have to host a few dinner parties with heavy dishes before you get a truly flat dining table pad!
10. OstepDecor Custom Brown Table Cover Protector
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This particular table pad is perfect for those looking to give a little life to their table as the pad provides an elegant and beautiful finish. As for color, this table pad is available in brown or black. While the brown table pad features a leaf design, the black table pad is a block color.
As for functionality, like most of the dining, as mentioned above table pads, the OstepDecor Table Cover is waterproof, heat resistant, and easy to clean.
Make sure when cleaning, you wipe down with a damp cloth and refrain from using soap as some users noted that the pad retained the soap, which affected the color.
When applying to your table, make sure you place the smooth side up and lay the textured side down. This way, you’ll avoid any air bubbles forming between the material and the table.
However, if you do find any creases forming in the middle, not all is lost. Simply set your iron to steam mode and hover over the pad until the material flattens out.
Overall, we graded this dining table pad a B. While it functions perfectly well as a dining table pad, and the customizable material makes it suitable for most table types, the design is only suitable for an acquired taste.Things to Consider when Buying a Dining Table Pad
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How do Dining Table Pads Work?
Dining table pads act as a protective layer between the table surface and the instruments you place on the table. Your table isn’t just an object used for dining; it’s a piece of furniture and part of your home, so it should look its best!
Dining table pads are waterproof, stain-resistant, and durable pieces of fabric that prevent your table from everyday wear and tear. Without one, you’ll likely end up with stains, heat marks, and decay on your table in no time.
It should be noted that while some dining table pads are suitable to be used as the only protective device on your table, others act as a secondary layer.
Dining table pads that work as secondary layers are usually quite bland to look at! With these kinds of dining table pads, you’d usually also purchase a tablecloth to lay over the pad to disguise it.
Types of Dining Table Pads
Placemats
Placemats are small, individual, pads that are usually placed in front of each guest at the table. Instead of covering the entire table, they exist to protect one area of the table from one object.
While placemats are quite common, they don’t offer as much protection as a dining table cover. For the ultimate table protection, opt for a dining table cover, topped with a tablecloth, and then placemats. Damage proof!
Dining Table Cover Pads
Dining table cover pads are large sheets of material, usually vinyl, that can be draped over an entire table to protect every part of it from spilled drinks, dropped objects, or stray food!
Custom Dining Table Pads
Custom dining table pads are table pads that can be cut to shape to suit a specific table size. These are usually made out of a material that is easy to cut and are sold in large sizes to account for the reshaping.
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Non-Slip Dining Table Pads
Non-slip dining table pads are table pads that, in one way or another, are stuck to the table.
The pads will not move when you’re placing or removing objects from the table, nor will they be pulled off when somebody sits down. Elasticated edges and magnetic clips are the two most popular non-slip dining table pad types.
Dining Tablecloths
Dining tablecloths are similar to dining table pads. However, they’re not as good at protecting your table. While dining table pads tend to be heat resistant, scratch proof, and waterproof, dining table pads offer minimal protection and are largely used to make a table look presentable.
As mentioned, the best combination would be to have a quality dining table pad underneath an aesthetically pleasing tablecloth of your choice.
Why do we need a table pad?
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Dining table pads are usually associated with the 1960s, but they’re becoming more and more popular thanks to the various advantages they offer. So, why do we need a dining table pad? Check out the below benefits of protecting your dining table:
Prevent Heat Damage
Most dining table pads are heat tolerant up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit and protect your table from the damages caused by a hot plate or pan. Instead of putting a hot casserole dish directly on the tabletop, save yourself the pain of buying a new table, and use a protective pad!
Prevent Scratches
Dining tables are usually used by multiple family members three times a day (if not more!), so the chances of someone dropping an object on the table is pretty high. Using a table pad is a fantastic way to avoid dents, marks, and scratches embedding in your table.
Prevent Stains
No matter how much of a clean eater you are, accidents do happen, and inevitably a drink will be spilled, and food will be dropped. The beauty of a dining table pad is that instead of staining an expensive table, the pad will soak up the mess and can easily be washed or replaced.
In short, dining table pads are all about damage prevention. In preventing damage to your table, you're saving yourself money in the long run by keeping the value of your furniture as high as possible.
When you come to sell your table, you'll get a higher price than if it was damaged - it's a win-win! Dining table pads add a certain character to a room and can really jazz up your dining decor!
The end goal is to keep your table looking brand new for longer, and a dining table pad is the easiest, cheapest, and most efficient way of doing this.
Things to Consider Before Buying Dining Table Pads
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Before purchasing a dining table pad, you might want to take these qualities into consideration. While most dining table pads have all the below qualities, some only feature a handful:
Heat resistance: Make sure your dining table pad can withstand a minimum heat of 176 degrees Fahrenheit 80 degrees Celsius.
Washable surface: Vinyl is a popular material and can easily be whipped down with a wet cloth. Flannel backs are also easy to clean, though suede needs a little more looking after and shouldn’t be washed with water.
Breathable material: If your table pad is breathable you won’t have any condensation forming on top of the table.
Transparent or Patterned: Do you want a table pad with a lavish design or are you after a minimal pad that blends into your home?
Foldable design: You don’t want to leave your table pad on your dining table all the time, so think about how easy it is to fold down and store.
Magnetic locks: Some table pads feature magnetic locks to hold the pad in place, while others have elasticated edges. You need to consider whether you want your pad locked in place, or if you’re happy for it to move around while you dine.
Easy to cut: If you don’t have a standard table size and you’re looking to purchase a dining pad and cut it to size, make sure the material is easy to cut.
Lifetime guarantee: If you want to enjoy purchasing with confidence, check to see if your table pad comes with a lifetime guarantee.
How to Use Maintain Dining Table Pads
Most dining table pads can be hand washed with warm water and soap, and some are washing-machine friendly.
If your table pad is made of suede, consider rubbing any stains out with a soft-bristled brush instead of soap and water. If your table pad is made up of suede and a second material, it's best to treat the entire pad as suede.
Another great way to maintain your table pad and increase its durability is to remove it from your table to air it regularly. You might also want to purchase a storage bag to pack it away when not in use.
One thing to consider when caring for your dining table pad is whether it can be ironed. If you notice a crease in your pad, you might be quick to set the iron in it, but this could easily ruin your table pad.
If it can’t be ironed, you might have to wait for the creases to drop out over time. Alternatively, place an ironable material over the top of the pad before ironing on low heat.
Finally, although most table pads are heat resistant, consider investing in hot mats to prevent damage to the pad. Hot mats work as an extra layer between the food and the table and ensure your dining table pad lasts for multiple uses.
Final Verdict
You can see we’ve spent some time researching the best dining table pads on the market, and there’s plenty to choose from but our favorite has to be the LAMINET Deluxe Cushioned Heavy Duty Table Pad.
It’s customizable, easy to clean, and comes in four different color combinations. A close runner up is the Nuvantee Revolutionary Table Pad which is affordable, boasts a simple design, and comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
However, if you’re after a vibrant table cloth to brighten up your room and bring a bit of fun to dinner time, we loved the designs available with the Deluxe Elastic Edged Table Cover.Take a look at these products also: