Everyone has different ideas about what the perfect dining room looks like; some people prefer to use a tablecloth, and others might want to keep their table bare.
Regardless of your preference, there are many reasons why you should consider using a pad on top of your existing table surface. In addition, there is no need to worry about spills and stains because pads protect against them!
We will discuss, “What are table pads made from”? Table pads typically come in various materials, depending on their purpose and desired level of durability. These include PVC, magnetic, foam, and felt/cotton.
PVC
Magnetic
The top surfaces of these pads are made from ferrous metal, such as steel or iron, and covered with a protective coating. Small neodymium magnets embedded in the bottom of each leg keep the pad secure on the table.
Felt-covered magnetic pads are typically thicker than traditional felt pads, provide a warmer look to dining tables, and are not meant to be moved frequently or around the house.
Foam
Made from either polyurethane or memory foam, these pads can be molded into any shape. They are flexible and provide good cushioning, but the high cost of manufacturing them makes them more suitable for professional use than home use.
Cotton/felt
Cotton or felt pads come in different heights and thicknesses to fit common table shapes. Uses include undeserving trays to keep surfaces free of scratches, as well as flat, padded covers to protect tables. However, due to their lack of stiffness, these pads are often held in place with rubber bands or binder clips until they are needed.
Table pads are made from a variety of materials, but the most common is felt. Felt is a soft and versatile fabric that can be cut to any shape and sewn on all sides so it will not fray. In addition, it has some give or stretch, making it very comfortable for your guests as they sit around the table playing cards or board games.
As you can see, there are many different types of table padding materials that serve various purposes.
Why use table pads?
The Master bedroom, office room, and other rooms in the house may have a lot of nice furniture, which you might want to preserve from scratches that can be their aftermath when your little kid is playing around.
You know that pets’ nails can also damage your precious furniture, so why not protect them from being scratched away by dogs or cats? What are the solutions to your problems? Of course, table pads!
Table pads are made of fabric material, foam, and rubber materials. They are explicitly used for tables covering possible scratch points to protect them from damages caused by pets or children. The padding also insulates heat when hot objects are placed on it.
There’s also padding specially made for glass tables to cover their possible scratch points. The pads are available in different colors and sizes, so you can choose one that will match your table or buy a custom-made one.
Table pads also provide added protection for your furniture by keeping things like hot coffee cups from burning holes in your wood dining-room tabletop.
Factors to consider while choosing a table pad
Table pads are the best way to protect your tables. The best part is getting them customized, and they add a beautiful decorative touch to the room. There are several factors you need to consider while buying table pads:
Table measurement
When I say table, I mean it in two ways; firstly, the top size of your table. Second, the size of your chairs. For example, buying a rectangular pad to fit an oblong table would be illogical since one end of the pad will not fit into the other end, leaving a big gap between them.
The best way to do it is to use a string and measure the length and breadth of your table. Mark the measurements on paper, so you don’t have to measure them again later.
Material of the pad
You would want it to be either fabric or leather. Leather pads are very durable; however, they are also expensive. Fabric ones give a rich look and are cheaper than leather ones, but they quickly become dirty. If you are concerned about scratches, then leather ones would be your best choice.
Color of the pad
You might also want to consider the color of the pad since it makes a huge difference in making your room look lively or dull. Table pads can be customized to suit your specific requirements at great prices. The only thing that should not be overlooked is the measurements of the pad. After that, you can pick out colors and patterns to your heart’s desire.
FAQs
How long will table pads last?
Table pads vary in durability and can last anywhere from five years for felt-backed materials to ten years for particleboard base padding. If the edges lose their stiffness or shape during this time frame, you can easily trim them with a utility knife or use an edge trimmer to make them like new.
Can you purchase table pads without fabric?
No, the only way to purchase a table pad is with the fabric of some sort already attached. The felt used on the bottom of the pad gives it shape and creates air pockets between your table’s surface and the fabric top. Air pockets provide the pad with additional padding and help protect your table from heat or spills.
How thick are felt-backed pads?
The thickness of felt-backed pads depends on their size, but typically you can expect a 1/8 inch thick pad for a smaller dining table and up to a 3/4 inch thick pad for a larger conference table.
Conclusion
Table pads are made from a variety of materials, including wood and felt. The material you choose will depend on what type of table you have or want to protect. Before you make a purchase, you should be aware of what table pads are made from; thus, you can select the best for your needs.