Guide to Cleaning Every Type of Placemat

The Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Placemats

Shell Placemats

Tailored Placemat in Neutral Tones

Placemats set the tone for the table, and they also take the first spill. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or setting the table for a weeknight meal, knowing how to clean placemats keeps your table décor beautiful for years to come.

At Kim Seybert, we design placemats for every kind of table, from intricate woven placemats to easy-care vinyl placemats. Here's how we care for each one, so every spill has a simple solution.

Quick Tips for Placemat Maintenance

Start by shaking off each placemat to remove crumbs and debris. Treat spills right away, before they have a chance to set. Then choose the right method for the material: a quick wipe with a damp cloth, a targeted spot clean, a gentle hand wash, or a delicate machine cycle. With the right care, every placemat stays pristine, meal after meal.

How to Clean Fabric Placemats

Cotton, linen, and silk bring softness and polish to any setting, from casual to formal. Pieces like the Divot Placemat and the Dream Weaver Placemat deserve a little extra care.

Start with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Soak the placemats for about 10 minutes. Gently scrub the surface with a soft sponge. Press out excess water without wringing, then lay each placemat flat on a towel to dry. Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

To spot clean a single stain, work a small lather of the same soap into the spot, then rinse.

How to Clean Plastic and Vinyl Placemats

Made for outdoor entertaining and busy households, plastic and vinyl placemats are as easy to clean as they are to use. The Marine Placemat, the Azure Placemat, and the Cloud Placemat are water-resistant and durable. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use. Skip abrasive sponges and scrubbers, which can scratch the finish.

How to Clean Specialty Placemats

Many Kim Seybert placemats are finished with meticulous hand beading, like the Reef Chic Placemat and the Tapestry Placemat. Our best-kept secret for spot cleaning these pieces is a soft toothbrush. Hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent, brushing lightly around the beadwork. Then lay flat to air dry.

Reliable Stain Removal Tips

Every host needs a plan for the unexpected spill. Our go-to product is Carbona Stain Devils. For everything else, start here.

Acidic foods. For tomato sauce, ketchup, and mustard, rinse within the hour. The sooner you act, the less likely the stain is to set.

Oil-based stains. Grease can be stubborn. Mix mild dish soap with warm water, then add a splash of white vinegar to cut through oil without harming the material.

Wine. Blot with dish soap, rinse under cold running water, and let air dry. For more, see our full guide on how to clean wine stains.

Proper Maintenance and Storage

Store placemats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, such as a drawer or linen closet. Wrap each piece in acid-free tissue paper to prevent creasing and discoloration.

Natural fiber woven placemats, like jute or rattan, need extra protection from moisture. Keep them out of damp spaces to prevent mold and mildew. If you have room to hang your placemats, padded or roller hangers help preserve their shape.

Use clean storage containers lined with acid-free materials. With a little care, your placemats will stay beautiful through years of gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash placemats in the washing machine?

We recommend hand washing most placemats, including cloth and linen placemats. If you do use a washing machine, choose a delicate cycle, wash placemats separately, and use a mild detergent. Avoid machine washing beaded or embellished pieces.

Can placemats go in the dishwasher?

We don't recommend it. High heat can warp plastic placemats and wear down their finish. Instead, wipe them clean with white vinegar and lukewarm water, a gentle alternative to the dishwasher and harsh detergents.

Is there a good way to get old stains out of placemats?

For set-in stains, try a paste of baking soda and water. For lighter stains, apply mild dish soap directly, let it sit for several minutes, then rinse.