Dear Debra,

I hate ironing my napkins before or after I have entertained. Is there a trick to not having to iron cloth napkins or are there nice paper alternatives? Sue, Chicago, IL

Dear Sue,

From an eco-friendly perspective cloth is better than paper. We love linen tablecloth and napkins, however cotton can be just as nice and is more ‘user-friendly’ when it comes to the ironing aspect.

When paper is the only thing that will do, check out Oriental Trading Company for an amazing selection of paper napkins to fit any occasion. Another great resource is Plates and Napkins. They even have a selection of eco-friendly paper products.

First let me start by saying sometimes, it’s worth it to pay the dry cleaners. Especially, for large over-sized tablecloths that come with a set of 12 napkins.

For those times you decide to use cloth napkins and tablecloths, here are some tips for making the task of ironing a bit more palatable!!

· Use a padded ironing board.

· Make sure the bottom of your iron is clean. Check the bottom for mineral deposits, which can leave brown spots. Test your iron on a piece of cloth.

· Linens don’t like high heat. It is best to iron linens while they are still damp using the steam setting and linen temperature.

· If you aren’t going to iron your linens right a way roll them and place in a plastic bag. Place them in a refrigerator or freezer from 6 to 24 hours. Linens will retain their moisture and prevent mildew formation.

· Use starch for crisp linens. This is especially nice for fancy napkin folds. Starch makes it easier to iron, creates soil resistance and makes soil removal easier. To achieve a softer look use spray-on sizing versus starch.

· Start by ironing on the reverse side once, spray with starch and iron fabric on the right side.

· Iron dark colored lines on the reverse side only. Ironing dark colored linens on the front can cause sheen. Iron light-colored linens on the reverse side first and then the front side.

Two tips: Buy decorative cotton bandanas or towels to use as napkins. They are easy to iron and launder. For hard to remove spots buy LeBlanc Linen Wash, it is the best!!

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