Are Table Pads a Good Idea?

Conventional Use

• Table pads are table covers that overlay the top of a table. They have a firm top surface but are soft underneath where the pad touches the table. Table pads are used on dining tables primarily to protect the wood surface from moisture, fading from sunlight exposure and scratches caused by silverware or crafts tools. Additionally, table pads break the fall of china or crystal that is dropped on the table, protect a table from hot dishes or pans and absorb sound so that dinnertime is quieter.

Other Uses

• Table pads can be custom-made to fit just about any surface in your home. You might want to have one made for a piano, dresser top, desktop or any piece of furniture that you'd like to protect from scratches and wear and tear. Table pads are firm enough that, when placed on a desktop, they can be used as a writing surface.

Using a Table Pad

• You can purchase a table pads in ready-made sizes or have one custom-made to your table's specifications. The pad unfolds to the size of your tabletop, and you simply place it onto the table's surface. Work or dine at your table with the pad as is, or cover it with a tablecloth if desired. You can easily remove a table pad if you'd like to show off the beauty of your wood table.

Storing a Table Pad

• If you'd like to leave the table pad on your table, you may do so indefinitely, either uncovered or covered with a tablecloth, which prevents the need to find a place to store your pad as you are storing it on top of the table. If you'd like to remove the pad and store it elsewhere, simply fold it up, remove it and lay it folded but flat, as opposed to leaning it against a wall, so that it does not warp.