Though they may imply a level of formality, the best cloth napkins are a sustainable alternative to too-rough paper towels or flimsy take-out extras shoved in a drawer on any occasion. We think these utilitarian tools should be lowered from the pedestal of waitlist-only restaurants and at-home holiday dinners. For the hostess extraordinaire, cloth napkins are a no-brainer addition to your curated tablescape, especially when they coordinate with your favorite tablecloth. Whether made from cotton or linen, canvas or denim, these fabric napkins are absorbent and durable—the best ones are even machine washable for easy clean-up.
If you’re looking for a statement cocktail napkin that makes your gimlet shine, or a trusted table linen that won’t look out of place next to your Sabre flatware, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’re highlighting eight of the best cloth napkins we stand behind for special occasions and weeknight leftovers alike.
Our Top Picks for the Best Napkins
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Sferra Festival Dinner Napkins (Set of 4)
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Chefanie Fan Linen Cocktail Napkin (Set of 4)
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Inside the Article
Best Overall
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Atelier Saucier Rainbow Denim Napkins (Set of 4)
Atelier Saucier has been making some of our favorite table linens from their HQ in Los Angeles for years now, so of course, they make the best cloth napkins. Made from 100% reclaimed fabric, these denim napkins are as tried and true as your favorite pair of jeans (and just as durable). The fabric is washing machine safe and softens with age. Boasting rainbow-hued trim, the dark hue helps to hide stains in between washes.
Most Colorways Available
Sferra Festival Dinner Napkins (Set of 4)
Crafted from 100% flatweave linen, Sferra’s classic Festival dinner napkin will quickly become the most versatile napkin in your tablescape arsenal. Commerce market editor Kate McGregor owns these in a few shades, and they’re the napkin she reaches for night after night. “The linen is absorbent, but never gets soggy (unless I’m wiping up a spill), and I find that stains come out easily with little to no special treatment,” she says. Available in 100 colors, you can mix, match, color coordinate, or intentionally clash to your heart’s content.
Best Cocktail Napkins
Chefanie Fan Linen Cocktail Napkin (Set of 4)
For the maximalist host, opt for abstract napkin shapes rather than traditional squares. Boasting a vibrant red hue and an end tassel, the fan-shaped linen napkin has decorative cotton thread to accentuate the silhouette. While they’re not washing machine safe, these napkins are perfect for holding a cold cocktail glass or protecting your wood surfaces from condensation.
Best Gingham
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Heather Taylor Home Soho Two-Toned Bordeaux Napkins (Set of 4)
The classic, picnic-style gingham has been the foundation for parties for decades. Heather Taylor Home has given the pattern a boost with their Soho textile. A micro gingham with raised, hand-stitched seams, these cloth napkins are artisan-made in Mexico. The new two-toned bordeaux is especially striking for an unconventional holiday table, though the print is available in several other shades that are versatile enough to use daily.
Best for Minimalist Tablescapes
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Jenni Kayne Frayed Linen Napkin
A white linen napkin may sound like a recipe for stains, but the right one can add sophistication to your weeknight dinner. These from Jenni Kayne carry the designer’s signature Californian nonchalance with a frayed edge. For added durability, there is an additional edge stitch to prevent further fraying.
Most Playful Patterns
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Tortuga Forma Double-Sided Napkin (Set of 4)
With dual-sided prints and eclectic color combinations (hello chartreuse and maroon), Tortuga Forma’s table linens are carefully crafted in Japan for lasting durability. The woven cotton can hold its shape, making it a great choice for those who enjoy napkin folding, but it never feels overly stiff. Associate commerce director Lori Keong says, “I like all of the groovy colorways, from double-sided checkerboard prints to stripes, and that the cotton shantung fabrics have a lightweight, but hardy heft to them.”
More AD-Approved Cloth Napkins
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Pierce & Ward Printed Napkin (Set of 4)
Designed by AD100 Honoree firm Pierce & Ward, these 1970s-inspired printed napkins give your dinner table a retro feel. The ochre hue is seasonally versatile, and the 100% cotton make-up is hand-embroidered in India. They’re also available in a set of four or eight for larger gatherings.
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The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Napkins (Set of 6)
The Citizenry’s stonewashed linen makes some of the softest cloth napkins available. Imagine if your favorite bedsheets were also available in table linen form; that’s what these are. Solid colorways can be mixed and matched, while contrasting edge-trim ensures these never fall flat on your tablescape.
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Sur La Table Modern Plaid Napkins (Set of 4)
Sur la Table’s rainbow napkins feature a playful madras-style plaid reminiscent of summer grill-outs and beachside lunches. These 100% cotton napkins have a bit of texture and detail added through vertical ribbon seams. The napkins are thick, making them super durable and highly absorbent.
