Is Burlap Weather Resistant?

Burlap is one of the most sought-after materials to be used for event tablecloths and runners, among others. Those who are going for a rustic theme choose these materials as their first pick. They add a touch of natural charm that goes with almost any theme, even outdoor ones.

The problem, however, lies when the weather doesn’t cooperate during your event or when water spills onto the table. You’ll start to worry if this type of fabric can resist water and last for many more occasions. In this blog, we’ll answer the question “Is burlap weather resistant?” and if it could stand the test of time, especially in events with many attendees.

What Is Burlap Fabric?

We need to learn first what burlap fabric is. Burlap is a rough, natural fabric often used for things like napkins and table overlays, among others. It's made from the skin of plants, usually jute, which helps the material to be durable and strong. However, these materials absorb water well, which makes burlap not waterproof.

Can Burlap Handle the Outdoors?

Burlap looks amazing at outdoor events, but it's not super tough when it comes to rain or wind. It's not waterproof, so rain can soak through it quickly, leaving you with wet and muddy tablecloths. Plus, burlap is pretty lightweight, so strong wind can easily blow it away, ruining your carefully planned decor.

How To Protect Burlap

Burlap might not be the best choice for a rainy outdoor event. But don't worry, there are ways to make burlap waterproof or protect it for your decor. 

1. Add A Topper

To shield your burlap from rain, consider placing a waterproof tablecloth over it. This extra layer will act as a barrier, keeping your burlap dry and looking its best.

2. Consider Covered Areas

When dealing with burlap, set up your tables under covered areas like tents or pergolas. This will provide the most reliable protection from rain and wind, ensuring your burlap chair covers or other decor stays in perfect condition.

3. Choose Alternative Materials

If all else fails, consider using alternative materials for your table coverings. Plenty of weather-resistant fabrics are available that can mimic the look of burlap without sacrificing durability.

Caring for Your Burlap After the Party

While burlap is not really weather resistant, you still need to take care of it after every party to make its life longer. With moisture and dirt expected after each event, here are some tips to take care of them after the party:

1. Gentle Cleaning

Since burlap is a delicate fabric, a gentle clean is crucial for burlap. For light dirt or stains, spot clean with a damp cloth.

2. Hand Wash

If there is more dirt than expected, hand washing is the best option. For deeper cleaning, hand wash burlap in cool water with a mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.

3. Air Dry

This step is crucial since machine-drying burlap can hurt the tiny fibers and cause the material to shrink. 

Always air-dry your burlap. Heat from a dryer can damage the fibers.

4. Iron Carefully

To get rid of wrinkles and only if needed, iron on a low setting with a damp cloth between the iron and the burlap.

While there is no direct way to waterproof burlap fabric, you can consider other alternatives to protect this fabric from moisture to make it last longer and use it for other events.

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