Assess and Prep the Stain

• Remove Loose Residue: Gently scrape off any dried ketchup using a spoon or a blunt knife. This helps prevent the stain from spreading further.
• Rinse with Cold Water: Turn the tablecloth inside out and run cold water over the stain. Cold water is less likely to set the stain and helps to push the ketchup particles out of the fibers.

Pre-Treatment Techniques

• Apply a Liquid Detergent: Work a small amount of liquid detergent (the kind you use for your regular laundry) directly onto the stain. Gently rub the fabric together or use your fingers in a circular motion. Let this sit for about 10-15 minutes; this step breaks down the stain’s sugary and oily components.
• Optional Soak: For old, stubborn stains, soak the affected area in cold water with a few drops of detergent for 30 minutes to an hour. This prolonged exposure can help the detergent penetrate deeper into the fabric.

Washing and Post-Treatment

• Wash Thoroughly: Either machine wash or hand wash the tablecloth using the hottest water that the care label allows for cotton. Ensure you use a quality detergent to boost the cleaning effectiveness. The water should be warm enough to help lift the residue yet cool enough to avoid setting any remaining stain.
• Air-Dry First: Before putting the tablecloth in a dryer, let it air-dry completely. Heat from a dryer can set any remaining stain, making it nearly impossible to remove later.
• Repeat if Necessary: If the stain isn’t completely gone after one round, repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps. Persistence pays off when dealing with old stains.

Extra Tips from an Experienced Pro

• Test Before Acting: Always test any cleaning method on a hidden area of the tablecloth to make sure it won't affect the fabric’s color or texture.
• Gentle Does It: While it might be tempting to scrub aggressively, remember that a gentle approach preserves the integrity of the cotton fibers.
• Patience is Key: Sometimes old stains require more than one treatment. Don’t get discouraged if the stain fades gradually rather than disappearing immediately.