Planning an event comes with plenty of moving parts — and linen is often one of the last details to be finalised. Our FAQs are here to make linen hire simple, clear and stress-free.

Below you’ll find answers to our most common questions about linen hire for weddings, corporate events and private functions, including how the hire process works, delivery and collection, last-minute changes, cleaning, damages and nationwide UK coverage.

Whether you’re hiring a handful of tablecloths or coordinating linen for a large-scale event, this guide explains what to expect at every stage. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help.

GENERAL LINEN HIRE FAQ'S

Learn how linen hire works, what’s included, hire periods, and why professional event linen hire saves time, cost, and stress for weddings and events across the UK.

What is linen hire and how does it work?

Linen hire is a professional service that allows you to rent high-quality event linens such as tablecloths, napkins, chair covers and chair sashes for weddings, corporate events and private functions. We deliver freshly laundered linen to your home, office or venue, and once your event is over, we collect it and handle all professional cleaning — removing the need to buy, wash, store or maintain linen yourself.

What types of linen and hire products do you supply?

We supply a wide range of event linen for hire, including tablecloths in multiple sizes, cloth napkins, chair covers, chair sashes, table runners and coordinating accessories. Our linen ranges are designed to suit weddings, corporate events, hospitality venues and private celebrations

Is linen hire suitable for both small and large events?

Yes. Our linen hire service is suitable for everything from intimate dinners of 10 guests to large-scale weddings and events for 300+ guests. Orders can be scaled up or down depending on your requirements and venue size.

Do you have a minimum order or minimum hire period?

We don’t usually enforce a minimum order value, and you can hire a single item if needed. Our standard linen hire period is up to 5 days, but this can be adjusted to suit your event schedule or business needs.

How far in advance should I book linen hire?

We recommend booking as soon as you know your event date, particularly for weddings and peak season events. Early booking helps secure availability and avoid rush charges. That said, we can often fulfil last-minute linen hire orders subject to stock availability.

Can I make changes to my order once its placed?

Yes. Changes to quantities or items are possible depending on timing and availability. To avoid additional charges and ensure availability, we recommend confirming changes as soon as you’re aware of them.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept credit and debit card payments. Trade account options may be available for regular business clients, with payment terms clearly outlined in your account profile. 

Where do you deliver and how is the delivery handled?

We deliver linen hire orders nationwide, across the UK using a combination of our own vehicles and a trusted national courier network with tracked delivery. Orders are delivered directly to your venue or address and collected on the agreed date. Clear instructions are provided to ensure smooth collection and avoid additional charges.

Which areas of the UK do you deliver?

We offer nationwide linen hire delivery across the UK, including (but not limited to):
London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, York, Liverpool, Newcastle, Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, Bristol, Bath, Cardiff, Reading, Oxford, Cambridge, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Coventry, Warwick, Stratford-upon-Avon, Harrogate, Ripon, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Bradford and surrounding areas.

Can I collect and return the linen myself?

Yes. You can collect and return linen directly from our warehouse if preferred. Simply let us know at the time of booking and we’ll have your order prepared and ready for collection.

Do I need to wash or clean the linen before returning it?

No. All professional laundering is included in the hire price. Linen should be returned unwashed in the supplied linen bags or transport boxes. Please do not attempt to clean items yourself, as this can cause damage.

How should I return the linen after the event?

All linen is supplied in specialist transport boxes and must be returned in those same boxes. We provide clear guidance so you know exactly what to do after your event, ensuring a smooth and stress-free return process.

What happens if linen gets stained or damaged?

We understand that minor food and drink spills are part of events and can usually be removed during professional laundering. However, some damage cannot be repaired, including candle wax, oil and grease, ink, glue or tape residue, mildew, rips and tears. In these cases, charges may apply in line with our damage policy.

How long does it take to process my refund?

Once your hire is complete and all items have been returned, cleaned, checked and counted, any applicable refund will be processed within 7–14 days.

During peak periods or around bank holidays, refund processing may take slightly longer due to higher order volumes and national bank holidays. Once a refund has been issued, the time it takes to appear in your account will depend on your bank or payment provider.

If you have any questions about your refund status, our team is always happy to help

Satisfied customers

Jacithan Smythe

"The service was amazing. I cannot speak highly enough about the work of DLH. They just made that part of my wedding so seamless."

Jacithan Smythe

 
 

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