Crisp table dressings provide an elegant backdrop to any meal. Yet conventionally grown cotton pesticide applications include some of the most toxic organophosphate pesticides in use. Paper alternatives contribute to deforestation, and vinyl, made from polyvinyl chloride, releases carcinogenic dioxins during manufacturing and incineration.

Instead, look for Rawganique’s newly expanded line of organic French linen and organic hemp tablecloths ($54 and up; www.rawganique.com, 877-729-4367). Or try hand-woven, organic cotton tablecloths from Native Organic in rustic stripes or plaids (tablecloths, $40, napkins, $35/set of 4; www.nativeorganic.com, 800-766-7454).

By Joanna Howard