Napkins

Napkins are small pieces of absorbent material used during meals to wipe the mouth and hands, protect clothing, and manage spills. They are commonly available in two broad categories: cloth napkins, typically made from cotton or linen, and disposable paper napkins, which come in various plies and finishes. Sizes vary by use, with dinner napkins usually around 50 by 50 centimeters, luncheon napkins around 40 by 40 centimeters, and smaller cocktail or beverage napkins around 10 by 10 centimeters.

Materials and design

Paper napkins are produced from wood pulp and may be single- or multi-ply, embossed, and printed. They are designed for single use and are widely available in various colors and patterns. Cloth napkins are woven textiles, most often cotton or linen, sometimes blended with synthetic fibers, and can be dyed, embroidered, or hemmed. Reusable cloth napkins require washing after use, while disposable napkins are discarded.

Uses and etiquette

Napkins serve practical functions during meals and are often part of table setting etiquette. In many settings, diners place a napkin on their lap after seating and use it to wipe the mouth and fingertips. In formal dining, napkins may be folded into specific shapes and positioned to the left of the plate or on the plate itself, depending on tradition. Napkins may also be used to cover the lap while handling food to protect clothing and to dab spills.

Care, disposal, and environment

Disposable paper napkins are discarded after use, while cloth napkins are laundered, dried, and reused. Cloth napkins require standard laundry care, and colored fabrics should be washed with similar colors to prevent dye transfer. Environmental considerations include waste from disposable napkins and resource use for washing reusable ones; some customers choose compostable or recycled options.

History

Napkins have ancient roots as cloths used at meals, with evolution across cultures and regions into the diverse forms of today. The practice expanded with the availability of woven textiles and, later, disposable paper products.