Coasters

Start with the size. The bamboo coaster measures 10 cm and fits under tumblers, water glasses and coffee cups. The copper and stainless steel versions measure 13 cm and are meant for glasses with a wider base: highball glasses, stemmed gin and tonic glasses and beer glasses with a heavy bottom. Measure the base of the glass you use most and pick a coaster that leaves at least a centimetre around it.

The material mainly sets the character. Bamboo absorbs a little moisture and looks warm, which suits a wooden table. Copper adds warmth and colour and works well against a dark bar. Stainless steel is the most neutral and the most robust, and keeps its looks even with dozens of glasses on it every day.

At home, you place the coaster down before the glass touches the table, not after the guest has already poured their drink. At a set table, place it above and to the right of the knife, in the same spot as the water glass. At a gathering with a gin and tonic or an Aperol Spritz the coaster does double duty, because these glasses in particular sit for a long time and are full of ice.

In the hospitality industry, the metal coaster also helps when serving: it lies flat, does not slide, and keeps the glass stable when you hand it over the bar. Replace it for each new guest, just as you replace the glass itself.

Wash bamboo by hand in lukewarm soapy water and dry it straight away. Do not leave it standing in water and keep it out of the dishwasher, because the wood warps and the lacquer comes loose. Rubbing in a little oil now and then keeps the colour deep.

Copper can go in warm soapy water and develops a darker patina on its own. If you want the shine back, polish it with a little lemon and salt. Stainless steel is the easiest: it simply goes in the dishwasher, and you wipe it dry to avoid limescale marks.

Coasters are a small part of a larger set. The rest of your bar supplies can be found under bar tools, with cocktail shakers and bar spoons for the actual preparation. Looking for the glassware that goes on top? Check out the tumbler glasses for the low models and the highball glasses for the tall ones. Those who equip their bar down to the last detail will eventually also end up with speed rails .