How to Use a Napkin with Proper Table Etiquette

Table manners are essential when you're attending a luncheon, wedding reception or other formal function. Napkins are meant to gently dab your mouth during a meal. They are not actually supposed to get dirty. Follow these steps to use a napkin in table etiquette.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Wait to begin the meal until your host or hostess unfolds their napkin. This is the signal to begin.

2. Unfold your napkin. If it's a small napkin, completely open it. If it's a large dinner napkin, keep it folded in half. Place it on your lap.

3. Allow the waiter to place your napkin in your lap if you're dining at a fancy restaurant. It's considered perfectly polite to do this yourself, however.

4. Keep the napkin in your lap during the entire meal. Lift it to blot your mouth if needed.

5. Place your napkin on your chair if you must get up during the meal. This acts as a signal to the server that you're returning to your place.

6. Notice when the host or hostess puts their napkin on the table. This means the meal is over.

7. Fold your napkin neatly in half or in quarters. Place it to the right of your plate and rise to leave the table.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pick up your napkin if it falls to the ground. Signal a waiter and ask for a new one.
• Don't leave your napkin on the chair when you leave a table for good.
• Don't shake your napkin out as if it's a flag.
• Never use your napkin as a bib.