Napkins or serviettes are two terms often used interchangeably to refer to a piece of cloth or paper used for wiping one’s mouth and hands during a meal. However, in some regions and contexts, these terms can have subtle differences in meaning. Here are the key distinctions:
- Terminology:
- Napkins: In many English-speaking countries, especially in the United States, “napkin” is the more commonly used term to refer to a piece of paper or cloth used during meals.
- Serviettes: In British English, Australian English, and some other regions, “serviette” is the preferred term for what Americans would typically call a “napkin.”
- Material:
- Napkins: A Napkin can be made from various materials, including paper and cloth. Paper napkins are common for everyday use and are disposable, while cloth napkins are often used in more formal dining settings and are washable and reusable.
- Serviettes: The term “serviette” is typically used to refer to cloth napkins in British English and other regions where this term is more common. However, paper serviettes are also available and are similar to paper napkins.
- Formality:
- Napkins: In American English, “napkins” can refer to both casual paper napkins used at picnics and formal cloth napkins used at upscale restaurants and special occasions.
- Serviettes: The term “serviette” is often associated with cloth napkins, and its usage may imply a somewhat more formal or traditional dining setting.
- Fold Styles:
- Both napkins and serviettes can be folded in various decorative styles for presentation. Common fold styles include the basic rectangle fold, 4 fold rectangle, and can be made into intricate designs for formal occasions.
- Occasions:
- Napkins: Paper napkins are commonly used in everyday settings, picnics, fast-food restaurants, and casual dining. Cloth napkins are often reserved for more formal events, such as weddings, fine dining establishments, and holiday gatherings.
- Serviettes: The term “serviette” may be used in British English to describe cloth napkins, which are commonly used in formal dining settings.
It’s important to note that the distinctions between “napkins” and “serviettes” can vary by region and personal preference. In casual settings, the terms are often used interchangeably, and the choice between paper and cloth napkins or serviettes depends on the formality of the occasion and personal preferences.
Paper Napkins and Serviettes for Weddings, Events and Restaurants
Napkins and serviettes are essential in the food service industry, so if you run a restaurant, hotel, B&B, cafe or bar, you’re going to need a great supply of paper napkins to accommodate guests and customers. Serviettes are essential for dressing tables, but they also make a cheap and disposable alternative to drinks coasters. Keep a supply of Cocktail Beverage Naps on your bar for customers to help themselves to – at these cheap prices, you can buy napkins in bulk and still save plenty to spare. Why not stock up for the holiday seasons? Napkins can also be bought in bulk for weddings, parties and events, so you can save money but still supply your guests with plenty of serviettes for eating and drinking. We stock a huge range of colours and sizes, including black napkins, white and even ivory napkins for weddings. Depending on your preference we also stock 2-ply and 3ply napkins, and paper table cloths perfect for cafes & restaurants.