Napkin spec is the quietest line item that still shapes both guest perception and weekly cost. Get the size, ply, and basis weight right and everything else — presentation, absorbency, spend — falls into place. This is the reference buyers keep open while writing a spec sheet.
Standard Napkin Sizes
Size is the most-misunderstood variable. "Napkin" is not one size; it is a family matched to the station.
| Format | Open size | Folded | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cocktail / beverage | 25 cm (10") | ~12.5 cm | Bars, coffee, coasters |
| Lunch / luncheon | 30–33 cm (12–13") | ~16 cm | Cafés, casual lunch |
| Dinner | 40 cm (16") | ~20 cm | Full-service dining |
| Dispenser (C-fold / interfold) | 16.5–21 cm | slot-dependent | Back-of-house, self-serve |
| Airlaid (dinner) | 40–45 cm (16–18") | ~20–22 cm | Fine dining, events |
See the station-by-station buying approach →
What Ply Count Actually Means
Ply is the number of tissue layers bonded together. More ply = more absorbency, opacity, and wet strength, but also more cost.
- 1-ply: thinnest and cheapest; fine for dispensers and light wipe tasks, but goes translucent with moisture.
- 2-ply: the foodservice default — enough strength for saucy or greasy food without over-spending.
- 3-ply: noticeably thicker and more premium; reserve for fine dining or messy menus where 2-ply falls short.
- Airlaid: not a ply count but a nonwoven, cloth-like sheet — see airlaid vs regular →.
GSM (Basis Weight)
GSM is grams per square metre of tissue. It is the honest measure of substance:
- Below 17 g/m²: thin, tears easily — avoid for table service.
- 18–20 g/m²: the quality standard for 2-ply foodservice napkins.
- 21 g/m² and above: premium territory, noticeably thicker.
Wet Strength & Lint
Two specs separate a good napkin from a frustrating one: wet strength (holds together when damp) and lint level (rub against a dark surface — excessive dust signals lower-grade fibre). Both should be on your sample check, alongside food-contact compliance →.
Key Takeaways
- Match size to station: 25 cm at the bar, 40 cm in the dining room, 16.5 cm+ for dispensers.
- 2-ply at 18–20 g/m² is the sensible default for 90% of venues.
- Spec GSM, not just ply — it is the real measure of substance.
- Always wet-test and lint-test a production sample before committing volume.
Need a Spec Sheet Built?
Tell us your stations and monthly volume; we return a tiered spec and EXW/FOB pricing.
Keep Reading