Napkins are more than table decor

By ROZIE JUMA

We have talked about table manners in the past. You probably know how to use most of the utensils for various dishes from diverse continents.

Today, we focus on table napkins, a constant no matter the cuisine. It is unfortunate that some people do not know how to use them. I have visited homes where the dining table is set with cutlery, crockery and napkins all at the right place. Unfortunately, the napkins are just decorations; the household has never had an opportunity to use them. The owner probably walked into a showroom, saw the table set up, and emulated it without enquiring how to utilise it.

The steps below should help.

1. The moment you sit at the table, the first thing you should do is put the napkin on your lap. If there is a host, wait until he or she picks up their napkin, then pick yours. The napkin will either be placed to the left of the forks, beneath them or on the main plate. Some are folded in a fancy way and put in unique holders. Unfold your napkin above your lap, underneath the table. You can then place it on your lap. It should stay here until you finish eating or you need to step out to the washroom.

2. As you eat, some food may spill on the side of your mouth. Simply pick your napkin and gently dab your mouth. You can also use the napkin to clean the lips of your glass when you sip wine or water, to ensure no grease is left on the glass.

3. The napkin is neither a handkerchief nor tissue. You should never use it to blow your nose. If you must blow your nose, excuse yourself, and go to the washroom.

4. Whenever you have to get up and, perhaps, go to the bathroom in the middle of a meal, excuse yourself from the table, and then neatly place the napkin on the lap of the chair (do not fold it). The napkin must never be placed back on the table during a meal.

5. You must have seen some people place the napkins on their collars like bibs. Sincerely, bibs are for babies who easily spill food from their mouths; not adults.

6. When you are done with the meal, you can fold the napkin in half or quarters and place it beside your plate on the table. Never put it on the plate.