Coasters help keep the condensation from drinks from leaving water marks behind. You can see this effect on your coffee table at home and you might not think much of it. But the countertops at the bar needs to be kept presentable.

Are coasters necessary?

You need a coaster to avoid unsightly water rings and marks on your tables from “sweaty drinks” like beer, soda, water, and juice. These water rings form due to the condensation on the cup, bottle, or mug. If the temperature of your cold drink is below dew point, the water will condense as liquid to the surface.

Why are coasters called coasters?

The word coaster comes from the phrase “bottle-coaster,” which are round wheeled trays that were originally used to hold decanters. These trays “coasted” around the perimeter of a table to each guest during dinner, serving them their drink. Beermats were first referred to as “coasters” in 1913.