Napkin Holder

Napkin holders are among the most frequently used table setting accessories in the HoReCa sector — they are found on every table and bar counter. The right choice of napkin holder affects both practicality and the aesthetic impression the customer has of the establishment.

Napkin holder materials

Stainless steel napkin holders are the most durable and easiest to clean — suitable for intensively used restaurants and cafés. The steel surface is resistant to scratches and retains its appearance over time. Metal holders are stable and do not tip over even if a customer accidentally brushes against them. Stainless steel napkin holders also meet HoReCa food hygiene requirements — they can be cleaned with any certified disinfectant.

Wooden napkin holders give the table a warmer and more natural look, which suits eco, brasserie or bistro-style establishments. Note that wood requires more careful maintenance and is sensitive to moisture — regular oiling or varnishing will extend the holder’s service life.

Plastic and acrylic napkin holders are an economical and lightweight solution, available in various colours. Suitable for quick-service and informal restaurants, as well as establishments with seasonal changes or frequent table setting style updates.

Structural types

Stand holders place napkins horizontally on the table — the customer pulls the napkin from the side or top. Their compact size allows them to fit even on small tables without obstructing the table surface. This is the most classic and widely used type of napkin holder in HoReCa establishments.

Box-type holders with top or side openings are popular in cafés — napkins are protected from wind and dirt but easily accessible to the customer. The box-type design also looks more organised than open holders and helps maintain a visually appealing napkin supply.

Mounted holders are attached to the wall or partition, freeing up table space. Suitable for fast-casual and bar settings where the table surface needs to remain free for other accessories.

Napkin holders for different establishment formats

In fine dining restaurants, the napkin holder design plays a special role — it is an integral part of the table setting that enhances the establishment’s aesthetic impression. In such cases, higher-design stainless steel or silver-plated models are chosen. In cafés and bistros, the holder must be sufficiently convenient and durable for intensive daily use. In quick-service establishments, cost-effectiveness and easy replacement are important.

Napkin holders in self-service areas

In self-service and canteen formats, napkin holders are placed in separate serving areas where customers take napkins independently. In this case, the holder’s capacity is important — it must be able to maintain a larger napkin supply without frequent refilling. Wall-mounted and partition-mounted models are suitable for such scenarios. BHS helps choose high-capacity napkin holders for canteens and self-service establishments.

Napkin types and compatibility with holders

The napkin holder should be chosen according to the type and size of napkins used. Paper napkins (standard 33×33 cm or larger 40×40 cm) require different holder sizes — larger napkins do not fit in compact holders. Fabric (linen or cotton) napkins are not used in standard table holders — they are folded and placed directly on the table or in glasses as a table setting element. Cocktail napkins with a size of 24×24 cm are smaller and require a correspondingly small-format holder. When choosing a napkin holder, it is important to specify the type and size of napkins used, so that BHS can recommend a compatible model.

Cleaning and maintenance of napkin holders

Regular cleaning of napkin holders is necessary as they are on the table and can accumulate food residues, grease and dust. Stainless steel holders are easy to clean with a damp cloth or by spraying disinfectant — the surface does not react with most cleaning chemicals. Wooden holders require gentler care — they should not be soaked in water and aggressive chemical cleaners that can damage the wood surface should be avoided. Plastic holders are usually dishwasher-safe, but intensive dishwasher use may reduce their service life. Regular cleaning extends the service life of any material holder and maintains an attractive appearance.

Napkin holders in hotels and conference rooms

Hotel restaurants and conference rooms use napkin holders both in table settings and in buffet and break area equipment. Buffet napkin holders must have a larger capacity — they need to be refilled less frequently, which eases staff work during events. Conference table napkin holders are usually compact to avoid obstructing the work surface. In hotel restaurants, design consistency with the overall interior style is important. BHS helps hotels and conference centres choose napkin holders for different formats.

Frequently asked questions

Which napkin holder material is the most durable for intensive use?

Stainless steel — it is corrosion-resistant, easy to clean and long-lasting. BHS recommends steel models for intensive HoReCa use.

Is a box-type holder compatible with standard napkin sizes?

Most boxes are designed for standard 33×33 cm napkins. BHS helps verify compatibility.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.