Short answer: cork coasters protect tables from cups, glasses and mugs with a light, natural surface. The main choices are thickness (a slim 5 mm coaster or a more substantial 9 mm one), shape (round, square or mixed) and whether you want a set with a holder. Most everyday drinkware fits a coaster of 90–110 mm. Wipe them when needed and let them dry before stacking.
Why cork coasters?
- Gentle on surfaces: cork is soft enough to sit quietly under glass and ceramic without scratching the table.
- Light and easy to store: a stack of six cork coasters weighs very little and fits in a drawer or holder.
- Natural material: cork is the bark of the cork oak, harvested without cutting down the tree.
- Easy to personalise: cork takes laser engraving well, which makes it popular for gifts, events and branded hospitality.
CorkMart cork coasters compared
| Set | Size | Thickness | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slim Round Cork Coasters, set of 6 | Ø90 mm (3.5 in) | 5 mm | Everyday coffee, desks, light stacking |
| Round Cork Coasters, packs of 6 or 12 | Ø95 mm (3.7 in) | 6 mm | A smooth, sanded finish for a more refined table |
| Thick Round Cork Coasters, set of 6 | Ø98 mm (3.9 in) | 9 mm | A more substantial look and feel |
| Portuguese Tile Cork Coasters, set of 6 | 90 × 90 mm (3.5 in) | – | A decorative blue azulejo-style print |
| Mixed-Shape Cork Coasters, set of 6 | Assorted | – | A relaxed, collected look with mixed shapes and cork tones |
| Round Coasters & Bottle Holder, set of 6 | Ø110 mm (4.3 in) | – | Dining tables, drinks trolleys and home bars |
Choosing thickness: 5, 6 or 9 mm
A 5 mm coaster is light, takes up little visual space and stacks compactly. A 6 mm coaster with a sanded surface looks more finished. A 9 mm coaster has a stronger edge on the table and feels less delicate in the hand. The difference is mainly about look and feel; all three are made for everyday drinkware.
Choosing size and shape
Coasters of 90–100 mm suit most cups and glasses. For wide mugs or when you want extra margin around the base, choose a 110 mm format. Round coasters are the classic choice; square coasters suit tables with clean, straight lines; mixed shapes and printed designs work best where the coasters are part of the decoration.
Sets with a holder
A holder keeps the coasters together between uses, so they do not scatter across the table. Our coordinated sets combine coasters with a matching cork bottle holder, in round or square formats, which gives a dining table or bar counter a more organised look. They also make a ready-to-give gift.
Personalised and bulk cork coasters
For weddings, corporate gifts, restaurants and bars, our Custom Laser-Engraved Cork Coasters (95 × 6 mm) carry your logo or artwork. Read Laser Engraving on Cork to see how artwork is prepared. For larger quantities, lead times and samples are agreed on request through our B2B & Wholesale page.
How to care for cork coasters
- Use them with everyday drinkware on a clean, level surface.
- Wipe with a soft, lightly damp cloth.
- Let them dry completely before stacking them or putting them back in the holder.
- Avoid soaking, abrasive cleaners and the dishwasher.
Frequently asked questions
Do cork coasters absorb water?
Cork copes well with everyday condensation, but it is a natural, unsealed surface. Wipe spills and let the coasters dry before stacking them.
Which is better, thin or thick cork coasters?
Neither is better for protecting the table; the difference is look and feel. Thin coasters are lighter and stack compactly. Thick coasters feel more substantial.
What size should a coaster be?
90–100 mm suits most cups and glasses. Choose around 110 mm for wide mugs or extra margin.
Can cork coasters go in the dishwasher?
No. Wipe them with a lightly damp cloth and let them dry.
Can I get cork coasters with my logo?
Yes. See our Custom Laser-Engraved Cork Coasters, or contact us through the B2B page for larger orders.
Do you ship to the US and UK?
Yes. We ship from Portugal to the EU, the United Kingdom, the United States and many other countries. Shipping costs are shown at checkout; see Shipping from Portugal.
Browse all Cork Coasters, complete the table with Cork Placemats and Cork Trivets & Hot Pads, or read Portuguese Cork: What It Is and How It Is Harvested.