When using a coaster on a table which side faces up under the glass (cork or other side)?

Question

When using a coaster on a table which side faces up under the glass (cork or other side)?

Answer 1

Cork goes on the bottom (against the table) because the cork is used to prevent scratches.

Answer 2

I've seen it both ways. To me, it makes the most sense to face it cork side up -- how does the cork really help you if it's down against the table? Cork is absorbent and the main reason it'd be on a coaster would be to absorb sweating or dripping liquid from the glass.

Come to think of it, I do have a set of "thirster" type coasters that are designed to have the cork side down since the ceramic they're made from is absorbent.

So I guess it depends on the design of the coaster!

Answer 3

Cork down, pretty side up.  Why would you think the pretty side would face down?  The cork is a gripper and protects your surfaces.  Good coasters like ThirstyStones actually absorb any moisture to insure your surfaces are safe.  

Answer 4

If it has cork on only one side then that faces down.  I have seen some that have cork on both ends.  In that case I would think you could use either side.

Answer 5

Many people don't realize that the cork side goes against the table to prevent scratching.  Many modern coasters are made of a substance that actually absorbs the moisture.  

Answer 6

cork faces up

Answer 7

It depends on the coaster.

If there is felt or something on one side of the coaster to prevent scratching, and cork on the other, then the cork side is up.

If there is cork on one side, and ceramic on the other, then the cork would be down (as it would not scuff).

HTH!