Why do most poker tables have a felt top?

Question

Why do most poker tables have a felt top?

Answer 1

There are so many reasons why poker tables have a felt top. The biggest advantage of a felt top on a poker table, in addition to what was stated in other answers, is for shuffling the cards.

While most people pick up the cards to shuffle, the proper way is to leave the cards on the table, split them in half, and just barely bend up the corner to shuffle the two halves together, as not to expose the bottoms of the cards. This is very difficult to do on a table without a padded felt top.



It cuts down the noise of chips or coins being thrown into the pot. It also makes it easier to pick up the chips or coins.

A felt top keeps cards and chips from sliding all over the table. It provides enough friction to stop chips sliding off the end of the table. Also felt is more comfortable for arms and hands, and when you spill your drink, it's more likely to be absorbed than slop all over your table mates.  It is also gives a professional look.

Answer 2

I would think because the card slide on it. It also keeps the noise down.

Answer 3

Actually, a lot of them don't have felt, they have different types of cloth.  Felt is just a relatively cheap, easily glued down fabric.  It can get snags and little balls on it though.