19th Century

• Coasters were originally pieces of fabric or felt material used to keep dirt and insects away from beverages. The absorbent material also kept the condensation of beverages from pooling on tables or other furniture.

1880s

• The printing company Friedrich Horn of Buckau, Germany, started making round cardboard punch-outs with a variety of printed images and phrases on them in the 1880s.

Benefits

• The disposable cardboard coasters were more sanitary than the felt that was originally used. The felt coasters, which were reused, served as a breeding ground for bacteria.

Coaster Use Today

• Coasters are now most commonly made of cardboard. In addition to being more hygienic, disposable coasters also serve as a place for printed advertisements. For the home, coasters can be found in almost any material including straw mats, marble, glass, plastic and more.