What size paper napkin should I choose?
The format depends on the type of service and the space available on the table.
| Format | Recommended use |
| 30x30 cm, 1 or 2 folds | Fast food, self-service, canteen, counter service |
| 33x33 cm, 2-fold | Parties, receptions, small quantities (gold, silver, Christmas decorations) |
| 30x39 cm, 2-fold | Brasserie, restaurant, meal tray |
| 39x39 cm, 2-fold | Restaurant, caterer: the most versatile table format |
| 39x39 cm, 3-ply | Attentive service, hotel-like |
| 40x39 / 40x48 / 48x48 cm, 2 ply | Large napkin for sharing dishes, seafood, banquets |
1, 2 or 3 plies: what's the difference?
The more pleats a napkin has, the thicker and more absorbent it is. A single-ply napkin is the most economical, ideal for quick, single use. A two-ply napkin is the standard in the restaurant industry. A three-ply napkin offers a softer feel and better stability on the table. For an even more fabric-like feel, opt for a non-woven napkin .
White napkin or colored napkin?
A white napkin is neutral and goes with all tableware; it's the choice for institutional catering and classic table settings. Soft shades (ivory, vanilla, champagne) add warmth to an elegant table. Bright colors (red, tangerine, turquoise) give personality to a brasserie or terrace, and dark tones (black, burgundy, navy blue) suit a modern table. Gold and silver are reserved for special occasions: find the entire selection in our Christmas tablecloths and napkins section .
Coordinate napkins, tablecloths and placemats
Choose a napkin color that complements your décor, tableware, or logo. Play with contrast (dark napkin on a white or colored paper tablecloth ) or tone-on-tone (two shades of the same color). For a table entirely in your brand colors, personalize the paper napkins with your logo. For more information, consult our restaurant napkin guide and our guide on choosing the right colors and how to coordinate them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size paper napkins are needed for a restaurant?
The 39x39 cm table is the most versatile size for traditional restaurants. The 30x39 cm is suitable for brasseries, and the 30x30 cm for fast food and canteens. The larger 40x48 cm and 48x48 cm sizes are ideal for sharing plates.
What is the difference between a 2-ply and a 3-ply towel?
The 3-ply napkin has an extra layer of wadding: it's softer, more absorbent, and stays in place better on the table. The 2-ply napkin remains the standard for everyday use.
Are paper napkins suitable for contact with food?
Yes, all the napkins on this page are approved for food contact, which allows them to be placed directly under food or in a bread basket.
Are your paper napkins made in France?
CGMP sanitary napkins are made in France. Tork sanitary napkins are made in Austria. The "Country of Origin" filter displays only French-made products.
How many napkins are in a carton?
Depending on the format: 3200 in 30x30, 2400 in 30x39, 1800 in 39x39 2-ply, 1200 in 39x39 3-ply, 800 in 48x48. Party napkins in 33x33 are sold in packs of 50.
Paper napkin or non-woven napkin?
Paper napkins, made of cellulose wadding, are the most economical and suitable for everyday use. Non-woven napkins have the look and feel of fabric, making them ideal for a more upscale table setting.
Can you have your logo printed on a paper napkin?
Yes, with our personalized paper napkins, printed in your establishment's colours.