I’d always thought of coasters as nice-to-haves. But after inheriting some mid-century furniture from my husband’s grandmother, I suddenly started caring when anyone put their drink directly on the table. “Wait!” I’d shout and frisbee some random brewery coaster their way.
My mother-in-law must’ve sensed the change that’d come over me, because she gifted me a pack of these Graf Lantz wool coasters. I love the colors: oxblood red, avocado green, space-age teal, and a mustardy yellow. Very Danish modern. The thick wool construction prevents even the weepiest cans from leaving moon-shaped rings on my table. Moisture stays on top of the wool, and if a drip of wine or juice does soak in, it’s easy enough to spot clean with a damp paper towel and a touch of dish soap.
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And they’ve become trendy: Nearly every boutique kitchen store in Rhode Island (where I live) is selling stacks of Graf Lantz coasters. My sister-in-law’s friend was gifted a set for Christmas, and my coworker Rochelle Bilow also owns a set. “I found these coasters the good, old-fashioned way: an internet search for ‘best coasters.’ Boy, did Google hit the mark,” she says. “I bought a set in gray-green hues called ‘Forest,’ then immediately purchased another because they’re so pretty and functional. I keep a few on my desk for the multitude of beverages I require to get through the workday. They’ve soaked up their fair share of spilled coffee and kombucha and still look brand-new.”
Grab a stack for yourself, and you not only might become a coaster influencer, but your furniture will thank you, too.
Serious Eats / Grace Kelly
Why We’re the Experts
- Grace Kelly is a senior editor at Serious Eats.
- She’s been testing kitchen gear for over four years.
- She is considering buying another stack of Graf Lantz wool coasters after writing this article.
