The lap is invariably where the napkin is placed when dining and then returned to the table on completion of your meal. There’s more, however, so here goes…

If reclining on an aircraft, you might wish to move the napkin higher up to your chest area. The same would apply if you’re enjoying a spaghetti dish and would prefer the sauce to land on the napkin instead of your clothes. Who wants grease stains on an expensive silk tie? Thankfully, swanky restaurants have come to the rescue and provide cleverly designed (tie) napkins complete with button to protect those style statements. If there’s no sign of that napkin, do not be afraid to move your napkin closer to the body to protect your clothes. This will ensure that you leave the table looking as stylish as when you sat down.

The napkin is returned to the table after your meal, but what if you have to leave the table for a short period? If you return the napkin to the table, you might very well return to an empty place setting. So, leave your napkin on your seat (if your chair has no arms) or on either the left or right arm of the chair.