Frequently Asked Questions

Do you make a coaster holder?

Yes, we have a specialized holder for a set of 4 that is tailor made for our coasters.

What are McCarter Coasters made of?

Our coasters are handmade from natural porous clay ceramic, fired and finished by hand in our family studio. Each one is unique — slight variations in color and texture are part of what makes them special.

Are they durable? Will they chip?

Ceramic coasters are sturdy for everyday use, but like all ceramic, they can chip if dropped on a hard surface. We recommend handling them with care and storing them flat or stacked with a soft layer between them. The fired clay body is dense and resilient under normal tabletop conditions.

Are they truly absorbent?

Yes! Our coasters are made from super-absorbent porous clay — think of them as tiny sponges. They soak up condensation from cold drinks quickly, keeping your furniture dry and stain-free. The natural porosity of the unglazed clay is what gives them their excellent absorbency.

Will the bottom scratch my furniture?

Our coasters have cork feet and are safe for all surfaces. 

How do I clean my coasters?

Spot clean with a mild bleach-based cleaner like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or Soft Scrub. Rinse thoroughly with water and allow to air dry completely before using again. They'll look good as new!

Can I put them in the dishwasher?

You can run them through the dishwaster granted you take off the cork feet and re-apply them when the coaster is dry. Although the best way to clean them is a quick spot clean by hand to keep them looking their best for years.

My coaster absorbed a stain. What do I do?

Don't worry — porous clay responds well to a mild bleach cleaner. Apply a small amount of Soft Scrub or use a Magic Eraser, let it sit for a minute, then scrub gently, rinse, and air dry. Repeat if needed. Watch our quick cleaning demonstration video to see it in action.

Will they develop an odor over time?

Because porous clay is naturally breathable, odors rarely linger if coasters are allowed to dry fully between uses. If you notice any smell, the bleach-based cleaning method above will neutralize it.

How long does shipping take?

Because every order is handmade, please allow 3–5 business days for us to prepare your coasters before they ship. Standard shipping typically takes an additional 3–7 business days depending on your location. Expedited options may be available at checkout.

Do you ship internationally?

Currently we ship within the United States. 

How are the coasters packaged for shipping?

Each coaster is carefully wrapped and packed in a gift box with protective materials to survive the journey safely. We take extra care with fragile ceramic items so they arrive in perfect condition.

What if my coasters arrive damaged?

We're so sorry if that happens! Please contact us within 7 days of delivery with a photo of the damage, and we'll make it right. Visit our About Us page for our contact details.

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Our handmade coasters come in an individual gift box.

Are coasters sold individually or in sets?

Our coasters are sold in a set of 4 and make a great housewarming, wedding, or holiday gift.

Can I order in bulk for a wedding or event?

Absolutely — we love working on bulk and custom orders! Head over to our Wholesale page or contact us directly through our About Us page to discuss quantity, timeline, and custom design options.