Condensation is a vile byproduct of an icy drink. It’s unpleasant in the hand and devastating to wood surfaces. You must use a coaster, but the condensation is so strong its surface tension lifts most coasters right off the bar. Then again, the Blanco Sandstone Coaster is not like most coasters.
What Is It?2>
It’s a coaster. Use it. Like your mother told you.
Who’s It For?2>
Thirsty guzzlers for whom no water is too icy, no beer too cold.
Design
Thirsty guzzlers for whom no water is too icy, no beer too cold.
Design
It’s a porous, hydrophilic 4-inch (10sqcm) square rock with four foam feet at each corner. It leaves no scratches as it slides across furniture. It sucks condensation from the base of a frosty glass. It is a triumph of geologic engineering. Or it’s just a rock. Whatever. It works really well.
Using It
Fill a glass with the best ice cubes of all time. Go crazy. Clear out the freezer. Pour a drink. Centre the drinking glass directly on top of the coaster between sips.
The Best Part
It doesn’t stick to the bottom of the glass every time you take a drink. Use this coaster, and you will never again stoop to retrieve a sopping disk that has once again fallen to the floor.
Tragic Flaw
The coaster can only absorb so much condensation. Past the saturation point, dry-out times can be quite lengthy.
This Is Weird…
No matter how many of these you have lying around, you still have to tell guests to use them.
Test Notes
- The wide rimless base accommodates large-diameter glasses and frosty mugs.
- The coaster cannot effectively catch drips from a leaking flower pot.
- The glass itself can sometimes retain and deliver a single, shockingly cold drip of condensation. This is especially surprising, but not altogether unpleasant, when drinking bare-chested on a hot afternoon.
Should You Buy It?2>
Unless you prefer lukewarm drinks or decorate your furniture with discoloured rings, yes.
Blanco Sandstone Coasters specs
• Price: $13.20 for 4
• Material: sandstone and foam
• Size: 4 inches x 4 inches (10cm x 10cm)