Dunking a biscuit into a hot drink is "an arrestable offence" according to an etiquette expert. Dunking was identified by William Hanson as one of six common etiquette missteps people make when going out for a coffee.
Speaking on behalf of UK coffee bean retailer Coffee Friend, Mr Hanson also identified stirring in a circular motion, putting your little finger in the air, and slurping as big no-nos. But it was for dunking that Mr Hanson, who has worked with royal households, diplomats and brands including Bentley and The Ritz, reserved particular ire.
He said there was "no correct etiquette" for it, adding: "In polite society, we don't dunk." Here are the six common etiquette errors identified by Mr Hanson.
1. The little finger does not extend while holding a cup
"The thumb and index finger pinch between the handle, with the middle finger (and sometimes fingers 4 and 5) used for support, following the shape of the handle. The top of the handle should be visible at all times. Contrary to popular belief, the little finger does not extend! Avoid holding it like a mug, where the index finger hooks through and the thumb is placed on top of the handle."
2. Dunking biscuits is not acceptable in polite society
"There is no correct etiquette for drinking a biscuit into your tea! In fact, this is an arrestable offence. Of course, if you are at home, with your curtains firmly drawn, and you wish to dunk when no one is watching, that is perhaps permissible. But in polite society, we don't dunk."
3. Napkins are not to be used as facecloths
"If a few droplets of lapsang can't be discreetly removed with the tongue or lips, then a napkin is needed. We dab from side to side, gently to remove the residue. Remember, a napkin is not a facecloth or flannel, so don't start washing or wiping inelegantly."
4. Stirring should be done back and forth
"When we stir, we do this in gentle back-and-forth motions rather than going round and round. This is for three reasons: 1) if the cup is filled a bit too much, the back-and-forth motion prevents spills, 2) if you have added sugar, the back-and-forth motion will dissolve it quicker, and 3) it looks a thousand times more elegant!"
5. Banging the spoon on the top of the cup is majorly incorrect
"In the UK, we place the teaspoon on the saucer, in line with the handle at the back of the cup. Once you have stirred, a gentle flick above the cup is correct, whereas banging the spoon on top of the cup is majorly incorrect. In other countries, the etiquette is to leave the spoon at an angle, underneath the handle. Either option is fine, and no one will arrest you if you get it wrong."
6. You should keep quiet while eating and drinking
"There are some cultures where slurping is believed to enhance the flavour but even in said cultures, that rule is being quietly forgotten as no one agrees audible drinking (or eating) is pleasant."
