Gratuities 101

Still have tipping questions you need answered? Ask gratuity guide author Stacie Krajchir live online Monday at 2 p.m. athttp://www.washingtonpost.com/liveonline.

Tipping Tips

All gratuities are arbitrary, but we've gathered the wisdom of service industry professionals, hospitality experts and even a surly waiter or two to put together this briefest of tipping guides.

A few things to remember: Service workers generally prefer cash, even if the bill is paid with a credit card; large parties in restaurants will often have their tip included in the bill, so be sure to check; tipping varies significantly by country; and, finally, don't reward rudeness with a full gratuity.

Airport baggage handlers: $1 per bag, more for heavier bags.

Bartender: $1 to $2 per drink is customary, or 15 to 20 percent if you run a tab.

Beauty: In a salon, tip 15 to 20 percent for haircuts, nail care, facials, waxing, etc. Shampooers should get $2 to $5.

Cabs: For fares less than $10, $1 to $3. More than $10, 10 percent.

Coffee shops: This one is highly contentious. Some customers won't tip at chains, but will at independent establishments. Others only tip for drinks made by a barista, not just for an ordinary cup of joe. Tips range from change to $1 per beverage.

Delivery people: Varies according to what is being delivered. A few dollars should be enough for a small food order, while movers delivering furniture might earn a $20 to $30 tip.

Dining: A 15- to 20-percent tip is the going rate for meals, and the tip should be on the pre-tax total.

Dry Cleaner: Tipping generally isn't required.