Bannetons, Liners & Couches

A banneton (or a proofing basket) lends support to shape the dough during proofing and the spiral shape of the basket imprints that beautiful characteristic pattern on sourdough bread. The banneton is also able to absorb moisture and flour, which helps make the dough less sticky and easy to handle. A couche is a tea towel or piece of thick canvas or linen that provides support for baguettes. Couche cloths are sometimes placed into baskets to create proofing baskets which support round boules.