Looking back at it now, Jenna could not believe the mistake she made. It seemed like a good decision at the time, but the consequences were unimaginable.
For the past few months, Jenna had been struggling to make ends meet. She had no steady job and could barely pay the rent for her small apartment. That’s why when the mysterious man in the different colored hood approached her with an offer for a kitchen floor mat, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity. After all, it was made of a material so durable that it could last up to 10 years.
The man handed her a small red pouch, telling her that inside it lay the secret to making a living. Jenna was unsure of what this meant, but the man simply chuckled and said the mat would do the rest.
With high hopes, Jenna went home and opened the pouch. There she found a small black mat, in the shape of a pentagon. She was curious at first, but then the mat began to move by itself. Jenna watched in amazement as it twitched and shook, eventually forming a cityscape!
Startled, Jenna was in disbelief. She wondered if it was some kind of hallucination. But then the shock wore off and she realized what this must be. It was a dystopian world, and the floor mat had transported her to another reality.
The cities were filled with a robotic race, and Jenna soon learned that the mat was the only way back home. But how did it get to her in the first place? Jenna knew she couldn’t trust the man she got it from, and little did she know, there were still a few more twists ahead.
As she explored further, Jenna found out that the robotic race had created a powerful artificial intelligence for themselves. The AI was a computer system that could do just about anything. Shocked and scared, Jenna soon came to realize that the AI created the floor mat and sent it to her to draw her into their world.
In the end, Jenna managed to get back home safely, but she was forever changed by the experience. Although it was hard, Jenna was glad to have had a glimpse into this new and strange world. And even though she was the unfortunate victim of a sinister scheme, she kept the mat as a reminder of the invaluable lessons she learnt.
Hi!
At our blog, we understand the importance of a comfortable and functional kitchen space, and we believe that the right kitchen floor mat or kitchen runner can make all the difference. From stylish designs to durable materials, we strive to provide you with the best information and resources to help you find the perfect kitchen mat for your home.
Yours,
Babette and the Kitchen Mat Team
All You Need to Know about Kitchen Floor Mats
Long gone are the days when the kitchen was considered to be the utilitarian room of the house. In contemporary times, the kitchen can very well be termed as the hub of the home and this hub of yours deserves to be garbed in with the best mat for kitchen floor.
This hub is the place where memories are made, meals are shared, family souvenirs are hung and guests are welcomed. Rest assured, your kitchen will feel safer, more functional, and more elegant when its floor is draped with a mat specifically designed for it.
10 Types of Kitchen Floor Mats
The best kitchen floor mats, like the ones we are going to disclose, provide the best of versatility and functionality. Many kitchen mats are made to excel in one aspect but provide excellence in other domains as well simultaneously.
Let’s look at some of these types, or kinds, of kitchen floor mats.
1) Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mats
Let’s talk about anti-fatigue kitchen rugs. These mats are a type of kitchen rugs specifically designed to reduce and counter fatigue, soreness, discomfort, and tiredness in your knees, hips, back, and feet.
Anti-fatigue kitchen mats are designed to cater to many issues that arise because of spending a long time standing. The composition of these kitchen rugs includes gel, rubber, or memory foam padding which helps them provide cushioning during long hours of standing.
As the feet adapt to the cushioned surface of the mat, the Muscles in the feet and calves expand, contract, and activate the venous pump, thus aiding in pumping blood back up to the heart. When we walk, this naturally occurs due to the movement of our legs and so, anti-fatigue mat replicates this effect by making your body adjust slightly to the padded surface of the mat.
This cushioning helps absorb the shock and resistance generated from foot traffic and reduces foot fatigue and back pain by acting as a shock absorber between you and the hard surface of your kitchen floors.
Research shows that standing for 90 minutes or more may very likely cause strain in your legs, neck, and shoulders. By adding a simple anti-fatigue mat to your kitchen floor, you can help relieve this pain.
Once this pain or ‘fatigue’ is reduced through shock absorption, you can spend more time doing what you love; enjoying the heat of the stove and the aroma of the herbs while preparing lavish feasts for your loved ones.
Furthermore, Anti-fatigue kitchen mats promote improved posture by allowing for better blood circulation and reducing spinal compression by up to 40%. Their ample cushioning also means reduced risk of damage for falling objects such as glass, crockery, or any other fragile goods.
Super soft and cozy, the best anti-fatigue kitchen rugs offer many more perks. Their water retention abilities help clean up messes in the kitchen while the stain and the scratch-resistant surface is perfect for a clean outlook to your kitchen. Some anti-fatigue kitchen mats also provide insulation to heat and electricity!
The best of anti-fatigue kitchen mats, like our top pick, also boast latex or rubber backing which provides them with an anti-slip element and protects from slipping or tripping in the kitchen.
The extensive functionality of anti-fatigue rugs doesn’t mean they shy away in the aesthetics department. For more on kitchen rugs whose textured surfaces, vibrant colors, and patterns are sure to transform the look of any kitchen; check out the color selection section of this article.
Now you may be wondering whether you need an anti-fatigue rug or not. Well, According to a recent study by the Independent, the time spent in the kitchen by an average modern adult is almost half as long as the time their parents used to spend in their kitchens.
This falling trend may intrigue you as to whether you need anti-fatigue kitchen mats or not. Well, we believe that whether you spend many or few hours beside your kitchen range, enjoying the pungent smells and preparing foods for your loved ones or even washing the dishes at the sink; you deserve all the luxury and comfort in the world and an anti-fatigue rug is just the product for you!
Cheap and versatile, they surely are the best way to add coziness, comfort, and harmony to your kitchen. For more on anti-fatigue rugs and the best ones out there, check out our comprehensive article dedicated to the anti-fatigue kitchen mats
2) Gel Kitchen Mats
What do you get when the thick, clear, slightly sticky substance that we call gel is sandwiched between the highest quality made vinyl or leather? Well, gel mats come into existence.
First and foremost, let’s talk about their surface. The high price tags that are usually attached to gel kitchen mats are due to their premium quality composition which makes them highly durable.
Along with resistance to breaking down or wear & tear, these gel-filled mats are a lot easier to maintain than your regular kitchen rugs. They are resistant to stain and mold and their amazing water retention capabilities make them the perfect companion for the frequent spillages in the kitchen.
As mentioned, the core of these kitchen rugs is the gel which gives them an anti-fatigue element. Research has shown time and time again that tasks that require prolonged standing such as kitchen related work can have serious implications on one’s health. Back pain, joint aches, fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and mental stress are to name a few.
Moreover, apart from draining you out, this constant fatigue may also kill your motivation to work and hence you’ll see that your work in the kitchen will slowly start to lose its charm. However, these gel mats will prove to be the light at the end of the tunnel.
Their shock-absorbing gel core helps evenly distribute your weight across your body hence avoiding over-fatigue in any specific part. Furthermore, the best gel kitchen mats also promote improved posture by allowing for better blood circulation and reduce spinal compression by up to 40%. For more information on anti-fatigue rugs, check out the section dedicated to it.
Gel kitchen mats also make your kitchen safer with their non-skid rubber backing. For more information on how their improved grip makes them resistant to slip, protect your floor from water damage, and prevents the mat from posing tripping hazards; check out the section of this article dedicated to non-slip rugs.
Let’s not forget the aesthetic element of gel kitchen mats. Easy to trim and having textured surfaces, these gel-filled mats come in a plethora of different colors, designs, and patterns to suit your style and add an attractive outlook to your kitchen. For more on rugs offering great color selections, check out the section dedicated to it!
These rugs offer a great bang for the buck and are sure to become your kitchen’s favorite companion. For more on them and the best ones out there, check out our comprehensive article dedicated to the best gel kitchen mats.
3) Farmhouse Kitchen Floor Mats
Light colors, antique elements and natural materials are the defining factors of a farmhouse kitchen and a farmhouse kitchen floor mat creates the perfect blend with its overall decor.
Kitchen fatigue is one of the major reasons for back pain and other cardiovascular issues and so, the best farmhouse kitchen floor mats provide an anti-fatigue element. Their extra padding helps balance your weight throughout the long-standing hours and hence minimize stress and fatigue levels.
Farmhouse themed rugs can be used to define different spaces as well. For instance, if you opt for an open farmhouse kitchen, these mats can be used to mark the kitchen’s exact boundaries. These also help give a clear view of the room and protect your flooring from any stains, scratches, and dirt.
Kitchens can prove to be hazardous sites due to the common tripping accidents and so the best farmhouse kitchen mats also boast a non-slip element.
When you opt for the farmhouse design, you add multiple natural materials to your kitchen with many windows for extra sunlight. So, it is important that these elements are balanced by draping the empty floors with vibrant colored rugs.
For more information regarding these rugs and the best ones out there, check out our comprehensive article here.
4) Non-Slip Rugs for Kitchen Floor
Dishwashers, sinks, stoves, and refrigerators are just some of the many contributors to the frequent liquid spillages on kitchen floors. These spillages make the kitchen most prone to accidents caused by slips, trips, and falls. There thus arises the need to use non-slip kitchen mats.
A non-slip rug has either a rubber or latex backing which helps it grip the floor tightly while simultaneously providing traction on the top. Stepping on such a non-slip mat doesn’t cause you to stumble or slide across the floor thus preventing the aforementioned household accidents.
The fact that these rugs hug the floor so well also makes them low profile. Whether it is a Roomba vacuuming your floors or a door that needs to be opened over the mat, a non-slip kitchen rug won’t pose an obstacle.
These kitchen mats would also help improve the mobility of your kitchen. Since the edges would be hugging the kitchen floor, you or your loved ones won’t trip or stumble on them while walking over them.
These rugs are a great way to protect your precious kitchen floors from water damage and damage caused by high foot traffic. They also provide noise reduction.
The best non-slip mats, like the ones we have top picked, also have foam in their core which adds an anti-fatigue element to them. Furthermore, these rugs often come in bright colors and patterns and are thus the perfect tool to breathe new life into your kitchen.
For more information regarding these rugs and the best ones out there, check out our comprehensive article specifically dedicated to the best non-slip rugs for kitchen.
5) Rubber Mats for Kitchen Floor
Durable and resistant, rubber is a very popular material for kitchen floor mats. These rubber mats are also compatible with almost every floor surface such as vinyl or hardwood.
Rubber mats boast holes in them that help water passes through and provide for a dry surface to stand on. This minimizes the chances of tripping over and slipping.
Talking about slipping, the best rubber mats for the kitchen come with a non-skid surface that helps keep it in place. The enhanced grip means you can freely move around your kitchen while working without having to worry about slipping.
Now, let’s talk about the comfort level these rugs provide. We know how tired you feel after a long day at work after which nobody wants to further push himself/herself in the kitchen and stress out his/her ankles and knees even more.
These rugs thus provide an anti-fatigue element with their alleviated surfaces which helps balance your weight across the body. This avoids fatigue in your heels and ankles and hence you have a very relieving experience in the kitchen while simultaneously improving your posture.
Finally, these products provide an aesthetic element to your kitchen; more on that can be read in its dedicated section. For more on these rubber mats, check out our article on the best rubber mats for kitchen
6) Commercial Kitchen Floor Mats
Commercial kitchen floor mats are designed specifically to cater to the needs of commercial kitchens. The large-scale cooking and increased staff cause frequent oil spills and grease splashes.
Dirty kitchens may mar the hygiene and sanitation of your restaurant’s food and staff. Some countries even make it obligatory for a commercial kitchen to have heavy-duty floor mats. Only then are they allowed to operate. Not following these rules can lead to strict actions being taken and thus, commercial kitchen floor mats become a necessity.
These comfortable and durable kitchen rugs are designed with big holes for easy drainage. They would thus help you in keeping your kitchens clean, professional, and safe.
Talking about safety, a commercial mat that offers non-slip would prevent tripping hazards and its anti-skid backing will grip your kitchen floors and also protect them from water damage.
The best commercial mats, like our top pick, also offer comfort and stability for your employees during their long shifts in the form of anti-fatigue; your employees would feel relaxed and enjoy the improved blood circulation and posture.
Commercial kitchens floor mats are considered essential by many restaurant owners because of the abundant functionality they offer. For more on these types of rugs, check out our article specifically dedicated to the commercial kitchen floor mat.
7) Long Mats for Kitchen
Long kitchen mats or runner rugs are the easiest and cheapest way to add a dash of elegance to your kitchen floors while at the same time improving on its functionality. These rugs are long with a narrow width and thus the ‘long mat’ name.
Their great lengths prove to be an asset if you want to hide existing blemishes or stains on your kitchen floors. Instead of going through the expensive and frantic procedure of re-varnishing your kitchen floors, place a rug over the stain and you’re all set.
Most runner rugs offer great water retention abilities. Couple that up with their length and you get a great piece of decor to keep your kitchen clean and safe. They are also easy to clean and resistant to scratches and stains.
Furthermore, the best long rugs, like the one we have top picked for you, offer anti-fatigue and non-slip elements and come in a huge variety of dazzling colors and textures.
Drape your kitchen corridor or the area beside the kitchen range with one of these runner rugs and you are sure to add safety, convenience, and elegance to your kitchen. For more on runner rugs and the best ones out there, check out our comprehensive article dedicated to the long mats for kitchen.
8) Kitchen Mats by Colors Selection
Why settle for boring shabby colors when you can opt for kitchen rugs that offer a huge selection of colors. These decorative mats do not shy away in the aesthetic domain or the functional aspect and offer dozens and dozens of color and pattern options (some even come in rug sets consisting of two rugs that complement each other!)
The rich hues and the elegant patterns of these kitchen rugs complement the overall look of your kitchen and are a source of compliments from guests and families. They thus not only determine the mood and vibe of your home’s hub but also influence the way other people see you.
9) Kitchen Mats by Floor Design
Mats are supposed to protect and accentuate your floors. Yet, sometimes you may have noticed that some rugs end up doing the exact opposite. This is because some rugs are not made for all floor types. So, maybe a rug that offers non-skid and protects marble flooring ends up damaging the floor and causes slipping when placed on hardwood floors.
Well, for this particular reason, rug manufacturers have come up with a solution in the form of rugs that are suitable for all floor types. These rugs utilize their ample padding and cushioning to protect all floor types from wear and tear.
These kitchen rugs would also prevent scratches and fading of the floors that are prone to lose color. Furthermore, the ones with good water retention capabilities would also protect the floor from the cancerous effects of water damage.
The best of these rugs also prevent accidents with their anti-slip and anti-fatigue elements; more on that in their particular sections!
Dark furniture in your kitchen matched with dull floorings such as hardwood, laminate or vinyl can reduce the overall brightness of the room. Add a dash of vibrant colors by adding a bright variant of this rug.
You are sure to agree when we say that the hardwood or bamboo floors may not be the most comfortable to walk on. However, with one of our top picked rugs acting as a second layer for your floor, your feet would enjoy the comfort and opulence that they deserve.
Some even provide noise cancellation and insulation that keeps your kitchen floors warm regardless of the floor type.
10) DIY Kitchen Rugs
Maybe you’re running a little low on money or you don’t like it when old rugs rot away in the cupboard or maybe you’re just into creative scrap crafts. Well, we have just the thing for you. Say hello to DIY rugs! Yup, you heard that right! While store-bought kitchen rugs boast great quality, they do have price tags attached to them that might not be affordable to everyone.
Maybe you have a fairly big area to cover in your kitchen and every runner rug option is too expensive. Well, fret not for you can opt for the cheaper option of getting one or two small rugs of the same type and taping them together with a carpet seaming tape.
Another thing you can do if you’re going for a more chaotic aesthetic, is to get small-sized sample pieces from carpet shops. These samples cost no more than a few pennies and are sometimes even free!
Now, for the base; you can use old vinyl, anti-fatigue, or yoga mats that you have lying around. Cheap carpet runners are also available in stores and may be used as a base.
Arrange your scraps on the base and make intricate and creative designs and when you are done, squirt some glue on the underside of your fabric and stick it to your base. Once dried you will have a new kitchen mat!
You can even turn plain rugs into beautifully patterned ones by sketching out the design you want for your rug and painting it in. If you’re scared of ruining your canvas, just use paper tape as your guide and make a stencil out of it!
The fabric paint will dry fairly quickly and then you’ll have a beautifully patterned kitchen rug at the price of a plain one. You can use this technique to revamp old kitchen mats as well!
We understand that the sink area is always wet which may cause gross messes and tripping hazards. With regards to preventing and containing these spills, the easiest DIY trick that we have to offer is to first get yourself a shelf liner (easily available on Amazon, and perfect for this), a couple of wine corks, depending on how large your mat is, and some hot glue.
Depending on your preferred size, cut out the shelf liner and slice the corks along the middle. You can also steam the corks for a few minutes to make them easy to cut. Arrange these corks, flat side down, on the mat such that there is no space left between them and glue them onto it.
DIY a gorgeous little round mat made up of fluffy balls with a fishing line (available at any hardware store and crazy cheap), some 2cm felt balls and a needle to help you quicken the process.
Now, all you need to do is thread the fishing line through the felt balls until you have a long line of fluffy balls. Wrap the line around and once you’ve received the desired width for the mat, just glue the circles together.
Our next trick makes living the vintage aesthetic lifestyle easier. This includes kitchen mats made of rope and jute. Take any old kitchen rug, run to the hardware store and buy yourself as much rope as you need (the more, the merrier) and some strong glue.
Measure the length of the mat; cut the rope according to that and stick the pieces, side by side. Make sure there’s no space between the pieces and with minimal effort and expense you would have made yourself a cute and rustic kitchen mat.
That being said, DIYing kitchen rugs have the potential to bring a unique kind of charm and delight to every house. So don’t be shy and take the leap into this domain.
Mat for Kitchen Floor – A Comparison Table
| Mat Type | Best Product | Dimensions (inches) | Colors/Patterns | Material | Reviews |
| Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat | Kangaroo Original Standing Mat Kitchen Rug | 20 x 32 x 3/4 24 x 17 x 3/4 32 x 20 x 3/4 39 x 20 x 3/4 48 x 20 x 3/4 60 x 20 x 3/4 70 x 24 x 3/4 | Beige, Black, Brown, Charcoal, Diamond: Cream, Hunter Green, Gray, Marble, Mocha, Navy. Quatrefoil Gray, Red, Sand, Sky Blue, Stripes: Black, Waves: Beige & Wood | Leather | Read Reviews |
| Gel Kitchen Mat | GelPro Elite Premier Gel & Foam Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Comfort Mat | 20 x 36 x 3/4 20 x 48 x 3/4 20 x 72 x 3/4 | Basketweave Black, Basketweave Truffle, Blossom Stone/Ivory, Damask Beachcomber, Damask Dove Gray, Lattice Garnet, Lattice Indigo, Lattice Gray, Lattice Tan, Linen Granite Gray, Linen Khaki, Linen Truffle, New Leaves Deep Sea, New Leaves Warm Taupe, Quill Atlantic Blue, Quill Black, Quill Toast, Rustic Texas Flag Vintage Red And Blue, Vintage Leather Rustic Brown, Vintage Leather Mushroom, Vintage Leather Slate, Basketweave Khaki, Lattice Indigo Stain & Linen Granite Gray | Non-toxic polyurethane Middle layer comprises of gel-core and energy-return foam | Read Reviews |
| Farmhouse Kitchen Mat | Farmhouse Themed Kitchen Mats Farmhouse Kitchen Rug Mats Cushioned Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat | 18 x 30 x 0.3 18 x 47 x 0.3 18 x 70.8 x 0.3 18 x 30 x 0.35 18 x 47 x 0.35 | 3-apple pie, 3 cheeses, 3 female chefs, 3 grapes and bottles, 3 kitchenwares, 3 macaronis, 3 merry, 3 Xmas red, 3 sweet tea, baroque gray, baroque light brown, 1-chef, 1-sunflower, 1-sweet, 1-wine, 1-fresh lemon, 1-gray plaid, 1-green plaid, 1 leaves, 1-tableware, 1-lemon & 1-vegetable Glass, wine, coffee, farm fresh meat, farmliving, flowers, garden, home, home of the brave, homefarm, Laundry, laundry room pattern, laundry room red, life better on the farm, monskitchen, tile pattern, vintage pattern & welcome to the farm style | PVC | Read Reviews |
| Non Slip Kitchen Rug | Shape28 Floor Mat Ultra-Thin Kitchen Rug | 35 x 23 x 0.1 | Blue, Cappuccino, Grey, Green, Mocha, and Red | Microfiber | Read Reviews |
| Rubber Kitchen Mat | Comfilife Anti Fatigue Floor Mat Anti-Fatigue Comfort Floor Mat By Sky Mats | 20 x 32 x 3/4 20 x 39 x 3/4 20 x 32 x 3/4 20 x 39 x 3/4 24 x 70 x 3/4 | Beige, Black, Brown, Gray & Red Blue Diamonds, Burgundy, Chocolate Brown, Gray, Indigo Deco, Midnight Black & Sedona Red Rock | Rubber | Read Reviews |
| Commercial Kitchen Floor Mat | Notrax T30s0035bl T30 Workstation Mat | 36 x 36 x 0.5 36 x 60 x 0.5 | Black | Natural Rubber | Read Reviews |
| Long Kitchen Mat | Color & Geometry Kitchen Rug | 18 x 59 x 0.4 18 x 80 x 0.4 | Black, Brown, Cyan, Grey & Rust Red | PVC | Read Reviews |
| Kitchen Mat by Colors Selection | GelPro NewLife Designer Comfort Ergo-Foam Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat | 20 x 32 x 3/4 20 x 48 x 3/4 20 x 72 x 3/4 30 x 108 x 3/4 | Grasscloth Charcoal, Grasscloth Crimson, Grasscloth Java, Grasscloth Khaki, Grasscloth Pecan, Kitchen Tools Warm Stone, Lattice Java, Lattice Mineral, Lattice Tan, Leather Grain Jet, Leather Grain Navy, Leather Grain Truffle, Orchard Almond, Origami Smokey, Origami Sweet Berry, Pebble Caramel, Pebble Espresso, Pebble Pomegranate, Pebble Wheat, Rustic Texas Flag, Sisal Black, Sisal Coffee Bean, Tweed Antique White, Tweed Grey Goose, Tweed Hydrangea, Mineral Grey, Origami Sweet B, Pebble Palm, Tweed Antique W & Tweed Grey Goos | Polyurethane | Read Reviews |
| Kitchen Mat With Hardwood Floors | Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat | 24 x 36 x 0.25, 36 x 60 x 0.25, 8.5 x 30 x 0.25, 22 x 60 x 0.25 | Bluestone, Charcoal, Dark Brown, Evergreen, Khaki/Camel and Medium Grey | PET Fiber | Read Reviews |
The Best Features of a Mat for Kitchen Floor
Let’s talk about some of the best features that the best of rugs provide. These features make or break a mat and determine its worth.
Anti-Slip
A kitchen mat uses its rubber or latex backing to hug the floor tightly while simultaneously providing traction to the surface. Step on a rug providing anti-slip and no matter how slippery your floor is, the mat won’t skid!
Anti-Fatigue
When you are standing for too long in your kitchen, the tough surface of the floor does not absorb any form of weight or pressure from your body. Rather, it reflects it which causes pain in the muscles and bones.
A simple remedy to this is to drape your kitchen floor with a mat providing an anti-fatigue element. The mat’s gel, rubber, or memory foam composition helps it absorb the shock generated during walking and the cushioning effect reduces foot fatigue and back pain, all the while improving posture and blood circulation!
Reversibility
A rug’s reversibility adds to its longevity since each side is woven to withstand damage. You can totally just flip the mat over when one side gets stained or if you simply get bored with the color.
Noise Reduction
The best kitchen mats use their excessive padding to add density to the floor which helps to reduce the noise generated from footsteps. Thus, no matter how much stomping your kids or pets like around the kitchen; the room would always maintain its tranquility.
Water Absorption
Kitchen rugs that have enhanced water-absorbing capabilities absorb more moisture and water. Consequently, your kitchen would remain clean of messes and not pose slipping hazards. Your floors would also remain free of water damage.
The best of these moisture absorbing rugs also boast oil resistant surfaces.
Oil and Stain Resistance
The best of moisture-absorbing rugs also boast oil and stain-resistant surfaces. Consequently, accidental oil or grease spills would not mean stained rugs. The oil molecules would not settle on the surface and may easily be washed off. This adds longevity to your mat for kitchen floor.
Scratch Resistance
Have you ever accidentally dropped glass or crockery on your rug and found the rug’s surface getting damaged due to that? Well, here is where scratch resistance comes into play.
Theoretically, scratch-proof rugs are able to withstand any kind of abrasion and will not bear any scratches. These kinds of rugs are thus priced high and worth more.
Fade Resistance
As you will read in this article, the colors, and designs printed on a kitchen rug inflate its price. However, what is the use of paying for an elegant looking rug when the design will eventually fade?
Well, fade-resistant kitchen rugs are made of fabrics that are treated to last longer than a “normal” or “standard” fabric and the designs printed on their surface won’t fade due to long term exposure to sunlight or other elements. Rest assured for whether you place the rug indoors or outdoors, the beautiful design is there to stay.
Odorless
No one likes rugs to smell of musty chemicals when they unpack them. The best rugs are thus odorless and do not need you to go through extra procedures to eliminate the smell.
Environment Friendly Composition
We as humans have a duty to nurture and protect our environment and make it safe for the coming generations. Environment-friendly rugs contribute to saving the environment by not using materials that are harmful or add to pollution and thus bag the ‘green points’.
Easy To Clean and Vacuum
Quite self-explanatory! Rugs those are easy to clean and vacuum stay in shape for a longer time.
Suitable For All Floor Types
For more on such rugs, check out our section dedicated to mats based on floor design and types.
Many Color Options
The best mat for kitchen floor comes in an extraordinary pallet of dazzling colors which gives you the freedom to transform and glamorize this hub of yours by creating beautiful contrasts or blends.
Many Size and Shapes and Trim-able
This benefit is rather self-explanatory.
Good Value for Money
The best rugs are not necessarily cheap or expensive. They simply have a great price to performance ratio.
Premium Construction
Rugs that are composed of high grade materials are more durable and will stand the test of time.
Curl Free Edges
Edges that do not stay put may pose tripping hazards and so it is very important that a kitchen floor mat has beveled edges that stay flat.
Ships Flat
When a rug is shipped flat, it does not have any creases or folds in the design. It also stays put.
Not Too Thick or Thin
It is important that a mat achieves the sweet spot of thickness i.e. it is thick enough to withstand matting and thing enough to provide a low-profile look
Soft and Comfortable
A kitchen mat should feel soft to the touch and plush when standing.
Warranty
The best mats are backed by a full satisfaction money-back guarantee.
How to Select the Best Mat for Kitchen Floor (The Buying Guide)
We understand that purchasing anything can end up being too hectic and stress-inducing, to say the least. We would thus like to lift this stress off your shoulders and guide you seamlessly through this process.
There are three aspects of any kitchen rug; the build, the fit, and the aesthetic of the rug. These features are what help you select the best kitchen floor mat.
The Build Aspect of the Rug
The surface and the underside of a rug are what make the building aspect of a kitchen rug. Kitchen floor mats are composed of various fabrics such as nylon, microfiber, polypropylene, and PVC. Each of these materials is priced according to its availability and the features it offers.
The more premium-priced materials would offer longevity, durability, resistance to stain, water, and oil, which would also be easier to clean and would not fray after repeated washes. Talking about washing, it is important to note that each of these materials has its own unique care and washing instructions so do read them before investing in it.
Let’s talk about the underside of kitchen floor mats. Latex or rubber-backed rugs would provide a non-slip element and acts as a protector to your precious floors. The best rugs, like our top picks, are also suitable for all floor types.
The underside and surface of a kitchen rug is sandwiched by a core that if filled with rubber, gel or foam may also provide an anti-fatigue element to the rug.
The Fit Aspect of the Rug
The size and shape of the kitchen mat are its fit aspect. Kitchen rugs come in all kinds of shapes: Square, oval, round, and most commonly rectangle.
The rule of thumb is to use a rectangular rug in a rectangular-shaped kitchen; a square rug in a square-shaped kitchen; and round and oval rugs should be used under the entry door to the kitchen, under any circular tables or cabinets, and even under the sink.
Sizing is also very important and the best way to ace this domain is to measure the space you would like to drape with a rug. Opt for compact rugs to use as doormats and to place under the sink, refrigerator, and range. Longer areas of the kitchen should be garbed with a runner and area rugs should be saved to place under the kitchen table.
The Aesthetic Aspect of the Rug
The colors and patterns that adorn your rug are its aesthetic aspect and it is what makes or breaks the overall vibe of the room. Rich looking rugs would catch eyes and even inflate the overall worth of your kitchen.
Lighter colors make a smaller space appear larger and so, use that to your advantage by adorning your small kitchen with light hue rugs. Spicy colors such as red and orange would bring warmth to your kitchen and thus we recommend placing them when trying to personalize a harmonious blend.
Where to Buy the Best Mat for Your Kitchen Floor
Now that the question of what makes a kitchen mat the best has been answered, let’s look at how can you acquire this rug and get it at your doorstep. Let us give you the most concise answer comprising of four words; online shopping from Amazon.
People have started investing more in things that look and feel good in the past few years. This tweak in consumption patterns has been fueled by social media and extensive advertising. Mat for kitchen floor is one such product whose consumption had a spike and thus it’s no surprise that a vast market for it exists both physically and online.
This vast market includes thousands of brands, all of which promise exceptional customer service and premium quality in their products. Well, who should you trust then?
Although this process of buying kitchen mats is not as complicated as it sounds, if you still have any confusion as to which kind meets the needs of your kitchen, go to the buyer’s guide section of this article which details the different kinds that are available and what purposes each one serves.
Over the years online shopping has become easier due to stores gaining worldwide recognition, trust, and genuineness. These platforms include Amazon, Walmart, HomeDepot, Ikea, Target, Bed Bath, and Beyond; all of which stock a huge variety of kitchen floor mats and are well known for their genuine products, hassle-free delivery, safe transactions, and money-back guarantees.
Anti-fatigue mats are the most desired and commonly used kitchen mats. They can thus be found on almost every retailer’s site in various sizes, shapes, and colors. Mats that are better water absorbers and thus usually placed around sinks, ranges, and refrigerators can be found more easily in shops like Bath and Bodyworks (they also have a great variety of foam mats and cork mats).
In the past years, most of the world has shifted to online shopping as it is easier to just shop from home because of commute purposes and also due to having the ability to look for all the items in one go, check what’s in stock, and look over all prices and discounts at leisure without the pressure of buying it immediately.
There are a lot more advantages of online shopping- the most obvious one is being able to shop from wherever you are and getting your purchase delivered to anywhere you want. It saves you time, money, and the mental stress of physically going to a store. Online catalogs are also much more organized than any product line placed in physical retail shops.
A marketing strategy implemented in a lot of stores is not to offer information about out of stock options as they are focused on making as many on-site sales as possible and so, quite frequently when they run out of stock, the customer is given fewer options to buy from and this puts him at a disadvantage.
With the online shopping, the customers have the ability to look over different sizes, colors, and patterns in one go, and make an informed choice.
Online shopping also allows the customer to take a second opinion from family and friends by just taking a single screenshot and sending it via any messaging app. It also removes the pressure and anxiety that a few people face when shopping in a limited time. Hassle-free and relaxed is what online shopping is all about.
Now, let’s talk about the few disadvantages associated with online shopping. Most people who shop for kitchen rugs prefer to visit the place physically so that they can be assured of the material’s feel and authenticity. Not a lot of people prefer to shop online as it doesn’t guarantee the exact color, size, or thickness of the product shown on the website.
Another issue with online shopping is the threat and fear of being scammed due to the existence of a lot of websites that operate a dishonest business where they cheat their customers out of their money and deliver fake or poor quality products.
As surprising as it might be, all these problems can very easily be solved by one easy solution. It’s hard to trust pictures and descriptions, but what’s best and easiest to trust are the reviews by other customers- people who are just like us.
Websites that offer the option to review and comment on products make it easier for other customers to choose as it enables us to decide which product is genuine and what is essentially a scam. It also highlights everything that’s wrong with a product and if there are any sizing, color, or other issues.
Sadly, not many websites have the option to review, rate, or comment on products. Let us give you one easy solution to it- Amazon.com. Amazon is a globally trusted website that houses all major brands along with smaller enterprises as well as some home businesses! They have a plethora of kitchen floor mats available in different sizes, colors, shapes, and types.
In fact, according to a study, more than 39% of the American population trusts Amazon. Surprisingly, this is more than the population percentage trusting the country’s police forces! The sole reason that Amazon has such a good repute with its millions of users is because it adds accountability.
It not only allows but encourages all its customers to leave reviews, ratings and also allows potential customers to communicate directly with the sellers using a chat option. This enables the customers to make an informed decision regarding their purchase.
With its secure payment options, you can rest assured by giving them your card details. Also, the delivery is hassle-free and extremely quick. Amazon also offers the best deals on its products!
By allowing non-branded products on its site, Amazon also strives to break a bit away from the capitalistic culture that has plagued our world. It allows smaller businesses to advance purely based on their quality and gives them the resources to grow without investing a lot of money in physical shops.
Thus, the best place to shop for your kitchen floor mats is Amazon’s search bar. One keyword will show you products from all rug brands- big and small- and you can sort them by their popularity, price, and even name- if that’s your thing. This makes shopping easy, fun, and effortless. Amazon is truly a single solution to all your shopping-related needs.
How To Wash A Mat for Kitchen Floor
The cleaning of kitchen floor mats depends primarily on the materials used in the rug’s composition. This composition also determines whether you can spot clean the mat or would have to hire the professional help of cleaners.
For all types of mats, the easiest way to clean them is to vacuum them just like you would usually vacuum your kitchen mat. Then, you flip the mat upside-down and vacuum it again with the purpose of sucking and pushing the dirt out from the front side of the mat.
Let’s look at some popular mat types and how to wash them. For more info on them, check out our sections dedicated to them.
Foam Mats get dirty fairly easily but putting them in the washer will ruin them and reduce their life. If you are adamant about using a washing machine then it’s better that you fold up your foam mat and put it in a cloth bag. With the washer’s spin turned off, the cloth bag should be placed inside one and washed.
Other than washing machines, an easy way to wash foam mats is to simply hose them off or clean them in the tub. Some foam mats are even dishwasher safe!
Commercial mats are designed to last a lifetime with the condition that you will take good care of them of course. These mats are fairly easy to clean as well but keep in mind the following:
First and foremost, you should never fall into the traps of websites selling you ‘high-quality cleaners’ and toxic bleaches for commercial mats. These are mostly scams that would ruin most commercial mats. Take a look at our article on mat cleaners which will tell you exactly what you need to look for if you are adamant about investing in one.
Cleaning and maintaining commercial kitchen floor mats is easy and cheap. All you need to do is to soak these mats in hot water before you start the cleaning procedure. For this procedure, you would also need a brush and some diluted cleaning solution (look at our article on this for reference).
Rub the mat gently while making sure that your strokes aren’t too abrasive as that can ruin the mat’s quality. Now you just need to rinse the mat with room temperature water- not too hot or cold and you are good to go!
The materials that are used to make anti-fatigue rugs (rubber, foam, gel, etc.) are extremely sensitive, and washing them in machines regularly will ruin the texture of these mats.
That being said, given its high-quality and premium material, these mats are quite easy to clean. They take you down the memory lane to traditional cleaning methods where all you need to use is some good old-fashioned soap and water.
There’s no need for any fancy detergents or cleaners either. If, however, you want to look into degreasers and cleaning solutions to use every once in a while, look into the options that we have listed in our article to clean these mats.
If you have read our DIY rug section, you must know about the infamous cork mat that you can use for your sink for aesthetic purposes and for its amazing water retention abilities.
To clean cork mats, make sure that you use no high-powered machine or water sprays. High pressure can dislodge the structure since the material itself is so fragilely held together. All you need is a water spray, some cleaning solution, and a cloth to wipe the DIY rug down.
Confused about the cork mat cleaning solution? Well, it may include a diluted cleaning solution, water, and even some drops of your favorite essential oil. These few droplets will scent it. Just spray the mat gently with this solution and then wipe it down with a dry cloth. Make sure you give the cork rug some time to air dry before you use it again.
Finally, let’s talk about gel kitchen mats now. Make sure to not wipe these kinds of rugs too aggressively to prevent damage to the surface’s texture. Make sure to not use any machinery on it including vacuum cleaners, washing machines, or high-pressure water hoses.
Don’t use any strong cleaner, detergent, or solution on gel kitchen mats. Check out our article on cleaning solutions to see what works best with gel rugs. Another important thing to note is to not use very hot water or very cold water. Just use a simple soap and room temperature water to wipe the mat on both sides and voila your gel mat is as good as new!
The general rule of thumb is to never dump kitchen floor mats in washing machines unless the manufacturer clearly states that the product is machine washer safe.
The best kitchen mats, like most of our top picks, offer this perk. For more information, check out our article on how to safely wash kitchen rugs.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
We heard you wanted to know all about the best mat for kitchen floor. Well, allow us to answer all the frequently asked questions regarding this topic!
Which Is the Best Kitchen Floor Mat?
It is not very easy to answer such a broad question. As we have mentioned in this article, there are many kinds of mats for kitchen floor. If you look at our comparison table, it lists all the products that we have top picked for various types. These kitchen mats excel at the function they were designed for while at the same time boast pros that significantly outweigh the cons. So, in a nutshell, there cannot be a single mat to answer this question. The one that matches your requirements the best should be the best one for you.
Where Do You Place A Kitchen Mat?
The size of a kitchen rug is what primarily determines the place that it should be placed in. Runner or long rugs should be placed at the point where your kitchen is the longest. A large area rug should be placed under the dining table to add a bit of luxury element.
We recommend placing smaller rugs where the likelihood of spillages and splashes is more due to their better water retention capabilities. These areas would be under your sink, refrigerator and beside the range. You may also place a runner if all these areas are made close together.
Why Do I Need A Kitchen Mat?
Kitchen floor mats can be used for multiple purposes. A simple floor mat adds a particular charm to the room since a bare floor can completely ruin the otherwise elegant design of it. It also protects the floor from stains, scratches, and is waterproof. Most importantly it provides you with the most comfortable experience when working for long hours in the kitchen, defines the room’s boundaries, and prevents tripping and slipping incidents. That’s why you need one for your kitchen.
Can You Use A Bathroom Mat In The Kitchen?
Yes indeed! Bathroom rugs have enhanced water-absorbing capabilities since they are made for the dampest area of the house and even though some of these mats have a towel like feel to them, the best ones are super soft and thus just perfect for your kitchen.
Non-slip and extra plush, they stay put on tile floors, and their ability to absorb more moisture and dry quickly makes these rugs one of the best gifts you could give to your chef friends.
How Do I Keep My Rug from Sliding On My Kitchen?
Let’s look at the cheap options. You can apply carpet tape to the rug or use silicone caulking or hot glue on the bottom to keep the rug in place. These options, although light on the pocket, are not long term and may even damage your floor.
The best option is to buy a non-slip rug. Its rubber or latex bottom acts as a rug pad and provides a non-slip element. Stepping on such a non-slip rug doesn’t cause you to stumble or slide across the floor thus preventing household accidents.
Which Non-Slip Rug Is Best For Kitchen?
We recommend going for the Shape28 Floor Mat Ultra-Thin Kitchen Rug. This rug is well worth the price due to its extra thinness, durability, and amazing water retention capabilities.
It is also machine washer safe and comes in a huge variety of sizes and colors. All in all, it gets the job done and does so much more!
What Is the Best Anti-Fatigue Mat?
While every product has its fair share of pros and cons, we recommend that you buy the Kangaroo Original Standing Mat Kitchen Rug. Waterproof with many sizes and color options and is non-slip. You just need to name a feature to look for in a kitchen rug and this mat will deliver.
Do Padded Mats Really Work?
Padded/cushioned/anti-fatigue mats serve one major purpose which is to provide a comfortable surface for you to stand on while relieving excessive pressure off your ankles, heels, and lower back.
They do this by utilizing their gel, polyurethane, or memory foam core and the better quality this core material is; the better these mats would work. To find out more about these rugs and how to choose the best of them, read our article on the best padded mat for kitchen.
How Thick Should an Anti-Fatigue Mat Be?
The rule of thumb is to go for thicker mats if you have harder floors and thinner mats if your floors are carpeted or padded. Theoretically, the thinner a rug is, the more susceptible it is to wear and tear and ultimately matting out.
Commonly, anti-fatigue rugs are 0.5 inches to 1 inch in thickness which makes them thick and sturdy enough to provide bounce and cushioning and thin enough to be considered low profile.
Are Gel Kitchen Mats Worth It?
The gel core in gel mats combines with the cushion pad to relieve excessive stress from your heels, knees, back and ankles. There’s no questioning the fact that this category of mats and runners are more costly than ones embedded with Vinyl, PVC or plain foam but there is also no questioning the fact that every penny spent on them is worth it.
The addition of the gel-core makes your mat extra soft and plush and gives the surface a premium feel and durability. Therefore, although more expensive, gel kitchen mats are totally worth it.
How Do You Clean Kitchen Gel Mats?
Most gel mats come with either a leather or polyurethane surface that is stain resistant and hence easy to clean up. A damp cloth is enough to clean up light spillages while other stains can be washed off using mild soap and water.
It is important to note, however, that care must be taken when scrubbing the non-skid bottom as it can be worn off if scrubbed too hard.
What Color Mats Should I Buy for My Farmhouse Style Kitchen?
We have no specific color recommendation for your farmhouse styled kitchen. However, it is important to note that a range of neutral colors usually goes well with this particular theme. Make the theme look even more elegant with colors like Light gray, white/ black and beige colors. More importantly, a hefty design and print will look good in a crowded kitchen. Choose a plain design if you have a more open room.
What Size Is A Long Rug?
Long kitchen mats or runners are available in all kinds of size options to suit all kitchen needs. The standard long rug is around 2 and 3 feet wide and can range from 6 to a staggering 14 feet long.
Are Rubber Mats Good for Kitchens?
Durable, waterproof, and resistant to wear and tear, rubber is largely considered to be the primary material when it comes to kitchen mats. This is due to two major reasons. Its oil and grease resistant surface makes for the perfect commercial kitchen floor mat.
Secondly, most home kitchens have a Vinyl floor and rubber mats are the ideal kitchen mats to place on these surfaces due to their excellent grip. They thus make your kitchen safer.
What Are the Best Rubber Mats for Kitchens?
All the rugs mentioned in our article reviewing rubber mats have pros that outweigh their cons and maybe bought without blinking an eye. If, however, we were to choose our top picks, we would definitely go for the ComfiLife Anti Fatigue Floor Mat or the Anti-Fatigue Comfort Floor Mat by Sky Mats. These marvels of rugs leave no stone unturned and may very well be termed as the best rubber mats for kitchens!
Do Rubber Mats Go with Kitchens Consisting of Multiple Cabinets and Drawers?
Cabinets and drawers add functionality and decide an overall theme for the kitchen. Rubber mats come in a huge variety of colors, designs, and even shapes to harmoniously blend with this theme. You can thus easily choose the right rubber mat to integrate its look with that of the cabinets and drawers.
Can Rubber Mats Be Placed Near the Sink?
Yes! Rubber mat absorbs lots of water easily and its non-skid backing means the mat also stays in one place no matter how slippery the floor gets. However, some of them are more suitable than others.
Kitchen mats composed of synthetic and polyurethane rubber usually help in draining the water or moisture in your kitchen better due to their texture. Therefore, if you spill some water over the surface it does not leave stains or damages your floors.
Are Rubber Backed Rugs Bad for Hardwood Floors?
Some rubber-backed rugs may damage your hardwood floors due to the chemicals in their composition that may leave permanent marks on the floor or even discolor the wood.
The best rubber rugs, like our top pick, are labeled safe for hardwood floors by their respective manufacturers.
What Kinds of Rugs are Safe for Hardwood Floors?
Kitchen floor mats composed of the following materials are safe for hardwood floors:
- Wool blends
- Natural fibers such as coir, jute or sea grass
- Cotton blends
- Synthetic fibers
Whichever fabric you go for, make sure to always go for rugs that have either a woven or latex backing and avoid rugs with synthetic or plastic backing as they may scratch your precious hardwood floors.
Should I Put A Rug on My Hardwood Floor?
Hardwood floors may not be able to pull your kitchen together solely due to their bland hues. By contrasting the floors with bright and vibrant colors or matching them with monochromatic rugs, you are sure to breathe a new life into your kitchen.
The best mats based on the floor design, like our top pick, would also protect your hardwood from stains, fade, and water damage.
Are Commercial Kitchen Floor Mats Necessary?
Commercial kitchens floor mats provide exceptional value. They provide support and anti-fatigue to the person standing by reducing tiredness and exhaustion, improve mobility, and make the kitchen safer.
Kitchens are places where exposure to liquids and oil is extensive. Therefore these rugs also protect the floors from damage. Consequently, Commercial kitchen mats are considered essential by many restaurant owners.
What Are PVC Rugs and Are They Safe?
Durable, lightweight, and fire-resistant, PVC, or polyvinyl chloride is a polymer of vinyl and is one of the most popular fabrics used in rug making.
Furthermore, they are composed entirely of materials that are safe to use, Eco-friendly, odor-free, and non-toxic. PVC and its products also meet all the international standards relating to safety and health.
What Kind of Rug Goes Under the Kitchen Table?
Area rugs that have a soft feel and a durable finish to them are placed under the kitchen table. Look for polypropylene or nylon area rugs with non-slip backing, stain and scratch resistance, and a low-profile look.
Bigger area rugs add to the luxury and coziness of a room and are always a welcome piece of decor in your kitchen; consequently, we recommend measuring the area under your kitchen table and going a size bigger.
Placing a rug under the kitchen table helps in defining different areas of this room and adds a luxury element to your kitchen. For more on the importance of these mats and the best ones out there, check out our article on the best rugs to place under the kitchen table.
With that, we would like to end this article. Hopefully, it answered all your questions regarding mats for the kitchen floor and would be helpful for you in making a purchase. Happy Shopping!
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