One of our most appreciated items in the kitchen has nothing to do with food or eating. It’s a kitchen mat! A mat’s first task is comfort, providing cushioning for cooks and dishwashers. (These other kitchen gadgets also ensure your safety and comfort.) And it doesn’t hurt that they’re stylish, too!
Essential Cushioning
Ease lower back and joint pain by choosing an anti-fatigue kitchen mat ($33). These dense, cushioned mats are thick and luxurious.
Why it made our list: Made with non-toxic materials, this rug won’t have the strong smell of some anti-fatigue mats. Plus, the reversible design is cute!
Colorful Cushioning
Available in bright colors, this anti-fatigue mat (starting at $49) offers plenty of cushion, plus beveled edges that reduce the likelihood of trips and stumbles. Find kitchen design ideas that actually make cooking easier.
Why it made our list: The durable PVC material can be washed with soap.
Extra-Long Ergonomic Design
Got a lot of countertop to cover? Pick up an extra-long anti-fatigue mat ($70). The dark color blends into many kitchen floors: Your kitchen mat doesn’t have to be a style statement!
Why it made our list: The extra-thick cushion earns top reviews online, plus the edges are curl-proof.
Cheerful (and Fair Trade)
Anti-fatigue mats aren’t the only choice for a kitchen. Woven rugs are available in more styles and colors, and can be padded (and made anti-skid) with a rug mat. A bold colorful rug is handy if you want to instantly make your kitchen more colorful. We like Dash & Albert’s Bright Stripe Indoor/Outdoor Rug (starting at $50).
Why it made our list: This rug is water-resistant and scrubbable, so the bright design won’t bleed or fade.
Impossible to Destroy
Kitchen mats take a beating: trampled, splashed with messy food and soapy water and snoozed upon by pets. Make sure you find one that’s durable and easy to clean, like Dash & Albert’s Samode Indoor/Outdoor Rug (starting at $56).
Why it made our list: Tough enough to live outside, this lightweight rug can literally be hosed off and scrubbed until it’s clean as new.
Retro Charm
Rag rugs have cushioned cooks’ feet for generations. We like this cotton rag rug ($26), which is hand-knotted from recycled denim. They’re affordable, durable and low-maintenance, but they’re best used with an anti-slip mat. See what other vintage kitchen gear you can use today.
Why it made our list: Many rag rugs have wild colors, but this one is neutral. Plus, the recycled fibers are eco-friendly.
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Kelsey Rae Dimberg