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The Best Bar Mats for Your Cocktail Station
For any bartender or mixologist, crafting the perfect cocktail is a work of art. But amidst the clinking glasses and sloshing liquids, maintaining a clean and organized workspace can be a slippery challenge. If you want to keep your surface free from spills and scratches while adding a touch of professionalism to your bar setup, consider investing in a bar mat.
Bar mats are specially designed rubber mats that are placed underneath bar equipment and help absorb any spills or messes that may occur. Not only do they help keep your bar area clean, but they also add a touch of style to the space. To help you, we’ve reviewed the highest-rated bar mats of 2023. With these handy mats, you can ensure your bar will remain pristine and ready for action!
Important Features- Non-toxic PVC construction
- Recessed design
- Effective liquid containment
- Generously sized at 18 inches by 12 inches
Important Features- Flexible rubber structure
- Thick elliptical prongs design
- Subtle white border
- Top-rack dishwasher compatibility
Important Features- Premium rubber construction
- Non-slip backing
- Spill-proof surface
- Slick lock design for stability
Important Features- Non-toxic rubber construction
- Bristled surface for drying/absorption
- Non-slip surface for safety
- 18 inches by 12 inches size
Important Features- Premium rubber construction
- Raised edge design
- Non-slip backing
Comparing the Top-Rated Bar Mats of 2023
The BARsics Bar Mat is a great solution for any home bartender looking to create a unique and stylish bar experience. This top-of-the-line bar mat is made from premium, non-toxic PVC, ensuring durability, safety, and long-lasting performance. These handy mats not only provide stability when handling delicate glassware, but they also keep condensation and any spilled liquids off the countertop.
The innovative, spill-proof design ensures that water and other liquids stay within the mat’s confines, keeping your bartop clean and dry. Even better, these mats are designed with a non-skid backing that prevents slipping and sliding while preparing and serving drinks. Measuring 18 inches by 12 inches, this bar mat provides ample space for your glassware, shaker, and other bartending tools. Because of its non-toxic material and reliable flat-lay design, this bar mat stands at the top of our list.
Pros- Durable, high-quality PVC material
- Protects countertops from scratches and spills
- Secure, stable glassware placement
- Easy-to-clean surface
Cons- May not be ideal for all décor styles
Tired of dealing with slippery countertops and messy spills while whipping up your favorite cocktails? Upgrade to the Highball & Chaser Bar Mat to elevate your bartending game and keep your bar station spick-and-span. With top-quality, heavy-duty rubber, this bar mat offers superior durability and flexibility. Its expert design contains spills, ensuring liquids don’t spread over your bar or countertop when making drinks.
Featuring thick elliptical prongs and a subtle white border, this mat adds a touch of elegance and style to any space. For easy cleanup, you can rinse it with soap and water or put it in the dishwasher. On top of all these amazing features, this bar mat is available in four colors, so you can easily choose one according to your bar’s aesthetics.
Pros- Heavy-duty, long-lasting material
- Non-slip secure grip
- Suitable for professional and home use
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons- Prongs may hold water
The ProTensils Bar Mat offers unbeatable functionality, durability, and style. With superior-quality rubber, this robust mat’s design withstands the rigors of daily use, making it an ideal investment for both commercial and residential settings. The non-slip rubber pad design ensures that your mat remains firmly in place, protecting your surfaces from scratches and other potential damage.
The spill-proof feature adds another layer of convenience, preventing liquids from seeping through the mat and keeping your surfaces clean and dry. This mat boasts a thick construction that provides ample cushioning for your delicate glassware while ensuring that they remain safe and protected from any potential damage caused by impact or vibrations.
While this bar mat is an excellent choice for bars and pubs, its versatility doesn’t end there. It is also perfect for use underneath coffee machines, in kitchens, on dining tables, at barber stations, and even as a protective layer for litter boxes.
Pros- Durable and non-toxic construction
- Cushioned surface for optimal protection
- Versatile usage options
Cons- Not ideal for marble surfaces
The Tebery Bar Mat is a must-have addition to any bar, restaurant, or home setting. This bar mat is highly durable, non-toxic rubber that resists stains, odors, and bacteria. Featuring a bristled surface, this mat boasts strategically placed grooves that allow for optimal airflow underneath wet glassware, ensuring rapid and thorough drying. At the same time, the mat’s absorbent quality guarantees that any accidental spills or splashes are swiftly taken care of.
Its non-slip surface ensures that glasses and other bar equipment remain securely in place, preventing accidents and breakage. To clean, simply place the mat over a sink, allowing any trapped liquid to drain out. Rinse with warm water, and it will be ready for another round of use in no time. Whether on a bar top, table, or kitchen counter, the sleek mat adds a touch of elegance and professionalism to your space.
Pros- Durable, non-toxic rubber material
- Absorbs spills and splashes
- Non-slip surface for stability
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons- Not dishwasher safe
The S&T Inc. Bar Mat is the ultimate solution for elevating your home or commercial bar experience. Expertly designed and crafted with precision, this set includes one premium bar mat and two matching coasters. The innovative raised edge on the bar mat and coasters effectively contains spills, drips, and condensation, keeping your surfaces clean and dry during happy hour and beyond.
Equipped with a non-slip backing, this mat prevents slippage, even on the smoothest surfaces. Its generous depth provides optimal cushioning for your stemware and bar accessories. This added protection prevents scratches, chips, and other damage to your glassware and countertops. Beyond its traditional use in bars and lounges, you can use this versatile mat set next to your bar sink as a kitchen dish-drying mat or underneath your coffee machine to catch drips and spills.
Pros- Flexible rubber construction
- Non-slip backing for stability
- Thick design protects stemware
- Easy to clean
Cons- Might be a bit heavy for frequent relocation
Buying Guide: Bar Mats
Bar mats can be an invaluable addition to any home or commercial bar, providing a secure and stylish surface for mixing drinks while protecting countertops from spills and scratches. But not all bar mats are created equal. While some boast exceptional quality, durability, and functionality, others may fall short in performance or aesthetics.
In this comprehensive bar mat buying guide, we explore the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect one for your needs. Let’s take a look!
What To Look For in a Bar Mat
Material
The bar mat’s material determines its durability and functionality. Vinyl is one of the most popular materials used in manufacturing bar mats. It’s durable, cost-effective, and protects against moisture and stains. The only downside is that it doesn’t have anti-slip properties, so you may want to pair it with another material for better traction.
Rubber bar mats are known for their durability, slip resistance, and traction, so they’re a great choice for wet environments. Their anti-stain and anti-odor properties make them perfect for use in bars and kitchens. They are easy to clean, which makes them ideal for busy establishments such as pubs and restaurants.
Silicone bar mats have a flexible material that can be molded into any shape. They’re easy to clean and provide anti-slip properties, but they aren’t very durable and can be difficult to use in high-traffic areas because they tend to get dirty quickly.
If you’re looking for something that can stand up to even the most potent (and sticky) cocktails, look for one made from vinyl or rubber. Regardless of the material you choose, make sure it’s completely non-toxic and BPA-free. It should be thick enough to provide excellent cushioning and protection for your barware.
Size
When shopping for a bar mat, it’s important to consider its size. A mat that’s too small won’t protect against spills and stains, while one that’s too big will take up valuable space and make mixing drinks difficult.
The bar mat’s size should be proportional to the size of your bar. For example, if you’re working with a small space, look for one that’s about 6 inches by 12 inches or smaller. If you have ample room, consider a larger option that measures 18 inches by 12 inches.
Slip-resistance
There’s no point in investing in a bar mat that doesn’t prevent glasses and barware from sliding around or, worse, falling off the counter. To minimize the risk of accident and breakage, opt for a mat with rubberized or cork backing. These materials provide excellent traction on various surfaces, including marble, quartz, granite, concrete, laminate, and wood.
Drainage
A good bar mat should be able to drain water and other liquids quickly and effectively. To ensure this, look for a model with a well-designed drainage system, such as raised edges or grooves. This will help channel spilled liquids away from your work area, keeping your surface clean and dry. It will also allow moisture to escape underneath your glassware, helping prevent messes from forming and making cleanup easier.
Maintenance
When buying a bar mat, it’s important to choose one that’s easy to clean and maintain. This will ensure that your bar mat stays hygienic and doesn’t become a hassle to use daily. Ideally, it should have a stain-resistant coating, so you can easily wipe it down with soap and water or clean it with alcohol-based sanitizers.
Aesthetics
While functionality is key, consider the appearance of the bar mat as well. From simple black-colored ones to those with printed logos and catchphrases, a variety of options are available. When deciding on a bar mat, think about your personal style and the type of establishment you’re running. Opt for a design that complements your bar’s decor and adds a professional touch to your workspace.
Bar Mats FAQ
Q: How do I know what size bar mat I need?A: The bar mat’s size depends on the size of your bar area. Generally, you should look for a bar mat that is wider than the area of your bar, which will help to catch any spills and keep your countertop clean.
Q: How do I clean and maintain a bar mat?A: Wash bar mats regularly with warm water and mild detergent. If necessary, you may also use a soft brush or cloth to scrub away any accumulated dirt or debris. Be sure to rinse the mat thoroughly after washing to remove any soap residue. Additionally, you should air dry the bar mats to prevent mildew or mold growth.
Q: Are there any eco-friendly bar mats on the market?A: Yes, many eco-friendly bar mats are available that are made of sustainable materials such as cork, jute, hemp, bamboo, coconut husk fibers, or recycled rubber. These environmentally friendly bar mats are durable and provide excellent protection against messes.
Q: Is it better to buy individual bar mats or a pack of several?A: This depends on your needs and preferences. If you have a small bar area or only need a mat for occasional use, an individual mat might be sufficient. However, if you have a larger bar or frequently entertain guests, buying a pack of several mats can provide better value and ensure you always have a clean mat available. Additionally, purchasing a pack of bar mats can be cost-effective, as they often come at a lower price per unit than individual mats.
Q: How much do bar mats typically cost?A: The cost of bar mats varies depending on factors such as size, material, and brand. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $40 for a single high-quality bar mat.
Q: What is the best way to store a bar mat?A: Depending on the material and flexibility of your bar mat, you can either roll or fold it. Rolling is often preferred, as it helps prevent creases from forming and keeps the mat in better condition. After that, keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This will help preserve the material and prevent damage or wear. If you plan on storing your bar mat for an extended time, consider rolling it up and placing it in a plastic storage bag or container to protect it from dust and debris.
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