10 Best Kitchen Mats for Hardwood Floors (Buying Guide)

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You’ve heard of standing desk mat for ergonomics, but never about anti fatigue kitchen mats. These types of rugs deliver the exact same comfort for those that dwell in the kitchen for hours.

For all mothers at home, protect your posture as you prepare the best meal for your family with the use of only the best kitchen mats for hardwood floors.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you buy from my link I might make a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay. See the full affiliate disclosure here.

If you are experiencing recurring lower backaches, knee or joint swelling, and foot pain after standing for a while, we recommend for you to try at least one kitchen mat in your life.

It should enhance your comfort as you spend more time on your feet. Read through to learn about everything you need to know before buying a kitchen mat.

What is Hardwood Floor?

As a homeowner or tenant, it is only normal to ask questions about what your floor is made of. Hardwood is a commonly used and frequently inquired about material. Worry not, as we are here to tell you all about hardwood, and help you select some kitchen rugs for it.

Hardwood floor comes from the wood of some specific types of trees, such as Oak, Birch, Maple, Aspen, Sycamore, Cherry, etc. Compared to softwood, they are thicker. They last longer, and perform much better. It may come as a surprise, but many trees you see around you are the hardwood type.

Needless to say, hardwood is a favorite among homemakers for many reasons. Those who want their house to have a modern look with a classic touch will surely love hardwood flooring. It is also a top choice because it can be maintained and taken care of easily. We also love hardwood floors for many reasons. It can hold up well in all kinds of weather conditions and will cause you no trouble at all. Although they tend to cost a little more than most other types of flooring, the longevity and performance you will get will be worth it.

10 Best Kitchen Mats for Hardwood Floor

Labeled according to their best features, take a look at the following best mats for the kitchen. From one with the best design to the other that uses the most reliable polyurethane foam, you will surely find the perfect floor mat that best suits your kitchen needs and personal interests.

1. iCustomRug Ergonomic Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat – Editor’s Choice

Do you own pillows and mattresses at home because they are made with memory foam? The iCustomRug kitchen mat presents an ideal addition to the list of home essentials you have at home. How so?

It is because of the type of material used to design it. With a high density called polyurethane memory foam, it will definitely enhance your comfort.

Aside from providing good support and excellent pressure relief compared to standing directly on top of the hardwood floor, the mat also uses a long-lasting Textilene surface that delivers extra feel and texture to your bare feet.

It is also more durable than regular foam top mats. With this, we considered the mat to be the best memory foam among the rest.

Convenience and durability are not the only features the mat can provide you. It is also water and stain-resistant, which makes it easy to clean and maintain despite the dirty work done in the kitchen within a day. Indeed, quality comfort makes it deserving of an investment.

Finally, safety is guaranteed with its slightly beveled edges. Not only that, but it is also designed to camouflage the rest of your furniture and fixtures at home with its wide color availability.

iCustomRug Ergonomic Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat

Pros

  • Uses high-density polyurethane memory foam
  • Has Textilene surface for extra comfort
  • Water and stain resistance
  • Has slightly beveled edges

Cons

  • Its light weight makes it difficult to let it sit flat on the floor

2. EverGrace Themed Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Rug – Budget Pick

If you are looking for statement rugs with unique printing surface design, the EverGrace themed kitchen rug is worthy of a spot on your kitchen floor. It is made from premium non-toxic PVC leather, which ensures durability despite long hours of use in a day.

The rug also has a non-skid backside that holds it in place on all types of floors, including laminate, marble, tiles, hardwood, and carpet.

Aside from that, the material is also stain-resistant. Rest assured that tomato sauce droplets or any liquid spills can be removed with a simple wipe of a damp cloth.

As much as it resists stains caused by colored ingredients, it also prevents water seepage and rejects oil penetration. Indeed, you will not have to worry about a messed up rug despite the dirty work done in the kitchen with all the liquids spilling and splashing.

Finally, the mat allows for a quick rebound reaction, which goes with your movement and adjusts to your weight.

With that and all of its features, you can get ahold of an affordable mat without burning a hole in your pocket. A good mat does not always have to be expensive, and this best budget kitchen mat is proof of that.

EverGrace Themed Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Rug
  • Made of non-toxic durable leather that prevents stain
  • Resistant to water and oil seepage
  • Uses a quick rebound reacting core
  • Cheaper than most mats in the market

Cons

  • Graphic design may not suit modern themed homes

3. GelPro Classic Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat – Premium Pick

Tried and tested by many famous chefs like Rachael Ray as well as TV shows such as HGTV and Food Network, the GelPro is the ultimate star in professional kitchen settings.

It is certified by the National Floor Safety Institute, which guarantees the promised features, such as non-skid and anti-fatigue, are met and delivered for your convenience!

The mat is filled with gel material that enables you to stand for long hours in the kitchen. In particular, it features a patented half-inch gel core that is proven to alleviate any discomfort experienced in the calves, toes, and knees. Apart from that, the mat has beveled edges that prevent accidental tripping.

It is constructed with durable external materials to ensure the gel core remains within and guarantees the longevity of usage in the kitchen. In addition, the surface is stain-resistant. With a wipe of sponge, damp cloth, or even kitchen tissue paper, any stain will be removed easily.

With its appearance on popular television shows that feature famous chefs and the certification by the NFSI, we considered the mat to be the most trusted and professional among the kitchen mats available in the market today.

GelPro Classic Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat

Pros

  • Popular in famous national TV shows and used by international chefs
  • Made from gel core for an extra cushiony feel
  • Resistant to stains and can be easily cleaned
  • Uses special rubber material to prevent sliding

Cons

  • It can be quite expensive

4. Butterfly Non-Slip Kitchen Mat

If you are looking for an anti fatigue mat with a quatrefoil surface design, go for the Butterfly kitchen mat. It has an antique finish, elegant, and complements well with any floor tiling. Apart from its aesthetics, it also features a wealth of benefits, especially when it comes to convenience and safety.

The quatrefoil-designed kitchen mat uses an ultra-thick ¾-inch revolutionary material that provides ergonomics and exceptional comfort for the feet, calves, and knee joint up to the lower back.

These body parts are usually the pain points when standing for long hours. With the mat under your feet, you will surely experience stable footing, which enhances your posture.

Durability and safety are also guaranteed for you when you buy the mat. Not only does the material used enhance your comfort, but it is also of the highest quality, which prevents wear and tears over time of use. It is waterproof and stain-resistant, which allows for easy cleaning after every activity.

Finally, the best quatrefoil anti-fatigue mat ensures your safety in the kitchen as you prepare meals and wash the plates. Its textured surface, as well as beveled edges and non-slip backside, should prevent you from slipping and tripping given the oily environment of the kitchen when cooking.

Butterfly Non-Slip Kitchen Mat

Pros

  • Has an ultra-thick revolutionary core material
  • Water-proof and stain-resistant
  • Has beveled edges and non-slip backside
  • Finished with durable surface covering

Cons

  • Thicker than most mats which can cause imbalance

5. Broad Home Extra Thick Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat

Have you ever experienced lower back pain due to standing in the kitchen while preparing meals? You can say goodbye to those problems with this kitchen rug. And it has some interesting attributes.

The Broad Home kitchen mat, made of 100% non-toxic polyurethane, doubles as an anti-fatigue mat and non-slip rug pad. It enables you to stand for a long time in the kitchen as you fillet that fish and saute the vegetables!

Apart from its key features, the mat is also easy to clean and resistant to stain. It was created while considering the issues in the kitchen. You can get rid of the splash of oil or droplets of liquid on the rug with a quick wipe of a damp cloth.

Eliminate injuries that can be caused by slipping, as well as foot and back pain. That’s right! It once again proves itself as no ordinary mat with its beveled and non-curling edges.

The mat is considered to be the best overall because it offers the criteria of unparalleled resistance to staining. In addition, it has a heavy non-slipping backside that almost outperforms other mats available in the market. Especially when it comes to enhancing the comfort while standing for hours in the kitchen.

Broad Home Extra Thick Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat

Pros

  • Made of non-toxic materials which make it safe for home use
  • Easy to clean and stain-resistant
  • Has beveled and non-curling edges
  • Non-slip rubber backside

Cons

  • Does not work on tile floor

6. Kimode Anti Fatigue Kitchen Rug

For those who are conscious of the kind of PVC used in mats, the Kimode kitchen rug guarantees you qualities of softness and, at the same time, durability. You read that right! Have the confidence that no matter the amount of water that spills on the mat, there will be zero seepage in it.

Since the mat is PVC-made, it is also stain-resistant and scratch-resistant. In case of liquid seasoning spillage or any other liquids used for cooking like oil drops on the mat, simply wipe it with a damp cloth or tissue paper.

Apart from ease of cleaning and convenience, the mat also ensures safety, as it has advanced beveled edges that prevent tripping, unlike regular mats that often have curled edges. The mat also has an extreme non-slip bottom thanks to its rubber-backing design – you can avoid slipping and other gruesome injuries.

Have safe activities in your kitchen and, at the same time, make your kitchen look brighter with the trendy designs the mat is available in. Find convenience, durability, and elegant decorations at a reasonable price with the Kimode kitchen rug!

Kimode Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Rug

Pros

  • Made of a durable PVC surface that resists scratches and stains
  • Prevents oil and water seepage
  • Uses highly effective beveled edges
  • Has a non-slip rubber backing design

Cons

  • Thinner than most mats in the market

7. Hebe Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat

If you trust that all anti fatigue mats offer the same value, purpose, and solution to your back problems, the Hebe patterned kitchen mat is the perfect match for your needs! It should alleviate all pain you experience when standing for a long time in the kitchen.

The mat offers convenience and comfort with its 10-millimeter thick cushion that allows for a quick bounce reaction when stepped on.

With this, your feet are guaranteed to experience extreme comfort compared to stepping directly on a hardwood floor. Its surface is easy to clean with a sweep of cloth, sponge, or duster.

The surface and cushion prove more functional thanks to its non-skid backside made of durable rubber to prevent slipping. It works on floor surfaces like marble, wood, laminate, and any type of flooring, even carpeted ones!

Of all the mats on the list, the Hebe kitchen mat has the most uniquely designed surfaces with fine finishes that make every kitchen in a household look as well as feel more homey and warm. Indeed, it is a decoration with a purpose!

Hebe Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat

Pros

  • Uses quick rebound reaction that prevents easily flattened surface
  • Has a non-skid rubber backside
  • Works on all kinds of floors
  • Easy cleaning with damp or dry cloth depending on the liquid droplets

Cons

  • May require constant cleaning to prevent stubborn stains from lingering on the surface

8. Casa Pura Anti-Fatigue ¾ Thick Kitchen Floor Mat

If comfort is your top priority, the Casa Pura kitchen mat delivers unparalleled convenience when standing up. You can stand for hours and hours in your kitchen, working on a cake or a delicious meal for the family without feeling any pain in your ankle and feet thanks to its ¾-inch polyurethane gel foam.

The mat is considered to deliver the best comfort with neutral external aesthetics. Despite that, you are guaranteed durability over long time usage.

It is designed to accommodate weights of up to 460 pounds and prevent damage caused by high heels or sharp objects. The quick bounce reaction also ensures no part of the mat will flatten over time.

Regardless of the type of kitchen floor tiling, the mat is designed to be versatile. It is suitable for laminate, marble, tiles, hardwood, as well as even carpeted flooring. Yes, almost all types of flooring! If that had you wondering, the answer lies on the backside of the mat.

Its non-slip back and tapered edges prevent all kinds of hazards that occur in the kitchen. From slipping, tripping, and sliding, avoid accidents as well as obtain comfort however you want to stand while preparing meals in the kitchen with the use of this mat!

Casa Pura Anti-Fatigue ¾ Thick Kitchen Mat

Pros

  • Thick foam that is made of ¾-inch polyurethane gel
  • Can accommodate weight of up to 460 pounds
  • Prevents uneven areas with a quick rebound reaction core
  • Has tapered edges

Cons

  • The foam may condense when stepped on for a long duration of time

9. Pauwer Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Rug

Replace your old rug with the Pauwer kitchen rug that offers not only contemporary surface design but anti-fatigue features for convenience and comfort working in the kitchen area. With its 10 millimeter-thick cushion, you can say goodbye to backache, knee pains, and foot sprains.

The cushion is made of PVC foam that is also water-resistant and liquid-proof – preventing seepage and permanent staining in case of spillage. It can be easily cleaned using chemical-free cleaners and damp cloth, as well as vacuumed to remove dust.

Regardless of the surface, whether it is wood, ceramic, or marble, the mat will surely remain in place because of its non-slip feature that adds stability to its placement on the ground. What’s more? Its unique beveled edges increase your safety as you work around the kitchen.

The mat is regarded to have the best modern design because of its checkered design that matches any furniture and fixture as well as other decorations. From its black and white buffalo plaid to geometrical shapes that display a home-like vibe.

Pauwer Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Rug

Pros

  • Has 10-millimeter thick cushion for extra softness beneath the feet
  • Water-resistant and liquid-proof surface
  • Has a non-slip backside
  • Unique beveled edges
  • The design fits modern themed homes

Cons

  • There are some issues regarding the colors

10. Casa Pura Anti-Fatigue 5/8 Thick Kitchen Mat

Premium, right at the tip of your toes! If you are looking for a contemporary, anti-fatigue kitchen mat made with gel foam, this Casa Pura mat should best suit your interests and preferences.

We considered the mat to have the best polyurethane gel foam with its â…-inch thick components. The foam promotes good posture, alleviates stress, and nurses pressure points.

This mat is perfect for working in the kitchen for long periods of time, whether you are barefoot or wearing heels. Yes, you read that right! The mat uses super strong and durable surface materials and layers that prevent damage caused by high heels and sharp objects.

In addition, it employs a rebound reaction, which lessens areas to flatten immediately.

With its anti-slip backside and finished surface, your safety and stability are guaranteed no matter the floor tiling. Regardless of whether you place it on the laminated floor, marble, or carpet, the mat should work efficiently. Of course, it works best on any kind of hardwood floor.

To increase the peace of mind and safety that you will not trip over the rug as you would with normal fabric mats, the kitchen mat features ergonomic beveled edges. Meaning they are not too high that will make you slightly trip. Instead, it is calculated for the right foot landing regardless of its angle.

Pros

  • Has the best and thickest polyurethane gel foam
  • Can withstand high heels and sharp objects
  • Employs rebound reaction to prevent areas flattening easily
  • Ergonomic beveled edges

Cons

  • The backside is not industry-standard non-slipping

Things To Consider Before Buying Kitchen Mat

Here are the major factors that you should consider when buying a kitchen rug. Prevent buying and testing one rug after another to find the best one that suits your needs by following this guide.

Types and Sizes of Rug

Like any other rug, there are plenty of types of kitchen rug available in the market to cater to every household’s needs. From kitchen area rug, floor runner rugs, and anti fatigue mat, you will have to decide which fits your kitchen hardwood floor. Despite having an almost similar size and shape, they differ in coverage.

The kitchen area rug is regular-sized rugs, while area rugs can cover wider and longer areas. Finally, the runners are usually longer and narrower compared to the other two.

Ease of Cleaning

We all know how tiring it can be to prepare meals, especially for a big family or large gatherings. With that, you would want a rug that provides convenience as well as ease of cleaning.

Look for ones that have easy-clean surfaces. You can easily clean the mat with a simple wipe of a damp cloth, a splash of warm water, and mild soap,

Design

Modern and contemporary, patterned, Quatrefoil, plain, and checked. Indeed, there are endless design options for kitchen rugs that you will find in the market. To cater to your changing needs and preferences, rug manufacturers increase your product experience by allowing you access to quality, quantity, and aesthetics.

Gel or Foam

There are plenty of kitchen rugs, and they are all made with different layers and cores. The best forms of cores are those with gel and foam. A gel-foam kitchen rug is made from viscoelastic material and infused with a real non-toxic gel component.

On the other hand, foams and memory foams are just made with viscous materials and elastic components.

They are both used for anti fatigue rug as they offer similar convenience and pressure relief when standing for long periods of time in the kitchen.

What is the Best Material for a Kitchen Rug?

Kitchen rugs stay under your feet and endure a lot. All the messes that are made and food that is spilled in the kitchen find their way to the kitchen rug. That is why it is important to choose a rug that is tough, will last long, and can take a beating. Let us find out about the best material for a kitchen rug.

When it comes to kitchen rugs, the best material is the one that will reduce your cleaning troubles. Several different materials are popular, but we love vinyl rugs because of their easy cleaning and maintenance. They attract much less dirt and dust than rugs made of most other materials.

Some people are allergic to natural fibers, and they surely can benefit greatly from vinyl rug or natural fiber rug.

Those who want to decorate their home in an eco-friendly and sustainable way can opt for a rug made of jute or bamboo. Both of these materials can be used to make very beautiful and long-lasting rugs.

People who spend long hours in the kitchen will love a jute rug, as they tend to be wonderfully soft and gentle to the feet. Bamboo rugs last longer than jute rugs, but they also tend to attract more dust.

Some other options are rugs made of synthetic materials such as nylon, polypropylene, nylon, etc. You will find many decorative and durable rugs made of these materials. All of these are tough and highly resistant to wear, but nylon is said to be the toughest one.

Nylon can tolerate your feet for a long time without causing any discomfort. It highly prevents staining.

What Size is a Standard Kitchen Rug?

Kitchen rugs come in all shapes, sizes, and decorations to spruce up the décor of your kitchen. To make sure that they complement your home décor as well as properly serve their functional purposes, choosing a rug with the right size is necessary.

First and foremost, let’s talk about something very basic. Before deciding on the actual dimension, you need to ensure that you do not buy a rug that is either too big or too small.

Rugs that are too big will not fit your kitchen. They will create many troubles for you. On the other hand, rugs that are too small will not cover the areas that need to be covered, which will also create many troubles for you.

Large kitchens have more floor space and will naturally need more than one rug. For larger kitchens, you can consider two different sized rugs. Some people may just want one rug in order to leave open floor space. That too is a nice concept.

Smaller kitchens generally work well with just one rug. Make sure that it covers the areas with frequent foot traffic, namely near the stove, the kitchen counter, and the sink.

Narrow kitchens can make great use of long kitchen rugs or runners. They will fill up space, add some life to the look of the kitchen, and be functional.

A great way to ensure that you buy the right-sized rug is to make customized rugs, where professionals will make rugs considering your choices and preferences. To sum it up, it will depend on how much of the floor you want to cover. We recommend that you consider covering the areas with the most foot traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of rug goes under the kitchen table?

A flatweave or low pile rug can easily go under the kitchen table, especially those made from synthetic, high-quality materials like natural fibers (jute and sisal) and polypropylene.
These types of rugs easily fit under the table, making the chair slidable, and most of all, they’re easy to clean.

Are gel pro mats safe for hardwood floors?

Of course, gels pro mates are safe for hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring improves your spine’s stress due to standing on the floor for a longer period. Having a cushioned gel pro mat can reduce stress.

Are anti-fatigue mats waterproof?

Most of the anti-fatigue mates are structured in such a way that they can be used in dirty or messy areas, like workshops and kitchens.
In that case, spills and splashes will be a common scenario for the mats, but they aren’t totally waterproof all the time.

Do anti-fatigue mats work on carpet?

Yes, surely, they work on carpet, even including hardwood floors. These mats can hold their ground nicely on the carpet. Plus, a quality mat can ensure you tons of benefits, such as providing enough comfort, reducing stress, etc.

Can you cut an anti-fatigue mat?

If you’re facing a hard time fitting the mat according to your choice due to many obstacles like furniture, poles, etc., well, you can cut your anti-fatigue mat with ease. With a normal utility knife or shape scissor, you can do it.

Do rubber mat damage hardwood floors?

Hardwood floors are different than softwood floors. However, in most scenarios, rubber mats don’t damage any hardwood floors. But in some cases, due to specific finishes and the type of hardwood floor, there can be some chemical reactions due to rubber mat.

Do area rugs ruin hardwood floors?

No. Area rugs don’t ruin hardwood floors; instead, they protect them. There’s a BUT that sometimes area rugs ruin the hardwood floors. So, putting an area rug pad underneath can protect your hardwood floor for good.

How long before you can put area rugs on new hardwood floors?

Before placing area rugs on new hardwood floors, you have to wait at least three weeks. Otherwise, there’ll be more harm than good. Plus, wait at least 48 – 72 hours before putting furniture back in place when hardwood is finished/refinished.

Final Words

Considering all the factors in your buying process should allow you to get ahold of the right kitchen mat for you. In the list of the best kitchen mats for hardwood floors, we presented categories for each according to their best features to help you sort out ones that suit your interest.

Be sure to take notes of the features that you would like your mat to have to prevent overhauling the wrong ones.

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