How To Choose and Install Mats Under Your Kitchen Sink

Kitchen sinks see a lot of action. From food prep and cleanup to washing dishes, they are hubs of activity. It's no surprise that spills and leaks are common under kitchen sinks. Puddles of water can warp cabinetry, leading to expensive repairs. Not to mention mold and mildew growth.

Luckily, it's easy to protect the space under your sink. Waterproof mats create a barrier against moisture damage. They also provide grip to prevent slipped items from causing chaos. Read on to learn how to select and install the ideal under sink mat for your kitchen.

Choosing the Right Material

Under sink mats come in a range of materials, each with their own pros and cons. Consider how the mat will be used to select the right composition for your needs.

Rubber

Rubber mats are naturally waterproof and provide excellent traction. Thick rubber soaks up large spills easily. It also insulates cabinets from extreme hot or cold. Silicone-treated rubber has antimicrobial properties to inhibit mold growth. The material is durable yet soft enough for comfort when kneeling. Its only downside is the potential to absorb odors over time.

Plastic

For a budget option, plastic mats get the job done. Vinyl varieties resist stains and are easy to wipe clean. However, cheaper plastics may crack over time and lack grip. PVC and polypropylene blends better withstand impacts and offer texture. But plastics scuff easily and have a tendency to slide. They also can emit VOCs, so refrain from using in enclosed cabinets.

Silicone

Silicone has natural flexibility to mold around sink basins and plumbing. It's seamless, preventing bacteria and mold from growing in crevices. The non-porous material won't absorb spills or odors either. Silicone withstands heat well but tends to be slippery. Opt for textured versions or pair with a non-slip liner. While pricey, silicone mats are extremely durable, outlasting other options.

Consider the Fit

It's no use purchasing a mat that doesn't properly fit your sink cabinet. Take precise measurements so you can choose an accurately sized under sink mat.

Measure Width and Depth

Use a tape measure to determine the exact interior width and depth of your sink base cabinet. Note the widest and deepest points. Remember to account for any pipes, supply lines or garbage disposals that take up space.

Leave Room for Plumbing

Be sure to leave a gap next to plumbing fixtures. You don't want mat edges blocking pipe access in case repairs are needed. An extra 1-2 inches around pipes provides wiggle room. For corner sinks, measure the triangular space. Odd shapes are no problem since mats can be trimmed.

Select Standard or Custom-Fit

With your measurements, you can choose from standard-sized mats or custom fit options. Standard sizes like 17" x 14" suit most under sink areas. Opt for a slightly larger mat to allow room for adjustments. Or choose a custom mat that's cut precisely for your dimensions.

Absorbency and Leak Protection

An under sink mat's ability to handle moisture is key. Seek out designs with maximum absorbency and leak prevention to protect your cabinets.

Raised Edges Contain Spills

Spills are inevitable, but mats with raised perimeter edges keep liquids contained. This prevents drips from running off the sides and onto cabinet floors. Ridged or grid patterns also channel away moisture into absorbent top layers.

Moisture Channels and Reservoirs

Some mats feature grooves, ridges or reservoirs to divert water. These moisture channels route liquid away from vulnerable areas. Collected spills then evaporate instead of pooling. This prevents warping and leaks through cabinet bottoms.

Quick-Drying Absorbent Layers

Top fabric or foam layers quickly soak up drips and spills. Absorbent pads prevent puddles from forming on the surface. Once saturated, excess liquid evaporates rather than seeping underneath. This absorptive action keeps cabinets dry.

Built-In Leak Detectors

For at-risk plumbing, mats with water sensors provide alerts. Leak detector mats have embedded moisture-activated strips that change color when wet. This allows you to catch leaks right away before major damage occurs. While pricier, their prevention powers make leak detector mats worth considering.

Odor and Chemical Resistance

Between cleaning products and food spills, under sink mats encounter their share of smells and chemicals. Ensure the mat you choose can stand up to these conditions without becoming a source of odors itself.

Odorless Materials

Certain mat materials like rubber and cheaper plastics tend to absorb smells over time. Opt for odor-resistant silicone or vinyl blended mats. Their non-porous surfaces won't trap odors from spills or trash cans. Reduced contact with the floor also limits odor transfer.

Resistance to Cleaners

Review mat material compatibility with various household and commercial cleaners. Bleach, bathroom sprays and other chemicals can degrade mats. Choose chemically resistant brands that won't become damaged or discolored. Mats made with environmentally friendly materials also avoid harsh chemical exposures.

Textured Grip and Traction

Items sliding under your sink leads to dents, chips and broken glassware. Prevent slips and damage by installing a high-traction mat.

Embossed and Textured Surfaces

Mat textures like raised dots, ribs and honeycomb shapes provide grip. Objects won't slide off textured mats onto hard cabinet floors. Embossed patterns are slip-resistant even when wet. Grooves also provide shoe traction if you need to stand or kneel on the mat.

Bottom Grip Strips

Some mats feature adhesive or rubberized grip strips on their underside. These help anchor the mat in place on cabinet floors without shifting. Gripping ability prevents folds or movement gaps where leaks can occur. It also keeps mat edges flush to the cabinet walls.

Non-Slip Liners

For exceptionally slippery materials like silicone, pair mats with non-slip liners. These mesh or textured liners sit between the mat and cabinet floor for stability. Grip liner also helps smooth uneven cabinet floors for a flat mat fit.

Maintenance and Cleaning

To prolong the life of your under sink mat, proper care is key. Factor ease of cleaning into your buying decision.

Rinsable and Wipeable Materials

Mats that can be quickly rinsed or wiped down with just soap and water are most convenient. Silicone, rubber, and textured plastics clean up easily compared to absorbent fabrics. Avoid porous materials prone to odors and stains that require heavy-duty cleaners.

Removable Mats

Look for removable mats that can be taken out and hosed off as needed. While in place, rotate mats periodically to equalize wear. Replace any permanently mounted mats that look heavily soiled. Withstand the urge to use harsh chemicals that could degrade mats.

Spot Cleaning Persistent Stains

For tough spots, rub gently with a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Avoid abrasive scouring pads or strong solvents that can damage protective mat surfaces. Rinse immediately after spot treating to remove any chemical residue.

Costs and Warranty Considerations

From budget picks to designer options, under sink mat prices run the gamut. Set realistic expectations based on your budget and needs.

Basic Economy Options

Inexpensive vinyl and plastic mats can be found for under $20. While lacking frills, they get the basic job done. Given normal wear, lower-cost mats may need replacing every year or two.

Mid-Range Mats

Good quality rubber, silicone and eco-friendly mats cost $30 to $75. The investment buys you better durability and performance. Expect this mid-range to last several years with proper maintenance.

Premium Leak Detection Mats

High-end smart mats with leak detector sensors and app connectivity retail over $100. The steep price tags come with responsive plumbing leak alerts and replacements if leaks occur. Peace of mind doesn't come cheap.

Purchase Protection

Check return policies and warranty coverage, especially for higher cost mats. Full replacements for manufacturing defects typically cover 1-5 years. Pay a bit more for better protection if your plumbing poses risks.

Customizing Your Mat

For a perfect fit, you may need to trim or finagle your new under sink mat. Customizing isn't hard with the right preparation and tools.

Measure Twice, Cut Once

After purchasing, re-measure the sink base area before cutting. Double check for accuracy, noting any obstructions like pipes or screws. Having spare material is useful in case mistakes happen.

Use Sharp Scissors or a Utility Knife

Quality scissors or a sharp razor utility knife make straight, clean cuts. Mark cut lines with a pencil. Set the mat on a cutting board or smooth surface before slicing. Take care not to scratch cabinets with blades.

Cut Smaller Pieces Around Obstacles

Forawkward spots, cut the mat into sections. Make slits where needed to fit around pipes or garbage disposals. Combine mat pieces like a puzzle to create a seamless custom-fitted sink liner.

Keeping Your Mat in Place

Even with a perfect fit, under sink mats can still get nudged out of position. Use these tips to keep your mat firmly in place.

Secure With Non-Slip Liner Tape

Apply strips of non-slip liner tape around mat edges. The textured tape adheres to cabinet bottoms, preventing the mat from sliding. Use double-sided grip strips to anchor both sides.

Spot Seal With Caulk

Small dabs of clear silicone caulk help stabilize mats. Apply sparingly along edges or where mat meets cabinet walls. Don't over-caulk or residue is hard to remove if you reposition the mat.

Install Grip Tape on the Underside

For recurring mat slippage, secure grip tape to the bottom surface. Measure and cut lengths of anti-slip tape to match the mat underside. Fix in place for reliable traction against the cabinet floor.

Installing a waterproof under sink mat takes just a few simple steps. But choosing the right mat makes all the difference. Select a durable, odor-resistant material that fits your space. Absorbent leak-proof mats provide the best protection. And take measurements twice to ensure a good fit. With the right prep, you can customize mats for a perfect install.

Under sink mats are an inexpensive way to defend your cabinets against spills, leaks and daily wear and tear. Their grippy traction also safeguards glassware while you dig for cleaning supplies. Give your kitchen's hardest working area the protection it deserves. Just follow this guide for choosing and installing the ideal under sink mat.