Sign in Pro
Best Placemats Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
The material is the number one thing you want to keep in mind when shopping for placemats. There are a few different kinds of material used, and the one you choose can determine the overall quality, the features they offer, and the cost of the placemat.
The primary materials used are; PVC, 100% cotton, a cotton blend, and cork. All of these have their unique qualities to them, and the kind of material you choose has more to do with preference than anything else.
PVC, or vinyl, is one of the most common materials used when making placemats. It primarily has to do with how easy it is to clean vinyl placemats and how resilient they are. Vinyl placemats tend to last a long time and won’t stain and repel water. There are a couple of downfalls to vinyl placemats, being the harsh smell of plastic, the stiffness of vinyl, and for the most part, most of them need to be hand washed.
Cotton is another common material used to make placemats. These kind of placemats are a lot softer than vinyl placemats and don’t have that harsh smell. They are also good at retaining liquids, so they help protect your tables from any water damage or staining. Depending on the other types of materials used along with the cotton, some of this kind of placemats can be machine washed and some can’t.
Cork is another material that is used to make placemats, but it is not as commonly used, like vinyl or cotton. Cork is known for its lightweight nature, its scratch-free surface, and its ability to repel water, causing it to bead up on the placemat. It protects your table from any unnecessary watermarks or staining.
Value
One of the most important aspects to keep in mind, no matter what you are buying, is the cost. We all have budgets that we try to follow and nobody likes overspending on products, especially if the product ends up being cheaply made. Purchasing placemats are no different. You want to make sure you are getting your money’s worth, no matter how much you spend.
One aspect that impacts the cost of placemats is the material it is made from. Most placemats are made from a form of vinyl or a cotton blend. The cost will vary on how well the placemats are made and the type of weave used. The higher the blend or, the higher the quality of the cotton used can impact the price as well.
Another aspect that impact the price is how many you are getting. A set of 4 is usually going to be much cheaper than a set of 8. There are some placemat sets of 4 that are more expensive than the average set of 4 and that has more to do with the style used.
Size
When looking for a set of placemats, it is always important to know how many you are going to need. Most sets come in a set of 4 and usually go up to a set of 8. Some sets offer the placemats, while others come with a centerpiece as well.
Knowing how many placemats you will need before purchasing will not only save you time, but it will save you money as well. Who wants to spend money on two sets when you can save money and buy a bigger set?
The size (or quantity) of the set is not the only thing that matters. You should also pay attention to the actual size dimensions of the placemats you are considering. Placemats come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. Some of rectangular and some are circle. Partially, what you decide to go with comes down to taste, but also considering what you want to be placed on top of them and how big of a table you are working with matters too.
There are larger rectangular-shaped placemats that can measure between 12 x 18 inches to ones that measure 14 x 20 inches. The larger ones have room to fit an entire place setting, which makes it a popular choice.
Smaller placemats are usually round shapes, like circle or oval. These can be around 12 inches in diameter. While a large placemat is enticing because it can fit a lot of settings, there is something to say about the use of small placemats. Smaller placemats can be used to extend space at a crowded table. They can also be substitute hot pads. And, less to do with size but still worth mentioning, they can help make a table look nice and fancy.
Features
A significant feature to keep in mind is whether or not the placemats are heat-resistant, or have some heat protection. Heat resistance is a great feature to have because it protects your table from any heat damage from those hot plate of food or casserole dishes. Heat can do irreversible damage to your wood table, so if you are a person who loves to cook for their family and friends, finding placemats that are heat-resistant is a good place to start.
Fade-resistant placemats are another feature to keep in mind. I know that it sounds kind of weird for a placemat to be fade-resistant but think of it this way. Not everybody is looking for placemats for their kitchen table. Some people have patio tables outside and like to grill out surrounded by family and friends. That is where UV protection and fade-resistance come into play.
If you want your placemats outside on your patio table, the last thing you will want to encounter is seeing your brand new placemats faded and distorted. Fade-resistant placemats are also great for those who have their kitchen or dining room tables next to a window. This feature will help protect it from the sun whether you are indoors or outdoors.
Mats that won't slip are extremely important, especially if you have young ones in the house. Purchasing placemats that have some form of non-slip backing are perfect when it comes to little kids. The non-slip backing prevents the placemat from moving, allowing the hot plate of food to remain safe and secure in front of the child.
It also works great for keeping cups safe and prevents them from sliding off of the table. So, if you have little ones at home that are prone to spilling, and you are getting sick and tired of constantly having to pick plates of food off of the kitchen floor, then purchasing placemats that have some form of a non-slip grip on the backing is the best option for you?
Another aspect to keep in mind is whether the placemats are machine washable or need to be hand washed. Washing is an important aspect to keep in mind because placemats that need to be hand washed are going to take more time and patience when it comes to cleaning, especially if there are stains on them. Hand washed placemats might also be harder to get stains out.
Machine washable placemats are easier to get clean because the washing machine does all of the work, but they may end up falling apart after going through the rigorous wash cycle. It is important to pay close attention to the care instructions before washing any placemat.
Water Resistance
Another important aspect to keep in mind is whether or not the placemats are water-resistant. Water resistance is particularly important if you have little kids because we all know how often they spill things. Water-resistant placemats repel moisture and cause the liquid to bead-up. This type of feature protects your table from getting any moisture on it, which could potentially ruin it, depending on the type of wood table you have.
A water-resistant placemat has everything to do with the materials that it is made out of. Placemats that repel water are often made of PVC or some type of silicone material that is typically water-repellent. Other placemats made from fabrics like cotton or linen may soak up water or liquids, but they will not stop it from getting through to the tabletop. Silicone, PVC or plastic-made placemats will let the liquid sit on top, where you can them easily wipe it up without causing much further or a mess.
Additionally, these placemats will allow you to easily wipe them down and clean them without soaking up the water or other liquids that could stain. Cloth fabric placements will soak up the stains and require a much deeper cleaning, which is much more of a hassle than placemats with water resistance.
Top 10 Picks
1. Merka Educational Set of 4
If you are looking for a fun new way to entertain your children at the dinner table as they are picking at their broccoli, then this is the perfect choice for you. Available in a set of 4, these offer a different take on learning. They contain information about numbers, letters, shapes, and colors, so your child can learn while they eat. They are also slip-resistant and can be used over and over again.
Polymer
These are made from a high-quality, durable polymer. This makes them super easy to clean with just a simple wipe with a damp cloth. They are also reusable, so you can keep your child entertained for many meals to come.
Non-slip Backing
Are you sick and tired of constantly having to pick up spilled plates of food off of the kitchen floor? That won’t be an issue with these. They are designed with a non-slip backing, so your children won’t be knocking their plates off of the table anymore!
Cost and Value
When compared to other products on this list, these fall into the most expensive category. Given the fact that these offer a learning experience for your children, are easy to clean, have a non-slip backing, come in a set of 4, and a percentage of the sales go towards a better education for underprivileged children, so these are worth every penny spent!
2. Pauwer Set of 6
These are a great addition to your kitchen table. Coming with the option of a set of 4, 6, or 8, these vinyl placemats are cross-woven for extra durability. Due to their flexible design, these are easy to clean, can bend and fold, and are also stain resistant. This environment-safe product come in a variety of colors to choose from and are sure to bring a pop of color to your kitchen table.
Easy to Care For
These are truly a parents dream! They are super easy to clean and dries rather quickly, so you don’t have to worry about them retaining moisture and causing that horrible mildew odor. They are also stain-resistant and won’t fade over time, so your kids can be messy little eaters and these placemats will stand up through it all!
Durable PVC
Looking for an option that is strong and durable? Then these are just for you. They are made from a strong, but flexible PVC, so you can bend them or fold them up for storage and they won’t get ruined and will maintain their shape.
Cost and Value
In comparison to other products on this list, these fall into the average price range. Considering that these are made from a strong PVC that is stain-resistant, dries quickly, repels stains, are washable, environmentally safe, and come in a variety of colors and sets to choose from, you are getting a great quality set for a price that won’t put a huge dent in your wallet.
3. Ivenf Set of 4 Woven
If durability and longevity are what you are looking for, then this option is ideal for you. These are made from 100% cotton and are handmade and woven extra tight to ensure durability. Coming in a set of 4, with vibrant colors, these aim to please!
Hand Woven
Each of these placemats is handmade. Woven from 100% cotton, the time and patience put into making these is what makes them so unique and durable. When made, they are woven extra tight, so you don’t have to worry about them falling apart.
Set of 4
These come in a set of 4. With each one being handmade, their bright and vibrant colors are sure to make any room pop with color and catch the attention of all of your friends and family.
Cost and Value
In comparison to other options on this list, these fall into the less expensive price range. Given the fact that these are handmade from 100% cotton, hand-woven extra tight and with extra care to help ensure quality and durability, and come in a 4 pack of vibrant colors, you are getting a great set of placemats for an amazing price that you can’t say no to!
4. HEBE Set of 6
This option was designed with durability and functionality in mind. These are made from an environmentally-friendly PVC that is also known for its durability. These are also heat-resistant, offer a non-slip grip, and won’t fade over time. Coming in a variety and sets to choose from, these placemats would make an excellent addition to your table.
Woven Vinyl Crossweave
This product was made with maximum durability in mind. They are made from a woven vinyl that is cross-weaved, for extra durability. This material is also slip-resistant and heat-resistant, and won’t fade over time, so you know that these placemats were made to last.
Easy Storage
These were also designed with storage in mind. Measuring at only 1mm thick, you can easily stack them on top of one another or fold them up for easy storage that takes up the least amount of space possible.
Cost and Value
If you compare these products to other similar options on this list, these fall into the less expensive price range. Considering that these are made from a durable woven vinyl that is cross-weaved, offer heat-resistance and slip-resistance, won’t fade over time, and come in a variety of colors and sets to choose from, you are getting an amazing deal that won’t break the bank!
5. SICOHOME Placemats Set of 6
Using placemats show fashion and high-quality cultural taste. Designs that match the decor of the home are available. A delightful placemat has an effect on the mood at the dinner table. It helps improve the dining experience and impresses guests.
Function
The placemats serve functional and decorative purposes. They make terrific gifts and are ideal for BBQs, casual kitchen decor, Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, patio use, or under a coffee maker. Use them as heat pads, potholders, coasters, and placemats. They can be placed under a hot pot on the dining table to avoid damage to the tabletop. These placemats are a beautiful accent for many different tables.
Decor
They are attractive on company conference tables, brown dining tables, farmhouse tables, white dining tables, and glass tables. Put them on tea tables and dining tables as decoration under ashtrays, vases, tableware, or cups. The colors are a lovely ombre, burnished gold, brown, and burnt orange. The thick placemats have a glimmer. They are the ideal finishing touch to fall decor. The placemats are a lovely accent to a neutral decor.
Cost and Value
SICOHOME Placemats are easy to keep clean. They wipe off easily or can be rinsed under tap water and dried. Use a wet cloth or rinse them with a little cleaner to make them look like new. They are not machine washable. Store them flat or rolled. Rolled mats flatten in minutes when placed under heavy objects. They are reasonably priced and excellent quality for the price. They add class to a dining table. The placemats are made of high-quality ventilate PVC material. They come packaged flat, not rolled.
6. Benson Mills Bordeaux Cork
If you are looking for a set that is not only spill-proof but heat resistant as well, then this is the perfect choice for you. These are made from a high-quality cork, which is known for being able to repel water and stains. These mats are also heat resistant, so you don’t have to worry about ruining them with hot plates. Coming in a variety of designs, these easy-to-clean placemats are built to last.
100% Cork
These placemats are made from 100% cork. Cork is known for its ability to repel liquids, which makes these virtually stain proof. Cork is also known to be scratch resistant, so you won’t have to worry about damaging these and can enjoy them for years to come.
Heat Resistant
As if the water repelling and stain resistance wasn’t enough to catch your attention, these are also heat resistant. This means that these placemats can be exposed to temperatures up to 212 degrees and they won’t welt or get ruined. This is perfect for when you take hot items out of the oven because you won’t have to worry about your placemats or your table.
Cost and Value
In comparison to other options on this list, these fall into the average price range. Given the fact that they are made from 100% cork, repel water and resist staining, are heat resistant up to 212 degrees, and come in a set of 4 with a whole variety of designs to choose from, you are getting a high-quality set for a great price that you can’t walk away from!
7. U’Artlines Crossweave Woven
If you are looking at an option that is washable and won’t fade or retain odor, then this is the perfect choice for you. Made from a strong, yet safe PVC, these 18” X12” placemats were designed with ease in mind. They are washable, won’t stain or hold onto any of those nasty mildew odors. Coming in a variety of colors and set options to choose from, these are a must-have!
PVC Material
These are made from a PVC material that is both strong and safe for the environment. This material makes it easy to keep clean because they are washable and virtually stain-proof, which is every mother’s dream.
Resists Odors
Let’s face it, there is nothing quite as bad as the smell of mildew. This won’t be an issue with these because they were designed to be odor resistant due to their quick drying capabilities, so you can wash these or wipe these down as often as you like with complete peace of mind.
Cost and Value
With all of these qualities mentioned above, you would expect these to be a bit more on the expensive side, but that’s not the case. In comparison to other products on this list, these fall into the less expensive category. Considering the high-quality vinyl that they are made from, along with the fact that they are both stain resistant and odor resistant, and come in a variety of colors and sets to choose from, you are getting an amazing set for a price that you can’t turn away from.
8. ARTAND Heat-Resistant Set of 4
Looking for an option that is heat-resistant, won’t fade and are odor-resistant? Then look no further because this is the perfect set for you. Made from a combination of PVC and polyester, these were definitely designed for maximum durability. They are also stain- and odor-resistant and can withstand heat up to 176 degrees. Coming in a set of 4 with a variety of colors to choose from, these were made to last for years to come.
PVC and Polyester
Made from a combination of PVC and polyester, these were made extra durable, so they last for years. They also have a special UV protection that helps prevent any type of fading from the sun that comes in your windows. This material also allows these placemats to resist stains and odor and are easy to clean and dry quickly, which means you will spend less time having to scrub these mats.
Heat Resistant
These were also designed to be heat resistant. They can withstand temperatures up to 176 degrees without melting or burning. They also help protect your table underneath from the damages of hot plates.
Cost and Value
When you compare the price of these to other options on this list, these ones fall into the less expensive category. If you consider the high-quality PVC and polyester these are made from, the fact that they are heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and prevent odor build-up, and are also available in 5 different colors to choose from, you are getting an amazing set for a price that you just can’t walk away from!
9. Tennove Placemats Set of 6
Tennove Placemats are eco-friendly kitchen accessories approved by the FDA. The stylish cross weave pattern is designed with high-quality environmentally safe PVC material. The placemats are durable and do not fade.
Function
The placements protect the table from stains and scratches. Liquid goes through the placemats and has to be cleaned when finished. They are suitable for daily use. The placemats are a match for a variety of table tops such as a brown dining table, dark wood tables, glass tables, white dining tables, and wooden farmhouse tables. Use the placemats when you BBQ, on the patio for outside parties, under a coffee maker, for Christmas and Thanksgiving dinner, and casual kitchen decor. They have an elegant appeal. The placemats are decorative without being overpowering. The placemats have a woven fabric look that does not look out of place with cloth table runners and napkins. A variety of colors are available.
Care
The placemats are washable and easy to clean. Use warm soapy water to wash them by hand and dry. Stains are removed with soapy water and a brush. They are not meant to be washed in the machine. After dinner, the placemats can be quickly rinsed and returned to the table. The wash and reuse cleaning is a better option than cloth placemats that look terrible after a few washings. No ironing is required.
Cost and Value
The quality of the placemats rivals that of competitors without an exorbitant price. They are a great buy. Placemat sets typically cost between ten and 20 dollars. This is a medium priced set. The placemats are gorgeous and keep most liquids from leaking through to the table. They are not intended to be trivets, but reasonably hot dishes can be placed on them.
10. Famibay Placemats Set of 7
Looking for a set of placemats that gives you more for your money? Here's the perfect set. These placemats from Famibay are a nice set of 7 for your tabletop. With this set, you get 6 placements with a kind of wedge shape and an additional round placemat one for the center. The six wedges are perfect for a round table, and the center placemat ties everything together with a nice centerpiece on top.
Woven Vinyl
These placemats are made from a woven vinyl material, which is great when it comes to the overall durability. Not only that, but these placemats are stain-resistant and easy to clean. You may think that because they have texture from the woven material that they could be a nightmare to clean, however, with just a simple swipe or two with a sponge or damp cloth, these placemats will look as good as new.
Eco-friendly materials
In addition to being easy to clean, these placemats include eco-friendly materials in their makeup. This means that they are safe for dinner table use. They are also designed to be used for years to come.
Cost and Value
Compared to others on this list, this set is the priciest when you look at the cost. However, the set's value is great. For the price, you get a full set of seven placemats that are easy to clean, offer a clean and classic look for your tabletop, and are durable and eco-friendly.
Sources
- , Web Site/Retail
- , Web Site/Retail
- , Placemats - Uses, Guide and Sizes,