Getting The Right L Shaped Kitchen Mat

L shaped kitchen mats are a great solution for high-traffic areas in the kitchen. These mats are designed to fit perfectly in front of sinks, stoves, islands, and other spaces that see a lot of foot traffic.

The L shape allows the mat to provide coverage around corners and fit nicely against countertops or appliances. Unlike regular rectangular mats, the L shape can protect more surface area from spills, dirt, and wear and tear.

Benefits of L Shaped Kitchen Mats

• Provide more coverage than rectangular mats
• Fit nicely into corners and high-traffic areas
• Protect floors from spills, dirt, grease
• Cushion feet for added comfort
• Come in a variety of materials like vinyl, rubber, memory foam
• Offer anti-slip and anti-fatigue features

Materials Used for L Shaped Mats

L shaped kitchen mats come in a variety of materials like:

• Rubber/Vinyl - Waterproof, durable, easy to clean
• Memory Foam - Soft, supportive cushioning
• Cotton/Microfiber - Absorbent, machine washable option
• Bamboo - Eco-friendly choice that is antimicrobial

Measurements to Consider

When shopping for an L shaped kitchen mat, be sure to take measurements of the area you want to place it. Pay attention to the overall dimensions, thickness, and shape/design:

Overall Dimensions

• Measure length and width of space
• Account for any corners or obstructions
• Leave enough floor exposed based on room size

Thickness

• Thinner mats around 0.2" are easier to clean
• Thicker mats 0.5"+ provide more cushioning

Shape and Design

• Consider straight vs. curved L shape
• Borders help contain spills
• Mats with texture add visual appeal

Popular Materials for L Shaped Kitchen Mats

Let's explore some of the most common materials used to make L shaped kitchen mats:

Rubber/Vinyl

Rubber and vinyl mats are waterproof and very easy to clean. Grease, dirt, and spills can simply be wiped right off the surface. These mats are also quite durable and resistant to cracking or curling at the edges.

Memory Foam

Memory foam kitchen mats provide soft, cushiony support underfoot. This responsive, shock-absorbing material contours to the shape of your feet for maximum comfort, especially when standing for long periods.

Cotton/Microfiber

For a more absorbent option, cotton and microfiber kitchen mats soak up drips and spills well. These fabric mats feature skid-resistant backing to stay in place. They can also be conveniently tossed in the washing machine.

Bamboo

Bamboo kitchen mats offer an eco-friendly choice grown easily and sustainably without pesticides. Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial as well, inhibiting mold and bacterial growth. It's also quite durable while providing pleasant texture.

Key Features to Evaluate

Here are some of the most important features to consider when selecting an L shaped kitchen mat:

Durability and Stain Resistance

Since kitchen mats undergo lots of wear and tear, durability is key. Look for materials like rubber, vinyl and polyurethane that resist stains, won't crack or curl, and provide long-lasting performance.

Comfort and Cushioning

Cushiony mats that compress underfoot can help alleviate back and joint pain associated with standing on hard floors for prolonged time. Materials like memory foam and gel provide exceptional comfort.

Non-Slip Backing

A quality non-slip backing keeps the mat firmly in place on your floors. This prevents tripping hazards from mats that slide around underfoot when walking from one counter to the next.

Easy to Clean

Since kitchen mats handle plenty of spills and mess, quick and simple cleaning is crucial. Waterproof, non-porous materials like rubber, vinyl and polyurethane clean up nicely.

Where to Place Your L Shaped Mat

Here are some prime placements for an L shaped kitchen mat:

In Front of the Sink

The sink area tends to collect splashes and drips during clean up. An L shaped mat catches leaks and provides a supportive surface for scrubbing dishes.

Near the Stove

Protect the zone around stoves from grease splatters and hot spills with an L shaped mat. This high-heat area needs a durable, easy-cleaning mat.

Island or Peninsula

Islands and peninsulas see their fair share of traffic and accidents. An L shaped mat surrounds these high-traffic kitchen stations.

High Traffic Areas

Place L shaped mats in doorways, at the refrigerator, microwave, and other frequently accessed appliances prone to spills and wear.

Style and Design Options

Today's L shaped kitchen mats cater to a wide variety of decorative tastes with options like:

Solid Colors

From basic blacks and tans to bright, vibrant hues, solid colored L shaped mats project a clean, seamless look.

Patterns and Prints

Available in lively florals, plaids, geometric shapes and more, patterned L shaped mats inject personality into kitchens.

Borders and Edging

Borders provide a polished, framed look and help contain spills. Materials like vinyl and rubber maintain shape nicely.

Custom Sizes

For accurately sized mats, many manufacturers can customize L shaped mat dimensions to fit your exact floor plan.

Care and Maintenance Tips

Caring properly for your L shaped kitchen mat ensures good hygiene, safety and longevity. Here are some top care tips:

Regular Vacuuming

Vacuum mats frequently to lift dirt from the pores and maintain appearance. This also prevents buildup that wears down materials.

Spot Cleaning

Spot clean spills and stains to prevent setting in and spreading. Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner for most materials.

Proper Drainage

Allow mats to fully air dry if washing before putting back in service to prevent mold and bacterial growth underneath.

Anti-Fatigue Benefits

Replace mats that become excessively worn down or compressed over time. Kitchen anti-fatigue mats must retain cushioning properties to alleviate standing strain.

Top Brands and Manufacturers

Reputable brand names design quality L shaped kitchen mats suitable for home or commercial use like:

Gorilla Grip

Gorilla Grip delivers heavy-duty kitchen mats known for durability, easy cleaning and laying flat without curling up. Their L shaped options sport non-slip ridged textures.

Kealive

For cushiony comfort underfoot, Kealive's 3/4-inch thick L shaped memory foam mat relieves pressure points when standing or working on hard floors.

Kleen-Tex

Commercial environments like busy restaurants and bars utilize Kleen-Tex's liquid-absorbent L mats that withstand high traffic and daily cleanings.

GelPro

GelPro NewLife kitchen collection mats promote healthier joints and backs using patented gel and foam layers to gently cushion knees and feet.

Pricing and Where to Buy

L shaped kitchen mat pricing depends upon material, thickness, size and features:

Big Box Stores

Affordably priced vinyl and microfiber L mats in small to mid-range sizes start around $10-25 at stores like Target and Walmart.

Online Retailers

For more selection across materials and sizes, Amazon and bedding/bath shops like Bed Bath & Beyond sell L shaped mats ranging $25 up to $150+.

Direct from Manufacturers

Going straight to brand websites allows customizing dimensions or designs for an exact fit. These made-to-order mats cost around $100-500.

How to Choose What is Best For You

Selecting the ideal L shaped kitchen mat involves factoring in your needs, available space, and preferred features:

Consider Your Needs

What kitchen hazards do you need protection from - hot spills, grease pops, slippery floors? Usage needs shape what performance factors matter most.

Measure Your Space

Precise measurements ensure proper coverage where you need it. This allows selecting appropriate L mat sizes and configurations.

Material and Features

Factor in easy maintenance, cushioning level, traction and aesthetics. Prioritize must-have performance criteria and useful extras.

Read Reviews

Browse customer reviews weighing real-world durability and quality based on experience with L shaped kitchen mats.

Using Your New L Shaped Mat

Once your L shaped kitchen mat arrives, here are some usage tips:

Allow Proper Settling Time

If rolled for shipping, give vinyl, rubber or foam mats 24-48 hours to flatten before judging shape or lie.

Check Edges Stay in Place

Ensure no cracking or curling occurs over the first week that could lead to trip hazards. Flatten fully.

Be Patient with New Materials

Allow 2-3 weeks for materials like latex and anti-fatigue foam to fully break-in and conform to your feet's contour.

With measurements in hand and an understanding of the many material and design choices available, selecting the perfect L shaped kitchen mat for high-traffic spots is now much easier. Be sure to focus on key features like durability, cushioning and traction that best suit your needs.

Installing a quality L shaped mat delivers customized protection from daily kitchen hazards like spills and fatigue in high foot traffic zones. Maintained properly, an L shaped kitchen mat keeps these pivotal workflows clean, safe and comfortable for years to come.