Top anti-fatigue mats to keep your feet happy while you cook
Which anti-fatigue kitchen mat is best?
Whether you find kitchen chores relaxing or dread them, standing on your feet long enough to cook every meal or wash every dish can take a toll on your body. An anti-fatigue kitchen mat is an easy way to lessen the strain on your body from daily chores.
Because the mat’s surface is flexible, your leg muscles contract lightly to keep you balanced. This keeps your leg muscles active, which keeps your blood flowing as you stand for long periods. Many different anti-fatigue kitchen mats are available, so it is important to consider the options to find the perfect mat to give you the most relief. The Kangaroo Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Floor Mat is a top choice for hours of standing.
What to know before you buy an anti-fatigue kitchen mat
Design
Anti-fatigue mats come in several different designs, though the flat ones are by far the most common.
- Flat anti-fatigue mats are the standard, as they are inexpensive to make and comfortable to stand on. A perfect entry-level choice, these mats are rectangular, flat all over and usually 1-2 inches thick. Many have beveled edges for a smoother transition to the floor.
- Nonflat active mats are similar to flat mats, but they have bumps or ridges throughout the surface. They are also available in different shapes. These mats have a unique texture that provides extra relief from fatigue by encouraging you to shift your feet more, which helps with circulation.
- Full active mats are less common than the other types, but they can be very effective at relieving the fatigue of standing all day. These mats typically feature some kind of movable part, such as a massage ball that you move around a track with your feet, which encourages you to keep moving. Full active mats can be a little odd aesthetically, but they certainly work.
Material
The material that your anti-fatigue kitchen mat is constructed with significantly impacts how comfortable it is to stand on. It is common to see anti-fatigue mats made from foam, foam rubber, hard rubber, and gel, with benefits and disadvantages to each.
- Foam is the most inexpensive material used for anti-fatigue mats, making it fairly common with cheaper models. It isn’t particularly durable and doesn’t provide much cushion, but if you only stand for short periods at a time, it should do the trick.
- Foam rubber refers to a mat with a foam core and a rubber coating. These mats have the benefit of being constructed from affordable foam, as well as the durability and cushion provided by the rubber coating.
- Hard rubber is the most durable material for kitchen mats, as it holds up very well even with repeated use. However, hard rubber isn’t the most comfortable material, so mats made from this don’t prevent fatigue as much as foam rubber and gel options.
- Gel is the most comfortable material used for kitchen mats, making it the most effective for preventing fatigue.
What to look for in a quality anti-fatigue kitchen mat
Size
What size mat you need is largely dependent on the space you have in your kitchen. In general, a bigger mat means more relief. Standard anti-fatigue kitchen mats are usually 2 by 3 feet or 3 by 5 feet, though larger options are available for warehouse or industrial conditions.
Thickness
Thickness is the main contributing factor to the comfort of a kitchen mat and its effectiveness in preventing fatigue. Most mats will be between 1/2 inch thick and 1 inch thick, though there are even thicker options. In general, you should look for a mat at least 3/4 inch thick for proper cushioning.
Nonslip underside
Some mats will have a textured underside designed to keep it from sliding around on the floor. This is especially helpful in the kitchen, where water from dishes can easily get on the floor and cause things to slide around.
Beveled edge
Particularly if you choose a flat anti-fatigue kitchen mat, keep an eye out for models with beveled edges. The slope downward around the edges helps the mat to stick on the floor, rather than rolling up and diminishes the chances of tripping over the edge of the mat.
Ease of cleaning
Your mat will get dirty over time, so it’s a good idea to be aware of how easy it is to clean before purchasing. For convenience, opt for a model that will be easily wiped off with soap and water rather than models that require more delicate cleaning processes.
Anti-fatigue kitchen mat prices
Unless you opt for a large mat of 6 feet or longer, you shouldn’t have to pay more than $100. Any mats less than $30 are probably made cheaply and won’t be as durable or effective as other models. If you need a large kitchen mat, you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for foot mats 6-12 feet long and $500-$1,000 for ones 12-60 feet long. For most households, a reliable and effective anti-fatigue mat should cost between $40-$90.
Anti-fatigue kitchen mat FAQ
How long does an anti-fatigue kitchen mat last?
A. As with most things, longevity will depend on the quality. In general, kitchen mats last one to four years. Purchasing a thick, quality mat and taking good care of it is the best way to get years of use out of it.
Should you wear shoes on the anti-fatigue kitchen mat?
A. If you have cushioned shoes, they can provide an extra level of comfort on your kitchen mat. However, ensure you don’t wear shoes with high heels or other protrusions on the bottom, as they can damage the mat. If your shoes have flat bottoms, it’s really up to you.
What’s the best anti-fatigue kitchen mat to buy?
Top anti-fatigue kitchen mat
Kangaroo Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Floor Mat
What you need to know: This ergonomic floor mat is supportive and reliable, perfect for hours of standing and designed to last.
What you’ll love: Thicker than most, this 3/4-inch mat is nontoxic and phthalate-free. It is shipped in a flat box to prevent creasing or rolling and comes in many sizes and colors.
What you should consider: Some customers thought the mats looked too industrial.
Top anti-fatigue kitchen mat for the money
Sky Solutions Anti-Fatigue Comfort Floor Mat
What you need to know: Available in a large variety of sizes and designs, this high-quality mat is supportive and comfortable for hours of standing.
What you’ll love: Specially designed foam provides a soft and supportive core, while the attractive rubber coating provides durability. This mat is shown to reduce stress on joints and muscles.
What you should consider: Creases left in the mat from the packaging may not fade quickly.
Worth checking out
Gorilla Grip Anti Fatigue Cushioned Kitchen Floor Mat
What you need to know: With this mat, you’ll get high quality at a low price point.
What you’ll love: It has thick foam that will make standing in your kitchen super comfortable. It’s also easy to wipe clean.
What you should consider: It may slip on some floor surfaces if it gets wet.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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