Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best placemats are a savior at your dining table. They are not just functional but also have an aesthetic appeal. They brighten up your space with colors and protect the table from accidental spills, hot dishes, scratches, or watermarks. However, you will be confused by the variety of designs and colors available.
With a great placemat, maintaining expensive tabletops becomes an easy task. These dining table placemats can set the mood for an amazing dining experience, whether late nights or a formal luncheon. When buying them, ensure they are also easy to clean and maintain. If you are looking out for the right one for yourself, we have a curated selection of the best ones. Pick a placemat that you like the most.
Top Picks
15 Best Placemats To Add To Your Dining Table
1. Best Anti-Slip:U’Artlines Placemats
Simplicity at its best. U’Artlines placemats are ideal if you are looking for a no-fuss option. These tried-and-tested vinyl placemats are easy to clean and maintain. They are anti-slip and the woven PVC material provides good insulation. With over 20 attractive designs, it is almost too easy to find the perfect design.
Pros
- The PVC and polyester material is flexible, easy to wash, and quick to dry
- Anti-skid which will help prevent accidents
- More than 20 designs to choose from
- Heat-resistant up to 150° F
- The color is fade-proof, retaining the designs for a long period of time.
Cons
- Since the material is woven, it is not completely spill-proof.
"Impressed by their pleasant hues, I use these mats as dining accessories and decor. Their heat-resistant build also keeps my table from developing scorch marks. While they are easy to clean, I’d still recommend wiping spilled sauce quickly to keep the stain from setting in."
2. Best For Beginners:Munchkin Silicone Placemats for Kids
Image: Munchkin 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 12,585 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
It is a fact that children make a mess when they eat, especially when they are just starting to learn to use cutlery. Munchkin silicone placemats are perfect since they not only help reduce the mess but they are also easy to clean. Made from high-quality silicone, these tableware placemats have raised edges to contain spillage. Check out this video for a review of the mat.
Pros
- Comes in two bright and fun colors
- Made from flexible material, the mats are easy to roll, store and carry in the bag
- Being dishwasher-safe, cleaning them is not time-consuming
- The material is BPA-free, which makes them safe to use for kids.
- The edges are raised to help restrict the mess to the mat.
Cons
- May be thinner than standard placemats
Quick tip3. Best Classic Design:Bright Dream Placemats
Is a sitdown meal an everyday affair in your home? Then placemats may become an unavoidable addition to your table and Bright Dream Placemats might just be the solution you are looking for. The classic woven design of the table mats makes them aesthetically appealing as well as practical.
Pros
- Made from a blend of 70% PVC and 30% Polyester
- Available in sets of different numbers allowing you to purchase the ideal one according to the size of your dining table and members at home.
- No-fuss cleaning, dirt and grease can be easily washed or wiped with mild soap and water.
- The material does not leave scratches on the table.
- The design and color do not fade easily which helps maintain the “new look” for a long time.
Cons
- May not be completely anti-skid
"I got these for my table, but they are so thick that I have placed them under my heavy electronic devices, too. Their color-shifting effect is also pretty cool. Although they came with creases due to the rolled-up packaging, they smoothened in a few days."
U'Artlines Placemats | Munchkin Silicone Placemats for Kids | Bright Dream Placemats | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 ounces | 8.2 ounces | - |
| Dimensions | 18"L x 12"W | 15"L x 11.13"W | - |
| Material | Vinyl | Silicone | Polyester, Plastic |
| Color | Gray | Blue/Green | Blue |
| Shape | - | Rectangular | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,738 | 12,585 | 6,256 |
| Price | $13.99 | $9.22 | $14.99 |
4. Best Elegant Design:Shacos Round Braided Placemats
Round placemats are all the rage today. This simple deviation from the usual rectangle provides an opportunity to get creative with table decorations. Shacos placemats have an elegant braided design, which is perfect for date nights and dinner parties. With a diameter of 15 inches, you can comfortably place a dinner plate and cutlery on these mats. The tried-and-tested mats are available in multiple color options to match the aesthetics of your table. Here’s a brief review of the mat to help you decide.
Pros
- Made from a blend of polypropylene and cotton making them a durable option
- Maintenance is easy as these mats can be hand washed and air dried
- Perfect for everyday use
- The large circumference provides protection over a larger area of the table.
Cons
- Since they are made from cotton, the placemats are not waterproof.
"I loved all the colors of these placemats but went with the beige one as my dining table is the same color. Although round, they fit well on my table, and their braided design keeps the plates from slipping. Plus, they give out a subtle glow when placed under the light!"
5. Best Long-Lasting:Tache Home Fashion Tapestry Woven Kitchen Dining Table Placemat Set
Image: Tache Home Fashion The Tache Home Fashion placemat is made of 25% cotton and 75% polyester for convenient machine washing. It has a woven texture for long-lasting quality. The everyday placemat has a scattered leaf design with a vintage look and vibrant color, making it ideal for elegant and decorative table settings. It is designed to resist heat and keep your tables safe from heat damage.
Pros
- It has a lined backing for easy sliding.
- The mats are shrink-resistant.
- It has thick weaving.
- They are attractive and flexible to use.
Cons
- May have a bit of a fabric smell.
- They may not be spill-proof.
"The floral design is what pushed me to get these mats. Their craftsmanship is also impressive, and the fall hues have been ideal for the holiday season. Just remember to wash them with care, as their colors may bleed."
6. Best Rustic Design:VHC Brands Farmhouse Jute Placemat
Image: Vhc Brands VHC Brands’ Farmhouse jute placemat offers a traditional way to decorate your dining space. The set includes six machine-braided and stitched oval-shaped placemats, each measuring 18×12 inches in diameter and featuring a concentric blend of black and dark tan. The elegant and rustic appeal of this placemat adorned with stars can suit any Americana or country house setting.
Pros
- Made of 100% durable jute.
- Thick and dense material for functionality
- Stays flat on the table
- Easy to spot clean using a mild detergent
- Makes a thoughtful housewarming gift
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- Color may bleed
"Having used these mats for a few months, I can vouch for their durability. They are also aesthetically pleasing, and the option to reverse them brings variety. I sometimes wish they were thicker, but this minor issue has not detracted from their functionality."
7. Best Everyday Use:DII Cotton Placemats
Image: Dii Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 4,115 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Au naturel is sometimes perfect. The DII placemats are made from 100% five ply cotton. The kitchen placemats have ribbed texture to hold your dishes in place and are ideal for everyday use. The large choice of color schemes can enable you to find the right ones to match your place setting.
Pros
- Available in 28 color options
- As they are made from cotton, they are eco-friendly.
- Being machine washable, they are easy to wash and dry.
- The ribbed finish helps keep china and other smooth dishes in place.
Cons
- May be prone to stains upon spillage.
"The solid blue hue and machine-washable build have made these mats the perfect blend of practicality and style. Their wave design is also pleasant, but the edges may require the occasional ironing to prevent curling. And although made of cotton, they are pretty plush."
Quick tip8. Best Safe:Little Wigwam 1 To 20 Placemat
Image: Little Wigwam The functional and colorful Little Wigwam placemat can also be used to educate your children. This A3-sized placemat features illustrations of numbers 1 to 20 painted with child-safe inks and has rounded corners and smoothed edges for added safety. This unique plastic placemat designed by teachers doubles as a learning poster and helps children learn numbers in a fun way.
Pros
- The placemat is suitable for two- to six-year-olds.
- Has an anti-glare matte finish
- Made of durable polypropylene
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ideal for messy eaters
Cons
- May not be color-fast
- May not feature an anti-slip base
9. Best Cotton Fabric:Funkins Reusable Cloth Placemats
Image: Funkins The Funkins reusable cloth placemats feature fun-themed designs that can make mealtime more enjoyable for your child. The set includes two square placemats, each measuring 15 x 13 inches in diameter. The modern placemats are made of 100% non-toxic cotton fabric that is safe, soft, highly absorbent and gentle to the touch. According to reviewers, these cheerful and versatile placemats are easy to take along and perfect for use at school or outdoors.
Pros
- The mats feature a pattern on both sides, making them reversible.
- Machine-washable and easy to maintain
- Long-lasting
- Available in unique patterns and prints
- CPSIA-compliant and phthalate-free
Cons
- May not be waterproof
- Might be a tad smaller than expected
"Even with the daily rough use and countless cycles in the washing machine, these mats have held up well over the past few months. Moreover, I can easily swap the soiled one with a clean mat as they come in pairs. Overall, it's been a practical find for a parent like me."
10. Best Heat Resistant:Gennissy Waterproof Placemats
Vinyl placemats are incredibly popular (particularly because they are waterproof). These dining table mats definitely made the cut and are amazing for daily use or special occasions. Gennissy’s dinner mats are made from thin yet durable vinyl to seamlessly blend into any table setting. They are heat resistant up to 248°F which will help protect your table from heat damage.
Pros
- Comes in two unique and elegant designs
- Heat-resistant placemat is ideal for everyday use
- Damage to tables due to accidental spills can be avoided as they are waterproof.
- The sleek design allows it to almost blend into the counter/table top.
Cons
- May not be completely non-slip.
"These mats' marble-like finish has been the perfect match for my table. Their wipeable surface also makes it easy to keep them looking like new. They did take some time to lay flat but have been a practical yet stylish addition to my home."
Do remember11. Best Theme-Based:Tot Talk Explore The World Placemat
Image: Tot Talk Attention-grabbing and educational, this explore-the-world playmat by Tot Talk has everything your child needs for a fun yet engaging learning experience. This safety-tested playmat is a great way for modern, busy parents to engage and learn with their children and keep them away from screens. These colorful mats are laminated for protection and have a stable, sturdy build, making them suitable for every season.
Pros
- Exercises and subject matter are included
- Easy cleaning with water and soap
- Large size
- Keeps your base tabletop clean from spills and stains
Cons
- Map design may look busy and cluttered
- Map may have some factual errors
"In addition to keeping my tables safe, these mats have been handy in turning mealtime educational. It is also durable, and the double-sided design, featuring labeled and unlabeled maps, keeps them engaged while they have dinner."
12. Best For Easy Maintenance:Benson Mills Braided Edge Round Placemats
Appearing for a second time on our list, these Benson Mills placemats are sure to add a touch of boho-chic to your dining table. Made from high-quality polypropylene, you can get a faux- woven look along with easy maintenance. The simple yet classic design makes these placemats perfect for all types of crockery, from elegant china to contemporary ceramics.
Pros
- May be used for indoor and outdoor dining
- Cleaning and maintenance is fairly easy
- Come in 13 wonderful colors
- Soft material protects your tabletop from scratches and stains
Cons
- May not be resistant to heat
"I always reach for these mats, whether hosting a formal or informal dinner, as they instantly enhance the overall look of my table. Besides, I only have to give them a good shake to remove all the crumbs."
13. Best Colorful:Pimpernel Dancing Branches Placemats
Image: Pimpernel Lively and colorful, this set of four dinner mats by Pimpernel can complement any dining table. These rectangular placemats measure 15.7 x 11.7 inches and feature multiple colors and are crafted using cork-backed board, ensuring they lie flat on the table. Each placemat has a thickness of 0.2 inches and is sealed with a high-quality coating, making it resistant to stains.
Pros
- Resists heat up to 212 ℃, thus protecting the delicate surfaces of furniture
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Feature unique, contemporary, studio-based artistic design
- Can be easily spot-cleaned with a damp sponge and dry cloth
Cons
- May have an unpleasant smell when new
- Colors may fade over time
"These mats keep my table stain-free by preventing the spills from soaking through. They are a tad smaller than I had expected, but they look beautiful. And as they are heat-resistant, I also use them as a rest for my hot pots and pans."
14. Best For Repeated Use:Home Furnishings by Larry Traverso Tucson Leather Placemats
Image: Hf By Lt The HF by LT Tucson leather placemats can turn your meals into a fine dining experience. Made of recycled leather and ultra-soft cotton, these handwoven mats get softer with repeated use. The set includes four placemats measuring 13×19 inches each. These classic and vintage-looking mats can add a touch of elegance to your dining area and are suitable for casual as well as formal dinner settings.
Pros
- Durable, unique, and elegant craftsmanship
- Available in multiple sizes and rustic colors
- Non-slip base
- Made of stain-resistant materials
- Maintenance is easy as it can be spot cleaned with a damp rag
Cons
- Some seams might fray over time
- Mats might have an odd smell when new
"The woven design is what pushed me to get these mats. They are well-crafted, and the rustic scheme compliments my home's decor. I did notice an odd smell when they arrived, but airing them has fixed this issue."
15. Best Luxurious:RedEarth Macrame Placemats
Image: Redearth Durable and luxurious, these handwoven macramé placemats are crafted from 100% cotton cords and have a textured design to complement any type of dining table while also safeguarding the hard surface from scratches. Thanks to their exquisite design, you can use these elegant placemats for everyday dining or reserve them for special occasions.
Pros
- Exquisitely handcrafted mats
- Easy-to-maintain machine washable placemats
- Can be used on rectangular, square, or round dining tables
- They can be alternatively used on side tables, consoles, and dressing tables.
Cons
- May not be stain-resistant
- Some may find them a tad rough
"I am a huge fan of boho designs, so I quickly got these mats. Not only are they robust, but they have also added a touch of liveliness to my table. Its color looks slightly different from the images but still blends well with my decor."
How To Choose The Right Placemats?
How do you know what type of placemat is right for you? What are things to keep in mind when you are buying them? Hopefully, the following points will help you buy the perfect partner for your crockery.
- Size: The size of placemats is definitely an important factor and would rely on functionality and convenience. Take into consideration the size of your table before you purchase placemats. The placemats should be big enough to hold plates, cutlery, and glasses, but not so big as to overcrowd the table. Make sure to leave some extra space around the placemat so that the dining table doesn’t look cluttered. Smaller placemats may be used for everyday needs while the larger, more standard sizes might be ideal for parties and formal occasions. Smaller sizes may also be convenient when you don’t use a lot of dishes. Then again, larger placemats would be more suitable for messy situations (slurping ramen is a messy business).
- Shape: Dining should be a tranquil experience, a time when you can relax and enjoy your food. Placemats are an underrated contributor to the ambiance. While historically, they came in rectangular or circular shapes, today placemats come in various other wonderful shapes as well that could make your china pop!
- Design: It may not be the most important criterion, but choosing a type of design could be an opportunity to flex your inner creativity. Placemats come in a plethora of colors and designs. Although there is no hard and fast rule for what designs to buy, we would recommend you purchase them to match your crockery as well as your dining table. You could also go the extra mile and choose a color scheme that compliments the decor of your room. Avoid stark contrasts that could clash with your dining ensemble.
- Material: The material of placemats is perhaps the most important factor to consider before you make your purchase. The most common ones available are silicone, PVC, and natural fabric. Leather and wood placemats are amongst the rarer variety. The synthetic options are easy to maintain, hardy, and come in an assortment of designs. Fabric placemats, usually made of cotton, jute or linen, have a rustic feel and also provide better insulation to your table-top, in addition to being eco-friendly. The collection of hard placemats includes cork and wood; while they absorb heat the best, they are also often bulky.
- Usage: How often do you use placemats? Do you host many dinner parties? Do you have little tykes who are learning to use cutlery? Regular or everyday usage would require a set of durable placemats, that are easy to clean and easy to store. Similarly, kid’s placemats should also have the same attributes, which will allow you to clean them up with ease and efficiency. When you host dinners (formal or otherwise), plush fabric placemats could be ideal as they are elegant and natural. As an added bonus, guests tend to try their best not to spill, so you wouldn’t have to worry about washing out the stains.
- Bonus tip: Keep in mind what type of tabletop you own. Opt for softer materials to go with glass tops and polished wood to avoid scratches.
If you don’t wish to be bound by uniformity, another option to consider would be to choose a combination of stain-resistant placemats that have undergone testing; mix and match for your dining table or your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all placemats non-slip?
No, non-slip placemats have soft grooves or notches on the bottom side, which create friction with the table rendering them hard to move. These are most commonly seen in synthetic ones, like in silicone placemats.
2. Can all placemats be used indoors and outdoors?
Depends. Synthetic placemats are usually waterproof which make them perfect for outdoor use as well as indoor. Fabric and leather placemats may be used outdoors but will need to put away immediately after use.
3. Can all placemats be machine-washed?
No, only fabric placemats can be washed in the washing machine. Many of the synthetic ones may be washed in the dishwasher. The best practice would be to read the maintenance instructions on the packaging and clean it as directed.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedesto Chirhah is a highly talented writer who writes on home essentials and technology products. He conducted extensive research and studied user feedback and tester experiences before compiling a list of the finest placemats to beautify and protect your dining table. He also included product specifications and a shopping guide to help you pick the perfect placemat based on your preference of size, shape, design, material and answered some common queries regarding placemats.
The Bottom Line
A messy dining table can be an eyesore in your home and make your dining experience unpleasant. Thus, you need placemats that embellish your dining table and keep it clean and stain-free. Choose the VHC Brands Farmhouse Jute Placemat for its natural material, the Little Wigman 1 To 20 Placemat to improve your children’s math skills, and the Tot Talks Explore The World Placemat for its interactive map design. The options listed here are super-easy to maintain, with most of them featuring an anti-slip base that ensures your plate stays in place. These are especially useful in homes with newborns and toddlers as they can take some of the chaos out of mealtime and make it a meaningful experience for the family.
Infographic: Types Of Placemats For Dining Tables
Now that you know the best placemats available and the factors you must keep in mind during the selection process, let’s focus on the types of placemats and their features to further help you zero in on the ideal pick. So, check out the following infographic to learn about the basic variants of placemats.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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