8 Best Sink Mats and Grids
Updated: Aug. 06, 2022A sink mat or grid will protect your sink, as well as your dishes, from scratches and dings.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Why Use a Sink Mat or Grid?
Sink mats are typically made from a softer material like silicone, while sinks grids, a.k.a. sink racks or basin racks, feature a stiffer metal construction. However, both products do the same job — keeping dishes, glasses, pans, utensils and other items off the bottom of your kitchen sink, ensuring water can always drain even if the sink is full.
Faucet and sink brand Blanco notes sink mats and grids protect not just the items in your sink, but the sink itself from scratches or dents that can happen when items are roughly placed or dropped.
If you do buy a sink mat or grid, be sure to clean it and the area underneath it regularly, as germs and gunk can easily build up in those places.
Best All-Around Sink Mat: OXO Silicone Sink Mat
The OXO Good Grips Silicone Sink Mat is not only affordable but incredibly versatile, too — it allows you to choose exactly where you want the drain hole. The mat comes in small and large sizes, with a built-in pattern for cutting a hole right where you want it. Small feet elevate the mat to allow for water flow. The silicone material is heat-safe so even hot pans aren’t a problem.
Best All-Around Sink Grid: iDesign Gia Sink Protector Grid
The iDesign Gia Sink Protector Grid is an unbeatable option for any kitchen, available in three styles to suit any sink shape. It comes in small or large options, as well as with or without drainage holes. It’s made from rust-resistant stainless steel with non-slip feet that won’t damage your basin.
Best Antimicrobial Mat: Rubbermaid Antimicrobial Sink Protector Mat
The Rubbermaid Antimicrobial Sink Protector Mat will help keep your sink clean by preventing the growth of stain- and odor-causing bacteria. The small mat comes in black and clear, with a center hole for drain access.
“This sink protector does exactly what I had hoped it would,” wrote one Amazon reviewer who gave the product five stars. “Most importantly, it didn’t get slimy and grimy. Also, it allows water to flow down the drain while keeping my dishes and glasses safe from chipping.”
Best Grid for Double Sinks: Franke Evolution Sink Protection Grid
The Franke Evolution Sink Protection Grid fits in nearly all double sinks. It offers a durable stainless steel frame with a hole for a rear drain, as well as PVC foot covers to keep it in place.
“It has not rusted and the rubber feet have not scratched my sink,” wrote one Amazon buyer. “I like the hole in the middle so I can still put food scraps down the garbage disposal without having to remove the whole grate.”
Most Stylish Sink Mat: BliGli Pebble Sink Mat
Many sink mats aren’t particularly stylish. But the BliGli Pebble Sink Mat is definitely more attractive thanks to its pebble-inspired design and numerous color options. Choose from black, blue, gray and green mats. The soft PVC material can be cut to fit any sink, allowing you to select where you want the drain hole.
Best Grid for Large Sinks: Serene Valley Sink Protector Grid
The Serene Valley Sink Protector Grid is about 26 inches long, making it a good choice for larger sinks. It’s made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel with small rubber feet. The grid comes in two configurations to fit sinks with a rear or centered drain.
Best Sink Mat with Handles: Madesmart Soft Draining Sink Mat
It can be tough to peel a flat sink mat off the bottom of the basin, which is why the madesmart Soft Draining Sink Mat is so handy. It includes two easy-to-grab handles that let you remove it from the sink with ease. The mat features a low-profile design with non-slip feet, and it can also do double-duty as a countertop drying rack.
Best Sink Saddle: iDesign Lineo Silicone Sink Saddle
For more comprehensive protection in a double sink, the iDesign Lineo Silicone Sink Saddle hangs over the middle divider to keep glasses and dishes from banging against the sides. The silicone prevents it from sliding around. Keep in mind this sink saddle only 8-1/4-in. wide, so it may not cover your entire sink divider.