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Top 10 Best Kitchen Sink Protectors (SINK Mat or SINK Grid)

Best Sink Protector

Sink protectors are the most popular kitchen sink accessories, but which are the best kitchen sink protectors on the market?

Besides protecting a sink, the best sink protector protects dishes and other utensils from dings and scratches.

A sink protector could either be a sink mat or a sink grid. Both items keep utensils safe in the sink, protecting the sink, and allowing seamless drainage. They get crafted using different materials such as silicone, rubber, and stainless steel.

There are different types and sizes available for sink protectors. So, how do you choose the best one?

Best Sink Protectors

What is a Sink Protector Grid?

sink grid and sink mat

Sink protectors are designed to protect a sink’s bottom and utensils. They come with feet to elevate them above the sink’s bottom.

When dishes, pots, pans, and other utensils fall in the sink, the protector prevents them from scratching or denting the bottom.

Types of Sink Protectors

1. Sink Bottom Grid

They are sink bottom racks with spaces for water to pass through and cutouts for drainage and garbage disposal. These accessories are usually rigid because of the sturdy material used in their making. Stainless steel is the common material used in their making.

You can also use it to dry your dishes and vegetables.

2. Sink Protector Mat

Unlike the sink bottom grids, these accessories get made with a soft, flexible material like rubber or silicone. They come with non-slippery legs to lift the mat above the bottom for the water and other food bits to pass through to the drainage.

These accessories can withstand high heat based on the material used, making them ideal for placing hot pots. You can also use some to dry your dishes, but many lay flat on the sink’s bottom.

Comparing them to the sink bottom grids, these mats are cheaper. Also, their PVC and other materials make them require frequent cleaning. Otherwise, dirt may pill up easily, making them hard to clean.

But unlike a sink bottom grid, you can custom a sink bottom mat to fit your sink.

3. Sink Saddle

These sink protectors apply to the double or three bowl sinks. You place them on the divider to lie from one side of the sink bowl to the other. It protects your dishes and sinks wall surface from the damage caused by the impact of banging them against each other.

Like the sink bottom mats, sink saddles get made with a flexible synthetic material like PVC. They only protect your sink’s sides. It’s therefore advisable to use them with a bottom grid or mat to protect your sink’s bottom.

There is another type of sink mat. That is under the kitchen sink mat for protecting cabinets. An under-cabinet sink mat will keep you from damp cabinets and let you bring some freshness to the interior of your kitchen sink.

Top Sink Protectors

Best Sink Protector

1. Serene Valley Stainless Steel 26 – 1/16″ x 14 – 1/16″ Sink Bottom Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Style: Centered Drain
  • Finish Type: Brushed
  • Product Dimensions: 16 – Inches D X 26 – Inches W X 1 – Inch H

Serene Valley Sink Protector is an unbeatable option. With its well-curved corners and wire-mesh construction, the sink grid looks appealing and improves the look of any sink.

Another interesting feature is its long life. It gets made with sturdy 304 stainless steel. Also, unlike its competitors, the sink protector outer wire construction is ¼ – inches in diameter while the inner wire is 1/8 – inches. It makes it thicker and tougher than the rest, guaranteeing you many years of service.

It is also designed to protect your sink’s bottom. The manufacturer packs extra bumpers and feet for future replacement.

The commercially finished sink grid is also easy to clean and maintain. The center drain matches any rear drain. Also, in case of any problem, the manufacturer offers a limited lifetime warranty. The company is renowned for its warm customer service.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting
  • Very attractive
  • The feet do not harm the sink’s bottom
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • A limited lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Ideal for sinks with a center drain only
  • Ideal for sink bottom’s with ½ – inch less its measurements

2. Franke Evolution Stainless Steel Universal Double Bowl Sink Protection Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 1.34 pounds
  • Finish Type: Brushed
  • Product Dimensions: 13.13 – Inches D X11.63 – Inches W X 1.25 – Inch H

Franke Evolution is a good sink protector because its center crossbar reinforces support when you place dishes on it. The farmhouse sink protector is also ideal for your double basin sink. Franke Company uses up-to-date molding techniques to create an elegant sink grid suitable for most kitchen sinks.

Also, the stainless steel sink protector features PVC feet that elevate it and do not scratch the sink’s surface. The other parts get made with robust stainless steel that does not bend, rust, or stain. With its premium finish, the sink protector can last many years.

What’s more intriguing is that the sink scratch protector is versatile. You can use it to dry dishes or prepare cool food.

With its resilience and charming design, it will change the look of any kitchen. You can also fit it in any sink ½ – inch greater than its size to avoid pressing the sink walls.

Pros:

  • A classic design ideal for any kitchen type
  • Suitable to use in a double bowl farmhouse sink
  • Made with sturdy stainless steel
  • PVC feet that do not scratch the surface
  • It has a reinforced center support

Cons:

  • Not ideal for sinks less than its size
  • Not ideal for sinks with a center drain

3. MONSINTA 26″ x 14″ Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink Protector

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 2.55 pounds
  • Finish Type: Brushed
  • Product Dimensions: 26 – Inches by 14 – Inches

MONSINTA kitchen sink grid is a great sink protector because it’s sleek, durable, and available in six versions to suit your single or double sink. The drain is centrally located for a double bowl sink and at the rear for a single bowl to enhance seamless drainage.

The under sink protector gets crafted with the finest stainless steel to boost its long life and stay free from corrosion and stains. You also don’t have to worry about the feet scratching the sink’s surface. Thanks to their rubber material.

Another desirable feature of the sink scratch protector is its many functions. You can use it to dry your crockery, glassware, vegetables, and fruits.

Besides these fantastic features, the sink protector is easy to clean, maintain, and pocket-friendly.

Pros:

  • A decorous sink mat that fits any kitchen and improves its look
  • It comes in various styles and sizes to fit all sinks
  • It’s designed with premium stainless steel, making it last for many years
  • Commercially finished, making it super shiny and easy to clean
  • It does not scratch or rust

Cons:

  • Its size can only fit a sink ½ – inch smaller
  • It does not come with spare rubber feet

4. Better Houseware Extra Large Sink Mat

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 2.55 pounds
  • Color: Black
  • Product Dimensions: 1 – Inch by 12.62 – Inches by 24 – Inches

The Better Houseware sink protector looks fashionable, and its black color matches any kitchen sink and its environs.

Many homeowners will appreciate the extra-large sink saddle protector’s long life. Thanks to the 18/8 stainless steel used in its making. It’s also well-polished, making the sink grid rust and scratch-free.

The design and large size of the under sink protector come with many functions. Apart from protecting your sink’s bottom area, your glasses and cushions also get safe from breaking and chipping. You can also use it as a drying rack for your dishes and garden foodstuff.

Its center cutout drain is another amazing feature that lands the sink mat among the best. Its 4 ½ – inches width fits any drain and disposal opening.

The stainless steel sink protector is also lightweight and easy to set in your sink. Its price is also affordable for anybody.

Pros:

  • A polished design that elevates the appearance of any kitchen
  • It fits most large sinks
  • Lasts for a long period
  • It does not scratch or rust
  • The center cutout fits any drainage and disposal opening

Cons:

  • Not ideal for small sinks
  • The coating may come out if not maintained properly

5. Better Houseware Stainless Steel Made Extra Large Kitchen Sink Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 14.4 pounds
  • Color: Stainless Steel
  • Product Dimensions: 12.63 – Inches by 24 – Inches by 1 – Inch

It’s another excellent extra-large sink saddle protector from Better Houseware. The sink grid will cushion your utensils to prevent them from breaking and chipping as it protects the sink from scratches and stains. Its sturdy construction is another exciting feature that brings the sink scratch protector to the limelight. Designed with the strongest stainless steel, it can last forever.

And what’s exciting? If your sink is smaller or larger than the sink protector, you can choose from other available sizes. Its center features a sleek drainage cutout that can fit any disposal opening.

Some kitchens don’t have enough counter space to dry dishes. Thanks to Better Houseware 1424.8 Extra Large Sink Protector Grid, you can dry your dishes and vegetables on it after washing.

The feet are rubber coated to prevent your sink’s surface from scratching. Also, cleaning and maintaining it is a breeze. Moving the sink scratch protector from one point to another is easy because of its lightweight feature.

To add to its many great features, the under sink protector is pocket-friendly.

Pros:

  • A large trendy design that transforms the look of any sink and kitchen
  • Its strong construction enhances its long life
  • The sink grid does not scratch or rust
  • It features a good-looking cutout for drain and disposal opening at its center
  • Ideal for drying your dishes and vegetables

Cons:

  • You will need to choose a fitting size for your small sink
  • It may not work well with drains located on the rear side

6. Better Houseware White Color Medium size Sink Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 14.4 pounds
  • Color: White
  • Product Dimensions: 16.125.63 – Inches by 12.5 – Inches by 1 – Inch

As its name denotes, it’s another great sink grid from Better Houseware for medium sinks. The sink protector comes with 12 ½ – inches in width and 16 2/8 – inches in length. Your sink has to be ½ – inch smaller to prevent the sink grid from pressing on the sides.

With its 1 – inch height, dishes, and other items get kept off the sink’s bottom. As a result, the area stays safe from damages caused by items banging on it. Apart from protecting your sink and dishes, you can use the sink protector to dry your washed utensils and harvested foodstuffs.

Its center cutout for a drain hole is another great feature that makes it the perfect sink protector for medium sinks. With its 4 1/8 – inches width, you can easily remove and put back your sink’s drainage and strainer.

The under sink protector wows with its longevity. Thanks to the high-quality stainless steel used in its making. Also, the sink protector for stainless steel sinks gets coated with enamel to protect glassware, cushions, and your sink’s bottom from scratches, chipping, and denting.

If this medium size doesn’t fit your sink, you can choose a larger size of length 18.125 – inches or a smaller size of 12 – inches. You can also choose a black or almond color if white is not your taste.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Strong construction
  • Dishwasher safe and easy to clean and maintain
  • Lasts for an extended period
  • You can use it to dry your dishes, vegetables, or fruits

Cons:

  • Only ideal for medium-sized sinks
  • It may rust when the coating comes out

7. Elkay Stainless Steel 27 – ½” x 13 – ½” x 1 – ¼” Bottom Grid Sink Protector

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Finish: Polished Stainless Steel                                  
  • Color: Silver
  • Product Dimensions: 27 – Inches by 13 ½ – Inches by 1 – Inch

Elkay LKOBG2915SS stainless steel sink protector is one of the best on the market because of its long life, modern design, and compatibility with most farmhouse and large sinks.

Its sturdy stainless construction makes it durable and strong. It can withstand your heavy stock pots and pans. Also, this protector comes with a professionally polished finish that does not rust, scratch, or stain. The finish also makes it look classy.

The feet also make the sink protector look great as it lifts it off the ground. They come in a sleek design that’s rubber coated to prevent scratching the sink’s surface. The 1 – inch feet elevate the under sink protector to keep the dishes off the bottom and allow smooth water flow to the drainage.

Its cutout for drainage fits most large sinks, another great feature that makes it stand out from the rest. You can easily remove and put back the drainage and its strainer.

Another exciting point? The sink scratch protector is easy to clean and maintain. You can wash it in your dishwasher.

Pros:

  • A stylish large sink protector
  • It lasts for an extended period
  • Ideal to use in a farmhouse or large sink
  • It does not bend, scratch, or rust
  • You can clean it in your dishwasher

Cons:

  • Suitable for large sinks only
  • Not fit for sinks with center-placed drainages

8. Serene Valley 24 – 1/8″ x 12 – 5/8″ Sink Bottom Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Finish: Polished Stainless Steel                                  
  • Color: Silver
  • Product Dimensions: 25.25 – Inches by 14 – Inches by 1.5 – Inches

Serene Valley Sink Bottom Grid features a modern rectangular design with round corners of 1 – ½”. In addition to its strong construction and centered drain location, the sink grid standout from many others.

The manufacturer uses 304 premium stainless steel and the latest technology to mold it into a wire-mesh-like structure that lasts for many years.

With a well-polished finish, it looks glossy and attractive. It elevates the look of the sink and kitchen. The finish also makes cleaning easy and protects it from rusting and scratching.

Heavy and hard dishes and pots can dent your sink. But its large size and robust construction hold them above the sink’s bottom. You also don’t have to worry about its feet scratching or leaving marks on your sink’s bottom as they come coated with rubber.

Is your sink’s drainage location at its center? It will be a great fit if the sizes match. Before buying, it’s essential to know your sink’s bottom size. It will be a great fit if it’s ¼ – inch larger than this grid. But the size of the drainage space should match.

To add to its amazing features, the sink grid comes with a limited lifetime warranty that guarantees value for your money.

Pros:

  • An aesthetic design that uplifts the appearance of the sink and its surrounding
  • It has coated feet that do not scratch the sink’s bottom
  • Ideal for large sinks with centered drainages
  • It lasts for many years and does not rust
  • You can use it for drying dishes and preparing meals

Cons:

  • Not ideal for sinks with rear or side drainage locations
  • Not suitable for smaller or larger sinks than its size

9. Rubbermaid Black Waves Sink Protector Mat

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Rubber
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 6.1 ounces                              
  • Color: Black
  • Product Dimensions: 11.4 – Inches by 0.39 – Inches by 12.4 – Inches

Rubbermaid Sink Protector Mat is one of the top quality kitchen sink protectors on the market. Its rubber material and wavy lines make the scratch protector look gorgeous. The black color blends well with the interior décor of any kitchen.

With a 0.39 – inches height, it keeps all the dishes above the sink bottom. The sink mat has a sturdy rubber that heavy dishes cannot compress to damage the bottom. It’s also flat and stable.

It’s everything falling glassware or dishes would want because the rubber material protects them. Also, you don’t get disturbed by noise when placing dishes on the sink mat because rubber absorbs noise.

What’s exciting about the kitchen protector mat is its built-in Microban protection. It keeps the sink mat fresh and looking good.

Rubbermaid Sink Protector Mat can be a great option if you have a sink with centrally placed drainage. It comes with a center drainage hole cutout to ease your drainage and disposal access. Besides that, it’s among the cheapest sink protectors on the market.

Pros:

  • It comes with a unique wavy lines design
  • The rubber material contributes to its long life
  • It effectively protects the sink bottom and utensils
  • It remains flat, stable, and fresh
  • It’s affordable

Cons:

  • It fits only sinks with a centrally located drainage
  • Not ideal for a sink larger than its size

10. JUSTOGO Silicone Grey Kitchen Sink Protector Grid

Highlighted Features:

  • Material: Silicone
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Sink Hole: Center                            
  • Color: Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 24.8 – Inches by 13 – Inches

The material used in its making and the attractive cutout holes make JUSTOGO Silicone Sink Mat durable. Its well-crafted large rectangular shape feature round corners and a center cutout for easy access to your drainage and garbage disposal.

It’s an excellent protector for your sink and utensils because it curves at the sides to occupy more space. It protects your dishes when they hit your sink’s walls or bottom. More so, it’s easy to clean the kitchen sink protector mat. You only need running water or put it in your dishwasher.

The life span of JUSTOGO Silicone Sink Mat is also incredibly long. But you need to keep it clean and properly maintained. Unlike the metal-made sink protectors, the sink mat does not rust.

The sink mat has non-slip feet that elevate it above its bottom to allow water and small particles to pass through.

Another stunning feature that makes it a great sink protector is its flexible use. You can use JUSTOGO Silicone Sink Mat to drain dishes and vegetables. You can also place your hot saucepots on it, thanks to its up to 500F heat resistant ability. Still, if you have vulnerable tableware, you can place them on top to protect them.

Pros:

  • A charming look
  • Effectively protects sink bottom and dishes
  • It stays stable and flat while in use
  • It lasts for many years
  • You can also dry dishes and place hot pots

Cons:

  • The irregular patterns require frequent cleaning
  • Ideal only for sinks with a centrally located drainage

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Sink Grid

Material

Sink protectors get designed using various materials. Some are cheap while others cost a lot of money. Others, like uncoated and cheap stainless steel, can rust and scratch. Some, like rubber or silicone, cannot rust. Others are easy to clean and maintain, while others need extra care.

Before buying a sink grid or mat, consider the lifespan, cost, and maintenance of the material used in its making.

Size

Sink protectors come in different sizes. You can find one for a small, medium, and large sink. 

Others can fit a sink with single or double bowls. Before buying a sink mat or grid, measuring your sink’s bottom is essential. Most manufacturers recommend using the protector in a sink ½ or ¼ – inches large to avoid pressing the sink’s sides.

Cutout For Drainage

A sink’s drainage location can either be at its center, rear, or side. When choosing a sink mat or grid for your kitchen, consider the location of your drainage. Then choose a sink protector with a drainage cutout at the same location.

Also, sink drainage and garbage disposal come in various sizes. You must pick a sink grid or mat with the same cutout size for easy drainage or garbage disposal access.

Design

How are your kitchen and sink? Do they need to be pimped? It’s crucial to know the design of the sink protector you need to buy before buying. The market has many styles. Consider a design that will serve your needs and elevate the look of your sink and room.

Purpose

Why do you need a sink protector? For aesthetic reasons or to protect your sink’s bottom. Do you also need it to protect and dry your dishes? You need to ask yourself such questions before buying.

Some sink protectors come with more functions than others. For example, in addition to protecting your sink and utensils, some protectors act as great dish and vegetable driers. Also, you can use some to prepare your meals. Others are very elegant and spice up any kitchen’s look.

Always go for a sink protector that will meet your needs.

Price

Generally, sink protectors come at reasonable prices. But some are higher than others based on certain factors such as material, design, extra features, and size.

Some may be similar in all aspects but at different prices. That’s why it’s crucial to first conduct research before buying. You may find some sink grid or mat cheaper in another store, saving you some dollars.

Also, extra features such as heat resistance, aesthetic aspects, and many functions are worth an extra dime. If you have the budget, why not buy it?

Color

The market has sink protectors in various colors. Which one do you like? Does that color complement the sink and other kitchen appliances?

Some colors like black, gray, and white are neutral. They blend well with all colors. If choosing a color for your sink protector is confusing, you can choose any of them.

You can now pick a sink protector of your choice. But before then, are you aware of its meaning? Let’s find out.

Kitchen Sink Protector Pros and Cons

Pros:

Size

Sink grids come in different sizes to fit all sink bottoms. You can find a small, medium, and large grid.

Durable

Most sink grids get crafted with robust stainless steel that contributes to their long life.

Trendy Design

The market spoils you with different styles of sink grids. Some come with wavy lines, while others run horizontally or vertically.

Others contain a mesh-like appearance with wires crisscrossing each other. Most sink grids add an aesthetic appeal to sinks and kitchens.

Protection

Most sink grids come with trendy feet coated with rubber or PVC to prevent them from scratching or leaving marks on the sink’s surface. The feet lift them to create space between them and the sink’s bottom. All dishes rest on the grid, protecting the sink’s bottom.

Because of their sturdy construction and coated finish, dishes and other utensils in the sink do not make noise, chip, or break.

Drying Rack

After washing dishes, you can use a sink grid to dry them if you don’t have enough space on your countertop. It’s also a great place to dry your washed vegetables and fruits.

Pocket-friendly

Though some sink grids cost higher than others, their prices are generally affordable. Anyone can buy one without a budget.

Easy Cleaning

Most sink grids get made with stainless steel and coated with a commercial finish that makes them easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

Specific Sizes

You can only use a sink grid in a sink ½ or ¼ – inch larger. You cannot modify its size to fit your sink. The only option is to find the right size.

Rusting

Sink grids made with low-quality stainless steel and finished with a cheap coating may rust easily.

Final Thoughts

Every kitchen sink should have a sink protector. As illustrated above, sink protectors come with many benefits. These accessories protect sink bottoms and dishes put in the sink. They also allow water and other food particles to flow smoothly to the drain.

Some sink protectors come attractively made. Their aesthetic appeal improves the look of most kitchens and sinks. Some come with added functionalities such as drying dishes and food items.

As per the discussion, a sink protector can be a grid, mat, or saddle. They all serve the same purpose. The grid and mat protect the sink’s bottom while the saddle safeguards the sink bowl sides.

To buy the best kitchen sink protectors, you must consider the factors mentioned above. Serene Valley Kitchen Sink Protector Grid is the top pick because of its standard size, robust construction, and long life. It also has silicone-made feet that do not scratch the sink’s bottom, and you can use the grid to dry your dishes or groceries.

I hope, you would be benefited from the discussion when choosing a sink protector.