Best Shelf Liners

Until now, shelves were lined with newspapers, magazines, and anything else that could prevent the surface from getting stained and/or scratched. As the desire for kitchen aesthetics grew, this changed and led to the introduction of proper shelf liners. These liners have gone on to become essentials in some kitchens, especially for those people with wooden shelves. Not only do they preserve the shelf’s surface, but they also add to the aesthetics of the kitchen.

There are many different types of shelf liners made from different materials, although most are made of rubber or plastic. Some shelf liners are more durable and effective than others, so having a guide to help you decide which one to invest in is important. In line with this, this guide would help identify which shelf liners are:

• Durable and long-lasting;

• Useful for your preferred type of cabinet or shelf;

• Affordable and accessible;

• Perfect for your kitchen needs.

Shelf liners come in different sizes and brand names, but the most important factor for determining which is best for you is the material from which the liner is made.

1. Plastic: Most of the shelf liners out there are made from plastic. This is because plastic is durable as well as affordable, so you won’t be compromising on quality when buying a less expensive brand. Plastic shelf liners are also waterproof and may be adhesive or non-adhesive. This depends on the type you want and opt for.

2. Vinyl: These are typically waterproof, adhesive shelf liners, and they make for great quality items in the kitchen, especially when they match the kitchen's aesthetics. The only downside to this is that vinyl shelf liners tend to leave traces on the shelf when removed, and this also thins the vinyl out so it may not be reusable once you remove it.

3. Fabric. Shelf liners made from fabric are relatively cheap and can easily be washed and used over and again. But, as is common with fabrics, they may wear out after several washes. With fabric, you only get non-adhesive liners, because they typically can’t be attached to your shelves.

4. Foam. Light foam materials are used to make non-adhesive shelf liners. These are quite cheap and last reasonably long.

People who have bought and used the different types of shelf liners outlined above have given their reviews on what they liked and what they wish could be better about it. Some of the points that they mention include:

• Durability: When you buy a shelf liner, the plan is to have it around for a while, not to buy another in a few weeks. This is why you have to choose the more durable ones, although they may cost a few dollars more. In the end, you would be saving more by buying a durable liner.

• Re-usability: Most kitchen enthusiasts like to clean out their kitchen regularly. Sometimes they remove everything, including the shelf liners. The liners may not be so worn out before they’re removed. But after removal, some become unusable. To avoid such surprises, make sure that the variety that you buy is reusable.

• Type of surface: Shelf liners can be used to line surfaces other than shelves, so whatever it is you want to cover, consider the material from which it is made. Wooden surfaces work well with adhesive shelf liners, while steel may not. In that case, you could go for a plastic non-adhesive or fabric shelf liner – anything that wouldn't deface the surface and leave it worse than it was.

• What you keep on the shelf: If you do more than just keep stuff on the shelf, then you may want to be more careful in picking a shelf liner. Vinyl and polypropylene are very durable and can withstand a lot of activity without wearing out in a few weeks.

• Affordability: Most of the shelf liners available are affordable, including high-quality ones, so investing in one wouldn’t be taking too much money out of your pocket.

• Duck Non-Adhesive Shelf Liners have proved to be durable over time. And better still, they are affordable and are worth every penny. They can be washed and re-used for months without looking old and worn out.

• Warp Brothers Mat-O-Shelf Liners are one of the oldest brands in making mat shelf liners. The shelf liners that they produce are typically non-adhesive, but they lay firmly on the surface as if they were sticky. For those who admire aesthetics, these make a great option.

• Con-Tact Brand Creative Covering Adhesive flaunt a sticky side on one surface and an aesthetic side on the other. The glue is functional and doesn't allow the shelf liner to shift with every item placed on it.

The best shelf liner is the one that is decently affordable, durable, and suits your kitchen needs and surface types. This invariably means that what works for one may not work for the other. With this guide, you should be able to make the right choice for your shelves and cabinets.