Grill mats are a terrific innovation that allows you to keep your grill grates clean and help to prevent grease build-ups, as well as grease fires. The best grill mats will last years and make cleaning up, and the cooking process for that matter, a simpler process.
Using our years of grilling expertise, we’ve compiled a list of the best grill mats available on the market.
We’ve considered the mats’ characteristics such as peak temperature, chemical-free composition, and warranties and guarantees among others to compile the list below.
Best Grill Mats:
1. RENOOK Grill Mat (Set of 6)
View at AmazonThe final grill mat for charcoal grills set in review is the RENOOK Mat set. This set of six mats is the largest set on the list and, as all models are, is non-stick.
These mats are unique in that they have a lower peak temperature than the standard set with a peak usage temperature of 400ºF. The mats are dishwasher safe and are designed for at least 100 uses on each side, being that it is reversible.
In conclusion, this final set in review, the RENOOK Mat set, is a great set to end the list. They have lower peak usage temperatures than most of the competition but their design is meant for longevity and they deliver with that design.
Features
- 400ºF Peak temperature
- 100% non-stick
- 100% PFOA-free materials and premium PTFE-Fiberglass coating (no PFOA, silicone, or other dangerous chemicals) – FDA approved
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 7 ounces
- Dishwasher safe and designed for at least 100 uses (both sides)
- 100% satisfaction guarantee (refund if not satisfied)
Pros
- 100% Refund guaranteed if you’re dissatisfied with the grilling mats
- Dishwasher safe makes cleaning simple and hands-off
Cons
- When use time exceeds 30 minutes, the maximum temperature cannot exceed 260ºF
2. Kona Best BBQ Grill Mat Set of 2
View at AmazonThe best barbecue grill mats are able to withstand any temperature you throw at them, and the first model in review, the Kona Best BBQ Grill Mat, does just that with its 600ºF peak temperature.
The mats come as a set of two and are entirely free of PFOA. With a seven-year guarantee, this model is sure to last you for years.
In conclusion, the Kona Best BBQ Grill Mat is the mat set on the market thanks to its toughness and seven-year guarantee.
Features
- 600ºF Peak temperature
- PFOA free mat
- 0.39mm thickness (allows for roughly 1,000 used per side)
- “No Hassle”, 7-year Kona grilling accessories guarantee
- Dimensions: 16″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 6.9 ounces
Pros
- 0.39mm thickness makes this model one of the thickest mats on the market
- Comes with a 7-year, “No Hassle” guarantee so you can be sure it lasts for years
Cons
- A small group of consumers claims the mat melts down after a few uses
3. Grillaholics Grill Mat Set of 2
View at AmazonThe next best grill cooking mats in review come from Grillaholics. The Grillaholics Grill Mat, also a set of two, sports a heat-resistant, PTFE fiberglass coating. This model is also free of PFOA, silicone, or other harmful chemicals.
While it doesn’t match the ability of the Kona mats, these still withstand temperatures up to 500ºF. They also come with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
The Grillaholics Grill Mat is a fantastic second option for your new mats. They are guaranteed for life so you’ll never have to replace them again.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- Heat-resistant, PTFE-Fiberglass coating (contains no PFOA, silicone, or other harmful chemicals)
- Non-stick, reusable
- Dimensions: 15.8″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Pros
- Contains no PFOA, silicone, or harmful chemicals ensuring the safety of use with your foods
- A lifetime guarantee ensures you’ll never need another mat
Cons
- Consumers claim the juices puddle up on the mat and make a mess when cleaning up
4. Aoocan Grill Mat Set of 5
View at AmazonThe next set on the list, the Aoocan Grill Mat, is the best non-stick grill mat set on the list. The mats are constructed from fiberglass, and fabric-coated Teflon and have certifications from the FDA and LFGB. These mats are also able to withstand temperatures up to 500ºF.
In conclusion, the Aoocan Grill Mat set is a great option for those looking for easy-to-clean mats. Its simple cleaning style allows you to spend less time scrubbing and maintaining your mats.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- Easy to clean; simply wash with water and air dry
- Fiberglass, fabric-coated PTFE (Teflon); FDA and LFGB food-grade certification
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 7.8 ounces
- Designed to last for up to 100 uses
Pros
- Fiberglass, the fabric-coated mat is made from a similar material to non-stick pans so you can cook without oils and sprays
- Very easy to clean by simply washing with water and air drying makes maintenance close to none
Cons
- It’s only designed to last up to 100 uses
5. YRYM HT Copper Grill Mat and Bake Mat (Set of 5)
View at AmazonThese next mats are the first model from the copper grill mat reviews group on the list. The YRYM HT Copper Mat and Bake Mat come in a set of five and also comes with two silicone brushes for use while grilling/cooking on the mats.
The mats themselves can withstand temperatures up to 500ºF and are comprised of PTFE-fiberglass coating that is FDA-approved. Additionally, they can be cut to fit your appliance just right.
The YRYM HT Copper Grill Mat and Bake Mat set is a terrific mat set for those looking for customizable, cuttable mats to fit their grill.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- PTFE-Fiberglass coating (no PFOA or other dangerous chemicals); FDA approved
- Non-stick, reusable, and able to be cut to fit your specific grill
- Dimensions: 15.8″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Includes 5 x Copper and 2 x Silicone brushes
Pros
- The mats come in a set of five and also come with silicone brushes for use while grilling
- The mats are FDA approved and ensure the safety of use with your foods
Cons
- The product comes with a grease puddling warning – DO NOT let them accumulate or you may risk grease fire
6. Kitchen + Home – BBQ Grill Mats (Set of 2)
View at AmazonThe fifth barbecue grill mat set in review is the Kitchen + Home – BBQ, a set of two. These mats, as with many models reviewed, withstand temperatures up to 500ºF.
These mats are also completely free of PFOA, BPA, or other harmful chemicals and are, thus, FDA-approved. These mats, designed to last for years, are reversible so you can get the most out of them.
In conclusion, the Kitchen + Home – BBQ is another great set to consider for your new mats. They are reversible and dishwasher safe so they’ll last and are simple to maintain.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- 100% PTFE, non-stick coated fabric (PFOA, BPA free, and FDA approved)
- Reusable and reversible, designed to last years
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 6.1 ounces
- Hand-washable or stick them in the dishwasher
Pros
- The mats are free of BPA and PFOA and are also approved by the FDA, ensuring the safety of use with your foods
- The mats are dishwasher safe so cleaning is a breeze and can be as hands-off as you, please
Cons
- Some consumers claim the mat differs from advertised and has melted after a single or few uses
7. Twisted Chef BBQ Grill Mats (Set of 3)
View at AmazonThese next grill pads for cooking come in a set of three and are, of course, non-stick. The Twisted Chef BBQ Grill Mats withstand the industry standard of 500ºF and, like the previously reviewed set, are dishwasher safe.
The mats are about a half millimeter in thickness, which makes them very thin yet thicker than many models in review.
The Twisted Chef BBQ is up to par with the standard features for models on the market and comes at an exceptionally affordable price.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- Non-stick fabric mats
- 0.5mm thickness
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Hand-washable and dishwasher safe
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe cleaning makes maintenance simple and hands-free
Cons
- A small group of consumers claims the Teflon layer on the mat straight melted off
8. SMAID Grill Mat Non-stick BBQ Grill Baking Mats (Set of 4)
View at AmazonThe next non-stick, BBQ mat set in review is the SMAID Grill Mat Non-stick BBQ Grill Baking Mats. The mats are noted as withstanding temperatures up to 500ºF but come with an operation recommendation of 300-400ºF.
These mats from SMAID are guaranteed PFOA free and are constructed of non-stick, PTFE-fiberglass coating. This set – set of 4 – comes with a 30-day, satisfaction guarantee as well.
In conclusion, the SMAID Grill Mat Non-stick BBQ Grill Baking Mats are an option to consider for that shopping on a budget. For the price, these mats provide fantastic value on par with the standard for the market.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature (recommended 300º-400ºF range for searing)
- 100% PFOA-free materials and premium non-stick PTFE-Fiberglass coating
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Hand-washable or stick them in the dishwasher
- 30-day, 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Pros
- Comes with a 30-day, 100% satisfaction guarantee so you can get your money back should the product not meet your expectations
- Free of harmful chemicals so you can be sure your food is safe
Cons
- Despite the guarantee, a few consumers claim it’s a one-and-done mat, melting or failing after a single use
9. Kitchen Joy BBQ Grill Mat (Set of 3)
View at AmazonRolling along with the reviews is the next, non-stick, BBQ grill mat set, the Kitchen Joy BBQ. This set of three mats withstands temperatures up to 500ºF and, like many other models, is 100% PFOA free and constructed of PTFE coating.
They’re guaranteed to be reusable for five years and they’re also conveniently dishwasher safe.
The Kitchen Joy BBQ Grill Mat set is a terrific option for your new mats, perhaps solely based on its money-back guarantee feature. They’re also reusable and should last you years before needing to be replaced.
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- 100% PFOA-free material with PTFE coating
- Non-stick, reusable for a guaranteed 5 years, dishwasher safe
- Dimensions: 15.75″ x 11.75″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 8 ounces
- 2 years, no questions asked, money-back guarantee
Pros
- The mats are guaranteed reusable for at least five years, meaning it’ll be a while before you need to replace them
- Money back guaranteed ensures you’re satisfied or refunded
Cons
- N/A
10. Chef Caron Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mats (Set of 2)
View at AmazonThe eighth BBQ cooking mat review focuses on the Chef Caron Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mats, a set of two mats. These mats withstand temperatures up to 500ºF and are exceptionally thin at a quarter millimeter thickness, which allows for searing lines to still show through.
The PFOA-free, non-stick mats are FDA-approved and guaranteed safe for use with your food. There’s also an included lifetime money-back guarantee.
The Chef Caron Non-Stick BBQ is one of the lightest models on the market and allows your grill to leave sear lines on your food without the mess. The lifetime money-back guarantee is also a tough feature to pass on!
Features
- 500ºF Peak temperature
- PFOA-free, Non-stick fabric mats (extra layers of PTFE for added non-stick) – FDA approved
- 0.25mm thickness
- Dimensions: 16.9″ x 13″ x 0.1″
- Weight: 4.8 ounces
- Full, lifetime money-back guarantee
Pros
- Money back guarantee ensures you’re either satisfied or you’re refunded
- The mats are also FDA-approved, meaning they are ensured safe for use with your foods
Cons
- N/A
Best Copper Grill Mats:
Grilling is something that many love to do but isn’t free of annoyances. One of the biggest is cleaning the grill itself, a chore that can take lots of time and effort. Gunk and grime will quickly cake onto the grill’s surface, along with seepage at the bottom. Even if you’ve just purchased a new grill, cooking can make it appear aged after just one day of use. How can this issue be prevented? A copper grill mat is the best solution.
They’re basically sheets consisting of a non-toxic copper and fiberglass combination that you can place over the grill itself, blocking grease and oil runoff from the grill and its bottom.
Most are also suitable for use in stoves. Below are ten of the best copper grill mat products found online, picked for size, durability, and temperature limit. One is chosen as the most recommended at the bottom. So without further delay, let’s begin!
Education
Have you ever used a cooking mat to grill food before? If not, learn how to use grill mats. You’ve probably noticed people placing aluminum foil over grills that aren’t theirs, such as in public parks.
Aluminum is fine but comes with many issues, one of them being warping during cooking. They can only be used once and are nearly impossible to prevent bending.
Copper grill mats have none of these issues. Most consist of fiberglass, silicone, and in this case, a small layer of copper.
While all of this might seem a little odd when described, such mats are proven to be perfectly safe for cooking. The surface is non-toxic and won’t transfer into your food.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Copper Grill Mats
Before choosing a new grill mat, you’ll want to measure the dimensions of your grill. Just take it out of the grill body and run a tape measure across the grill piece, jotting down the numbers that you come up with.
The aim is to do as less cutting as possible. However, most copper grill mats are pre-cut and built to the standard size of most home grills.
Copper Grill Mat FAQ
Are Copper Grill Mats Toxic to Cook On?No, it's safe to use grill mats since the materials that are used to make them are capable of being used at high temperatures. The standard for most products is 500 degrees, though there are some that can withstand even greater heat.
Can Copper Grill Mats be Used Indoors?Yes, you can place them in your oven as an alternative to baking sheets. They're also useful for preventing the residue from baking into the oven's bottom. To do this, place it on the grill directly beneath the one that you're cooking on.
What is the Best Way to Clean Cooking Mats?When you're ready to clean up your mats, remember that your dishwasher probably won't be of much help. Prepare some soapy water first, making sure that it's warm. Submerge the mats into the water and wait at least 20-30 minute before taking out, longer if the mats are really dirty. Use a sponge or cloth to clean out the rest, preferably with a scouring powder.
1. YOSHI GRILL & BAKE MATS, Copper
View at AmazonThis Yoshi Grill and Bake Mats are sold in a pack of two, each measuring 15.75 x 13 inches. Both are strong and can handle high temperatures well. With some mats, warping and melting may occur when the temp isn’t at the product’s threshold but very close.
Fortunately, that’s not the case here. The mats will work as expected, no matter if you’re in the 50 degrees below its 500-degree max.
Most Yoshi copper grill mat reviews are favorable and recommended the product. Overall, they loved how easy they are to cut and manage.
Cleanup could require a bit of elbow grease; don’t count on your dishwasher to do this job for you. Try them out for yourself and you’ll quickly discover how the mats keep your grill in a clean state for a lot longer than without.
Features
- Both of the Yoshi mats are able to be used numerous times, so don’t throw them away so quickly. Instead, soak them in hot water and allow the residue to gradually come off. After that, follow up with a good scrub to finish the cleaning job. You’ll likely see grill marks on the sheet’s side that was facing the charcoals.
- Consider using a scouring powder with bleach to get those marks out.
- Their thickness is great and adds longevity to the mats.
- And you’ll finally be able to get all of your food cooked in a timely manner since the temperature is evenly spread.
Pros
- Easy to cut into the shape of any grill (provided that the right cutting tools are available)
- Doesn’t stick to the grill, even when the temperature subsides
- Grease doesn’t absorb into the mat
Cons
- Will leave visible grill marks that are difficult to get off unless scrubbed by hand
2. Aoocan Heavy Duty Copper BBQ Grill Mat
View at AmazonThe Aoocan Copper Grill Mat is much like the previous product, and just as strong. But one quality featured there that isn’t on the other brand is quantity.
With these, you get five sheets instead of one. If you want, try them out for your baking needs, or even as a bottom tray for food that you’re cooking in an oven. But grilling is where this product really shines.
Many of the copper grill mat reviews for the Aoocan thought it was very useful and easy to cut. Others loved how it doesn’t puncture when the food is cooking, a sometimes undesirable trait on lower-quality mats.
It’ll allow you to cook foods that you may not have thought of doing on a grill before as well, such as eggs. See for yourself and you won’t be disappointed.
Features
- You can expect to get multiple uses out of Aoocan mats.
- It has a temperature maximum of 500 degrees, making it safe to use on electric and even some propane grills.
- Keep temp below the limit and you have nothing to worry about. Cleanup is the same as most other copper mats.
- Give it a good soaking and a scrub and most of the grill marks should come out.
Pros
- No uneven cooking along the edges, the temperature stays constant regardless of where the meat is positioned on the sheet
- Doesn’t corrode or rust
- Although there are five sheets provided, one should last for multiple grills before needing to be discarded
Cons
- May leave permanent stains and residue on the bottom side of the sheet
3. Looch Copper Grill Mat
View at AmazonThe Looch Copper Grill Mat looks the same as the standard in the category but is specifically aimed at cooking foods that are known for sticking. As you may already know, sticking food that’s cooking can ruin it entirely. But with these sheets, you won’t ever encounter such an issue.
If cooking on electric and propane grills, this is the one to choose. However, do make sure that the temperature doesn’t exceed 500 degrees, or warping is likely to happen.
The sheets are great for normal grills as well and users loved how easy they are to lift from the grill itself when the cooking is done.
Features
- Some grills seem to have an uneven temperature no matter what you do.
- This cooking grill mat is capable of spreading out the heat throughout, so your burgers on one side of the mat will come outdone at the same time as those on the other side.
- This can save you lots of time from having to constantly flip and move things around during the cooking process.
- All sheets measure 15.75 x 13 inches but are capable of being cut if desired.
Pros
- No peeling for flaking, even after one sheet has been repeatedly used
- Most dirt will come off easily with a scouring powder or industrial cleaner
- Keeps the flavor in whatever is cooked on the plat instead of it dripping into the bottom
Cons
- Not suitable for high-temperature propane grills that exceed temperatures above 500 degrees Fahrenheit
4. Smaid – Copper Grill Mat for Outdoor Gas Grill
View at AmazonThe Smaid are copper grill mats measuring 15.75 x 13 inches each. They’re useful for people that want mats that are easy to clean and manage when the grilling is over. In fact, a lot of the debris should come off just by popping in your dishwasher.
But it’s still a good idea to get them a scrub in the sink, for the best result. Don’t worry about corrosion or rusting, nothing will age the sheets so long as they remain dry when in storage.
While most were satisfied with their cooking when using the Smaid sheets, others didn’t like how easy the sheet themselves scratched. Of course, all copper sheets are susceptible to scratching but these are particularly sensitive.
Try to avoid contact with other hard objects such as tongs, forks, and stainless steel spatulas. If you can do this, then you’ll find the Smaid copper sheets useful for all kinds of cooking activities.
Features
- Feel free to use these mats for grills housed on multiple cooking machines. That means your indoor oven or an electric grill, makes no difference.
- Like most shown so far, the maximum temperature for each sheet should not exceed 500 degrees.
- Use them repeatedly; each sheet should last you for several months if you’re a regular on the grill.
Pros
- Most gunk will fall off during cleaning, particularly if allowed to soak in hot water
- Safe for use on gas, electric, and fire grills
- Will not melt or warp at high temperatures
Cons
- Scratches and dents will show up after the first time that one of the sheets is used
5. atiyoc Copper Grill Mats for Charcoal and Electric
View at AmazonThe Atiyoc Copper Grill Mats are sold as a set of four and hold up well after several uses. One big thing to notice is that mats are available for purchase in two different colors, black, and copper.
This might be useful in situations where presentation is just as important as the cooking itself since it’s harder to see grill stains on a black mat. But even for ordinary use, the black color might be more appealing to some.
Most buyers were satisfied with the product, although some were taken aback by their sensitivity to cooking utensils. Truthfully, this isn’t a problem that’s exclusive to the Atiyoc.
So long as you’re careful not to jab too deeply into whatever you’re cooking with your own utensils, nothing should puncture or break.
Features
- Each copper grill sheet is thicker than most, and each piece is gauged at 15.75 x 13 inches.
- That’s about the standard size for most grills but you shouldn’t have any problems with cutting if needed.
- Cleaning the mats is easy to do and they won’t break when you scrub them.
- Use them on your stove to keep cookies and pizzas evenly cooked, or prop another at the bottom to catch runoff.
Pros
- Has two colors to choose from (copper or black)
- Odor-free; no smells will linger on the mats after being washed
- Alternatively, works well for cooking on stoves (so long as the temp stay below 500 degrees)
Cons
- Using metal, steel, or another dense utensil is not recommended due to the risk of scratching
6. SKYBD Copper Grill Mats for Gas, Charcoal
View at AmazonThe Skybd Copper Grill Mat is barbecue grill mat useful for electric and gas grills. If you’ve looked at some of the other products shown so far, you’ll notice that a common trend among their manufacturers is that each cannot hold up to a temperature that’s greater than 500 degrees.
With this product, you get an extra 100 degrees to raise it to. That means you can cook foods as high as 600 degrees without damaging the mat. And for that, the grill is highly recommended.
Collectively, the biggest advantage that users gave the Skybd was its high cooking temperature and thickness. It’s tough, and great for campers and other outdoor activities that may see you cooking food outside.
Features
- Besides being able to hold up well to high temperatures, this mat can be very durable and thick.
- Use it as many times as you would like, and nothing will break.
- In fact, the product’s description claims that each mat in itself is able to be cooked hundreds of times before being discarded.
- If you want a copper mat that’ll last longer than the first time you cook with it, consider the Skybd for purchase.
Pros
- A great way to keep cooking food from dripping further into a grill (when not directly on top of it)
- Can be used hundreds of times before being discarded
- Handles temperatures up to 600 degrees without warping/melting
Cons
- Is essentially the same as heavy-duty aluminum foil
7. Copper Chef Grill and Bake Mats
View at AmazonSometimes, even the most durable cooking mats cannot be used for foods that are liable to stick. The Copper Chef is a copper grill bbq mat piece designed to handle such items and have them come out looking great.
This means that all seafood, veggies, and even eggs can be cooked on top of these mats and nothing will cling to its surface in the process.
The biggest issue that some had with Copper Chef Grills Mats was how easy they are to puncture. This could be because either cooking tools are from the fire itself. Be sure that no oil or grease drops into the bottom whilst cooking, and this shouldn’t happen.
Features
- Since these mats must be unrolled when opened, it may give you the impression that the material is flimsy.
- However, this isn’t the case. Just position it into the shape that you desire and that’s it.
- During cooking, nothing will warp into a different shape so the grease and oil stay on top the whole time.
- They’re sold in packs of two and are perfect for large grills.
Pros
- Recommended for cooking items that stick easily, such as seafood
- Once unrolled, stays flat unless bent by the force
- No absorption of sauces or grease
Cons
- Easy to puncture
8. Premium Large Copper Grill and Bake Mats for Grilling
View at AmazonThe Premium Large Copper Grill Mats are sized for grills and baking. Place them in your oven and your food (and the mats) won’t be damaged.
But if you’re strictly in need of mats for grilling, then know that the product comes with a handy oil brush. Use this to gently move away grease from the areas where charcoals are burning.
As is the case for many grill mats, these will leave grill marks when you’re done. This was the biggest complaint about the product, though one that’s bound to happen. Clean with a good scrubber and most of the residue should come off.
Features
- One of the best features of the Premium Copper Grill Mats is their strength.
- Never worry about scratching or cutting when cooking.
- Sure you won’t want to drive a fork down the material, but nothing should happen when one gently touches the sheet as you’re flipping burgers and steaks.
- The sheets are 15.75 x 13 inches and are sold as a set of four.
Pros
- Sold with an oil brush that’s useful for removing grease away from the charcoals
- Suitable for use as a stove and over the liner
- Not too susceptible to scratching
Cons
- Leaves grill marks, even at low cooking temperatures
9. GrillShield – 2 Extra Large Copper Grill and Bake Mats
View at AmazonThe GrillShield are copper foil sheets for cooking, great for people that have large grills that won’t require you to do any cutting. Each piece is measured 17 x 23 inches and handles most meats and vegetables well, without any annoying sticking.
People who purchased the GrillShield mats loved how easy they were to get clean, and the number of times that each could be used before discarding. You’ll have them around for a while, thanks in part to their thickness and nonstick surface.
Features
- Keeping these grills clean is a simple task to do.
- Don’t concern yourself over-soaking if you don’t want to, the debris should come right off as soon as you apply soap and water to its surface.
- They’re completely reusable and don’t retain any odors after being cleaned.
Pros
- Ideal for large grills due to the size
- Retains its shape for the entirety of the grilling session
- Grime won’t cake to the bottom when the temperature stays below the 500-degree threshold
Cons
- Unless scrubbed while still a bit warm, getting burn stains off the mat could be a pain
10. Premium Large Copper Grill and Bake Mats
View at AmazonThe Premium Large Copper Grill is the final product but definitely not the worst. You can choose your favorite foods on them, either in the oven or on your outdoor grill.
For people using small grills, know that these are especially easy to cut. They also won’t lose their shape after cleaning.
Although consensus over the Premium grills is mostly positive, some didn’t like how much work is needed to get the sheet cleaned. If you don’t soak them in soapy warm water, grime will likely stick to the mat’s surface.
Dishwashing likely won’t help, either. To make this easier, always submerge the mats in a cleaning solution with water for about an hour prior to scrubbing.
Features
- If you’re in need of a cooking mat that can withstand grills with a low surface to the charcoals, this is the product for you.
- As often is the case, having a grill that’s low in height could damage some mats easier than others, mostly from marked flare-ups when grease touches the coals.
- Just place these mats on top and that’s it, nothing will melt or break in such a situation (do be careful not to go over 500 degrees, however).
Pros
- Cutting is easy to do, even in the shape of circular grills
- Mats are thick and won’t puncture when exposed to short bouts of flame
- No marked fires on top of the mats from the oil
Cons
- Must be soaked prior to cleaning to prevent damage
How to Use Silicone Grill Mats
If the hardest tasks related to cooing were ranked, keeping a grill mat clean would be high on the list. It’s almost impossible to do, provided you only cook meat on the grill itself. A lot of grills are discontinued from use simply from there being too much ash and built-up residue that has accumulated on the grill, and the underlying components of it.
But there is one way to make things look cleaner for a longer period. Grill mats are plated sheets that are placed directly on top of the grill, capable of cooking almost anything with the benefit of faster cleanup time. But how to use the grill mat to its fullest potential? What are the steps that should be taken in the process?
Below is everything that you’ll need to know when cooking with a grill mat. Read through the directions and you’ll be ready to cook with them in no time. Let’s begin!
A silicone grill mat is usually colored black and made entirely of the substance for which it’s named. They’re non-toxic and are difficult to melt, provided that one grills with them according to the directions of the brands/product.
Difference
This is important because some grill mats are made to be stronger than others, whereby it would be okay to place one mat over direct heat and not okay for another. You can find this out by going to the brand’s product descriptions page.
Preparation to grilling
When you’re ready to grill, ensure that the fire on the inside has lowered to the point where you would normally be ready to place food on top of the grill. Instead, add your silicone grill mat to the top.
According to the direction of your product, anywhere that’s lower than 400 or 500 degrees Fahrenheit would be okay.
If the grill is hotter than this, allow for more time to cool, or rearrange your charcoals underneath. If your grill is propane, you could simply lower the heat to an acceptable level.
Feel free to add meats, veggies, or even other small pans to the top of your silicone grill. Check the interior temperature with a thermometer whenever you can. However, don’t do this too frequently if you want your food to cook in a timely manner. Have you ever used a steel or cast iron griddle before? The same rules apply.
This means that some foods, such as eggs, would require that you place an oil (or butter) at the top before laying the food down. Things like hot dogs, bratwursts, and kabobs (with skewers) would cook without any of this.
Cleaning
After that’s done, it’s time for cleanup to begin. Based on the silicone grill mat that you’re using, it might be possible for you to reuse it again. This is why you should use care to go over its temperature capacity.
If you didn’t wash the grill mat off by placing the used sheet in warm, soapy water. You’ll want to clean it off with a mild abrasive, such as a common kitchen sponge. Most won’t come clean in a dishwasher.
How to Use Copper Grill Mats
Copper grill mats are a little tougher than silicone and are built to last a bit longer. While both products are typically sold in rolled sheets, you can expect a copper mat to last for at least two to three grills before it’s discarded.
A copper grill mat is made of copper and nothing else. It’s much stronger than aluminum foil and can withstand temperatures in excess of 500 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
Preparation
Preparation should commence in the same fashion as silicone grill mats. Be sure that you’re starting off with a clean grill that has no food residue on the grill covering itself.
The whole point of using a copper mat is to give you time to cook, and to cook foods that would normally be more difficult to do on the grill.
A lot of copper mats are pre-cut, so there’s no need for you to make additional divisions in the sheets. If your grill is oddly-shaped and you must cut, do so with a good pair of scissors.
Prepare your grill’s heat by bringing the inside to a hot flame, making sure to place the copper mat on top only after the fire has settled down. Once that’s done, it’s time to cook. You can sauté vegetables on copper mats without the need to add vegetable oil.
The surface is nonstick, so even eggs can be cooked without any oil. The flavors from meats will stay on the surface with the mat, allowing for the food to taste more flavorful as a result.
Use the Correct Tools
Grill mats require no specialized tools, at least besides what you should already have for grilling. However, it would help for you to have a handheld thermometer, if possible.
While some thermometers on grills are useful, you won’t be able to get as accurate a ready as you would from one that’s digital. Maintaining the perfect balance of heat is crucial to getting the most from your grill mat, and allows them to last a lot longer.
Maintaining Grill Mats
This is where a lot of users make mistakes, mostly from using grill mats the same way that one would aluminum foil.
Never place your grill mat on an open flame; this is a surefire way to damage not only the mat itself but your food as well.
Of course, there are exceptions to this but always assume that the mat will become damaged if this happens, even if the manufacturer says that it won’t (for the first time using the product, anyway).
Copper grill mats are sometimes washed in a dishwasher, though you might get cleaner results from doing this by hand. Soak your mats in warm water for about an hour or two to make the residue easier to lift off.
Unlike copper mats, you’ll be able to tell that it was used a lot easier due to burning marks on the other side of the sheet. Don’t expect to get them all out; the important thing is to keep the sheet in one piece.
Do you know how to use grill mats without making a mess of things? Follow the instructions lists, and you won’t have any issues doing so. Consider them as a semi-permanent alternative to griddles. You can cook all of your meats and veggies on the sheets, and they prevent food residue from getting on the inside of your grill.
Once you use either a copper or silicone grill mat for the first time, you’ll quickly say goodbye to cheap aluminum foil. They’re compatible with propane, charcoal, and pellet grills. You’ll get through several cooking sessions with just one mat, increasing the cleanliness of your main grill and making your food taste bolder and more flavorful in the process!
Summary
In conclusion, having a grill mat is essential for keeping your grill clean, cooking more savory food, and protecting from grease fires. Our top recommendation, the Kona Best BBQ Grill Mat, boasts the highest peak usage temperature with a threshold of up to 600ºF. This set is the only one on the list that reaches temperatures that high.
But perhaps you don’t need that much heat resistance, for you, we recommend the Grillaholics Grill Mat. These mats withstand the average 500ºF and come with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
However, as we can infer from the list, there are plenty of viable options on the market. No matter the models you choose to consider, be sure to compare features as we’ve done here and you’ll be sure to get the exact set of mats you need! Your grill grease can wait no longer, get your new mat now.
Which Copper Grill Mat do you think is the best copper grill mat? Out of the ten products shown, the Yoshi Grill & Bake Mats earned the highest recommendation, thanks in part to their ease of preparation, size, and nonstick surface.
But given the variety of grills, it might be more suitable for you to try one of the others shown. There’s no wrong pick for you to make here, so find your favorite and buy it before your next big grill!