The Best Shelf Liner (Review) in 2020

Things to Consider When Buying a Shelf Liner

• Size

The size of your drawer liner paper will need to cover the width and depth of your kitchen cabinets, so always check the size of the drawers before buying. If you’re looking for matching cupboards, you should also try to opt for a shelf liner that offers a wide coverage area, as you don’t want to run out halfway through your decorating.

• Design

The design of your shelf liner is one of the most appealing factors, when it comes to buying these products, but each design feature can also come with a range of pros and cons. For example, waffle liners are great for providing additional circulation and minimizing the risk of damage from moisture build-up, or mold. However, waffle fabric types are also more likely to hold dirt and debris within the gaps, which can make it more difficult to clean.

Meanwhile, plainer, flat shelf liners are super easy to clean – but your cupboard won’t circulate air as easily. A great alternative that brings the best of both worlds is a plastic option that is ribbed or uses a slightly raised design, such as polka dots, to maintain cleanliness and resist moisture build up.

Of course, getting a design that matches your kitchen is also important, as the kitchen is a great place to show off a little personality. There are a wide range of colors and designs available out there, and what you choose will ultimately come down to personal preference.

One thing to bear in mind, however, is that if you enjoy changing up your kitchen on a regular basis, it’s best to stay away from adhesive options. This is purely because it can be a pain to remove and replace, when you’re changing up your décor. Instead, opt for a non-adhesive option that can simply be removed, when you’re ready for a change.

• Materials

Like any new item that lives in the kitchen, materials can make all the difference. Rubber liner options are a classic choice, but they are more likely to hold onto dirt when cleaning and you’ll need to replace these more frequently. On the other hand, vinyl or plastic options are great for cleaning, as they tend to lie a little flatter – but they don’t offer as much grip as rubber, so items are more likely to shift around over time.

You should also consider the durability of your materials, as each type will offer something a little different. If your kitchen is prone to damp and moisture problems, it can be worth choosing a rubber or fabric option, as these will be more absorbent and reduce the risk of any moisture sticking to your kitchen cookware and dining sets. Some of these options are even machine washable, while plastic is better for washing down with a little warm water and, where required, soap.

• Cleanliness

Speaking of cleanliness, this is one of the major factors to consider when buying your new shelf liner. Naturally, the kitchen is prone to creating a lot of dust and dirt from ingredients and cooking in general, so it’s important to choose a shelf liner that can handle regular cleaning. As well as this, it should also be very easy to clean your liner – non-adhesive options can be removed and wiped down (or washed in a machine) with ease, while adhesive liner options are great if you get a snug fit, as you’ll simply need to wipe these down from time-to-time.

• Type

The two main types of shelf liner are the adhesive and non-adhesive options. Adhesive drawer liners are perfect if you’re looking to cover up any stains, want to add a little personality to your kitchen or want to freshen up the look of your home.

They take a little more time to fit but, generally, last much longer than other types as they lay flat against the shelf itself and can be wiped down quickly, when needed. Non-adhesive options are great if you prefer changing up the décor in your kitchen on a regular basis, and they are much easier to fit and remove, as when required.

Benefits of Using Drawer Liners

There are so many benefits to using a good quality liner for your drawers and cabinets. Whether you’ve chosen a natural look or quirky design, they can help to brighten up your kitchen and add a little personality, while keeping the overall look neat and tidy. They’re also great for covering up any unsightly stains on your shelves and help to freshen up older décor on a budget.

However, they’re better known for helping to protect your shelf from dirt, dust and debris which is likely to build-up around the kitchen. As well as this, they stop pots and pans from scratching the surface of your shelf, and can even help reduce the risk of mold and other moisture-related problems in the kitchen.

If you live in an apartment, you’ll also be glad to know that they work wonders for helping to keep everything in place, by offering an additional grip, allowing you to keep everything organized and settled. Even better, they reduce the level of noise created when in your kitchen – so you don’t have to worry about annoying the neighbors!

How To Install Kitchen A Cabinet Liner

Installing your shelf liner can take a little time – but the end result is worth it, so do be patient and always measure twice! Despite this, it’s actually incredibly easy to fit your shelf liner and can often be done in a day or two, depending on the size of your kitchen.

If you’re fitting an adhesive liner, this step is much easier if you remove the shelf from your cabinets, as you can get a more accurate measurement and it’s much quicker to fit the liner onto the shelf itself, without any air bubbles.

• Measure the surface you’re looking to cover, and mark out these measurements on your liner.
• Cut the lining to size – adhesive options can get a little sticky, so be sure to keep the backing on this, as your cut.
• For non-adhesive options, simply place the cut liner where required (you’re all done!).
• Remove one side of the backing paper, if you’re using an adhesive shelf liner.
• Place the adhesive part of the liner, sticky side down, matching up the edges of the liner and your shelf.
• Carefully place the adhesive liner across the shelf, removing the backing paper as you go and smoothing it out, being careful to stop and remove any air bubbles, as you go.
• Replace your shelf back to it’s resting place in the cupboard, if needed

Best Shelf Liner FAQ:

Q: Should I buy non-adhesive or adhesive shelf liners?

A: There are benefits to both types of liners, which are mentioned above, but the main difference is whether you’re looking for a more permanent shelf liner, or want to change things up regularly. Each type is easy to clean, although removable options can simply be pulled out, shaken down and washed where required, while non-removable options can be wiped down and won’t shift under any items.

Q: How do I keep my drawer liner from moving?

A: If you’ve opted for a removable option, they can shift from time to time, but this can be avoided. You can either use grippers in the corners of the shelf, to help keep everything in place, or opt for a heavyweight – or even sticky-back plastic and double-sided tape can help to keep everything in place.

Q: How to remove adhesive shelf liner?

A: Removing your adhesive liners can take a little time – but being patient will help you to avoid any damage to your cabinets or refrigerator. Use a putty knife to lift up the corner of the liner, and gently pull until you meet resistance. When this happens, simply spray some warm water on the sticky area and it should soon come loose.

Q: How do I clean my kitchen cabinet liners?

A: Cleaning couldn’t be easier – some options are removable and can be taken out, shaken, and wiped down or placed in the washing machine on a cold wash. While others simply require a wipe down with warm water and some soap, where required.

Q: What can be the other usages of a drawer mat?

A: A mat can be used all around the house! One great option is to use a removable liner as added protection, between pots and pans – particularly those with a non-stick surface. Simply cut a small area out of your purchase and place between each stack. Extra grippy choices can be used to keep a wandering cushion in place, or under rugs – there are lots of ways to utilize cut-offs and spares.

Our Top Pick

We love this option from Gorilla Grip because it provides such a hard-wearing and durable solution to cupboard problems. Able to withstand moisture, easy to clean, and coming with a range of handy design features, this is a great choice for any home. Simply cut to size and behind using wherever you might need your liner. If, in the unlikely event you’re dissatisfied, you can get in contact with the excellent customer service and get your money back.