Bar mats, as we know them today, trace their origins to the early 20th century. Before modern mats, pubs and taverns relied on cloths and sawdust to absorb spilt beer, catch debris, and minimise the slipperiness of surfaces. By the mid-1900s, the idea of dedicated bar mats started to emerge, made of durable rubber for easy cleaning and sturdiness. Although often overlooked, these mats play a surprisingly vital role behind the bar.
Why You Need a Bar Mat
While the bar mat might seem simple, it’s deceptively versatile. The primary purpose of a bar mat is to catch liquid. Whether it’s stray drops from a poured drink, condensation from glasses, or an accidental spill, a bar mat minimises mess and prevents liquid from spreading across the bar. But it also plays a number of other important roles:
- Slip Resistance: Behind the bar, things can get slippery. Mats provide a grip for glassware, shakers, and other tools, reducing the risk of items sliding and crashing. This also creates a safer working environment!
- Protection for Glassware: Bar mats add a cushion between glassware and hard surfaces, which reduces the chances of breakage when setting down drinks quickly.
- Efficiency in Clean-Up: Cleaning a bar mat is simple, remove the mat, rinse it, and sanitise. This is much easier than cleaning up an entire bar surface, especially in high-traffic bars where spills are frequent.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Bar Mat
Using a bar mat is simple – place it in any area where spills are likely to occur, like under the tap area, along the service line, or wherever you’re mixing drinks. It’s essential to keep bar mats clean for both aesthetics and hygiene. Here are a few quick tips:
- Regular Rinsing: After a busy shift or a night of use, rinse the bar mats with warm, soapy water to remove any sticky residue. For deeper cleaning, scrub the mat gently with a brush.
- Sanitise Often: Use a mild disinfectant to sanitise the mat periodically. This helps prevent bacteria from building up.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Rubber bar mats can degrade if exposed to harsh chemicals or bleach. Stick to mild soap and water or a gentle disinfectant spray to keep your mat in top condition.
