Works good, no strong rubber smell in my case
This is a great, simple, but thick tamp mat. I wanted something without a lip to it on the edge, and this works great for that. There are a lot of reviews about how this mat smells strongly of rubber, I can only personally smell the rubber smell if I bring it all the way to my nose, plus, with a little bit of time, even that smell will go away
✔ Verified Purchase
F
Frugal Shopper
February 23, 2014
What can you say about a rubber mat?
I've lately been disappointed by several products I've purchased so I was delighted that this tamper mat completely met my expectations. First, it is the perfect size. I can place my latte mug and frothing pitcher on the mat and still have room to place my espresso basket to tamper it. The mat is also quite thick so I have no problems making sure my grinds are packed in without damaging my counter top. It stays put and doesn't slip around. When I first opened the package, there definitely was a strong smell. I did not mind the odor since it reminds me of when I get new tires for my motorcycle which I equate to fun. However, the oder does dissipate after several days. I do notice that it comes back somewhat when I rinse it, especially in hot water. So, if you make espresso, this is a must to protect your countertop.
✔ Verified Purchase
B
B. Schaider
April 16, 2010
Thick piece of rubber, does the job!
Update 12-6-2010 (4-stars):I bumped up my review to 4-stars. The odor has dissipated (it didn't take too long to diminish), but when cleaning and moving the mat I still smell it. Honestly its not a bother at all anymore. As for the dark spot left on my counter, with a bit of elbow grease I was able to clean it up and it never came back. The mat is easy to clean and has held up nicely. I highly recommend it!Original Review (3-stars):Ok, I dig this little mat. It is thick, you won't dent or ding your counter. Great to tamp on.But I have to justify a 3 star....1. It does have quite the smell to it once you receive the item, gives it that "made in and shipped straight from China" feel to it.2. Left a tinted, darkened ring on my white counter top. A lot of cleaning products later it is less, but still slightly visible.3. At the end of the day... there are tons of things you could tamp on.Alas, it sits in front of my Gaggia Classic and it ties things together. So I like it!
✔ Verified Purchase
A
Allison T.
December 03, 2025
Good for coffee… or a bike kickstand pad
I used this for something totally unrelated to coffee - but worked great.Product is as described - thick and durable.Our ebike kickstand was creating divots in the flooring due to its weight. So we are using this as a parking pad of sorts. Works like a charm. Stays put, is the perfect size for a double kickstand, and has withstood daily use.
✔ Verified Purchase
Looks scratched, No Raised Edge
Photos are deceiving - no raised edge! Looks dirty and stinks like tires. With all the scratches and scuffs on it straight out of the package it doesn’t have a sleek black look. Some of the pictures are lit and posed in such a way as to appear like the mat has a raised edge, which it does not. I’ll be returning it.
✔ Verified Purchase
M
M V WEISS ASSOCIATES, Mark V. Weiss
November 14, 2025
Love it
Perfect size, great quality
✔ Verified Purchase
D
Dusty Broome
December 15, 2023
Smelled like a car tire - sending it back!
Liked the form factor and seems like it would do the job except...it really smells bad. Reminds me of when I take my car in to get the tires replaced. Touching the mat also leaves the smell on my hand just enough to be noticeable when I'm trying to take a sip of espresso after using the mat to tamp. Tried soaking in the sink with dish soap and hot water but it doesn't help. Perhaps in a few weeks it may eventually dissipate but I'm not waiting around to find out.Sending back and ordering a silicone one instead of rubber.
✔ Verified Purchase