“I have high, granite counter tops with a rough edge. Tamping multiple times every day on such a hard, slippery surface was uncomfortable; I worried about damaging my portafilter or my counter while also running the risk of the portafilter slipping while I tamped. This mat not only makes the tamping more comfortable, it does a great job protecting the counter top. The mat also makes it a cinch to keep the portafilter stable so you can focus on getting an even tamp. This tamping mat sits securely on my counter surface; the edge is a nice touch for keeping the mat aligned and in place, though I think it would still be a fine product without the edge. The mat is thick, flexible rubber with and industrial weight. It feels sturdy and smells a little bit like tire rubber. The rubber's density has just the right amount of give under tamping pressure. So far, my portafilter under tamping pressure hasn't even left marks on the mat. While it does pick up coffee stains and gather grounds, the mat rinses off easily. After a few weeks of daily use, it still looks like new, which is important since it sits on my kitchen counter every day. I should have bought this years ago. Highly recommended.”
