IKAPE V2 Tamping Mat, Silicone, 25 × 20 cm, Five Colours

A silicone mat for the tamping spot

The IKAPE V2 tamping mat is a 25 × 20 cm silicone pad for the place on the bench where you tamp. IKAPE designed it to hold the portafilter securely while you press, and states that it keeps both the counter and the portafilter from scratches and damage.

Three wells and a folded front edge

In IKAPE's photos the mat has three round wells along the back, one with a textured floor, and a ribbed area in front of them. Its front edge folds down over the edge of the counter. IKAPE calls this a corner design that holds the portafilter securely while you tamp.

The same photos show a tamper and a distributor standing in the wells and the portafilter lying on the ribbed area.

A flat surface that stays put

IKAPE states that the mat gives a stable, flat surface for tamping and will not slip off the counter halfway through a tamp. It measures 25 × 20 cm (about 9.84 × 7.87 in) and comes in black, white, beige, light green and dark green, all at the same price.

How to use it

Lay the mat on a dry counter next to the grinder, with the folded edge over the front edge of the counter.
Set the portafilter on the ribbed area and stand your other tools in the wells.
Tamp straight down, keeping your wrist over the tamper.
Brush loose grounds off the mat and wipe it before they dry.

Materials and care

IKAPE describes the mat as food-grade silicone that is odourless, waterproof and heat resistant. It also states that the mat carries a special, safe coating and that water or soapy water is all it needs to come clean.

Wash it with water or soapy water and let it dry flat before the next use. Keep knives and abrasive pads away from the surface, because a cut in the silicone also cuts through the coating.

What's in the box

1 × IKAPE V2 silicone tamping mat, in the colour you select

Specifications

Sizes and fit

Size: 25 × 20 cm (about 9.84 × 7.87 in)

Build

Material: Silicone, described by IKAPE as food-grade
Colours: Beige, Black, Dark Green, Light Green, White
Version: V2

Extras

Surface: Coated, washable with water or soapy water
Layout: Three round wells, a ribbed area and a front edge that folds over the counter, as shown in IKAPE's photos
Grip: Anti-slip on the counter
Brand: IKAPE