Polder Products continues its focus on the use of microfiber mats as primary drying surfaces for just-cleaned items in the sink. Single microfiber mats do a fine job of absorbing water, but they do not offer some of the benefits of a traditional dish rack, including orderly placement of plates and utensils, security from wetness on the underside and a stable drying surface for delicate items like wine glasses. Also, when items are placed on the mats many times the water is trapped underneath the object. This can leave humidity ‘fogging’ inside glasses and a slower overall mat drying process.

The Absorb dish rack offers enhanced design in the use of both materials and lifestyle focus. The dish rack aims to be kept out on the counter as both an effective tool in the kitchen and a noteworthy aesthetic addition on the countertop.

Aside from the drying-skin mat, the Absorb uses three modular inserts that sit over the mat. All three are either made from or use bamboo as a functional element. The inserts are a utensil bin with a bamboo knife insert in one of the compartments, a square opening flat tray that is perfect for glasses and any item needing a flat surface, and a plate holder section that also includes two long knife slots for larger cutlery.

The construction of the Absorb dish rack centers on a microfiber mat as the primary drying surface instead of large plastic drain trays. The machine-washable mat soaks up excess water from washed items and then air-dries naturally.

The three-part construction of the mat has it acting like a ‘drying skin’, which consists of a 6mm absorbent foam inner surrounded by plush microfiber exterior surfaces. The bottom of the mat has a rubberized coating to retain any liquids from seeping through to the counter. There is also an attached ‘spandex’ type outer trim that holds the mat in place by hanging it in place over a simple wireframe post. Lastly, a layer of anti-microbial coating on the inner mat serves to halt any bacteria build-up that may occur with larger quantities of liquid run-off.

The earthy aesthetic created between the fabric mat and natural bamboo frame works to complement both contemporary and traditional kitchen décor styles. The thematic use of bamboo for the frame and drying surfaces is a departure from the industry paradigm of plastics. It has a more natural feel, enhances home décor with its hues and tone and manages delicate items in a softer, safer fashion than traditional rigid plastics.

Category:HouseholdYear:2023Designers:Luke Johnson, Veloce Engineering and Kerry Cooper, Polder In-House, Polder Products Inc., Oxford, Connecticut, USAManufacturer:Polder Products Inc., Oxford, Connecticut, USA