Trivets – what to look out for when buying
1. Shapes and sizes
2. Extra functions and features
3. Material
4. Summary
1. Shapes and sizes
Unlike placemats or coasters, trivets are usually not a decorative feature of the table setting. Their main job is practical: protecting tabletops and tablecloths from heat. The rule is simple: the thicker the trivet, the greater the distance between the tabletop and the pan. Even if the trivet is much smaller than the pan, it still works and less heat reaches the table surface. The larger the trivet, though, the more of the hot base it covers and the more heat it absorbs.
"Besides holding hot pans, trivets can also be used much like trays – as a visual frame for home accessories, or simply to protect delicate surfaces from water and wax stains" – Viktoria, interior expert
Round trivets are the classic option. They come in many sizes and are often sold in sets.
Square or angular trivets have the big advantage that you can easily combine several of them, turning them into a design feature on the table that doesn't need to be hidden away
Trivets with patterns and colours also invite you to arrange them playfully and can give your table a special touch.
2. Extra functions and features
Whether you choose a modern, playful or elegant design, many trivets come with useful extras:
Extendable trivets (1) are very practical, as you can adjust the size to suit each pan – so you don't need to buy trivets in different sizes.
Folding models (2) fit neatly into a drawer, and magnetic trivets (3) stay attached to the pan even when you lift it. If they also have castors (6), moving heavy pans across the table suddenly becomes child's play.
And don't forget nesting sets (4) , which give you the right trivet for every pan size or can be fitted together exactly as you need.
There are also trivets with practical multiple uses (5), for example as a tablet or smartphone stand
3. Material
Many different materials protect against heat:
Silicone(1) trivets are particularly popular because they are robust, easy to clean – some are even dishwasher-safe – and gentle on surfaces.
Textile trivets made of jute, felt and leather (2) are very soft, so they protect the table surface especially well from scratches and signs of wear. However, felt and jute can only be cleaned dry – watch out for grease! Leather is the exception: it wipes clean easily with a damp cloth, which makes it easier to care for.
Wooden (3) trivets are not only sustainable and robust – their natural material also pairs particularly well with a farmhouse table.
Cork (4) trivets are non-slip and water-repellent, and their natural material has a pleasant feel.
Stoneware trivets (5) are particularly decorative thanks to their surface texture combined with their colour and any painted decoration. Even when not in use, they look attractive on the worktop.
Trivets made of metal/stainless steel (6) are easy to clean, highly heat-resistant and look very elegant. They are a particularly good match for a modern, minimalist table setting.
4. Summary – what to consider when buying design trivets
- Trivets protect tabletops and tablecloths from heat – unlike coasters or placemats, their main purpose is practical.
- The larger or thicker the trivet, the more heat it can absorb.
- As well as classic round trivets, there are square models and creative shapes that can double as a design feature on the table.
- Some trivets also offer extra functions: from extendable and folding models to magnetic and multifunctional trivets, trivets with castors and sets – there's something for every need.
- The choice of materials is wide: natural materials such as cork, wood or stoneware are very decorative, while textile trivets have a pleasant feel. Silicone and stainless steel trivets are particularly robust.
Buy design trivets online at Connox – your benefits at a glance
- High-quality design trivets – originals from top design brands
- Personal support from our customer service team
- Fair delivery costs
- Secure payment thanks to SSL encryption
Shopping advice at Connox
Would you like to buy design trivets online but need some help? Our customer service team is always happy to help. We'll support you with advice while you shop, make recommendations and answer your questions quickly. Then simply sit back and have your chosen items delivered straight to your door.
