To answer the question in the title – does a coffee station need a tamping mat? For me, the answer is a an absolute yes. It’s simply a very practical accessory that makes tamping coffee grounds much easier in the espresso making process.
The coffee station that I have is made from Laurel wood – a decent quality hardwood. And the last thing that I would want is to put small dents into it. So, there’s the factor of protecting countertops. Also, tamping coffee grounds can get a little messy and with a tamping mat, provided it’s a good one, the cleanup is easy.
The criteria for a good tamping mat is basically three things. First, it must made of good quality material. Durability is very important because if you enjoy one of more espresso or cortados each day then the tamping mat will see plenty of use. Secondly, it must be easy to clean. The one I have, the Watchget Espresso Tamping Mat, is almost effort to clean. I simply run faucet water over it, and it’s cleaned. Takes a few more seconds to dry with a microfiber towel and back it goes on the coffee station.
So, what makes the watchget espresso tamping mat good? It’s thick, never slides and the size is perfect or 8.46 inches x 9 x 1.57. It’s constructed using silicone material and doesn’t curl up or disforms despite washing it daily.
Ascetically, it looks good and after 4 months of use, it retains its shape and color. Overall, it’s a good complement for flat countertops and coffee stations. I’m quite pleased with it, and judging by it’s quality, I think it’ll be part of my coffee station for years to come.