If you’re looking for the best heat-resistant mats for crafts, I recommend checking out options like silicone, PTFE, or fiberglass mats that are durable, non-slip, and easy to clean. I suggest sizes from small to large, with high heat resistance up to 1022°F for versatile projects like resin work, baking, or heat transfer. If you keep exploring, you’ll find the perfect mat to keep your workspace both safe and stylish.
Key Takeaways
- High-quality silicone, PTFE, and fiberglass mats offer superior heat resistance up to 1022°F, ensuring safety during high-temperature craft activities.
- Available in various sizes and dual-surface designs, these mats provide ample workspace and non-slip, nonstick functionality for versatility.
- Easy to clean and reusable, they resist stains, spills, and scratches, maintaining a stylish, professional look in your craft area.
- Their durable, tear-resistant construction supports multiple uses, from resin curing to baking, enhancing workspace safety and efficiency.
- Ideal for DIYers and professionals, these mats combine practicality with stylish design to protect surfaces and improve craft precision.
LEOBRO Silicone Mat, 23.4”x 15.6” Large Silicone Mat
If you’re looking for a reliable, heat-resistant mat that can handle all your messy crafts, the LEOBRO Silicone Mat is an excellent choice. Measuring 23.4”x 15.6”, it offers a large, protective surface that keeps your workspace clean. Made from 1mm thick, high-quality silicone, it shields against resin, glue, paint, and heat. The non-slip, anti-curl design ensures stability during use, while the classic black color hides stains. Easy to clean, residues like glitter or paper scraps can be shaken off or washed away. Its durable, tear-resistant material makes it perfect for a wide range of crafts, from resin jewelry to baking.
Best For: DIY crafters, artists, and bakers seeking a durable, heat-resistant surface for messy projects and food preparation.
Pros:
- Large surface area (23.4”x 15.6”) provides ample space for multiple projects or tasks.
- Made from high-quality, flexible, tear-resistant silicone that resists ripping and fading.
- Easy to clean with the ability to shake off residues or wash with warm soapy water, plus good heat resistance.
Cons:
- Acrylic paint may require alcohol for removal, which could be inconvenient.
- Slight curling at edges might occur over time despite anti-slip features.
- The 1mm thickness, while durable, may be less cushioned than thicker mats for certain applications.
Silicone Kitchen Counter Mats, Heat Resistant & Large (24 x 16 x 2 mm)
For anyone looking for a durable, heat-resistant surface that doubles as a versatile workspace, silicone kitchen counter mats are an excellent choice. These large mats measure 24 x 16 inches and are 2mm thick, offering extra protection and stability. Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone, they’re reusable, non-toxic, and resistant to stains, odors, and deformation. With a heat tolerance from -40°F to 482°F, they’re perfect for protecting countertops from hot pans, baking, or spills. Their textured sides help with food handling, while the anti-slip bottom keeps everything in place. Easy to clean and cut to size, they’re ideal for both kitchen tasks and craft projects.
Best For: home cooks, bakers, and DIY enthusiasts seeking durable, heat-resistant, and versatile countertop protection and workspace solutions.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, food-grade BPA-free silicone that is reusable and environmentally friendly
- Offers excellent heat resistance up to 482°F, protecting surfaces from hot pans and spills
- Easy to clean, cut to size, and resistant to stains, odors, and deformation
Cons:
- Slight size deviations (around 0.25 inches) may require adjustments for precise fits
- Thicker than standard mats, which might be less flexible for certain tight spaces
- Some users find the textured sides may take time to get used to for food handling
CRAFT RESIN Silicone Mat – Large 23.6” x 15.7”, Heat Resistant & Non-Slip
The CRAFT RESIN Silicone Mat is an ideal choice for crafters, artists, and hobbyists who need a large, reliable surface for resin work, baking, or painting. Measuring 23.6” x 15.7”, it provides ample space for various projects. Its 1.3mm thickness offers durability without sacrificing flexibility, and it’s lightweight enough to handle easily. Made from BPA-free silicone, it’s non-toxic and eco-friendly. The mat withstands temperatures up to 500°F, making it perfect for hot tools and epoxy curing. Its textured, non-slip surface prevents slipping during detailed work, and the non-stick coating guarantees effortless cleanup of resin, glue, or paint.
Best For: hobbyists, resin artists, and DIY enthusiasts seeking a large, durable, and heat-resistant silicone work surface for crafting, baking, or painting.
Pros:
- Large 23.6” x 15.7” size provides ample workspace for multiple projects
- Heat-resistant up to 500°F, suitable for hot tools and epoxy curing
- Non-stick, waterproof, and stain-resistant surface for easy cleanup and repeated use
Cons:
- Slightly thicker at 1.3mm, which may reduce some flexibility for very delicate tasks
- May be heavier than smaller silicone mats, impacting portability for some users
- The textured back may not grip perfectly on all smooth surfaces without additional grip aids
Silicone Mats for Crafts (2 Pack)
Silicone mats for crafts stand out as an excellent choice for anyone working with hot tools or materials that require heat resistance. Made of high-quality, food-grade silicone, these translucent mats are BPA-free, non-toxic, and safe for children. Measuring 11.8 x 15.7 inches and just 0.8 mm thick, they come in a convenient pack of two. They’re perfect for jewelry making, epoxy resin, glitter slime, nail art, and countertop protection. Capable of withstanding temperatures from -30°C to +180°C (356°F), they’re non-stick, easy to clean, and flexible enough to cut for various uses. These versatile mats keep your workspace safe and stylish.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking versatile, heat-resistant silicone mats for jewelry, resin, slime, nail art, and household protection.
Pros:
- Made of high-quality, food-grade, BPA-free silicone that is safe and non-toxic
- Heat-resistant from -30°C to +180°C, suitable for hot tools and projects
- Easy to clean, flexible, and can be cut to fit various applications
Cons:
- Thin and floppy, which may limit its rigidity for heavy-duty tasks
- Some users find it less durable for intensive or prolonged use
- Slightly delicate, requiring careful handling to avoid tearing or damage
Silicone Mats for Crafts, 2 Pack
If you’re working on crafts that involve hot tools, epoxy resin, or glue, these silicone mats are an ideal choice because of their excellent heat resistance and non-stick surface. Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone, they measure 11.8 x 15.7 inches and come in a pack of two. They withstand temperatures from -30°C to +180°C (356°F), making them perfect for protecting countertops and handling hot materials. The mats are flexible, easy to clean, and feature a non-slip grip. One side is smooth, while the other has a frosted finish, giving you versatile options for various craft projects like jewelry making, resin shaping, or nail art.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals working with hot tools, epoxy resin, glitter slime, or nail art who need a versatile, heat-resistant surface.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, food-grade, BPA-free silicone that is safe and non-toxic
- Heat-resistant up to 180°C (356°F), suitable for hot tools and materials
- Easy to clean, flexible, and non-stick, making craft projects more manageable
Cons:
- Thin and floppy design may limit stability for heavy-duty or heavy-temperature applications
- Slightly delicate, which could lead to tearing if handled roughly
- Limited rigidity might reduce effectiveness as a support surface for certain tasks
Gartful 2 Pack Silicone Crafting Mats
Looking for versatile crafting mats that can handle high temperatures and a variety of projects? The Gartful 2 Pack Silicone Crafting Mats are exactly what you need. Measuring 15.7 x 11.8 inches, they’re made of food-grade silicone and resist temperatures from -40℉ to 446℉. One side is smooth, the other frosted, offering flexibility for different tasks like epoxy resin, jewelry making, or baking. Their non-slip backing keeps them stable, and they’re easy to clean and store. With a durable, waterproof design, these mats protect surfaces from spills, burns, and scratches while standing up to repeated use.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and household users seeking durable, heat-resistant silicone mats for various arts, crafts, and kitchen tasks.
Pros:
- Large surface area suitable for multiple projects and household uses
- Heat resistant from -40℉ to 446℉, ideal for high-temperature applications
- Reusable, waterproof, and easy to clean, making them cost-effective and environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Thin design may make the mats feel less sturdy for some users
- Attracts dust and hair easily, especially in kitchen environments
- Slightly flexible, which might require careful handling to prevent folding or curling during use
For anyone engaged in resin casting, jewelry making, or heat-intensive crafts, the 3-pack premium silicone mats are an essential addition to your toolkit. Made from high-quality silicone, they’re thick, durable, and heat-resistant, handling high temperatures with ease. Each mat measures 15.7 by 11.8 inches, offering ample workspace for various projects. Their non-stick, non-slip surface makes peeling off cured materials simple and cleanup quick—just wipe with warm, soapy water. Lightweight and foldable, these mats are easy to store and transport. The vibrant colors—blue, orange, and purple—add a touch of style while keeping your workspace organized and protected from heat, spills, and scratches.
Best For: hobbyists and professionals engaged in resin casting, jewelry making, and heat-intensive crafts seeking durable, versatile, and easy-to-clean silicone mats.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, heat-resistant silicone for durable use in various crafts.
- Non-stick and non-slip surface simplifies peeling and cleanup, saving time.
- Lightweight, foldable, and available in vibrant colors for easy storage and organization.
Cons:
- May require careful handling to avoid tears despite tear-resistant material.
- Larger workspace size (15.7 x 11.8 inches) might be cumbersome for very small projects.
- Colors might fade or stain over time with heavy use or exposure to certain materials.
Selizo 10 Pack PTFE Teflon Sheets for Heat Press
The Selizo 10 Pack PTFE Teflon Sheets are an excellent choice for crafters and professionals who need reliable, reusable heat-resistant mats. These non-stick sheets measure 16” x 24” and are made of durable glass fiber, with a thickness of 0.11 mm. They resist temperatures up to 600°F (316°C) and can be reused up to 1,000 times, making them highly economical. Perfect for heat press transfers, baking, ironing, and more, they’re easy to clean and versatile. Their transparent design helps with precise alignment, and their water-repellent surface prevents sticking, ensuring a smooth workflow for all your crafting projects.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking durable, reusable heat-resistant mats for heat pressing, baking, and crafting projects.
Pros:
- Reusable up to 1,000 times, making them highly cost-effective
- Non-stick surface simplifies cleanup and prevents materials from sticking
- Large size (16” x 24”) and transparency for easy alignment and versatile use
Cons:
- Slightly slick surface may cause some materials to slide during baking or pressing
- Not suitable for baking items like bread that require a stickier surface
- Thickness of 0.11 mm may be too thin for some heavy-duty applications
Thick Silicone Counter Mat for Kitchen and Crafts
A thick silicone counter mat is an ideal choice for anyone who needs reliable surface protection during cooking, baking, or craft projects. Made of food-grade, BPA-free silicone, it’s durable and resistant to deformation. Its double-thickness design (1.1mm) makes it scratch-resistant, waterproof, and dirt-resistant. Measuring 23.4 x 15.6 inches, it fits most countertops and stays flat under pressure thanks to its non-slip surface. It can handle heat from -30°F to 250°F, making it perfect for baking, dough prep, or protecting surfaces from hot dishes. Easy to clean and store, it’s a versatile, long-lasting tool for any household or craft space.
Best For: Home cooks, bakers, crafters, and anyone needing durable surface protection for kitchen and craft projects.
Pros:
- Made of food-grade, BPA-free silicone that is durable and reusable.
- Large size (23.4 x 15.6 inches) provides ample workspace and protection for countertops.
- Heat resistant from -30°F to 250°F, suitable for baking, cooking, and craft activities.
Cons:
- May be too large for small or limited counter spaces.
- Requires storage space when not in use, especially if not folded or rolled carefully.
- Some users might prefer different colors or patterns for aesthetic variety.
Hushee Extra Large Silicone Mat Place Mats for Kitchen and Craft
If you need a reliable, heat-resistant surface for both kitchen tasks and crafting projects, Hushee’s Extra Large Silicone Mats are an excellent choice. These black, rectangular mats measure about 24 x 36 inches and can withstand temperatures up to 446°F (230°C). Made from durable silicone, they resist stains, spills, and scratches, making them perfect for baking, dough rolling, painting, or woodworking. Their nonstick, nonslip surface ensures stability and easy cleaning, and you can cut them to fit your specific needs. With two included in each pack, they offer versatile, large-area protection for your workspace, whether indoors or outdoors.
Best For: Home cooks, DIY enthusiasts, and crafters seeking a durable, heat-resistant surface for kitchen, art, or woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Large size (24 x 36 inches) offers ample workspace and protection
- Heat-resistant up to 446°F (230°C), suitable for hot items and baking
- Nonstick, nonslip surface easy to clean and stable during use
Cons:
- Wrinkles or creases may initially appear but tend to dissipate over time
- Slightly thin (about 0.04 inch), which may offer limited cushioning for certain tasks
- Can be difficult to cut precisely without proper tools, requiring careful handling
Gartful 2 Pack Silicone Craft Mats
Gartful’s 2 Pack Silicone Craft Mats stand out as an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professional crafters who need reliable, heat-resistant surfaces. These large, flexible mats measure 15.7 x 11.8 inches and feature dual surfaces: a smooth, non-slip side and a nonstick frosted side, perfect for various crafts. Made of durable, food-grade silicone, they withstand temperatures from -40℉ to 446℉, making them versatile for epoxy resin, jewelry, painting, and more. Lightweight and foldable, they’re easy to store and clean, resisting stains, tears, and deformation. Overall, they combine functionality, durability, and convenience for a safe, stylish workspace.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts, professional crafters, and household users seeking versatile, heat-resistant silicone mats for arts, crafts, and surface protection.
Pros:
- Made of durable, food-grade silicone with heat resistance up to 446℉
- Dual surfaces: a non-slip smooth side and a nonstick frosted side for versatile use
- Lightweight, foldable, and easy to clean, suitable for a wide range of applications
Cons:
- Repeated folding may cause creases or warping over time
- Large size may require dedicated storage space
- Some users report minor issues with initial flexibility or surface adhesion
Yarlung Heat Resistant Mats for Countertop (3 Pack)
Yarlung’s Heat Resistant Mats for Countertop (3 Pack) are ideal for anyone who frequently uses hot appliances and needs reliable protection for their surfaces. Each mat measures 18 x 15 inches and is made from fiberglass coated with heat-resistant silicone resin, handling temperatures up to 1022℉ (550℃). They’re waterproof, oilproof, and easy to clean with just a wet cloth or dish soap. The anti-slip silicone coating keeps appliances stable during use, reducing accidents. Their durable construction with finished edges ensures longevity, even with frequent cleaning. Perfect for protecting countertops from air fryers, coffee makers, and hot pans, these mats combine safety, style, and practicality.
Best For: Home cooks and appliance users seeking durable, heat-resistant, and easy-to-clean countertop protection mats for hot appliances.
Pros:
- Heat resistant up to 1022℉ (550℃), providing reliable protection for hot appliances
- Waterproof, oilproof, and easy to clean with a wet cloth or dish soap
- Anti-slip silicone coating enhances stability and reduces the risk of appliance slipping or accidents
Cons:
- Edges may accumulate food or oil, requiring extra scrubbing during cleaning
- Not dishwasher safe, needing manual cleaning for maintenance
- Slightly thicker and heavier than some competitors, which may affect portability or storage flexibility
Gartful 2 Pack Silicone Crafting Mats
These silicone crafting mats are an excellent choice for anyone who frequently works with heat or messy materials, thanks to their impressive heat resistance up to 446℉. Measuring 15.7 x 11.8 inches, they provide a large, versatile surface for crafts like resin, soap, or jewelry making. Made of 100% food-grade silicone, they’re durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. The non-skid backing keeps them steady during use, and their dual surfaces—smooth and frosted—offer added functionality. Whether protecting your workspace from spills, heat, or stains, these mats are affordable, reliable, and perfect for a wide range of household and craft applications.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and household users who need a durable, heat-resistant, and versatile surface for arts, crafts, cooking, or surface protection.
Pros:
- Large surface area (15.7 x 11.8 inches) accommodates various projects and tasks
- Made of high-quality, food-grade silicone that is heat resistant up to 446℉
- Reusable, waterproof, non-stick, and easy to clean, providing long-lasting durability
Cons:
- Thin design may make the mats feel less sturdy for some users
- Attracts dust and hair, especially in kitchen environments
- Slightly flexible, which may require careful handling during use
WORKLION Heat Press Mat 13×17
The WORKLION Heat Press Mat 13×17 is an excellent choice for crafters and DIY enthusiasts who need a durable, heat-resistant surface for their projects. Made from fireproof, high-temperature resistant materials, it can withstand up to 428℉ (220℃), making it perfect for heat transfers, sewing, quilting, and embroidery. Its large size provides ample space for multiple projects, while the flat, thick surface ensures even heat distribution. Double-sided with dense fibers, it prevents stretching and protects your work surface from heat and moisture. Lightweight yet sturdy, this mat offers reliable performance and long-lasting durability, making it a versatile addition to any craft workspace.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a durable, heat-resistant surface for transfer, sewing, quilting, and embroidery projects.
Pros:
- Large 13×17-inch size offers ample workspace for multiple projects
- Made of fireproof, high-temperature resistant materials up to 428℉ (220℃)
- Double-sided with dense fibers to prevent stretching and ensure durability
Cons:
- Slightly lightweight at 3.2 ounces, which may cause movement during use if not secured
- May require additional padding or protection for very delicate or intricate projects
- Limited color options, primarily available in standard product design
Cricut EasyPress Mat (12 x 12)
If you’re looking for a reliable surface to guarantee flawless heat transfers, the Cricut EasyPress Mat (12 x 12) is an excellent choice, especially for those using the Cricut EasyPress 2 machine. Made from bamboo, it’s lightweight, durable, and soft yet sturdy, providing a protective surface for heat press, HTV, and sewing projects. Its multilayer construction ensures even heat distribution, moisture elimination, and reflects heat to prevent damage. The 13.5 x 13-inch size offers ample workspace, and its scratch-resistant design makes it perfect for both hobbyists and professionals. Overall, it simplifies transfers, protects surfaces, and delivers professional results with ease.
Best For: crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a reliable, protective surface for heat transfer, HTV, and sewing projects, especially when using the Cricut EasyPress 2 machine.
Pros:
- Ensures even heat distribution for flawless transfers
- Durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean with hand wash
- Lightweight and portable, ideal for on-the-go crafting
Cons:
- Limited to 12 x 12 inch size, may not accommodate larger projects
- Made from bamboo, which requires careful handling and hand washing
- Designed primarily for use with Cricut EasyPress 2, less compatible with other heat press models
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heat-Resistant Mat for Crafts
When choosing a heat-resistant mat, I consider the material quality and safety to guarantee it can handle high temperatures without releasing harmful fumes. I also look at the size, thickness, and heat resistance range to match my craft projects perfectly. Additionally, I prefer mats that are multi-functional and easy to clean for convenience and long-term use.
Material Quality and Safety
Choosing a heat-resistant mat for crafts means paying close attention to its material quality and safety features. I look for mats made from high-quality, food-grade silicone or fiberglass coated with heat-resistant resin, ensuring durability and safety. It’s vital that the material can handle temperatures up to at least 500°F (260°C), so it’s versatile for crafts, baking, or heat pressing. Non-toxic, BPA-free, and free of harmful chemicals are must-haves to prevent health risks during use. I also check for resistance to stains, fading, tearing, and deformation to keep the mat functional and safe over time. In the end, I review safety certifications or manufacturer specs to confirm the product meets industry standards for heat resistance and environmental safety, giving me peace of mind while working.
Size and Thickness
Selecting the right size and thickness for a heat-resistant craft mat is essential to ensuring it meets your project needs. The size should comfortably cover your workspace or project area; typical dimensions range from 12″x12″ for small projects to 24″x36″ for larger surfaces. Thicker mats, usually 1mm to 2mm, offer better insulation and durability, reducing heat transfer and surface damage. They also provide extra cushioning for delicate crafts, but may be less flexible for folding or storage. Larger mats tend to be more versatile, accommodating various tools and projects, though they require more storage space. Ultimately, choosing the right size and thickness depends on your craft activity—heavier-duty tasks benefit from larger, thicker mats for ideal protection and performance.
Heat Resistance Range
Have you ever wondered how hot your craft project might get and whether your mat can handle it? The heat resistance range of a craft mat shows the maximum temperature it can endure without damage. Materials like silicone and PTFE often provide high resistance, typically from -40°F to 500°F or higher, making them suitable for various projects. It’s essential to choose a mat with a temperature rating that exceeds your highest intended heat level. A wider resistance range offers versatility, covering activities like baking, heat pressing, and resin curing. Ignoring these specs can lead to warping, melting, or harmful fumes, risking safety and damaging your workspace. Always check the heat resistance range to guarantee your mat can handle the heat safely and effectively.
Multi-Functional Use
A versatile heat-resistant mat can handle a variety of crafts, from resin curing and baking to jewelry making, making it a valuable addition to any workspace. It should support high temperatures, typically up to 500°F or more, to accommodate different tools and processes without damage. The mat’s compatibility with multiple activities—such as surface protection, mold creation, and non-stick work surfaces—enhances its usefulness. Additionally, easy cleaning is imperative, allowing me to reuse the mat across projects without residue buildup. The size and thickness should be adaptable, fitting both small detail tasks and larger workspace coverage. A multi-functional mat combines these features to boost efficiency and safety, making it an essential tool for any craft enthusiast.
Ease of Cleaning
When choosing a heat-resistant mat for crafts, ease of cleaning is a top priority. I look for mats that require just water and mild soap or a quick wipe to remove residues like resin, glue, or paint. Non-stick surfaces make cleanup effortless, preventing stuck-on materials and reducing the need for harsh chemicals or scrubbing. Dishwasher-safe mats are especially convenient, offering thorough sanitation without extra effort. Materials like silicone or PTFE (Teflon) are naturally stain-resistant and non-porous, making them easier to maintain over time. Fast-drying mats help prevent residue buildup, extending their lifespan and ensuring they stay effective through multiple projects. Prioritizing easy cleanup keeps my workspace tidy and saves me time, so I can focus on my craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Clean and Maintain Heat-Resistant Craft Mats?
Cleaning and maintaining my heat-resistant craft mats is simple. I usually wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any residue. For stubborn stains, I gently scrub with mild soap and water. I avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to prevent damage. Regular cleaning makes sure my mat looks new and ensures it remains heat-resistant and safe for my crafts.
Are These Mats Safe for Food Contact Surfaces?
You’re wondering if these mats are safe for food contact surfaces, right? I always check the product label for food-grade certification to be sure. Generally, heat-resistant mats made from silicone or similar materials are safe for food contact if they’re labeled accordingly. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly before using them with food, and avoid any mats with non-food-safe dyes or additives.
Can These Mats Withstand Direct Flame or Open Heat Sources?
I understand you’re wondering if these mats can handle direct flame or open heat sources. I wouldn’t recommend placing them directly over flames or intense heat, as most heat-resistant mats are designed to withstand hot surfaces, not open flames. They’re perfect for hot pans or tools, but for safety, avoid exposing them to direct fire or high heat sources, which could damage the material or cause safety hazards.
What Is the Maximum Temperature Each Mat Can Endure?
I’ve looked into the maximum temperatures these mats can handle. Most heat-resistant mats are rated between 450°F to 932°F (232°C to 500°C). For example, silicone mats often withstand up to 450°F, while fiber and stone options can endure higher temps, sometimes up to 932°F. Always check the product specifications, so you don’t risk damage or safety issues when working with high-heat tools.
Are the Mats Suitable for Use With All Types of Craft Materials?
They say, “Know your tools,” and that applies here. I find that most heat-resistant mats are versatile, suitable for a wide range of craft materials like glass, clay, and metal. However, I always double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines to guarantee compatibility. While they’re designed to handle heat and protect surfaces, some delicate or sensitive materials might require extra care or specific mats. Always read the labels before use!
Conclusion
No matter which heat-resistant mat you pick, it’s clear they’re worth their weight in gold for keeping your workspace safe and stylish. Just remember, the right mat can be a game-changer, making your crafting process smoother and more enjoyable. Don’t let your creativity get burned out—invest in a quality mat, and you’ll be able to handle hot projects with ease. It’s better to be safe than sorry, after all!
