If you've ever been battling a runaway plastic cutting board as you're dicing onions or slicing tomatoes, you know the horror. Wobbly, slippery plastic cutting boards are downright hazardous, not to mention infuriating, when you're prepping a meal.

In kitchens everywhere in the UK, home chefs and professional chefs are contending with this teeny tiny kitchen challenge. Fortunately, there are some genius and budget-friendly hacks you can employ to prevent your kitchen chopping board from slipping away from you.

Below are some intelligent, no-nonsense solutions to prevent your plastic board from slipping—and to make chopping safer and more convenient.

Why Do Plastic Chopping Boards Slip?

Plastic chopping boards are lightweight, strong, and easy to clean - so they are a favourite in many kitchens across the UK. However, their smooth finish and insufficient grip on the underside cause them to slide, especially when used on shiny surfaces such as laminate or granite.

This is not only disappointing, but also a safety hazard. A sliding board increases your risk of cutting yourself, especially when you are in a hurry or working with a large knife.

Brilliant Hacks to End the Slip

1. Wet a Tea Towel or Paper Towel

One of the simplest and best solutions? Take a clean, wet tea towel or a couple of damp paper towels. Place it on the underside of your plastic cutting boards before setting it on the counter. The additional grip from the towel provides friction, preventing the board from slipping.

This trick is ideal if you don't intend to use anything more permanent and want a temporary solution.

2. Use a Silicone Baking Mat

If you own a silicone baking mat (the kind used for rolling out pastry or baking cookies), you can place it under your kitchen cutting board. Silicon is naturally viscous, creating an excellent non-slip coating.

Bonus: It's easy to wash and reuse, and it won't absorb any liquids or food spills.

3. Non-Slip Drawer Liners

You know the rubbery liners you place in kitchen drawer organisers? They're ideal for the space under plastic chopping boards. Cut out a small piece to the correct size and store it in your utensil drawer.

Not only will it stabilise your board, but it also provides an extra layer of cushioning that comes in handy if your board is sitting on a hard surface, such as a counter.

4. Buy Chopping Boards with Built-In Rubber Edges

There are some chopping boards UK now made with safety in mind, featuring rubber grips or feet moulded into the base. These grip the board firmly, eliminating the need for temporary fixes.

When purchasing your next plastic chopping board, look for one with this feature—it's an investment well made.

5. Stick-on Rubber Pads or Silicone Dots

You can purchase adhesive rubber pads or silicone dots at most hardware shops or online. Just apply them to the corners of your board.  It is more permanent and does not affect how you store or wash the board.

Ensure that pads are waterproof, heat-resistant and tolerate frequent cleaning.

6. Wet Silicone Trivet

Silicone trivets or pot holders can also double as non-slip pads underneath your plastic cutting board. Simply rinse it and place it underneath the board to immediately stabilise your work surface. 

It's a fantastic multi-purpose solution that saves kitchen space at the same time.

7. Rubber Shelf Liners from Pound Shops

If a budget solution is what you need, pop down to your local pound shop and grab a roll of rubber shelf liner. It's commonly sold to prevent plates from moving in cupboards—but it's also perfect for keeping your chopping board in place.

Simply cut the square to the right size and wash as necessary.

8. Don't Have Wet Countertops

Before laying down the plastic board, make sure the countertop is completely dry. A little water between the surface and the board is all it takes to produce the terrible sliding and light picture.

Clean the countertop and have a dry cloth on hand during cooking.

Cleaning Tips After Use

When you finish chopping, clean the plastic cutting boards thoroughly with warm, soapy water or run them through the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Ensure that you lift and remove the towels or linings below to allow everything to dry completely. This helps prevent bacteria from building up.

Also, avoid placing wet boards back on drawer linings or mats, as this can lead to mould growth over time.

Kitchen Confidence Starts With Stability

Your chopping board is one of the most widely used pieces in your kitchen. It makes sense to keep it safe, stable, and ready for use, whether you're preparing a supper or experimenting with a new recipe.

Regardless of whether you use a simple damp tea towel, non-slip pads, or silicone mats, there is a solution that will work for you.

So the next time your plastic board starts to skate over the counter, you will be ready to stop it in its tracks.

Loved These Tips? Stay Safe with a Plastic Chopping Board

For high-quality, easy-to-clean, and thoughtfully designed plastic chopping boards, check out the range at Plastic Chopping Board—your trusted partner for safe and functional kitchen essentials across the UK.