The drying mat includes layers of a microfiber material and a foam layer. The drying mat may be used, as by way of example and not in any limiting sense, by: (i) placing wet dishes on the drying mat, (ii) placing a dish drying rack on the drying mat and placing dishes in the drying rack, (iii) placing produce on the drying mat; and/or (iv) placing cooking utensils on the drying mat. Other embodiments include an absorbent or protective mat which includes at least one layer of a microfiber material and at least one layer of a foam material.