There’s nothing better than baking a fresh batch of cookies or roasting a tray of veggies — but did you know that most single-use baking paper can’t be recycled? It’s coated with non-stick materials and often becomes too greasy or food-soiled during use, which contaminates recycling and sends it straight to landfill after just one bake. Wild!

Every year, millions of sheets of parchment and baking paper end up in landfills, also contributing to deforestation, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, global paper consumption has risen by a staggering 400% over the last 40 years, and much of it comes from everyday kitchen use.

The good news? A simple swap can make a big difference. Go For Zero's reusable, LFGB-certified silicone baking mats replace single-use baking paper for years, saving you money and cutting down waste with every delicious creation. Ready to bake better for the planet — and your wallet? Let's dive into your FAQs about silicone baking mats!

Go For Zero’s silicone mats let you cook without single-use paper — a simple swap that cuts waste.

1. What does LFGB-certified silicone mean?

Materials that come into contact with food — including packaging, utensils, and equipment — must comply with FDA standards. These standards set strict rules for material composition, properties, and usage to ensure food safety and prevent contamination. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their food products and the materials used in production and packaging meet these requirements.

LFGB is a food safety standard that is more comprehensive and stricter than FDA-approved material for food contact.  LFGB tests for heavy metals and chemical migration under different conditions like heat, acidity, etc, so silicone that passes LFGB tests are premium quality, odour-free, and very durable. Go For Zero's baking mats meet strict LFGB safety laws and are also FDA-compliant, giving you extra confidence that nothing harmful will leach into your food. With our mats, you can bake with peace of mind, knowing that they are a safe and healthy alternative to coated paper or plastics.

2. How long do these baking mats last? 

Properly cared for, reusable silicone mats are very long-lasting. They withstand temperatures from –40°C up to 220°C, so everyday baking won't degrade them. Go For Zero's premium silicone is designed for durability. With regular use and proper care (avoiding cuts or open flames), one mat can easily last for 5–10 years or more. Over time, this longevity makes them a more sustainable and economical choice than constantly buying parchment.

3. What are the dos and don'ts for using silicone baking mats?  

• Do's: Simply use them as you would use single-use baking paper. Place the mat on a baking tray before loading it with ingredients – this gives support and prevents spills. You can also use the clean mat as a handy pastry or kneading sheet, to pipe icing, or transport items to the oven or fridge. The mats are not just for baking, they're for all your kitchen needs!  
• Don't: Cut directly on the mat or expose it to an open flame, as sharp knives or flames will damage it. Always clean the mat promptly after use (scrubbing or soaking) to keep it looking new and grease-free. Store mats flat or rolled and keep them out of extreme heat beyond their 220°C limit.

4. How do I clean a reusable silicone baking mat?

Cleaning a silicone baking mat is easy. 

First, rinse off any leftover food. Then, use an unscented or naturally scented dishwashing bar or liquid along with a scrubber right after use. See how we clean them here. The mats are dishwasher-safe and can also be washed in a laundry machine with towels for a deeper clean (just make sure not to load them with very sharp items). For stubborn stains or grease, soak the mat in a solution of baking soda and water before scrubbing.

5. What sizes and colours are available? 

Go For Zero mats are 40 × 30 cm each, sized to fit most half-sheet baking trays. They're sold in reusable packs of 2 or 4 mats (to suit your kitchen needs). You can choose Chocolate (warm brown) or Charcoal (dark grey) finishes. Many customers prefer the charcoal colour because it hides stains well, but both are premium food-grade silicone. Regardless of colour or pack size, each mat is made of the same LFGB-certified, BPA-free silicone.

We don't offer multiple sizes because you can cut your silicone baking mats to perfectly fit your dishes — it won't affect their quality or performance!

6. What are the environmental and cost benefits? 

Each silicone mat can replace over 2000 sheets of parchment or foil over its lifetime, drastically cutting waste. It also means fewer trees cut and less garbage in landfills. On the cost side, you save money in the long run by not buying single-use liners each time. After a few months of baking, the mat has more than paid for itself compared to buying baking paper, so switching is a small change that makes baking eco-friendly and lighter on your budget.

Baking mats for the win

Switching to Go For Zero's LFGB-certified silicone baking mats is an easy, eco-friendly change. You'll eliminate routine kitchen waste and use a product tested to high safety standards. Best of all, whenever you bake cookies or roast veggies, you'll know you've chosen a cleaner option – making a difference for the planet one delicious batch at a time! Ready to make the switch? Read the reviews here and start baking better for the planet!

Lots of love,

Ellie x

Silicone Baking Mats FAQ

Can baking paper be recycled?

No, most single-use baking paper can't be recycled because it becomes greasy or food-soiled, contaminating recycling. After one use, it usually ends up in a landfill.

Why switch to silicone baking mats?

Reusable silicone mats cut waste, save money, and reduce environmental impact. They last for years, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable baking paper.

What does LFGB-certified silicone mean?

LFGB-certified silicone meets strict food safety standards, ensuring no harmful chemicals or odours leach into your food. Go For Zero’s mats are LFGB-certified and FDA-compliant.

How long do silicone baking mats last?

With proper care, Go For Zero’s mats can last 5–10 years or more. They withstand temperatures from –40°C to 220°C, making them durable for everyday use.

How do I use silicone baking mats?

Simply place the mat on your baking tray and add ingredients. Use just like baking paper, but don’t cut on it or expose it to open flames.

How do I clean silicone baking mats?

Rinse food off, scrub with a natural dish soap, or place in the dishwasher. For stubborn stains, soak in baking soda and water.

What sizes and colours are available?

Go For Zero mats are 40 × 30 cm and fit most half-sheet trays. Choose between Chocolate and Charcoal colours. You can also cut the mats to fit your needs.

What are the environmental and cost benefits?

One silicone mat replaces 2,000+ sheets of baking paper, reducing waste and saving money over time.