For some families, a torn sheet of aluminum foil underneath a dripping menorah is as much a tradition as eating latkes and spinning the dreidel.
MenorahMate is a sleek alternative. Slightly larger than a standard placement, it is made of vinyl and is reusable. The manufacturer boasts that drops of wax pop off easily after a few hours in the freezer.
The protective pads come in two designs, each imprinted with three Chanukah blessings. MenorahMate is made in Los Angeles and is available at Judaica gift shops and online. For more information, visit www.menorahmate.com.