Are Placemats Still Essential for Modern Dining Tables?

I’ve been updating my dining setup lately and started wondering, are placemats still a must-have, or are they more of a decorative choice now?

I’ve seen people use cotton placemats, linen placemats, and even minimal table settings without them, and each style looks great in its own way. Personally, I like how placemats help protect the table from heat, spills, and scratches, but they also seem to add a nice touch to the overall table décor.

Do you use placemats for everyday meals or only for special occasions? Also, what type do you prefer, cloth placemats, washable ones, or something more decorative? Would love to hear your thoughts and styling ideas!