I know most of us use our work bench a lot and that leads to paint, glue, cuts, punctures, etc. I have been using kitchen counter top plastic cutting sheets as protectors. They do a great job. The ones I get at the dollar store are 12" x 14" and in different colors. I like the color aspect, it makes them easy to find. I'm sure that other retailers have much larger ones.

That is a neat idea Ron. I did have MDF on my work bench and I just kept it waxed and most things come right off. I need to get a new piece and put on there now. I do put down plastic when staining or other things that will make the bench a real mess.

I have a friend that owns a restaurant. He gives me the old ones he needs to replace. 

personally the only bench I've ever protected was the one I did mechanical grease work on.  1/4 inch fiberboard did the trick.

I cut on my bench. So, I lay down a piece of 3/4" insulating foam. Just leave it there for glue ups, staining, etc. 

I have been using newspaper or large sheets of cardboard for stain, wax paper for glue ups. I don't use power tools on my bench, mostly all hand work with chisels and planes. After a couple years it looks well used and could use a new top coat of tung oil after a little repair work and some sanding. But not great gouges just a lot of marking knife scars and some dropped chisel marks. I like the idea of using a plastic cutting board, maybe once I renew the top.