I bought a 12" x 18" wool mat. I sold it after two months because I loved using it so much that I wanted to have a bigger one to cover my entire big board. It was expensive, but it is one of my favorite quilting tools right up there with my Bernina and Martelli table.
I use steam, don't notice a strong smell, and have the flatest blocks on the planet! When I turn in the block of the month at the local guild, they can pick mine out from among the rest of the blocks because they are so flat.
I never use spray starch near it. I do that on another table covered with a pillowcase. Every time I vacuum, I'll use the vacuum hose to get any stray threads off. Not letting the threads build up makes it look nice all of the time.