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The 16 Greatest Play Mats


Within the six years I’ve been a mother, I’ve gone by way of my justifiable share of child play mats. This has included compact choices designed for tummy time and toddler kicks to greater ones that took over my lounge and are nonetheless going robust right now. A very good play mat ought to present a clear, safe spot for infants (or older youngsters) to lounge, be taught, and develop their gross motor abilities

“In selecting a play mat, security must be paramount,” board-certified pediatrician Dr. Freda Singletary, M.D., tells Dad and mom. “The mat must be agency sufficient to help your toddler’s gross motor improvement, like rolling over, crawling, and finally, strolling. Different concerns embody age appropriateness, ease of cleansing the mat, and the mat’s adaptability to your kid’s evolving developmental phases.” 

When in search of the right play space to help infants and toddlers as they meet these early developmental milestones, you must think about the fabric, type, and security options, in addition to the dimensions and aesthetic of your house. We chosen the very best child play mats in a spread of costs, designs, and sizes, primarily based on suggestions from caregivers and pediatricians. Listed here are 16 child play mats dad and mom love. 

House of Noa Little Nomad Ula Play Mat

PHOTO: Home of Noa

Why We Like It

The Home of Noa Little Nomad Play Mat is a complicated choice that blends completely with most residing areas. The tiled, hand-illustrated mats can be found in a number of sizes and fabulous impartial shades with designs impressed by classic Moroccan rugs. The water resistant two-foot sq. tiles are made with secure, non-toxic foam, and so they’re simple to wash.

“I completely love the Home of Noa mat and may’t wait so as to add different merchandise,” raves life-style blogger and mother of three Lauren Diamantas. “It is such an opulent mat for anybody—dad and mom, animals, youngsters, and infants. My youngest likes to crawl and stroll on it whereas I’m within the kitchen, and I may be comfortable figuring out if she falls, the mat has her protected.” 

However Take Word

Even the smallest dimensions (4 by six ft) is a splurge at practically $130.

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: From 4 x 6 ft to 10 x 12 ft (24.8 x 24.8 x 0.47 inches per tile)
  • Thickness: 0.47 inches
  • Supplies: Non-toxic EVA foam
  • Options: Convertible, hand illustrated, expandable, water-proof
  • Cleansing directions: Spot clear with a dry material

Spark Create Imagine ABC Foam Playmat

PHOTO: Walmart

Why We Like It

The ABC Foam Playmat from a Walmart in-house model has acquired tons of of rave evaluations from dad and mom who adore its vibrant colours and delicate floor. Useful and straightforward to assemble, the extra-large studying play mat measures 28 sq. ft when totally assembled, making a terrific play house for toddlers and older youngsters. 

The sturdy mat, designed for youths ages 3 and up (although youthful youngsters will do wonderful on it throughout supervised play), is ideal for playrooms and may be adjusted simply to suit smaller areas. Its delicate, interlocking foam items create a non-slip floor secure for enjoying and tumbling as your kiddo will get greater. The big locking items are additionally unbelievable for growing motor abilities and the alphabet design might help your little ones grasp their letters as they become old. 

However Take Word

Not solely are you able to disassemble the tiles, however the person letters in every tile may also be eliminated. Whereas this gives extra play items for youths, it may also be a ache to reassemble or clear all of the nooks and crannies on this set. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 84 x 48 inches
  • Thickness: 0.5 inches
  • Supplies: Foam
  • Options: Detachable letters, convertible
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe clear with cleaning soap and water

JumpOff Jo Large "Fairy Blossom" Foam Padded Play Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

If in case you have a bigger room with extra out there flooring house, this textured foam play mat from JumpOff Jo gives loads of room to your baby to roam. The 70- by 59-inch delicate floor is padded, making a cushion for falls as your toddler takes their first steps. “A bigger play mat permits your little one enough house to roll, crawl, and discover as they develop, selling their bodily improvement,” notes Dr. Singletary. 

This in style waterproof type options 20 eye-catching and reversible sample choices designed particularly for infants 8 months and older. The stain-resistant floor ensures simple cleanup, whereas the foldable design permits for handy storage when not in use.

However Take Word

If in case you have a house with pets, remember that this mat isn’t scratch-resistant. In analysis, we discovered that houses with pets typically complained about animals clawing the froth and inflicting chunks to interrupt off—creating a possible choking hazard. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 70 x 59 inches
  • Thickness: 0.5 inches
  • Supplies: Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam
  • Options: Foldable, double-sided, waterproof
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe clear with cleaning soap and water

Pehr Into the Wild Round Reversible Play Mat

PHOTO: Maisonette

Why We Like It

Whether or not you could have a smaller residence or don’t need child gear overtaking each room, this candy, quilted choice from Pehr packs plenty of cuteness right into a small, spherical blanket. Select from six reversible prints to create a secure spot for infants to start tummy time, be taught to roll over, and begin sitting up. 

One other bonus is the delicate cotton cloth will not irritate infants’ pores and skin. “Understanding in case your little one has any sensitivity to supplies will enable you to determine which mat is correct for them,” says Dr. Singletary. As a result of it’s made out of cloth, caregivers will respect that it’s machine cleanable. It additionally folds up simply, making it a travel-friendly choice. 

However Take Word

Though cute, this play mat isn’t designed to develop together with your child. The utmost age ranking is 12 months outdated. Additionally, although this mat is one inch thick, that’s due to polyester fill which might flatten with sustained use. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 40-inch diameter
  • Thickness: 1 inch
  • Supplies: Cotton shell, polyester fill
  • Options: Mechanically cleanable, travel-friendly
  • Cleansing directions: Machine wash chilly, tumble dry on low

Skip Hop Discoverosity Montessori Activity Gym

PHOTO: Babylist

Why We Like It

Curious cuties will love exploring this eco-friendly, cushioned play mat, which options visually stimulating sensory toys, crinkly sounds, and playful patterns. Designed with Montessori specialists, this pleasant child fitness center helps strengthen wonderful motor abilities as your child discovers their surroundings. It gives three play modes—overhead play, tummy time, and seated play, and comes with a U-shaped pillow to assist forestall flat head syndrome. 

“As a first-time mom, this Skip Hop play fitness center took the guesswork out of developmentally applicable actions to supply my child,” says trainer and new mother Meleah Campbell. “It contains detailed info on Montessori actions to interact my daughter, which I respect as a result of I prefer to know the ‘why’ behind the actions I do along with her.”

However Take Word

This isn’t the costliest play mat in our information, nevertheless it’s up there. Some caregivers could really feel it’s a little bit of a critical funding for a product that their little one will age out of by 12 to 18 months. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 42 x 33.5 x 19 inches
  • Thickness: Not shared
  • Supplies: Oeko-Tex-certified polyester and FSC-certified wooden; PP and PVC
  • Options: Play fitness center, convertible
  • Cleansing directions: Wooden arches: wipe clear with damp material; Playmat, pillow and rainbow toy: machine wash chilly, tumble dry low

Amazon Skip Hop Playspot Geo Foam Floor Tiles

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

I acquired this Skip Hop foam mat as a child present, however I didn’t put it up till my daughter turned extra cell. Whereas I’ve a decent-sized lounge, I wasn’t able to have my daughter’s play space utterly take over the house. I appreciated the tremendous delicate foam for little knees, the securely interlocking items, and the way I may create all types of designs relying on how I assembled the tiles. 

“Designs with contrasting colours, diverse patterns, and completely different characters can interact your child’s consideration and stimulate their visible notion,” shares Dr. Singletary. “Nonetheless, a design overly crowded with components could result in sensory overload.” With a 0.6-inch thickness, this is likely one of the thicker play mats on our listing. 

However Take Word

The white parts of the mat stain simply, and since it’s made out of porous foam, generally you’ll be able to’t eliminate them. As your little one will get older (and extra curious) don’t be shocked once they pull up the tiles. Additionally, the fabric traps plenty of mud and crumbs, which means you’ll need to totally disassemble this mat sometimes and clear the ground beneath it. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 56 x 70 inches
  • Thickness: 0.6 inches
  • Supplies: EVA foam
  • Options: Convertible
  • Cleansing directions: Spot clear with delicate detergent and a moist material

Little Bot Ofie Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

When you’re in search of a high-contrast mat, this Little Bot Ofie Mat is a good choice. The straightforward black-and-white sample is right for youthful infants whose eyesight continues to be growing. The mat can be reversible, and with three kinds out there, you’ll be able to select one which has black-and-white patterns on each side. 

The floor of a play mat “ought to present a stability of firmness and softness,” says Dr. Singletary. “The mat must be agency sufficient to help your toddler’s gross motor improvement, like rolling over, crawling, and, finally, strolling, and delicate sufficient to guard them from potential falls.” This foam mat is on the agency facet, so the model suggests utilizing a rug pad beneath in the event you’re utilizing it on onerous flooring. 

However Take Word

Some consumers felt that the porous materials made it tougher to take away stains—particularly on the black-and-white facet of the mat. Moreover, this is likely one of the costlier choices we reviewed. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 78 x 55 inches
  • Thickness: 0.59 inches
  • Supplies: Foam
  • Options: Reversible
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe clear with damp material

Amazon Nuby Reversible Baby Floor Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

If in case you have a smaller residence or restricted free house for play areas, a foldable mat that may simply be saved between makes use of is a lifesaver. The Nuby Reversible Child Ground Mat within reason priced and is available in two enjoyable prints. 

The froth mat measures 77 by 58 inches and is product of nonporous materials so you’ll be able to truly mop it to maintain it clear and sanitized. You’ll additionally respect that this comes with a journey bag so you’ll be able to take it with you when visiting family members or happening trip. 

However Take Word

At simply 0.25 inches thick, this is likely one of the thinnest choices we reviewed. Some customers talked about that the coated design makes it slippery so chances are you’ll must pair it with a non-slip runner. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 77 x 58 inches
  • Thickness: 0.25 inches
  • Supplies: Foam
  • Options: Reversible, folding
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe clear with a moist material

Fisher-Price Baby Playmat Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym with Musical

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

If ever there was a grow-with-your-baby play mat, it’s this one from Fisher-Value. I began my daughter on this mat at a month outdated and was reluctant to lastly pack it away by the point she was 2 years outdated. The kick-activated piano and play fitness center toy bar give little ones one thing to occupy their time whereas additionally partaking a number of senses and motor abilities.

As my daughter gained neck and higher again management, I shifted the piano into horizontal mode and parked her in entrance of it with my Boppy nursing pillow behind her to maintain her upright. Finally, we simply used the piano by itself. The delicate floor gives a secure, snug play space that grows together with your baby. 

However Take Word

Some dad and mom could also be involved in regards to the dangers of overstimulation from the piano characteristic. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to simply flip it off, decrease the amount, or utterly take away it. The mat is fairly skinny so within the new child stage, I often added an additional folded blanket beneath to supply cushioning. Lastly, the piano requires three AA batteries which aren’t included. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 36 x 27 x 17.9 inches
  • Thickness: Not shared 
  • Supplies: Plastic
  • Options: Play fitness center, music, extra equipment included  
  • Cleansing directions: Mechanically cleanable mat, wipe clear plastic surfaces

Skip Hop Double Play Reversible Playmat

PHOTO: Goal

Why We Like It

The Skip Hop Vibrant Village Double Play Reversible Playmat mat includes a colourful roadmap on the entrance to drive your baby’s creativeness and a reasonably diamond-shaped sample on the flip facet. For even greater imaginary journeys, one other model of this mat includes a map of the world.

This waterproof mat wipes clear simply and rolls up neatly for storage. It’s nice for greater infants and toddlers to make use of when enjoying and studying to crawl and stroll. “A play mat with a design is fantastic,” says Dr. Purdy. “You may add different toys for the child to play with and discover.” Caregivers will respect that this can be a one-piece mat that may’t be disassembled. 

However Take Word

It’s on the costly finish for a play mat and meals crumbs simply get caught in grooves, whereas any lighter-hued elements generally tend to show yellow with time. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 86 x 52 inches
  • Thickness: 0.4 inches
  • Supplies: Polyurethane foam 
  • Options: Reversible, waterproof
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe with a moist material

Yay! Mats Extra Large Tummy Time Play Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

This mat grows together with your little one or household. There’s a lot for infants to see and do on this delicate, super-sized foam play mat, which measures 6 ft x 4 ft, providing an expanded house to your tot to play and discover. The dimensions of this extra-large mat can accommodate a number of youngsters and a number of other toys to maintain them totally entertained.  

Though Dr. Singletary advises dad and mom to “bear in mind, a play mat is a superb instrument to your child’s improvement, nevertheless it must be complemented with a spread of different stimulating actions.” 

However Take Word

When you’ve ever had a tile play mat, you already know that these get magically disassembled when your again is turned. Some consumers shared that in houses with pets, untimely harm from pet nails could also be an inevitability. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 72 x 48 inches
  • Thickness: 0.5 inches
  • Supplies: EVA foam 
  • Options: Convertible, waterproof
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe with a moist material

Amazon Yeeeasy Inflatable Water Play Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

With two cute coloration choices, this lovely tummy time water mat is the right technique to give a bit of further safety whereas serving to your baby achieve neck and higher physique energy. The mat measures 26 by 20 inches and is a light-weight 9.5 ounces. You’ll respect which you can simply drain this mat between makes use of in order that it may be folded down for fast storage. 

Together with the water which provides padding, this mat options an inflatable outer ring to forestall infants from rolling off the perimeters. There are additionally lovely little toys contained in the water portion of the mat to create a extra interactive expertise to your child. Simply word that this isn’t a “from start” mat because it’s rated from 3 to 12 months. 

However Take Word

This is likely one of the smaller mats we reviewed so it has a shorter shelf life. Fortunately, it’s not tremendous costly however your little one will age out of it round 12 months of age. Moreover, some folks did report that it’s onerous to actually dry out the mat in the event you drain it between makes use of—which could encourage mildew development. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 26 x 20 inches
  • Thickness: 2.5 inches when inflated
  • Supplies: Plastic
  • Options: Inflatable, water toy
  • Cleansing directions: Wipe clear with damp material

Amazon Bright Starts Disney Baby Finding Nemo Mr. Ray Ocean Lights & Music Gym

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

How becoming that Mr. Ray, the loveable sting ray trainer who chaperoned the younger fish in Discovering Nemo can be caring to your little guppie. This multi-sensory play mat options music, lights, and toys for tots to take pleasure in from the new child stage and past. This multi-purpose play mat has a toy bar with removable toys together with a delicate plush Dory determine, a Squirt and Pearl rattle, and a Nemo bead.

As soon as activated, the Mr. Ray cover lights up and may play over 25 minutes of lights and music. You may as well change to a white noise sound mode that performs choices like ocean waves. One of many nicest options although is that the material parts are machine cleanable. 

However Take Word

Some consumers famous that meeting was tough as the photographs and directions within the information didn’t at all times add up. Moreover, this requires three AA batteries, which aren’t included. Others famous the audio system won’t maintain up underneath sustained use. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 32 x 36 x 18 inches
  • Thickness: Not disclosed
  • Supplies: Material
  • Options: Removable toys, lights, music and sounds

Amazon Quokka Baby Play Mat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

The Quokka Child Play Mat is available in 11 prints and includes a non-slip backing to forestall infants from unintentionally shifting once they’re on it. Many of the designs are very colourful, however there are a couple of monochromatic choices that are perfect for newborns. The mat is made out of cotton, which suggests it is delicate in your child’s pores and skin and machine-washable. 

The 59- by 44-inch floor space is beneficiant and best for many houses, and a delicate topside gives further padding for little knees and bums. It’s an reasonably priced choice for protecting a large floor space for little ones to discover. A foldable design permits you to make it compact for storage between makes use of. 

However Take Word

Though the model’s product description guarantees a half-inch thickness, real-world evaluations present this could be exaggerated.

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 59 x 44 inches
  • Thickness: 0.5 inches
  • Supplies: Material
  • Options: Foldable
  • Cleansing directions: Mechanically cleanable

Amazon Skip Hop Baby Tummy Time Playmat

PHOTO: Amazon

Why We Like It

A sturdy play mat is a must have, however many are cumbersome and unwieldy in the event you’re making an attempt to take them with you. The Skip Hop Child Tummy Time Playmat is extremely compact and tremendous plush to create a delicate spot for little explorers on the go. A carry deal with additionally makes this an ideal travel-friendly choice.

Designed to imitate a farmer’s market, this toy gives over 10 developmental actions to assist nurture your little one’s senses. They’ll love the beet rattle, carrot teether, crinkle bunny, watermelon mirror, peekaboo pockets, and blueberry squeaker. For tummy time, you’ll be able to roll up a part of the mat to create a supportive pillow. When messes occur, you’ll be able to toss this mat and soft-sided toys (however not the plastic toys) into the washer. 

However Take Word

This mat is small: With dimensions measuring 21.5 by 15 inches, it’s not meant for use past the primary yr. Moreover, it’s a bit skinny because it depends on polyester batting and a cotton shell versus the froth mats that keep their form and thickness over time. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 15 inches
  • Thickness: 3 inches
  • Supplies: Material shell, polyester fill
  • Options: Transportable, contains toys
  • Cleansing directions: Mechanically cleanable

Totter + Tumble Play Mat

PHOTO: Totter + Tumble

Why We Like It

I like this Totter + Tumble mat: it’s at present the bottom of my daughter’s play space. It is available in a wide range of double-sided prints and sizes to suit a large number of areas. You may as well select spherical mats and smaller sizes to suit your wants. I selected a bigger customary dimension that measures 83 by 55 inches, and I like how the grey chevron print blends in with my impartial lounge decor. 

It has reminiscence foam, which gives extra cushioning and retains its form higher than a few of the cheaper choices. I additionally respect that this mat is straightforward to wash each with my Dyson V15 and my spin mop. Whereas this can be a particular splurge, I can attest that it doesn’t present stains as simply because the Skip Hop Tiles or different foam mats.  

However Take Word

Be ready to spend over $200. 

The Particulars:

  • Dimensions: from 70 x 25 inches
  • Thickness: not shared
  • Supplies: Coated reminiscence foam
  • Options: Reversible
  • Cleansing directions: Vacuum, wipe clear with damp material

Our Overview Course of 

To search out the very best child play mats, we consulted dad and mom and specialists, then carried out meticulous analysis to make sure we solely suggest the highest-quality choices. We prioritized the next standards. 

  • Supplies: Was the fabric secure towards a child’s pores and skin, sturdy, and thick, or did it simply crumble?
  • Product Security: Had been there any small elements that pose choking hazards? Would the mat be secure for a house with pets? 
  • Sturdiness: Did the mat stain simply? Did it lose its thickness prematurely? Did it stand the take a look at of time and keep its kind?
  • Design: Did the mat are available a number of colours, configurations, or sizes? 
  • Consolation: How thick was the mat? Was the feel delicate or tough? Did the mat slide on slick surfaces?
  • Academic Options: Did the play mat provide academic options like a tummy time exercise or coloration recognition—or was it only a mat?
  • Upkeep: Is the mat machine cleanable? Can it get moist? Is it tough to wash?
  • Value: Is that this a budget-friendly mat or is it extra of a splurge buy?
  • Portability: Is that this small or can turn out to be compact sufficient to take it on the street? Or is it meant to be put in in a single location on a semi-permanent foundation?

Our Consultants

To information our alternatives, we consulted with high specialists who supplied enter on product security, sturdiness, design, and academic options: 

  • Freda Singletary, M.D., a North Carolina-based pediatrician 
  • Laura Purdy, M.D., a board-certified household drugs doctor 
  •  Lauren Diamantas, a life-style blogger and mother of three

Components to Contemplate When Shopping for a Play Mat

There are a number of key components to think about when shopping for the very best play mat to your child. After all, security comes first, adopted by cushioning, help, dimension, and stimulating developmental options. Keep away from foam mats containing poisonous chemical compounds that may be harmful to your child’s well being. All the time store for play mats and exercise gyms that meet CPSC Requirements. 

  • Child-Pleasant Design: “For added stimulation, think about play mats that characteristic removable toys, textured surfaces, or musical components,” suggests Dr. Singletary. “These can increase sensory engagement, however guarantee they’re securely hooked up to forestall choking hazards.”
  • Ease of Storage: Play mats are available a number of kinds together with fold-flat, roll-up, and journey case choices for straightforward transport. For smaller areas, think about a compact play mat slightly than a big tiled one to keep away from cluttering a tiny space with a number of items. 
  • Upkeep: The play mat’s floor will dictate your cleansing choices. Foam mats that lack a coating often suggest spot cleansing and vacuuming. A coated foam mat may be mopped and vacuumed. Relying on the dimensions, cloth mats could also be machine cleanable. For greatest outcomes, comply with the care directions for every mat and wash it earlier than use. “You will need to give your mat a wipe-down to assist with germs,” recommends Dr. Purdy. “By no means stroll on the mat with sneakers after which let the child play on the mat.” 

Use Child Play Mats Safely

Mats are just the start of a child’s exploration of studying new abilities and having fun with playtime. Dad and mom and caregivers should guarantee their baby stays secure by deciding on an age-appropriate mat freed from choking hazards. Child play mats must be used on a clear, flat flooring floor. By no means depart your little one unattended.

“You do not need to depart them mendacity on their again for too lengthy or on their stomach unsupervised,” cautions Dr. Singletary. “It is also important to stability time on the mat with different actions to make sure a various vary of experiences.” 

Keep away from potential choking or suffocation hazards—particularly throughout tummy time. This contains having soft-sided toys, pillows, and blankets close by and any objects with unfastened strings. Routinely clear your play mat to forestall micro organism and germs. Whether or not you purchase the mat model new or obtain it as a hand-me-down, you should definitely verify for product recollects.

At What Age Ought to Infants Use Play Mats?

“From start, your child can start to make use of a play mat for transient intervals, progressively rising the period as they develop,” notes Dr. Singletary. 

Do Infants Want Mats for Tummy Time?

“Tummy time is the time the child is awake and on their abdomen,” explains Dr. Purdy. “A play mat is nice for this, however not essential.”

Who We Are

Samantha McIntyre is an skilled author and PR skilled specializing within the parenting house. She’s additionally the self-proclaimed favourite auntie of two wonderful nephews and a niece, who’ve all saved her on high of her recreation on the subject of discovering the very best merchandise and toys for infants and children.

Dorian Smith-Garcia is a commerce, well being, and parenting author at Dad and mom, and a mother of 1 6-year-old daughter. She’s gone by way of a number of play mats, together with many who had been listed right here. By far, her favourite is the Totter + Tumble which she nonetheless makes use of in her daughter’s play space right now. 



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