Non-toxic Play Mat | Baby Journey

12 Top Picks on the Best Non Toxic Play Mat for Your Baby in 2024

The world of baby gear is vast. There are so many products like a baby gym mat, playpen and playard to keep your little one safe and keep you as a parent sane. One item you may not realize you need is a baby-safe play mat.

An infant play mat is a great clean, cozy, and safe space for your little one to crawl, roll, and explore.

As it is supposed to be safe for babies, going for toxin-free baby play mats may require extensive research.

The good news is, I have compiled a list of 12 top picks on the best non toxic play mat for your baby so you can get to your play mat buying decision quicker.

Why Just a Blanket Won’t Do

Baby play mats are just as their title alludes, a mat on which to place your baby for tummy time or play. Some can be used outdoors while other play mats can make hard wood floors more comfortable. They may feature alluring food grade coloring or cute patterns to attract your infant’s attention.

Related: Best Playmat for Hardwood Floors

When the surface on which you want to lay your baby is questionable, you may want to consider a non toxic baby play carpet. Blankets may do the trick in a pinch, but a play mat is typically a much more baby-friendly option. Where a blanket may bunch and hold debris a play mat is firmer, washable, and sturdier.

Play is undoubtedly important for your little one.

“Provide colorful toys of different textures, shapes, and sizes for your baby to hold and explore”. [1]

Some mats perform double duty by creating a clean space and providing colorful images for exploration. A play mat can be a great addition to your baby gear repertoire – I loved mine when visiting grandma’s house!

Baby with A Blanket | Non-Toxic Play Mat | Baby Journey
While a blanket may do the trick as a cushion for your baby to lay on the ground safely, a dedicated baby mat is sturdier.

The 12 Perfectly Padded Non toxic Play Mats for Babies

Once you have narrowed down the attributes of your perfect baby rug take a look at these examples. The following round up may help make your decision a bit easier!

wander & roam Baby Play Mat
Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat
Nook Sleep Lily Pad Playmat
Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter
Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Play Mat
Baby Play Mat | One-Piece Reversible Foam Floor Mat | Large | Eco-Friendly | Extra Soft | Non-Toxic | Baby | Toddlers | Kids (Grey Ikat + Stripe, Round)
Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat for Babies, Toddlers and Kids, Ivory
10 Best Newborn Pack and Play & Playard for your Baby 2021 | Baby Journey
Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter (Alphabet)
Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Baby Play Mat Extra Large 76 in. x 58 Padded Crawling Carpet for Babies (A to Z Animal)
Product Dimensions
6.5ft x 4.5ft and 1/2" thick
4.6ft x 4.6ft x 1.25" thick
3.3ft x 3.3ft x 1.5" thick
3.6ft x 3.3ft x 1.5" thick
6.5ft x 4.6ft x 1" thick
Mat Shape
Round
Rectangle
Round
Rectangle
Rectangle
Materials
Eco-friendly foam & non-toxic - latex, BPA, formamide, and PVC free
Organic and Made of Eco Friendly Materials
Organic and Non-Toxic
Organic Fabric and Filling
Environmentally Friendly Cotton
Reversible?
Yes
No
No
No
No
Product Highlights
Hypoallergenic, Waterproof, Nonflammable
Large and Spacious, Great on Any Surface, Easy to Maintain
Easy to Carry and Machine-Washable, Earth-Friendly and Foam-Free
100% Certified Organic Materials, Stylish Designs
Extra Large Size, Easy to Wash, Learning Baby Play Mat
wander & roam Baby Play Mat
Baby Play Mat | One-Piece Reversible Foam Floor Mat | Large | Eco-Friendly | Extra Soft | Non-Toxic | Baby | Toddlers | Kids (Grey Ikat + Stripe, Round)
Product Dimensions
6.5ft x 4.5ft and 1/2" thick
Mat Shape
Round
Materials
Eco-friendly foam & non-toxic - latex, BPA, formamide, and PVC free
Reversible?
Yes
Product Highlights
Hypoallergenic, Waterproof, Nonflammable
Check Latest Price
Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat
Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat for Babies, Toddlers and Kids, Ivory
Product Dimensions
4.6ft x 4.6ft x 1.25" thick
Mat Shape
Rectangle
Materials
Organic and Made of Eco Friendly Materials
Reversible?
No
Product Highlights
Large and Spacious, Great on Any Surface, Easy to Maintain
Check Latest Price
Nook Sleep Lily Pad Playmat
10 Best Newborn Pack and Play & Playard for your Baby 2021 | Baby Journey
Product Dimensions
3.3ft x 3.3ft x 1.5" thick
Mat Shape
Round
Materials
Organic and Non-Toxic
Reversible?
No
Product Highlights
Easy to Carry and Machine-Washable, Earth-Friendly and Foam-Free
Check Latest Price
Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter
Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter (Alphabet)
Product Dimensions
3.6ft x 3.3ft x 1.5" thick
Mat Shape
Rectangle
Materials
Organic Fabric and Filling
Reversible?
No
Product Highlights
100% Certified Organic Materials, Stylish Designs
Check Latest Price
Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Play Mat
Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Baby Play Mat Extra Large 76 in. x 58 Padded Crawling Carpet for Babies (A to Z Animal)
Product Dimensions
6.5ft x 4.6ft x 1" thick
Mat Shape
Rectangle
Materials
Environmentally Friendly Cotton
Reversible?
No
Product Highlights
Extra Large Size, Easy to Wash, Learning Baby Play Mat
Check Latest Price

1. Soft Padded Baby Play Mat by ULLENBOOM

Soft Padded Baby Play Mat Thick by ULLENBOOM - 47” x 47” - Woodland/Stars - Infant Activity Blanket - Unisex Teal/Grey

If you are looking for a soft and cozy non-toxic mat then the ULLENBOOM Soft Padded Mat May suit your needs. It is 100% cotton so it shouldn’t irritate your baby’s delicate skin.

The plush design helps to pad hard surfaces. As a bonus, this product features a cute woodland animal design!

Pros:

  • Machine washable and dryer safe
  • Handmade and very durable
  • Made with organic fabrics for sensitive skin

Cons:

  • Smooth cotton texture may slip easily on hardwood or tile floors
  • Because of plushness, it may not be ideal for napping

2. Wee Gallery, Explore Play Mat, Organic Cotton Muslin Mat for Baby

Wee Gallery Explore Play Mat for Babies - Reversible Floor Mat for Tummy Time Made with Sustainable Materials - Padded Activity Mat for Infant Playtime - (40 Inches)

Another whimsical product is the Wee Gallery, Explore Play Mat, Organic Cotton Muslin Mat for Baby. It is one of the many GOTS certified organic cotton play mat options stuffed with a plush poly-fill.

Your little one can comfortably roll or crawl on nearly any surface. All the materials are safe to be washed in the washing machine so you won’t have to fret over spills or accidents.

Pros:

  • Cute design with woodland creatures on one side and cityscape on the other
  • Includes a drawstring bag for easy transport
  • Is a nice medium size measuring just over three feet in diameter
  • Made with OEKO TEX certified polyester and GOTS certified organic cotton
  • Contain no heavy metals (lead-free)

Cons:

  • The white background may get dirty easily
  • If the baby can roll, they may be able to roll off it quickly due to its size
Wee Gallery Explore Play Mat for Babies - Reversible Floor Mat for Tummy Time Made with Sustainable Materials - Padded Activity Mat for Infant Playtime - (40 Inches)
  • Designed With Care: Wee Gallery's infant playmat features a hand-illustrated woodland scene on one side and a neutral cityscape on the other. Measuring 40 inches in diameter, our play mat creates the perfect area for cushioned play and baby exploration.
  • Developmental Support for Babies: Featuring a reversible two-sided pattern with high contrast graphics, this illustrated floor mat keeps your little one interested and visually stimulated. The ideal playtime setting for tummy time and baby development!
  • The Perfect Gift: Our popular playtime floor mats make the perfect baby shower gift or first birthday present for your child or grandchild. These soft playmats for babies also come with a reusable carry strap for easy storage and gifting.

3. W WelLifes Baby Play Mat

Baby Play Mat 3D Air Mesh Organic Cotton Non-Toxic

The W WelLifes also uses cotton material but it features something special as well. Its unique 3D air mesh helps to regulate temperature so you can use the mat year-round.

The mesh backing will help to keep your baby warm on cold hardwood floors in the winter and keep them cool outdoors in the summer. Besides, the mesh backing adds a nice cushion and keeps the non-toxic baby mat breathable.

Pros:

  • A fun animal pattern for baby to discover
  • Mesh backing makes the mat somewhat non-slip
  • Safe for sensitive skin, 100% hypoallergenic polyester padding

Cons:

  • Narrow in size means it may be easy for your baby to crawl or roll off
  • Not a double-sided or reversible play mat
Baby Play Mat 3D Air Mesh Organic Cotton Non-Toxic
  • Breathable sequential 3D-air Mesh construction keeps cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter. Well ventilated 3D Air mesh fabric is used for the back and it reinforce a sense of durability and cushioning. The front side is 100% Organic Cotton fabric .
  • Made with Global certified 100% Organic Cotton
  • The Baby play mat features a developmental playground of fun activities and discovery for baby, comfy 3D Air Mesh to keep baby and parent comfortable.

4. Mary Meyer Bestever Baby Mat

Mary Meyer Bestever Baby Mat, Lamb

If your baby is at the age where they can sit and play then you may like the Mary Meyer Bestever Baby Mat.

This mat is designed to resemble a cute and cuddly animal, and you have your choice of an elephant, a puppy, a giraffe, an owl, a lamb, a bear, or a bunny.

The “belly” of the animal provides a comfy place to sit while your tot plays. Older children may also love snuggling up with this plush mat.

My child especially love the panda print on this mat (other variation) and uses it as an al-time favorite panda mat!

Pros:

  • Provides a comfortable and padded seat
  • Can be used by older children as a pillow
  • Large selection of animals
  • Contains no dangerous chemicals

Cons:

  • Is not ideal for tummy time or back playtime due to elevated cushion design
  • Not very large measuring 31 x 23 inches
  • Fur may shed after washing
Mary Meyer Bestever Baby Mat, Lamb
708 Reviews
Mary Meyer Bestever Baby Mat, Lamb
  • Lamb Baby Mat floor mat for baby features premium soft white on white fabric, stitched eyes for total softness, and wide snuggly tummy
  • Measures approximately 31 x 23-inches
  • Features luxuriously soft fabric on top and a durable fabric bottom; machine wash delicate cycle, air dry

5. Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Play Mat

Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Baby Play Mat Extra Large 76 in. x 58 Padded Crawling Carpet for Babies (A to Z Animal)

Some little ones just go, go, go, and they may need an expansive play mat. The Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Play Mat is extra-large, measuring just over six feet by slightly over four feet.

Its large size is perfect to accommodate the alphabet with corresponding animals. Just like the MyLine Play Mat, your active baby will love exploring on this fun play mat.

Pros:

  • Stain and water-resistant
  • One inch of padding keeps it comfortable on knees and bottoms
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Folds up but may be bulky to carry or transport
  • May shrink if placed in the dryer
Moiré Baby A to Z Animal Learning Baby Play Mat Extra Large 76 in. x 58 Padded Crawling Carpet for Babies (A to Z Animal)
  • LEARNING Baby Play Mat-A to Z Animal Design
  • MATERIAL: Environmentally friendly cotton, healthy and comfortable, perfect for your baby.
  • 1" PADDED THICKNESS for babies and children to play, ideal for encouraging crawling, rolling, sitting up, and learning to walk. It ensures a soft landing for rolling, tumbling, and falls.

6. Organic Designs – Organic Toddler Comforter

Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter (Alphabet)

An extra comfy baby play rug is the Organic Designs – Organic Toddler Comforter. It has GOTS certified organic cotton fabric on one side and flannel backing on the other.

The fill makes it very plush and comfortable, perfect for hard bare floors. The colorful letter pattern is engaging for little ones. This can be used as a cushy baby mat or a cozy place for a supervised snooze.

Pros:

  • Large size, 54 x 40 inches
  • Can be used as a supervised nap space or as a baby mat
  • Machine washable and dryer safe
  • Can be used as a comforter blanket by older children

Cons:

  • GOTS certified organic cotton not ideal for tummy time as it is so plush
  • More of a comforter than a mat
Organic Designs - Organic Toddler Comforter (Alphabet)
  • Organic Fabric and Filling
  • Made in the USA
  • Measures 54x40 inches

7. Nook Sleep Lily Pad Playmat

Nook Sleep Lily Pad Playmat | Non-Toxic Play Mat | Baby Journey

A very versatile mat is the Nook Sleep Lily Pad Playmat. This circular mat has the perfect amount of padding to make tummy time, nap time, and even playtime comfortable.

The one inch of plush is thanks to the non-toxic air spacer cushion covered by pebble texture organic fabric. The entire pad is water-resistant meaning you can easily wipe it clean or for set-in stains just toss it in the wash!

Pros:

  • Has attached handles so it can be folded and carried
  • Very soft
  • Breathable fabrics make it safer for tummy time

Cons:

  • A little heavy for transporting
  • Not very large, older babies can easily roll or crawl off
Nook Sleep Lilypad Play Mat (Pacific) - Organic Play mat for Baby - Machine-Washable - 40" Round
  • Organic and non-toxic
  • Soft cushioned play mat for babies and toddlers
  • Easy to carry and machine-washable

8. Toddleroo by North States 71″ x 71″ Folding ABC Play Mat

Toddleroo by North States 71' x 71' Foldable ABC Padded Play Mat. Extra Large Foam Baby Play Mats for Floor, Waterproof Tummy Time Mat for Indoor & Outdoor Use

The Toddleroo by North States 71” x 71” Folding Mat is a non-toxic foam play mat. It makes the perfect base to a six or eight paneled gated play yard.

The PE foam is perfectly padded for crawlers, and better yet it is hypoallergenic, BPA and toxic material free.

Personally in terms of design, I prefer the Toddleroo baby mat over the Baby Care baby play mats.

Pros:

  • Large size
  • A fun pattern featuring animals and letters
  • Foam is effortless to wipe clean
  • Water-resistant

Cons:

  • Folds up but is still bulky to transport
  • The foam may not be super durable and can be bitten by children
SALE
Toddleroo by North States 71" x 71" Foldable ABC Padded Play Mat. Extra Large Foam Baby Play Mats for Floor, Waterproof Tummy Time Mat for Indoor & Outdoor Use
  • [Keeping Toddlers Safe Since 1953]: Worry-Free Safety! 71" x 71" Superyard cushioned play mat creates a fun play area by itself or under any Toddleroo Superyard- indoors or outdoors.
  • [Non Toxic Playmat, BPA Free, Hypoallergenic]: All baby safe material, made of PE foam, no PVC. Flame retardant free. High quality padded folding mat.
  • [Adorable & Functional]: Decorated with ABCs and animal friends, this water resistant large foam play mat easily wipes clean and provides hours of fun for baby. Ideal for floor play and tummy time.

9. Parklon Folding Play Mat

Parklon Folding Play Mat (78.7 x 55.1 x 0.4 inch) (Little Elephant)

Another awesome PE foam mat is the Parklon Folding Play Mat. This may have a unique design in that it consists of folding panels, making it easy to move despite its large size.

At nearly a half-inch thick it provides food grade protection against hard floors or rough outdoor terrain. The foam is also water-resistant so it is perfect for the outdoors or drooling little ones in the living room.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • A cushioned mat that is very durable
  • Choice of three cute patterns

Cons:

  • May be easily scratched or punctured by pets
  • The water-resistant coating may become slippery if wet
Parklon Folding Play Mat (78.7 x 55.1 x 0.4 inch) (Little Elephant)
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: This mat is made of PE, a lightweight foam material, making it easy to fold up for storage or carry on the go.
  • PORTABLE: Folds up into a convenient carrying case so you can take this mat to the park, beach or friend’s house!
  • WATER-RESISTANT AND EASY TO CLEAN: Simply wipe up spills or clean up messes with a damp cloth.

10. Taf Toys North Pole 4 Seasons Baby Activity Mat

Taf Toys North Pole Four Seasons Play Mat

A mat that grows with your little one is the Taf Toys North Pole 4 Seasons Baby Activity Mat. It is a plush fabric mat that includes side panels that can be lowered and raised.

When your baby is too young to do more than roll, you can leave the side panels raised, as they age lower the panels to form a mat. The mat also includes a fun pattern with hide and seek crinkling flaps, rattles, and ribbons.

Pros:

  • Padded mat with extra soft fabric
  • Versatile and grows with your baby
  • Includes detachable sensory hanging toys
  • No fire retardants

Cons:

  • A baby may outgrow it quickly
  • Is not machine washable
Taf Toys North Pole Four Seasons Play Mat
  • FOR TWO DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES: Stage 1 (0-3m) Raised side panels create a safe and cosy environment for your baby. Stage 2 (3m+) Unfolded side panels creates a larger, extra padded play mat.
  • DETACHABLE COLOURFUL TOYS - Features two detachable, double sided, multi-sensory activity toys: Prince the Penguin toy with clear ring rattle and a rainbow baby-safe mirror with colourful ribbons. Beautiful illustrations of the 4 seasons promote parent-baby interaction.
  • FULL OF ACTIVITIES AND EXTRA PADDED - The mat includes two hide n’ seek crinkling flaps. The play mat is extra padded and measures - 96 X 96cm, 37.8" X 37.8“

11. wander & roam Baby Play Mat

Baby Play Mat | One-Piece Reversible Foam Floor Mat | Large | Eco-Friendly | Extra Soft | Non-Toxic | Baby | Toddlers | Kids (Grey Ikat + Stripe, Round)

The wander & roam Mat is constructed from a single piece of non-toxic foam, meaning you won’t need to worry about cleaning in between the cracks or joints.

It is large enough that your little one can use it for a while, measuring over four feet in diameter. This item has the perfect amount of padding to make hard floors more comfortable and safer for your baby.

Pros:

  • Available in a 4.6ft diameter circle or a 6.5ft x 4.5ft rectangle.
  • Comes with Velcro strips so you can roll it up and transport it
  • Neutral patterns and colors complement any room in your home
  • Easy to wipe clean
  • One of the many thickest mats on the market

Cons:

  • After rolling for storage it may be difficult to flatten
  • Not as heavy or sturdy as other foam mats

12. Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat

Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat for Babies, Toddlers and Kids, Ivory

If you want the ultimate protection for your baby on your hardwood or tile floors, you might want to consider the Baby Mushroom.

Among so many organic play mats on the market, this model consists of an organic cotton cover, a water-resistant liner, and plush plant-based foam.

All these components work together to make a comfy, durable, and non-toxic and baby-safe mat. At nearly five feet by five feet, it is big enough for you to join in on tummy time as a yoga mat.

Pros:

  • Made of hypoallergenic and eco-friendly materials
  • Cotton cover is machine washable
  • Rolls up so you can transport it easily
  • The clean and neutral look blends in well in any room

Cons:

  • If cover shrinks it may be difficult to use it with the mat
  • The cream color shows dirt and wear quickly
Baby Mushroom Baby Bello Organic Play Mat for Babies, Toddlers and Kids, Ivory
  • Clean, Safe Play Space - A Beautiful, Neutral Mat for Newborns, Babies, Toddlers and Kids with Carrying Case Included for Easy Transport
  • Organic & Eco-Friendly - Made from Plant-Based Materials, Just Wait Until You Feel It
  • Large and Oh So Soft - Measures 55" Square and 1.25" Thick, Perfect for Tummy Time and Crawling

Exploring Your Baby-Safe Mat Options

Skip Hop DoublePlay Reversible Playmat Vibrant Village | Non-Toxic Play Mat | Baby Journey
Foam baby play mats are easy to wipe clean. Source: Skip Hop

With so many options how do you choose one that best suit your needs? Deciding on its most important features first can be helpful.

Do you have a small space or can it be large? Do you want foam or cloth? Does it need to be portable? Or should you invest in a baby play gym, playpen or playard instead?

These are all good questions apart from making sure it’s made out of non-toxic materials.

Size. Baby play mats can vary greatly in size. Some can resemble a simple mat that you can fold up and take with you. Others consist of large interlocking pieces that are made to be relatively stationary once constructed. Where you plan on using the baby mat can help you determine what size you need.

Material. What the mat is made out of differs almost as much as size. Non-toxic options out there on the market can be anything from foam to fabric and natural rubber and many things in between. Some baby play mats are made to be sturdy while others are softer and more comfortable.

Some are machine washable thanks to their fabric design while others are wipe clean only. You should think about where you want to use the mat and how often you will need to clean it. One with a waterproof cover may come in handy if you haven’t already potty train your baby.

Special Features. Some handpicked best options on this list resemble a neutral colored rug or mat. Others have brightly colored patterns or fun animals.

Knowing exactly what you’re looking for and choosing the right play mats for your nursery sometimes depend on the overall design of the room too!

What style or features you want depends on if you plan to use the mat in your living room, opting for a less obtrusive design, or want it to complement your nursery decor with a colorful pattern.

Intended use. Most play mats (a puzzle mat for example), are typically used for playing, however, some can be conducive to naps. Additionally, foam mats may soften a hardwood floor for the baby while plastic-backed mats can protect against wet grass.

Think about where, when, and why you may use the mat to further narrow down your choice.

You may be interested in: 15 Best Play Mats and Play Gyms for Babies

Checklist for Choosing

The mat should be:

  • 100% completely non-toxic, ideally made of OEKO TEX certified polyester or GOTS certified organic cotton for maximum comfort
  • Thick enough to offer sufficient protection against accidental falls and bumps on hardwood floors
  • Large enough for your child to play on
  • Odor-free
  • Processed under a chemical-free adhesive method
  • Padded using ten thin layers of PE foam sheets

You should avoid:

  • Chemical flame retardants and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Traditional play mats made from PVC (a toxic form of plastic), Vinyl or EVA foam
  • Formaldehyde
  • ‘Eco-friendly PVC’ and PFAS toxic chemicals
  • BPA and Phthalates
  • Polyurethane foam and other harmful substances
  • Lead and other heavy metals

Which Play Mat Scores Top Points?

The perfect non-toxic playmat for you depends on a few factors. Size, material, and portability are all considerations. However, the one product that checks many parents’ boxes is the wander & roam baby play mat.

The non-toxic BPA-free foam is ideal for baby’s sensitive skin while providing the best cushion for exploration and play. The item is large enough to be useful throughout many stages of your baby’s development. The pattern choices for either the circle or square mat are sure to complement your decor no matter which room you use it in.

So which one is your top pick? Hope this guide helps!

Non-Toxic Play Mat | Baby Journey

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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