A play mat is one of the first things parents buy. There are hundreds of options, huge price differences and little clear information about which materials are really good for your baby. Here's what matters.
What the mat is for at each stage
In the first months it's the place for tummy time. From around 3–4 months, it's where your baby explores and rolls. From 6–7 months, when crawling starts, your baby needs grip and a firm surface that doesn't slide.
The material: the most important decision
Foam mats (EVA, XPE)
Cheap and very common, but plastic. Quality varies a lot; always look for OEKO-TEX® certification and choose one with no strong chemical smell.
Cotton with a wool filling
For us, the best combination: cotton is soft and breathable against the skin, and the natural wool inside cushions without flattening and helps even out temperature. Many play mats are filled with polyester – so check the filling too.
Size matters more than you think
A mat that's too small is outgrown within months. For the first two years, aim for at least 100 × 100 cm so your baby can roll and crawl without ending up off the mat. Ours is 110 × 110 cm, designed for exactly that stage.
Questions to ask before you buy
- What are the cover and the filling made of?
- Is it OEKO-TEX® certified?
- Is it washable?
- Is the maker open about where and how it's made?
FAQ
What size should a baby play mat be?
At least 100 × 100 cm, so it lasts from the newborn months to crawling.
How do I wash a cotton and wool play mat?
The Maison Theo mat is machine washable: 30 °C maximum, delicate cycle, no tumble dryer and no spin.
