This baby gym has been invaluable for us. Babies love it. I’ve since noticed that a lot of friends/family have the same one."(Vetted by Mumsnet user sabrinathethirtysomethingwitch)

Bright Starts™ Play Gyms – Kids2 Inc Bright Starts™ Play Gyms – Kids2 Inc

Although this was voted as the best play mat among Pampers Parents, they were divided about the quality of the product, with a few saying that they found the Skip Hop Camping Cubs Baby Play Mat to be of good quality, while others said they found that it fell apart easily. With its foldable sides that can be used to create low walls, this product creates a place for little ones to play in, which Pampers Parents loved. However, some Pampers Parents said they found the sides were a little on the low side, as their babies could climb over and escape easily. When it comes to choosing the right baby play mat or gym for you and your little one, Pampers Parents recommend considering the following: One unique feature is that you can lift the sides to create an enclosed space; then simply throw in the 10 colorful balls provided and you now have a mini ball pit in your home that your baby or toddler will just love.The toys hang from soft “wooden” poles, and you can set the height of the toys as your baby grows using the added loops. Although some Pampers Parents liked its compact design, most said they wished this baby gym were wider, especially since it had been designed to grow with their baby. Others also wished it had more counterweight for enhanced stability. This large, one-piece baby mat offers a comfortable place for your baby to practice tummy time, but will also work as a spot for your toddler or even preschooler to play or read comfortably later on. Pampers Parents liked the size — which is comparable to a queen-size mattress — and its softness. When buying any type of plaything for your baby, consider safety above all else. Purchasing new items from a reputable brand and well-known retailer offers protection, as secondhand or off-brand toys could include unsafe pieces, be damaged, have missing parts or even have been subject to safety recalls.

Bright Starts 5-in-1 Review (Brutally Honest) - Toddler Review Bright Starts 5-in-1 Review (Brutally Honest) - Toddler Review

Interesting attachments. Some Pampers Parents said they looked for interesting hanging attachments, like ones that make a noise or have different textures. Go for something that is visually stimulating from underneath — not just from the side — as that is where very young babies will spend the most time looking at the toys. We have a foam mat from Munchkin & Bear and would highly recommend it! We’ve spent so much time on the floor with our baby since the mat arrived – we’re much comfier! He’s just started to roll on it, but it will be amazing when he can sit etc." (Suggested by Mumsnet user Derbee) Our verdict

Bright Starts Elephant Multi-Use Ball Play Activity Gym

A play mat is a padded surface that can be a nice spot for your little one to spend some playtime or supervised tummy time each day, while a baby activity mat or gym can be great for your baby’s development with lots of simple toys that encourage your baby to explore and learn. Baby activity gyms with interactive elements are worth considering. Not only are these toys and gadgets fun for your tiny one to use, but they also help them learn about cause and effect. The toys will help them stay busy while increasing their understanding of the world around them and their place in it.

Best Baby Play Mats and Gyms | Pampers The Best Baby Play Mats and Gyms | Pampers

A play gym can help a baby enjoy and look forward to time spent playing on the floor. There are infant activity gyms in dozens of styles and colors with all sorts of different toys and features, so choosing the best one for your child might seem challenging. Knowing what characteristics are the most educational and entertaining might make it easier to make the best selection. All baby mats, gyms and activity centres serve the same purpose. They offer an opportunity for your baby to explore the world around them in a safe, soft and stimulating environment. They also provide visual and sensory stimulation and are ideal for tummy time. Here are the skills your baby can develop, depending on the play mat or gym you opt for: The manufacturer claims that its innovative cushioning is so soft an egg wouldn’t break even when dropped onto it from a 10 foot height — though we don’t recommend testing this unless you’re prepared for the cleanup! Pampers Parents loved that this baby mat was soft and cute, with lots of textures that their little ones could touch and play with. They also found it easy to clean.

6. Best portable activity gym and play mat: Baby Einstein Neptune Discover Reef Play Activity Gym

The 48-inch jumbo mat and play gym has adjustable walls that keep boisterous babies safe during play time and tummy time (do see our guide to the best tummy time toys approved by parents if your little one needs some encouragement with this). It also features an easy carry storage case for portability and comes with seven take-along toys that include an elephant music player, crinkle toy, mirror, flashcards, hanging leaf toy and bead rattle. The elephant even plays 20+ minutes of merry melodies.