Why We Like It: This well-crafted, eco-friendly activity gym is amazing for building a baby's sensory development. Play mats come in several styles, with many designed to fold flat, roll up, and/or fit in convenient carrying case for easy transport. If you have limited space, consider opting for a compact play mat rather than a large tiled one to avoid cluttering a tiny area with multiple pieces. Ease of Cleaning For added stimulation, consider play mats that feature detachable toys, textured surfaces, or musical elements,” suggests Dr. Singletary. “These can augment sensory engagement, but ensure they are securely attached to prevent choking hazards." Ease of Storage Why We Like It: With plenty of room to wander, this spacious, padded play mat provides an ample playscape as your baby transitions from tummy time to crawling and walking. Why We Like It: This highly recommended mat is made of durable, baby-friendly materials that provide fantastic support.

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This popular waterproof style features eye-catching patterns on each side and is designed specifically for babies 8 months and older. The stain-resistant surface ensures easy cleanup, while the foldable design allows for convenient storage when not in use.

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But Take Note: While this sturdy wooden activity gym is constructed to last, it also comes with a pretty hefty price point. This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items. Once your munchkin is on the move, you’ll be able to keep them busy scooting about on this fun, foldable play mat, which provides a portable cushioned playscape that can be used indoors or out.

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I absolutely love the House of Noa mat and can't wait to add other products," raves lifestyle blogger and mom of three Lauren Diamantas. "It's such a plush mat for anyone—parents, fur animals, children, and infants. My youngest loves to crawl and walk on it while I am in the kitchen, and I can be at ease knowing if she falls, the mat has her protected."

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It is important to give your mat a wipe-down to help with germs," recommends Dr. Purdy. "Never walk on the mat with shoes and then let the baby play on the mat." How to Use Baby Play Mats Safely This water-resistant mat wipes clean easily and rolls up neatly for storage. It’s great for bigger babes and toddlers to use when playing and learning to crawl and walk. "A play mat with a design is wonderful," says Dr. Purdy. "You can add other toys on the mat for the baby to play with and explore." This textured foam play mat from JumpOff Jo provides plenty of room for your little one to roam. The soft surface also creates a cushion for falls as your toddler takes their first steps. "A larger play mat allows your child sufficient space to roll, crawl, and explore as they grow, promoting their physical development," notes Dr. Singletary. "The mat should be firm enough to support your infant's gross motor development, like rolling over, crawling, and eventually, walking." Curious little cuties will love exploring on this eco-friendly, cushioned play mat, which features visually stimulating sensory toys, crinkly sounds, and playful patterns. Designed with Montessori experts (meaning it relies on a child’s internal motivation to learn) this delightful baby gym helps to strengthen fine motor skills as your baby begins to discover their new environment.

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Why We Like It: Its neutral tones that add a trendy touch to the nursery while providing a comfy place to play. Tummy time is the time the baby is awake and on their stomach," explains Dr. Purdy. "Tummy time can be on a parent's chest or lap, on a baby pillow, or even in a carrier. A play mat is great for this but not necessary." Who We Are Find something your baby likes and that you will use as a parent," suggests family medicine doctor Laura Purdy, M.D. "A baby play gym often comes with activities and things attached for the baby to look at. Make sure all of the attachments are secure, and if the baby can get to them, they are safe with no choking hazards."Why We Like It: The lightweight design and convenient carrying case make this a great cushioned play mat for when your baby begins crawling. Mats and baby gyms are just the beginning of a baby's exploration of learning new skills and enjoying playtime. Parents and caregivers must ensure their little one stays safe by selecting an age-appropriate mat free from choking hazards. Why We Like It: We love Skip Hop’s patterns that encourage little ones to explore a whole new world. I recommend large mats, so babies have space to roam and are less likely to move off the edges, risking injury," shares Dr. Purdy. Whether traveling to grandma's house or heading out on the road for a vacation, this fab water-resistant, folding floor mat provides a welcoming space to play. We also love that it comes with a convenient carrying case. Parklon makes mats with a variety of prints and sizes, so if one is sold out, keep shopping for something equally cute and useful.

The Best Baby Play Mats and Gyms for Tummy Time, Crawling

This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items. To return faulty items see our Returning Faulty Items policy. From birth, your baby can begin to use a play mat for brief periods, gradually increasing the duration as they grow," notes Dr. Singletary. Designs with contrasting colors, varied patterns, and different characters can engage your baby's attention and stimulate their visual perception," shares Dr. Singletary. "However, a design overly crowded with elements may lead to sensory overload. You want to make sure as your child grows and evolves, so does their play mat. Finding ones that are age and development appropriate is important too." In choosing a play mat, safety should be paramount," board-certified pediatrician Dr. Freda Singletary, M.D., tells Parents. "Other considerations include age appropriateness, ease of cleaning the mat, and the mat's adaptability to your child's evolving developmental stages." When shopping for a play mat, Dr. Singletary shares, "Fisher-Price, Baby Einstein, and Lovevery are all reputable brands known for their adherence to safety standards, and they offer a range of play mats designed to stimulate a child's senses and motor skills throughout various stages of development."Looking for a play mat that blends perfectly with your living space? Search no further than this House of Noa Little Nomad Play Mat. The tiled, hand-illustrated mats are available in several sizes and five fabulous neutral shades with designs inspired by vintage Moroccan rugs. The water-resistant 2 x 2 feet tiles are made with safe, non-toxic foam, and they’re easy to clean. Tummy time helps babies strengthen several muscles while developing their motor skills and senses. As your babe begins to explore their new world, this brightly colored Baby Einstein activity gym is the cutest contender for a fun, clean play space to stimulate their curiosity. It also grows with them, turning into an upright keyboard when they can sit up.