A common question many parents have when considering what items to buy for their new little bundle of joy. While there are certainly some pros and cons to consider, it is important to understand the benefits of having a baby play mat in your home.
This is a common question many parents have when considering what items to buy for their new little bundle of joy. While there are certainly some pros and cons to consider, it is important to understand the benefits of having a baby play mat in your home. If I’m honest I didn’t really realise they were a thing when I was pregnant with my first. It was only once Freddy was home that I realised I needed somewhere safe for tummy time and reaching all those other important development milestones. So with my first experience in mind, I thought it was time to share with you the pros and cons of baby play mats so that you can make an informed decision as to whether or not they are right for your family.
What are the benefits of a baby play mat?
When it comes to parenting, one of the most important things you can do is provide your baby with a safe, stimulating environment that encourages exploration and learning. Baby play mats are a great way to give your little one the chance to discover their world in a fun and secure environment.
Baby play mats offer a wide range of benefits for both babies and parents. They provide a comfortable and safe space for your baby to play and explore while giving them the opportunity to develop physical and cognitive skills. Additionally, they provide parents with peace of mind knowing that their child is in a safe area.
Play mats also offer babies the benefit of floor time. This is important as it allows them to practice tummy time which strengthens their core muscles and helps them prepare for crawling, standing, and walking. Floor time also gives your baby the opportunity to learn how to control their head movements and how to hold objects in their hands. You can take this time to bond with your little one, talk to them, sing songs, tell stories or help them explore their environment. This quality time spent together will foster stronger relationships and build a stronger bond between parent and child. By providing your baby with the benefits of a baby play mat, you can ensure that they have the best possible start in life as they explore and learn from their environment.
What are the cons of a baby play mat?
Baby play mats are great for giving babies a safe, comfortable place to play, but they do come with a few potential drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns parents have is the potential for slipping and sliding on hardwood or tile floors. TPU play mats are the most popular type of baby play mats, but they can be quite slippery on these surfaces. This can be easily fixed by putting non-slip mat underneath to keep it from moving around (just like you use on rugs).
Another concern with baby play mats is their design. Some child focused prints can be fun and playful but you might be concerned it won't suit your home's décor. If this is an issue for you, choose a play mat with one fun side for the kids and a décor-friendly reverse side so you can have a stylish side that looks like a rug. And don't forget, TPU play mats can be rolled up for easy storage (just keep the Velcro straps).
Which type of play mat is the best?
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) foam baby play mats are an increasingly popular choice for parents looking for the safest and most comfortable option for their little ones. TPU foam is a non-toxic material that is free from BPA, PVC, and other harmful chemicals, making it a safe choice for families.
The benefits of TPU foam baby play mats are numerous, including providing a cushioned surface for your baby to enjoy tummy time, rolling, sitting and crawling. Plus, they are easy to clean, allowing you to quickly wipe up spills and messes without having to worry about them staining or becoming mouldy like fabric mats often do.
When shopping for a TPU foam baby play mat, be sure to look for one that is certified as being non-toxic. This will provide peace of mind that your little one is playing on a safe surface.
How can I make sure my baby is safe on their baby play mat?
As with any activity, it is important to take precautions and make sure your baby is safe while using a play mat. The first step in ensuring safety is to choose a non-toxic, cushioned TPU play mat. These are soft and durable, with quality brands ensuring they are certified to international standards. The cushioning provides comfort for your baby and help protect their developing bodies.
It’s important to always supervise your baby when they’re playing on their play mat. It also ensures that you can react quickly if there are any spills or messes. If any spills occur, it’s important to clean them up quickly. You should also regularly clean the play mat following the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines.
Finally, make sure that sharp objects or items that may damage the mat's surface are kept away from your baby and the play mat. This includes removing footwear, pet claws and sharp edged toys.
That's a wrap! During the early days of my play mat journey, I had to learn what they were, why they were important and what the difference between types of play mats is. At the time there weren't many options on the market, which is why we decided to create the first of it's kind baby play mat that catered for both babies and parents.