Updated October, 2021
I enjoy finding toys that are great for children. I want items that will last, at least through their first year, and grow with them. Play mats is one of those items. Monster loved theirs, and we actually invested in a few (no, I cannot just carry the mat from my basement back upstairs). The following are my recommended Best Baby Floor Mats (or activity/play mats, depending on what you prefer to call them), based on my experience (both at home and in a learning center).
This was a great older baby mat. Even as an adult, I found myself taking a few days to discover all of the hidden squeaks and rattles. With a mirror for them to look at while on their tummy and plenty of places to hang toys above them, it offers a good amount of variety in activities. The loops that all play mats seem to have offers the ability to easily change out the toys that hang from it.
Now I had this mat in green but they discontinued the use. However, I think the Gray color looks just as nice.
This mat’s biggest selling point for me is the little ladybug mobile. Monster loved the mobile and would often babble for close to thirty minutes at it. The other toys were stuffed with that magical crinkle paper and offered easy to grasp parts and pieces. As with the other play mat, it came with a cute, tiny pillow to use during tummy time. No, you probably really don’t need the pillow, yes, I disproportionately love it.
This mat with its extra padding was perfect for use on hard floors (I’m looking at you, cold basement floor). This comes in handy for homes without a lot of soft carpets or rugs. Soft pillows offer an incline for babies who aren’t as mobile, making it perfect for even your littlest baby. It easily transitions to a play mat without the bars overhead to offer continued comfort for your baby as they grow. And yes, this one has a pillow too (it’s shaped like a cloud!),
Okay, I was only going to have 3 suggestions (I try not to overwhelm people with options), but I recently threw a baby shower for a friend and she got this mat. I am completely in love with the simple look. It was so cute I had to add it. It doesn’t have a little pillow with it, but I do really like the soft, fold out book (you know how I am with books).
Disclaimer, I haven’t personally seen it in action, as little baby is not born yet and we haven’t even set it up yet. I just loved how it looked from a design stand point. I’ll update this if I see it in action.
The Extras
To offer a little variety on the play mats and make them last a little longer, I would suggest purchasing some exchangeable toys to either add or replace some of the other toys on the play mats. You can switch the toys out to provide something new on occasion. I am confident your little one will appreciate it. Additionally, these toys can attach to car seats, swings, or just be fun on their own.
