What is the best play mat for my baby?

Play mats and play gyms have been a lifesaver for so many of us during those infant years. A good activity mat gives your little one a safe, comfortable place to explore, build muscle, practice tummy time and just enjoy being baby. Here are three strong options our team recommends. 

What to look for in a baby play mat

• A padded, stable surface for tummy time and lying down.
• Visual/textural interest: hanging toys, high-contrast patterns, easy-grip items.
• Flexibility: supports newborns through early months (and ideally beyond).
• Easy-to-clean materials (enough said!).
• Size and fit: works in your living space. 
• If you’ll be used in multi-child households, durability and functional extras matter.

1. Baby Einstein Activity Gym

Highlights

• Includes several play modes: laying, tummy time, seated/play, and take-along.
• Features multiple toys, sounds/music in some versions (if you like interactive).
• Soft mat with high-contrast patterns and textures.

Pros

• Good value and feature-rich if you want “bonus” interactive elements.
• The multi-mode design helps it grow with baby for a while.
• The texture, colors and toys give baby lots to engage with.

Cons

• Some parents say that because it has many parts/toys, it takes more setup and floor space.
• If you prefer a minimalist or simpler mat, it might feel busy.
• If budget is super tight, you may find simpler mats with fewer bells and whistles.

Best for families who…

• Want a play mat that does more than “just lie on the floor”.
• Have the room to let baby explore and want interactive features.
• Plan to use throughout the newborn to 12-month phase and want more “extras”.

2. Lovevery The Play Gym

Highlights

• Montessori-inspired, stage-based design for baby’s first year.
• Includes detachable toys, cards and zones of exploration.
• Our team loves the build quality and feel of the mat.

Pros

• High-quality materials and design. 
• Great for parents who want more of an investment piece that blends play and development.
• The “play guide” helps you use the mat to support baby’s growth (which our team of busy parents appreciates).

Cons

• More expensive than basic mats. 
• If your baby is very active early or you want ultra-portable, it might feel bigger/heavier than your average mat.
• As with all mats, the best value comes when you use it regularly as intended.

Best for families who…

• Value premium feel and want something that supports baby’s development intentionally.
• Will use the mat often and want it to last.
• Have space and are ok investing a bit more for quality.

3. Skip Hop Activity Gym / Play Mat

Highlights

• A broad range of activity mats from this brand, many with 3-in-1 modes (overhead play, tummy time, seated).
• Style-forward patterns and practical design for everyday use.

Pros

• Strong balance of durability + value + design.
• Many models have removable toy bars, comfortable mats, and good visual appeal.
• Works well for families who want something good but not an ultra-premium price.

Cons

• Because range is wide, you’ll want to check the exact model for the feature list (some are more basic).
• Some parents say the mat portion is less plush than “premium” models.
• If you have limited floor space, make sure your model fits well.
  
  

Best for families who…

• Want a stylish, everyday play mat that works well and doesn’t break the budget.
• Use their mat frequently (floor time, tummy time, play) and want something resilient.
• Maybe want something that “looks good” in playroom/living room while also being functional.