There are small and large play mats for babies: Depending on whether they are used purely for entertainment or as a cushioning surface (with insulating properties), you should think about the most important purchasing criteria before purchasing. What these are and how common models for at home and on the go differ are summarized below.
1. Puzzlematte
A popular model in many households is the non-slip puzzle mat (tested by TÜV Rheinland): a colorful play mat for babies made of EVA foam, which is made up of 26 letters (from A to Z) and nine numbers (zero to nine). The special thing about the 3.5 square meter mat is that it can be expanded as desired with other sets.
2. Water mat
It takes up little space and still provides entertainment: This small play mat from Haba (height: 36 centimeters, width: 32 centimeters) is surrounded by a soft fabric cover and filled with water. The model also offers lots of things for curious babies to discover: loops with crackling foil, a teething ring and movable elements such as leaves, a heart and a fish.
3. Soundmatte
Babies explore their surroundings not only with their eyes, but with their ears. For this reason, this interactive sound mat offers lots of farm-themed sounds from twelve months old. The playset is even bilingual (German and English), so your child can hear more than 500 words in two different languages.
4. Game sheet
This play mat combines two functions: It serves as a soft surface for babies (from birth) and its play arch promotes motor skills. With musical elements, various lights, rings and a mirror, the mat offers lots of things to discover – and allows you to play on your back or stomach.
5. Double-sided mat
So that it doesn’t get boring and your baby gets tired of the motifs on the play mat made of non-toxic XPE foam, this foldable model has two different printed sides: one with colorful fish and one with all the continents of the world. Both surfaces are non-slip and waterproof, making them easy to clean.
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