Choosing the right play mat for your baby comes with plenty of questions. Below are answers to the things parents ask us most — from safety and materials, to sizing, cleaning and the difference between our padded play mats and Snuggle Rugs.
What is a play mat and why does my baby need one?
A play mat is a soft, padded floor covering designed to give babies and toddlers a safe, cushioned space for tummy time, crawling, rolling and sensory play. A good playmat protects little ones from bumps and falls on hard floors, supports motor skill development, and creates a defined zone for play. It's one of the most-used items in a baby's first two years.
What are Grace & Maggie play mats made from?
Our padded play mats are made from next-generation, non-toxic TPU foam — free from PVC, BPA, lead, phthalates and other harmful chemicals found in cheaper playmats. Our memory foam Snuggle Rugs use high-density 35D slow-rebound foam with a soft minky fabric surface. Both ranges are CertiPUR-US® and OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified and have been independently tested to surpass International Toy Safety Standards.
Are Grace & Maggie playmats safe for newborns?
Yes. Our play mats are soft enough for newborn tummy time and hypoallergenic, making them suitable for sensitive skin. They're non-toxic, non-flammable and free from harsh chemicals, with cushioning that supports safe rolling, crawling and early movement. Always supervise babies during tummy time, especially in the early months.
What size play mat should I buy?
Our padded playmats come in three sizes to suit different spaces. Small playmats are ideal for nurseries and apartments; large playmats work well for living rooms and dedicated play areas; and our round playmats look beautiful under play arches or in reading corners. Our Snuggle Rug range extends up to XLarge (4m x 2m), perfect for open-plan family rooms.
How do I clean a Grace & Maggie play mat?
Cleaning is simple. For padded playmats, wipe both sides with a damp cloth and mild soap — they're water-resistant, so spills don't soak in. For Snuggle Rugs, spot clean with a damp cloth and vacuum regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers and machine washing, as these can damage the foam core. For more detail, read our full playmat cleaning guide.
Are your play mats reversible?
Yes — our padded play mat range is reversible, giving you two designs in one mat. One side typically features a stylish rug pattern that suits modern interiors, while the other reveals a playful design like our Baby Driver track print to encourage imaginative play. Snuggle Rugs are single-sided memory foam tatami rugs designed to be left out as a feature piece.
What's the difference between a padded playmat and a Snuggle Rug?
Padded playmats are reversible, water-resistant and made from TPU foam — lightweight, easy to wipe clean, and ideal for active play and messy moments. Snuggle Rugs are thicker (35mm), made from plush memory foam with a soft minky surface, and feel more like a designer rug. Many families use both: a padded mat for play and a Snuggle Rug as a statement piece in the living room or nursery.
Do play mats help with tummy time?
Yes — a quality padded play mat is one of the best tools for tummy time. The cushioned surface makes it more comfortable for babies to lift their heads and build neck and shoulder strength, while the soft texture is gentle on sensitive skin. Aim for short, supervised tummy time sessions several times a day from birth.
Are Grace & Maggie playmats eco-friendly?
Our playmats are made from biodegradable, non-toxic materials free from PVC and harmful chemicals — kinder to your baby and to the environment. Because they're not preserved with harsh chemicals, lighter-toned mats may show very slight yellowing on outer edges over time. This is a characteristic of the sustainable materials, not a fault.
Where are Grace & Maggie play mats shipped from?
All play mats are designed in Australia and shipped from our Melbourne warehouse. Available stock is dispatched within 24–48 hours via courier Australia-wide. Due to box size, we're unable to deliver to PO Box addresses. International shipping is also available — see our shipping & returns page for full details.
