Edit · Play mats

The best three play mats we'd actually buy.

A good play mat gives your baby a safe, comfortable space for tummy time and play. Look for mats with interesting textures, colours, and features to engage your little one.

3 picksUpdated Apr 2026Research hours 42+Tested in real flats, real cars
Three picks, ordered by use caseScroll ↓
01
Tiny Love Gymini Deluxe — Best activity gym for development

★ Our top pick

Tiny Love

Tiny Love Gymini Deluxe

Best activity gym for development

A well-rounded activity gym with 18 developmental activities across multiple play positions. The adjustable arches and repositionable toys keep baby engaged from newborn. Includes a music box with melodies, a baby-safe mirror, and high-contrast patterns. The large, padded mat is machine washable.

What's great

  • +18 developmental activities
  • +Multiple play positions
  • +Music and melodies included
  • +Machine-washable mat
  • +Good value for features

What's not

  • −Takes up significant floor space
  • −Can be overstimulating for very young babies
  • −Batteries required for music
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02
Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym — Best for music and sensory development

Fisher-Price

Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym

Best for music and sensory development

This popular activity gym features a detachable piano that rewards baby's kicks with music and lights, encouraging cause-and-effect learning from early on. The arched toys encourage reaching and grasping, whilst the generously sized mat is perfect for tummy time. Machine washable and convertible as baby grows.

What's great

  • +Detachable musical piano
  • +Machine-washable mat
  • +Encourages kicking and reaching
  • +Great value for features included

What's not

  • −Requires batteries
  • −Can be overstimulating for very young babies
  • −Takes up floor space
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03
Lovevery Play Gym — Best Montessori-inspired option

Lovevery

Lovevery Play Gym

Best Montessori-inspired option

A beautifully designed, developmentally-appropriate play gym based on Montessori principles. Features include high-contrast cards for newborns, sensory toys, a baby-safe mirror, and natural wood elements. Grows with baby through multiple stages.

What's great

  • +Developmentally appropriate
  • +Aesthetically beautiful
  • +High-quality materials
  • +Comprehensive guide included

What's not

  • −Very expensive
  • −Less stimulating for some babies
  • −Limited colour palette
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