Safe Baby Play Mats for Baby's Tummy Time

If you’ve recently welcomed a little bundle of joy into the world—first of all, congrats! If you're a first-time parent or adding another tiny human to the tribe, you’ll no doubt have heard all about tummy time. It’s one of those things that every baby needs, but not every baby loves at first. That’s where a good, safe baby play mat can make all the difference.

Join Baby Gifts Australia as we explore what tummy time actually is, why it matters, and how a quality play mat can make it easier, safer, and a lot more enjoyable for both baby and you.

What is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is simply the period when your baby lies on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It’s recommended from as early as birth, for just a few minutes at a time, building up as your baby gets stronger.

Why bother? Well, it helps your baby build strength in their neck, shoulders, arms, and back—basically all the muscles they’ll need for important milestones like rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking. It also helps prevent flat spots on the back of their head, which can happen if they spend too much time lying on their back.

Sounds simple enough, right? But here’s the thing: a lot of babies aren’t exactly fans of tummy time at first. That’s where having the right environment—including a safe and comfy play mat—can make all the difference.

Why a Play Mat?

You might think, “Can’t I just pop a towel on the floor?” Technically, sure. But a dedicated baby play mat offers so many more benefits.

1. Comfort and Support

The best play mats offer just the right amount of cushioning. You don’t want it too hard (like tiles or timber), and too soft (like a squishy couch or bed) isn’t safe either. A good-quality play mat provides that sweet spot of firmness and comfort, giving your baby support as they learn to push up, roll over, and eventually crawl.

2. Safety First

In Australia, we’re lucky to have strong safety standards for baby gear, and it’s important to make sure your mat meets them. Look for mats that are non-toxic, BPA-free, phthalate-free, and PVC-free. Babies are curious little things—and they explore the world mouth-first—so you want to make sure they’re not chewing on any nasties.

Also, a non-slip base is a must. You don’t want the mat sliding around on the floor while your bub’s trying their best to get moving.

3. Easy to Clean

Babies are messy. That’s just a fact of life. Whether it’s dribble, spit-up, or a little nappy “oopsie”, you’ll want a mat that wipes clean easily. Water-resistant or machine-washable materials are your best friend.

4. Stimulating for Baby

Many tummy time mats come with built-in features like high-contrast patterns, mirrors, crinkly textures, and attached toys. These sensory features can help distract and engage your baby, making tummy time more fun and less of a chore (for both of you).

Features to Look For in a Baby Play Mat

So what should you be on the lookout for when choosing a tummy time mat?

Non-toxic materials – We mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating. Avoid cheap mats with unknown materials, especially those that have strong chemical smells.
Size – Bigger isn’t always better, but a decent-sized mat gives your baby room to grow and move. If you’ve got the space at home, go for one that gives them plenty of wiggle room.
Thickness – A mat that’s too thin won’t offer enough protection, especially if you’ve got hard floors. But too thick can make it hard for baby to push up or roll.
Portability – If you like to get out and about, look for a foldable or rollable mat you can take to the park, a mate’s house, or even on holidays.
Design – Okay, this one’s more for you than baby—but there are so many stylish options out there now! Gone are the days of bright clashing colours (unless that’s your thing). You can find mats in muted tones, cute animals, or even Scandi-chic designs that blend in with your home decor.

Popular Types of Tummy Time Mats

Here in Australia, parents love a few popular styles of mats –

Foam play mats – Soft, squishy, and often available in puzzle-style tiles. Great for larger spaces and easy to wipe clean.
Quilted fabric mats – Cosy and often made of organic cotton. These are usually machine washable and perfect for younger babies.
Activity gyms – These are play mats with arches and hanging toys. They’re brilliant for engaging your baby and giving them something to reach for and swat at while on their tummy.

A Few Aussie Favourites

While I won’t name brands here, a quick search online or at your local baby store (like Baby Bunting, Kmart, or even boutique shops like The Memo) will show you loads of great options. Many Australian-made brands prioritise sustainability, safety, and beautiful design—so you're spoiled for choice!

Tips for Making Tummy Time a Hit

Even with the best play mat, your baby might still need a bit of encouragement. Here are some quick tips:

Start slow – Just a few minutes a couple of times a day is enough at the start.
Get down there with them – Face-to-face interaction makes it more fun and comforting.
Use toys and mirrors – Babies love looking at faces—especially their own!
Try after naps or nappy changes – When your baby’s happy and alert, they’re more likely to enjoy it.

A safe baby play mat is one of those baby essentials that ticks all the boxes: practical, safe, comfy, and fun. Whether you’re doing a few minutes of tummy time in the morning, a long play session in the afternoon, or just enjoying some quality floor time with your little one, the right mat can make it all the more enjoyable.

Plus, let’s be honest—anything that helps encourage your baby to hit those milestones (while keeping them safe and entertained) is worth its weight in gold.

So go on, grab a cuppa, lay down that mat, and get ready to cheer your little one on as they discover the world—one tummy push-up at a time.