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Play Mat vs Play Rug: Which Is Right?

Play Mat or Play Rug - Which one is right for you?

Here's a simple guide for choosing as they grow.

Wondering which one suits your little one best? It mostly comes down to the stage they're in. The Play Mat supports those early floor-time years, from tummy time through first steps. Once play gets bigger and busier, the Play Rug steps in.

And when it's time to move up, the transition is an easy one. The biggest Play Mat and the smallest Play Rug have almost the same footprint, so you won't need to rethink your space.

Easy rule of thumb:
Little ones on the floor? Play Mat.
Bigger kids on the move? Play Rug.

Free AUS Shipping on every Play Rug

Compare Play Mat vs Play Rug

Feature Play Mat Play Rug
Best for Babies and toddlers, 0–2 years. Tummy time, crawling and first steps. Kids 2+ years, and adults too. Bigger, more active play.
Surface and feel Durable TPU outer layer with great traction and grip for crawling. Soft, cushiony and waterproof. Buttery soft mink coral fleece outer layer. Plush, warm and luxurious underfoot, especially lovely in the colder months.
Thickness 15mm foam cushioning 35mm high density foam
Designs Two reversible designs, so you can switch the look. One printed design, with a non-slip backing on the reverse.
Waterproof Fully waterproof Water resistant
Furniture No. Designed for floor play only. Yes, can sit under furniture.
Cleaning Wipe clean. See the Care Guide. Wipe clean. See the Care Guide.
Sizes and starting price From $128
See all sizes
From $248
See all sizes
Shipping Shipping from $10, calculated at checkout. Free shipping Australia-wide.
Safety Compliant with AS/NZS ISO 8124 and European EN71 Toy Standards. OEKO-TEX® certified.

Both are certified safe and made without any toxic materials.

Which one is for me?

Expecting or newborn

Start with a Play Mat. The waterproof TPU surface handles spills and nappy mishaps, and the 15mm cushioning is made for tummy time, rolling and those first crawls.

Shop Play Mats

Crawling and cruising

Still a Play Mat. The grippy TPU surface gives little hands and knees good traction, and the reversible designs keep it looking fresh. Planning ahead? The biggest Mat and smallest Rug are almost the same size.

Shop Play Mats

Running, jumping, living-room play

Time for a Play Rug. Think cubby houses, books spread everywhere, cartwheels and the occasional barrel roll. The 35mm cushioning and non-slip backing keep up, and it still looks right at home in your lounge room.

Shop Play Rugs

Just for you?

Thinking for yourself, perhaps? You don't need little ones to own a Play Rug. Plenty of young adults (and not-so-young adults) tell us it's one of the best things you can step on in your home. Plush underfoot, easy to wipe clean, and it looks great in the lounge room. Go on, treat yourself.

Shop Play Rugs

Frequently asked questions

What's the main difference between the two materials?

Little Wiwa® Play Rugs are made with premium quality 35mm high density foam and a soft mink coral fleece polyester blend, which gives the rug a plush, luxurious feel underfoot. Little Wiwa® Play Mats have a durable TPU outer layer and a 15mm thick foam interior, with great traction and grip for crawling. They're soft, cushiony and waterproof, which makes them perfect for newborns and toddlers. Play Mats also come in two reversible designs, so you can switch between looks.

Are they waterproof?

The Play Mat is fully waterproof. The Play Rug is water resistant, which is a big step up from a normal rug: instead of soaking up spills and holding onto stains, it lets you wipe them away. Both options are easy to wipe clean in case of spills or messes.

Are they easy to clean?

Yes. Both wipe clean after spills and messes. Full details are in our Care Guide.

When should I switch from a Play Mat to a Play Rug?

A good guide is around 2 years, when play shifts from tummy time and crawling to running, climbing and building. If your little one is on the move and you want something plusher, that's your cue. The biggest Play Mat and smallest Play Rug have almost the same footprint, so the swap is simple.

Can I put a coffee table on a Play Mat?

Play Mats are designed for floor play, not furniture, so we don't recommend placing a coffee table or other furniture on them. If you want a floor piece that can sit under a coffee table or couch, the Play Rug is the one.

Are Little Wiwa® play mats and rugs safe?

Yes. Both are certified safe and made without any toxic materials. Play Mats are compliant with Australia & New Zealand AS/NZS ISO 8124 and European EN71 Toy Standards. Play Rugs are OEKO-TEX® certified, one of the most trusted textile safety certifications in the world.

Already a Little Wiwa® mat owner?

Ask us about your special upgrade offer. Yes, special discounts! Email support@littlewiwa.com.

 

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