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Image: MomJunction Design Team
Help your child enjoy a comfortable and sound sleep with the best nap mats. Children should ideally sleep for around ten hours a day for optimal rest. Good sleep enhances their growth and development and helps them stay active when awake. Although they can sleep in their beds, you may use soft and cushioned mats for daytime naps. You can carry these lightweight and portable mats while on holiday or at a relative’s place for convenience.
Gopa Bezboruah, a parenting and travel blogger, says, “With the right nap mat, you can ensure that your child gets quality sleep when traveling or outdoors. These mats can also come in handy as a safe space for your baby to play or unwind.”
These tried-and-tested mats are available in various sizes and designs to suit your child’s needs. So, read on to know more and make an informed decision.
Top Picks
13 Best Nap Mats
1. Best Disney-Theme:Disney Toddler Nap Mat
Available in different colors and designs, the Disney nap mat is lightweight and super soft. It measures 33x30in in size and weighs 1.02lb. The mat is made of thick microfiber material and can be rolled up to be carried anywhere.
Pros
- Comfortable and cozy
- Made with BPA and latex-free material
- Comes with a padded pillow and blanket
- Has Velcro closure and a name tag
Cons
- May not be durable
- May wear off after a wash
"My little girl was thrilled to receive this princess-themed mat as a birthday present. She now insists on carrying it everywhere. It's also pretty lightweight, and the integrated blanket eliminates the need to take a separate one. It could have been fluffier, but it's still functional."
Point to consider2. Best Machine-Washable:Urban Infant All-In-One Nap Mat
The premium-quality nap mat is available in 11 bright colors. Winner of the Mom’s Choice award, the all-in-one mat for toddlers comes with a removable pillow and a blanket that can be rolled in with the mat. The base of the mat is made from a soft blend of quilted cotton, making it comfortable. The mat measures 22x1x52in and is easy to carry while traveling.
Pros
- Easy to use and portable
- Lightweight and durable fleece blanket
- Phthalate-free and lead-free
- Has a secret pocket
- Also fits certain toddler cots
- Machine-washable
Cons
- May not be too soft
- Material could be too thin
"Interior pockets and a removable pillow are the highlights of this nap mat. Its color is also vibrant and resists fading even when washed regularly. I even find its roll-up mechanism very convenient, making it a dependable find."
3. Best Travel-Friendly:Wildkin Original Nap Mat
Soft, hygienic, travel-friendly, and cozy nap mat designed for toddlers, this one is made of polyester and cotton to provide a comfortable sleeping experience for the little one. The nap mat is designed in 18 attractive and colorful designs, and you may pick your child’s favorite color.
Pros
- Measures 50×1.5x20in
- Pillow and blanket included
- Comes with a convenient carrying handle
- Lightweight and travel-friendly design
Cons
- Mat may not be padded
- May not be too soft
"In addition to keeping my little one comfortable, the removable and washable pillow also makes it a breeze to maintain. It was a little stiff when new but has softened with regular use. Besides, its durable build assures me that it will last long."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 1,334 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
Disney Toddler Nap Mat Best Disney-Theme | Urban Infant All-In-One Nap Mat Best Machine-Washable | Wildkin Original Nap Mat Best Travel-Friendly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 44"L x 33"W | 52 x 22 x 1 inches | 50"L x 20"W |
| Shape | Rectangular | - | Rectangular |
| Color | Disney Frozen | Balloons | Unicorn |
| Weight | 1.02 Pounds | 1 pounds | 2 Pounds |
| Material | BPA Free, Latex Free | Pillow | Cotton |
| Outer Material | - | - | Polyester, Cotton |
| Fill Material | - | - | Down, Cotton |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 175 | 1,563 | 1,334 |
| Price | $28.89 | $42.95 | $59.99 |
4. Best Ultra-Soft:Baby Shark Toddler Nap Mat
The ultra-soft mat comes with a pillow and blanket to let your toddler have a quality nap time. It can be folded and carried anywhere, such as daycare or on vacation. This mat is made of baby-friendly polyester fleece material and can be washed in a machine.
Pros
- Measures 47x21x1in
- Easy to use and is portable
- Has Velcro for closure
- Quilted mat
- Ideal mat for daycare and preschool
Cons
- May have thin padding
- May not be in the same condition after a wash
"I prefer carrying this mat to the beach or park, as it is lightweight and rolls into a bag-like structure. Its vibrant colors have also withstood rain and shine well. While it is not the plushiest, it serves the purpose well."
5. Best For Gifting: Bluey Jay Franco Thomas & Friends Nap Mat
Your child can now take a nap on a mat with their favorite superheroes, such as spiderman, hulk, and iron man, or a cartoon character’s image on it. The high-quality nap mat can be trusted by moms and dads as it comes with a soft pillow and a blanket and is ideal for children aged from three to five.
Pros
- High-quality and travel-friendly
- Mat measures 20x46in
- Pillow measures 9.5x20in
- Ideal as a gift
Cons
- May not have proper cushioning
- Could be thin
"Although thinner than expected, this mat has charmed my little one with its colorful designs. It's also easy to clean, and the nag tag is a nice add-on. Moreover, the built-in handle makes portability hassle-free."
6. Best All-In-One:Lambs & Ivy Nap Mat
Made of cotton and polyester, this all-in-one mat for toddlers comes in five different designs and includes a blanket and a pillow in the set. It can be carried to any place conveniently once it is rolled up.
Pros
- Soft and lightweight
- Measures 21.5x1x46in
- Comes with a carry handle
- Ideal for kids aged two to five
Cons
- Could be small in size
- Could be thin without padding
"My child loves napping on this mat due to its vibrant colors and car prints. While the sleeping area is pretty soft, its pillow could have been fluffier. Still, I carry it everywhere as it's simple to clean and rolls up easily."
Do remember7. Best Breathable: JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat
Designed with a breathable fabric featuring a cotton outer layer and a plush mink-type inner layer, this JumpOff Jo toddler nap mat allows your little one to sleep peacefully and comfortably during sleepovers, daycare, travel, and in preschool. The adorable floral design on the mat takes your toddler to a dreamy world that aims to inspire whimsical naptime stories. Additionally, the pillow cover can be removed and machine washed for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Pros
- Plush blanket with soft padding for comfort
- Space-efficient design and easy roll-up feature
- Includes a carrying strap handle, name tag, and Velcro closures
- Wipeable surface – gets softer with every wash
Cons
- May not be shrink-proof
- Length may be shorter than expected
"With its plush yet machine-washable build, this mat strikes the right balance between comfort and practicality. Its designs also look charming, and the detachable pillow allows my daughter to use it as she needs. Just a heads-up: choose the larger size if you have a tall toddler."
8. Best Design: Wake In Cloud Nap Mat
The Wake In Cloud nap mat for toddlers is made with a superior-quality soft cotton outer layer and plush polyester filling to provide the utmost comfort to your child. This trusted brand’s product features an all-in-one design that includes a sleeping mat, a blanket, and a removable pillow insert with soft microfiber filling. In addition, the dreamy space-themed pattern makes it the perfect toddler nap mat for capturing a child’s attention.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Can be rolled up and secured with velcro straps for easy storage
- Features an attached handle for portability
- Available in five playful patterns and two sizes
- Lightweight and versatile
Cons
- May not be shrink-proof
- Some may not find it thick enough
"This nap pad is going strong despite being used and washed regularly. It is also roomy enough to accommodate my son, and the built-in pillow and blanket are thoughtful. Its padding could have been better, but it still feels comfortable."
9. Best With Name Tag: Delta Children Nap Mat
The Delta Children’s nap mat is ergonomically designed to help parents ensure their child’s utmost comfort when they leave them at daycare or preschool. The tried-and-tested nap mat comes with a transparent sleeve for inserting a name tag for easy and instant identification. It measures 53L x 20W inches, making it suitable for children between the ages of three and six years.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Roll-up design for space-efficiency
- Includes handle for easy portability
- Hook-and-loop straps for added security
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Softness of the mink fabric may not meet expectations
- Some may not find it plush enough
"Thanks to the built-in Velcro strap, I can carry this mat in my bag without worrying about it unraveling. I did find the material stiff, but it has softened after washing. Besides, its galaxy-themed design is exquisite and has remained vibrant even after being used daily."
Do remember10. Best Durable:Stephen Joseph All-Over Print Nap Mat
The high-quality toddler nap mat has colorful and attractive prints that your child will approve of. Some of the baby-friendly designs available include an owl, butterfly, dino, rainbow, princess, and more. The set includes a pillow and a blanket made of machine-washable fabric. This dad-and-mom-approved mat is easy to roll up and can be secured with elastic travel loop fasteners for compact storage.
Pros
- Super soft and durable
- Requires low maintenance
- Can be folded and carried to places
- Mat is 20x52in in size
- Made with polyester material
Cons
- Color may be different from what is shown
"Both the vivid patterns and plush texture of this sleep mat are impressive. Its thoughtful features, like the removable pillow and large pocket, are also lovely. Plus, it folds flat, allowing me to carry it with ease."
11. Best Convertible: Unicorns And Robots Nap Mat
The fun and cuddly nap mat comes with a zipper closure to provide the child with a comfortable and snug fit when they are sleeping. It features a fun shark-based sleeping bag with a pillow and can be converted into a squishy, soft toy when rolled up, serving as a companion for your child. The children’s rest mat features a breathable and cozy material, ensuring maximum comfort.
Pros
- Suitable for sleepovers
- Lightweight and portable
- Available in other interesting characters
- Easy to maintain and machine-washable
Cons
- Inner lining may not be soft enough
- Seams may come apart with use
"Its unique shark design was the first thing to catch my fancy. Besides, my little one loves its plush cushion and soft material. I’ve noticed the occasional crinkly noise, but it's still a playful sleep accessory that my son adores."
12. Best Foldable: ECR4Kids Folding Rest Mat
The ECR4Kids expert-approved folding nap mat is made with high-quality vinyl material that is easy to clean and durable. Its foam filling allows your child to have a comfortable and restful nap. The accordion-style foldable design makes it space-efficient and allows you to store it hassle-free. In addition, its dual-colored design makes it easy to distinguish between the “sleep side” and “floor side”.
Pros
- Water-resistant children’s rest mat
- Lightweight and portable
- CSPIA-compliant vinyl nap mat
- Travel-friendly foam mat
Cons
- Size may be smaller than expected
- Seams may not be durable
"The best thing about this mat is its versatility, which allows me to use it as a nap pad, tummy time support, and for play. Although well padded, it folds compactly, making it easy to carry. Plus, the waterproof build is a boon for keeping it spot-free."
13. Best Comfortable: Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Toddler Nap Mat
Paw patrol’s bright and colorful nap mat for children comes in handy when they are on vacation or having a sleepover with friends. It is made of polyester and has a soft surface or texture. Plus, it is warm, making it ideal for a good nap time. The baby-friendly quilted mat comes with an attached blanket and a pillow.
Pros
- Easy to use and comfortable
- 12x8x8in in size
- Has Velcro tabs for closure
- Can be washed in a machine
- Ideal for toddlers
Cons
- May not have proper padding
"This mat is apt for my toddler regardless of whether he is napping at home or daycare. Despite being soft, it rolls up smoothly and can be cleaned without much effort. Overall, it has been a decent pick for daily use."
How To Choose The Right Nap Mats?
Choosing the best nap mat for your children becomes easy when you check these features carefully.
- Type: From among the different types of nap mats, you need to choose one that meets your child’s requirements. Some of the common options include a foam-based mat, roll up mat, cushion-like mat, and cot mats. You may figure out the major purpose of using a mat and then decide.
- Size and weight: The nap mat should be light in weight, and longer than your child’s height. Get a bigger mat so that your child can use it for a long time.
- Material: Look for toddler nap mats that are made of cotton or polyester material and are free of harsh chemicals. These are soft, comfortable, and could be safe for your child’s sensitive skin.
- Others: You may also look for nap mats that come with a washable pillow and blanket. They should be thick and cushioned, foldable, slip-resistant, and have a travel-friendly design.
The Bottom Line
Investing in some of the best nap mats for your precious little ones may enhance their sleep quality. Cushioned and soft, they act as a barrier between the floor and the child, providing a comfy, cozy, and protected place to take their midday naps. There are many options to choose from, including foam-based, roll-up, cushion-like, and cot mats, and you can pick one based on your requirements. The top picks include the Urban Infant All-In-One Nap Mat with a removable pillow, the Disney Toddler Nap Mat in vibrant colors, and the travel-friendly Wildkin Original Nap Mat. Moreover, consider size, weight, and materials before choosing the ideal one for your child.
Infographic: What Features Should A Good Nap Mat For Toddlers Have?
A bed is an ideal place to sleep, but after playing around the house and outside, your toddler may sleep anywhere and even on the floor. Therefore, a good nap mat is worth investing in to ensure your little one sleeps soundly, even on the ground. Look at the infographic below for important tips for choosing a good mat.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At what age can my toddler use a nap mat?
Typically, nap mats are suitable for children aged two to five years. However, as you know, every child’s growth rate is different, so some bigger-sized nap mats can be used by children older than five.
2. When will my child be ready to give up naps?
Children are generally ready to give up their nap time after the age of five. However, if your child has trouble sleeping at night, you should make them take a nap in the afternoon so that they can get a sufficient amount of sleep.
3. How do I wash my nap mat?
You can simply wash your nap mat in a washing machine in cold water on a gentle cycle. However, if your nap mat comes with a detachable pillow, make sure to remove it before washing the mat.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, an experienced reviewer of children’s products, has compiled a list of the best nap mats that are easy to carry and provide optimal comfort. She has gone through several websites and tester’s experiences and compared several products before recommending these mats to you. Also, she has added a detailed description of the type, material, and size to help you choose the right product for yourself. The post also includes a buying guide with the necessary information for your convenience.
References
- Best Practices for Nap and Rest.
https://ndchildcare.org/file_download/4658d526-6c8b-4484-99d1-3fdb865fe9ee
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