Home / News / No matter the age of your little one, finding an effective non-toxic play mat is of utmost importance
No matter the age of your little one, finding an effective non-toxic play mat is of utmost importance. Parents increasingly search for products without BPAs, formaldehyde, lead and phthalates; that includes materials used to construct it as well as toys accompanying it. You're fortunate that TPU is non-odorous and safe enough for infants to lick or bite while providing a non-slip surface - an important consideration when looking for products suitable for tummy time or play mat use!
TPU foam differs from cross-linked polyethylene (PE) or PVC foams in that it does not off-gas or leach toxic plastic additives, and is fully recyclable, making it one of the safest options available in a play mat for babies who may be at increased risk from chemical exposure.
TPU (thermoplastic elastomer) is an elastic material, meaning that it stretches and bends easily to accommodate different shapes of toys or objects, as well as being soft and durable enough to absorb impacts from falls without harming a baby's head or body. TPU's flexible nature also makes it perfect for play mats as it needs to accommodate baby's movements without creating obstacles in play.
TPU play mats are also great choices because of how easily they can be cleaned. Thanks to its smooth surface, it wipes up quickly after dealing with spilled milk or food, unlike PE or vinyl mats that become messy when dealing with drool and spit-up. Plus, unlike polyester mats which retain odors that could spread throughout your home.
Most TPU baby play mats are machine washable, making life easier for parents. Many are even covered by warranties to ensure you can replace it if it becomes damaged from normal wear and tear, with various colors and patterns to match any decor - some even offering reversible designs for extra style!
The ideal TPU baby play mats are certified to comply with ISO and EN71 standards, making them safe for licking and chewing by babies. Furthermore, they're odorless, lead- and phthalate-free with no harmful chemicals added; many come covered with thick organic cotton fabric certified as both OEKO-TEX and GOTS certified which further helps alleviate irritation for young ones.
TPU baby play mats from some of the more acclaimed brands come in an array of neutral colors to accommodate every home decor and child. Many models are even reversible so you can switch up designs when they become outdated or as your child outgrows it.