When it comes to baby gear, play mats are a must-have. Extra-large mats give babies lots of room to roll around, crawl, and play pretend. Despite all the advantages, parents often wonder if extra-large play mats are easy to clean. After all, anything that remains on the floor is going to get dirty with crumbs and sticky fingers.
The good news? Yes, most extra large play mat in Australia are easy to clean as they are made to withstand genuine family life. Everything is conditional on the materials, the design, and the level of maintenance. Learn all about the factors that make cleaning an extra-large play mat a breeze (or a nightmare) and how to maintain its pristine condition for years to come.
What Makes a Play Mat Easy to Clean?
1. Material Type
The play mat’s substance determines how simple it is to clean more than anything else. The most popular kinds are these:
Foam (with EVA, PE, or PU additives):
Soft and padded, foam mats are ubiquitous. You can clean most of them with a moist towel because they are water-resistant. There is a wide range of quality, though; lower-priced foam mats could be more prone to stains or degradation with repeated washing.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):
Thermoplastic polyurethane, or TPU, is a high-quality material that many contemporary play mats are made of. It is extremely easy to clean since it is waterproof, long-lasting, and stain-resistant.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):
Although some cushioned mats are crafted from PVC—Polyvinyl Chloride—which is both waterproof and simple to wash down, not all of them are phthalate- and chemical-free. Get the ones that are certified non-toxic.
Cotton or Fabric-Covered Mats:
Mats made of cotton or other fabric are cozier and more comfortable to walk on, but they aren’t as practical when it comes to cleaning unless the cover is detachable and can be machine-washed. If not, they are more likely to soak up liquids and become stained.
See also: Why the Canna Coco Nutrient is a Game-Changer for Home Growers
2. Waterproofing
The vast majority of premium extra-large mats are either completely waterproof or at least resistant to water, so they won’t soak up any spills. With this, all it takes to clean up a mess is a paper towel or a cloth.
Inspect the product details for claims of a “waterproof layer,” “sealed surface,” or “wipe-clean finish.”
3. Puzzle Mats vs. Seamless Design
- Floating floor coverings: Due to the lack of crevices and joints, they are less likely to collect dirt, dust, and liquids, making them easier to clean.
- Puzzle mats (interlocking tiles): These are flexible and can be made bigger, but they can be harder to clean because things can get stuck between the pieces. At regular intervals, disassemble them to clean the undersides.
4. Resistance to Stains
There are materials that can withstand stains better than others. The best extra large play mat in Australia includes a layer that prevents stains from common household items like juice, baby food, and even markers. If spills aren’t cleaned up right once, some surfaces could absorb colors or become permanent stains.
Cleaning Tips for Extra Large Play Mats
Daily Wipe-Down
Wipe the surface gently using a cloth dampened with warm water and a gentle soap. This inhibits the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.
Regularly Clean
Apply a baby-safe disinfectant spray or a mixture of diluted vinegar and water on the mat once weekly (or more frequently if your infant is unwell). Bleach and other strong chemicals should not be used unless the manufacturer indicates otherwise.
Eliminate Spills Right Away
Make sure to clean up spills quickly, particularly those involving colorful liquids or food. If you want to clean up spills without ruining your mat, use a moist microfiber towel.
Monthly Deep Cleaning
If the weather is nice or if you just happen to be in an open area, clean your extra-large mat outside. Take the pieces of the puzzle mat and clean them separately. Before putting it back together or rolling it out again, make sure everything dries well to prevent mold.
Keep an eye out for possible pet hair or dust.
Fur may easily accumulate on play mats if you have pets. To maintain a hair-free surface, use a handheld vacuum or lint roller.
Conclusion
If you choose the right one, extra-large play mats really aren’t hard to clean. Choose premium materials with sealed, water-resistant surfaces, such as TPU or non-toxic foam. Keep away from materials that soak up a lot of water unless they’re specifically made to be washed in the machine. Your young one will always have a clean, safe place to play, explore, and develop on your mat if you maintain it properly.
If you’re looking for extra large play mat in Australia that are both stylish and easy to clean, go no further than Miss Amara’s selection.
