Splash mats are the only thing standing between your toddler’s spaghetti toss and your clean carpets.
You need a mat that fits your space, actually catches the mess, and doesn’t slide around to become a tripping hazard. Plus, it needs to survive the washing machine after a particularly chaotic dinner.
We tested top brands to find the best splash mats for every budget and home style. Put down the mop, lay one of these down, and save your floors from permanent stains.
- Can be trimmed for custom fit
- Large and durable
- Can be wiped clean
Do I Need a Splash Mat?
A splash mat, sometimes called a splat mat or drop cloth, is a waterproof barrier that goes under a baby’s high chair or play zone.
It saves you time and sanity. Instead of scrubbing rug fibers after every meal, you simply gather up the mat and shake it off (1). It lets your child explore messy foods and sensory play without you hovering over them with a sponge.
Beyond mealtime, these mats protect floors from permanent water damage and paint stains.
Here are a few ways parents use them:
- High chair catcher: Catches flying food during meals.
- Art station: Goes under easels to catch paint drips.
- Play dough barrier: Use it as a tablecloth or floor cover for play dough fun.
- Sensory play: Sits beneath sensory bins or indoor water tables.
- Sanitary surface: Creates a clean spot for babies to play on questionable public floors.
- Restaurant aid: Placed under the table at a restaurant to minimize the mess you leave behind.
- Travel boundary: Helps children identify their play space when you are away from home.
How to Choose a Splash Mat
Before you buy, think about where and how you will use the mat. Keep these factors in mind:
Use
Are you buying this strictly for the kitchen, or do you need a multitasker? If you want a mat for the playroom art easel and the dining room, look for something durable and wipeable. Purely decorative mats might not hold up to heavy paint or water spills.
Size
Grab a tape measure before you order. You want a mat large enough to catch the “blast radius” of a throwing toddler, but not so big that it curls up against walls or furniture.
Decor
Since this mat will likely live on your floor 24/7, pick a design you like. Whether you want a bold print that hides stains or a neutral tone that blends in, choose something that fits your home’s vibe.
Cleaning Instructions
This is the most critical factor. Do you want to hose it off outside, wipe it with a cloth, or throw it in the washing machine? Machine-washable options are usually the most convenient for busy parents.
Weight and Thickness
Heavier mats stay flat better, but they are harder to travel with. If you plan to toss this in your diaper bag for grandma’s house, look for lightweight, foldable fabrics rather than thick, rigid plastic.
Product Reviews
We’ve rounded up the best mats to keep your sanity intact and your floors spotless. Whether you need a heavy-duty option for arts and crafts or a portable one for travel, there is a mat here for you.
Here are seven splash mats that get the job done.
Bumkins Waterproof Splat Mat
Best Splash Mat Design
This 42-inch square mat strikes a great balance between coverage and portability. It is lightweight enough to fold up for travel, making it perfect for protecting the floors at friends’ houses or restaurants.
We love that the design is modern and fully waterproof. It wipes down easily with a rag for small spills, but you can also toss it in the washing machine when spaghetti night gets out of hand.
While it isn’t massive, it is big enough to catch typical high chair drops. Importantly, the fabric is free of BPA, PVC, vinyl, phthalates, and lead. This safety feature gives us peace of mind when our babies decide to eat dropped snacks directly off the mat.
Pros
- Square shape fits most dining areas.
- Lightweight and travel-friendly.
- Machine washable for deep cleans.
- Free of BPA, PVC, and lead.
Cons
- Must be air-dried (no dryer).
- Might be too small for aggressive food throwers.
Our Ratings
Wo Baby Splat Mat
Best Multipurpose Splash Mat
The Wo Baby mat is a multitasker designed to stay put. Unlike some lightweight mats that bunch up, this one features anti-slip silicone dots on the back to grip the floor.
It measures 51 inches square and is made from 100 percent polyester. It is free of lead, phthalates, and BPA. The water-resistant surface makes it simple to wipe down after a messy art session.
We appreciate the versatility here. You can place it under a high chair, drape it over a table for painting, or take it outside for a picnic. The bright, colorful designs are engaging for kids, turning a protective layer into a fun part of their play space.
Pros
- Works on floors and tables.
- Anti-slip backing prevents sliding.
- Bright designs engage children.
Cons
- Water-resistant, not fully waterproof (liquids may soak through eventually).
Our Ratings
Prince Lionheart Multi-purpose Catchall
Chic Chevrons
This mat is petite and stylish, making it a solid choice for smaller kitchens or apartments. It offers easy maintenance since you can wipe it with a sponge or throw it in the wash.
It is made of laminated cotton, so it feels less like a tarp and more like fabric. It folds up small, which we found excellent for trips to the grandparents’ house.
The non-slip backing helps keep it anchored, so you won’t trip over bunched-up edges. Just remember that it needs to air dry, but the lightweight material ensures it dries relatively fast.
Pros
- Compact size for tight spaces.
- Machine washable.
- Highly portable.
- Non-skid backing keeps it flat.
Cons
- Won’t cover a large area.
- No machine drying allowed.
- Dries slower than pure plastic mats.
Our Ratings
Children’s Factory Rectangular Splash Mat
Best Splash Mat for Big Messes
When you have a child who thinks “messy” is a competitive sport, you need this mat. At 50 by 72 inches, it offers massive coverage for your floors.
It is thick, durable, and heavy enough to stay put on hardwood without slipping. The material is tough, making it ideal for messy crafts, sensory bins, or multiple kids eating at once.
If the size is awkward for your room, you can simply fold the edges or trim it down to fit. Cleanup is strictly manual, wipe it with a soapy rag, but the smooth surface releases food and paint easily.
Pros
- Huge surface area.
- Customizable size (can be trimmed).
- Heavy-duty durability.
- Wipes clean easily.
Cons
- Not portable.
- Utilitarian look rather than decorative.
Our Ratings
Loodial High Chair Floor Protector
Kitchen Chameleon
If you spent a lot of time choosing your flooring, you might not want to cover it up with a bright cartoon print. This transparent vinyl mat protects your floors without clashing with your decor.
It measures 47 inches across, which fits well in most breakfast nooks. The thick plastic is 100 percent waterproof, so spilled milk won’t seep through to your hardwood or carpet.
However, the circular shape is specific to high chairs. It isn’t the best shape for rectangular art tables or broader play areas. Also, note that vinyl can crease if you fold it, so it’s best left flat.
Pros
- Transparent design matches any room.
- Fully waterproof.
- Fits well in smaller nooks.
Cons
- Plastic can crease if folded.
- Circular shape limits versatility.
- Not ideal for arts and crafts.
Our Ratings
Theo's Disposable Floor Topper
Best Disposable Splash Mats
For families who are always on the move, these disposable mats are a lifesaver. You get the protection of a mat without having to carry a dirty, food-crusted cloth back home in your bag.
Each mat is 47 by 29 inches, providing decent coverage under a high chair. They are thin, lightweight, and made from sustainably sourced materials.
With 60 mats in a pack, you are set for vacations, weekends at Grandma’s, or birthday parties. Just lay one down, let the kid make a mess, and toss it in the bin when you are done. It is the ultimate convenience move.
Pros
- Zero cleanup required; just toss it.
- Sustainably sourced materials.
- Large pack size (60 count).
Cons
- Very thin compared to reusable mats.
Our Ratings
Bumkins Waterproof Splat Mat
Fold it to Fit
This version of the Bumkins mat features a fun Super Mario design that kids adore. At 42 inches square, it is compact enough for apartments, and the pliable fabric lets you fold the edges under if you are squeezed into a tight corner.
The polyester material resists wrinkles and dries incredibly fast. Because it isn’t stiff plastic, it folds down tiny, making it easy to stash in a diaper bag pocket.
Like other Bumkins products, it is safe for your little one, containing no lead, PVC, BPA, or phthalates. It’s a great choice if you need a reliable, washable mat that travels well.
Pros
- Versatile square shape.
- Fun, engaging characters.
- Wipeable and machine washable.
- Safe materials (No PVC/BPA).
Cons
- Small size doesn’t catch wide throws.
- Design might not match formal dining rooms.
- Lacks a non-slip bottom.
How Do I Clean My Splash Mat?
Most splash mats are designed for easy maintenance. For daily messes, simply shake crumbs into the trash and wipe the mat with a damp, soapy cloth.
For bigger disasters (like spaghetti sauce explosions), many fabric-based mats are machine washable. Always use cold water to protect the waterproof coating and hang them to dry. Avoid the dryer, as high heat can melt or crack the waterproof layer.
Baby Splash Mat FAQs
Are Splash Mats Worth It?
Yes, splash mats are worth the investment for most parents. They protect expensive rugs and hardwood floors from stains and water damage, and they make post-meal cleanup significantly faster since you aren’t scrubbing the floor on your hands and knees.
What Can I Use Instead of a Splat Mat?
If you don’t have a specific splat mat, you can use a shower curtain liner, a vinyl tablecloth, or even a large broken-down cardboard box. However, these alternatives often lack non-slip backings and aren’t as easy to clean or durable as a dedicated mat.
What Is the Best Splash Mat for a Baby?
The best mat depends on your lifestyle, but the Bumkins Splat Mat is a top all-rounder due to its machine washability and safe materials. For larger messes, the Children’s Factory Mat offers superior coverage.
How Do I Keep My Splash Mat From Sliding?
If your mat bunches up, try using double-sided carpet tape on the corners or placing a non-slip rug pad underneath it. Alternatively, choose a mat with a dedicated silicone grip or rubberized backing, like the Wo Baby Splat Mat.
Can I Put a Splash Mat in the Dryer?
No, you should generally avoid putting splash mats in the dryer. The high heat can warp the plastic, melt waterproof coatings, or damage non-slip backings; it is always best to air dry them.
