Sending your little one off to day care or grandma’s house is a big milestone, but you need the right gear to make the transition smooth. A cozy, familiar nap mat provides a safe spot for your child to rest, no matter where they are.
However, with so many options, from memory foam to roll-up blankets, it’s tough to know which one will survive the washing machine and which will end up in the trash. We tested and reviewed the top nap mats on the market, evaluating them on comfort, portability, and durability.
Rest easy knowing one of these options will be a perfect fit for your toddler. Now, if only we could guarantee they’ll actually sleep!
- Attaches to standard cots & mats
- Machine washable and durable
- Has “secret” pocket
- Thick and relatively long
- Comes with a fitted sheet
- Material is Certi-PUR
- Wipe-clean surface
- Can be sanitized
- Doesn't pose suffocation risk
- 15+ Fun Disney character options
- Warm, quilted fabric
- Super comfortable memory foam
What Is a Nap Mat?
A nap mat is a portable, all-in-one bedding solution designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Unlike a standard sleeping bag, these mats often include a padded bottom, an attached blanket, and a pillow. They provide a hygienic barrier between your child and the floor.
Nap mats are essential for several scenarios:
- Day care centers: Many require parents to bring a specific type of mat.
- Travel: Great for hotels or visiting relatives.
- Camping: A cozy layer inside a tent.
- Home use: Perfect for movie nights or transitioning from a crib.
Because they are smaller than twin beds and easier to clean than carpets, nap mats help minimize germ exposure in group settings while offering a sense of security for your child.
How to Choose a Nap Mat
Before you buy, check the specific requirements of your day care provider. Once you know the rules, consider these factors:
Size
Your child needs room to stretch out. Look for a mat that is long enough to accommodate growth spurts. Standard mats are around 50 inches long, but taller toddlers may need extra length.
Portability
If your child has to carry their own mat to school, it must be lightweight. Look for mats that roll up easily and feature carrying straps or handles. Institutional vinyl mats are durable but can be bulky and difficult to transport.
Cleaning Instructions
Hygiene is non-negotiable. For potty-training toddlers, waterproof vinyl mats that wipe clean are a lifesaver. For older children, choose fabric mats that are 100% machine washable. Always check if the pillow is removable before washing to avoid lumps.
Product Reviews
We evaluated comfort, washability, and design to bring you the top nap mats available today.
Wildkin Original Nap Mat
Best Nap Mat for Toddlers
The Wildkin Original is a favorite among parents because it balances comfort with practicality. It features a cotton/polyester blend exterior and a cozy flannel lining to keep your toddler warm.
The design is incredibly user-friendly. It rolls up easily with fastening straps, and the handy carrying handle allows even small children to transport it themselves. The removable pillow is a great touch, letting you customize the comfort level.
Most importantly, the entire mat is machine washable. Just remove the pillow, toss the mat in a cold wash, and hang it to dry. With dozens of patterns available, you are sure to find a design your child loves.
Pros
- Easy cleaning: The whole mat is machine washable.
- Variety: Comes in huge selection of fun patterns.
- Convenience: Pillow and blanket are attached.
- Travel-ready: Rolls up like a sleeping bag with a handle.
Cons
- Not for infants: The loose blanket is not safe for babies.
- Absorbency: It is not waterproof, so accidents will soak through.
Our Ratings
Urban Infant All-in-One Nap Mat
Best All Rounder
If your day care utilizes raised cots, the Urban Infant Tot Cot is the ultimate solution. It features elastic corner loops that secure the mat to standard day care cots, preventing it from bunching up or sliding onto the dirty floor.
This mat is designed for longevity and ease of use. It is 100% machine washable and dryable, which saves you time on weekends. It also features a “secret” pocket where your child can stash a small stuffed animal for comfort.
While it works great on cots, note that the padding is relatively thin. If you plan to use it directly on a hard floor, you might want to add an extra layer underneath.
Pros
- Secure fit: Elastic straps attach firmly to day care cots.
- Easy maintenance: Fully machine washable and dryer safe.
- Durability: Made to withstand weekly washing.
- Fun feature: Includes a hidden pocket for a lovey.
Cons
- Padding: Thin design is better for cots than hard floors.
- Protection: It is not waterproof.
Our Ratings
Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat
Best with Pillow
For parents who prefer natural fibers, the Hi Sprout mat is an excellent choice. It is crafted from soft, breathable cotton, making it gentle on sensitive skin and reducing the risk of overheating.
This mat is plush and inviting, helping your child settle down quickly. It weighs only about three pounds and includes buckle clips and handles, so your little one can carry it to school with pride. The designs are modern and gender-neutral.
Keep in mind that while the material is high quality, the pillow and blanket are not removable, which requires careful washing to maintain the shape.
Pros
- Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Cushioning: Comfortably padded for floor sleeping.
- Fabric: Soft cotton feels great against the skin.
- Design: Stylish prints that aren’t overly cartoonish.
Cons
- Washing: Pillow is not removable, which can make drying take longer.
- Waterproofing: Lacks a waterproof barrier.
Our Ratings
Milliard Toddler Nap Mat
Best Thick Nap Mat
If comfort is your top priority, the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat delivers. It features a three-inch-thick CertiPUR-US foam base that provides mattress-like support. This is ideal for children who struggle to sleep on hard surfaces.
The design prevents the foam from compressing over time, ensuring it lasts through the preschool years. It comes with a soft bamboo cover that is removable and machine washable. The non-slip bottom keeps the mat in place even if your child tosses and turns.
However, the thickness comes with a trade-off: it does not roll up as compactly as fabric mats. It folds into a suitcase style, but it is bulkier to transport.
Pros
- Support: Three inches of thick foam.
- Hygiene: Includes a machine-washable fitted sheet.
- Safety: Uses chemical-free CertiPUR foam.
- Length: At 57 inches, it fits taller children.
Cons
- Bulk: Difficult to carry for small children.
- Cover: No waterproof layer included.
Our Ratings
Angeles 2” Super Rest Mat
Best for Day Care
The Angeles Rest Mat is the industry standard for many day care centers. It focuses on durability and sanitation. The entire surface is covered in heavy-duty, waterproof vinyl that you can sanitize with a wipe in seconds.
Inside, a 2-inch foam pad provides adequate support. The mat is sectioned to fold up into a stackable square, making storage simple for teachers. It is double-sided, usually featuring two different colors so you can designate one side for the floor and one for sleeping.
This is a “base” mat; it does not come with a blanket or pillow. You will need to provide separate bedding for warmth and comfort.
Pros
- Sanitation: Completely waterproof and wipeable.
- Durability: Built to last for years; includes warranty.
- Size: Generous length for growing kids.
Cons
- Comfort: Vinyl surface is cold and not plush.
- Accessories: Bedding is not included.
- Transport: Bulky and lacks carrying handles.
Our Ratings
KinderMat DayDreamer Rest Mat
Best Nap Mat for Babies
The KinderMat is a classic, no-frills option often requested by schools. It features a heavy-duty vinyl covering that is heat-sealed to prevent rips and tears. Like the Angeles mat, it is waterproof and incredibly easy to disinfect.
This mat is 2 inches thick, providing a barrier against cold floors without creating a high fall risk. It folds into four sections for compact storage in a cubby.
While the award mentions “babies,” please note that infants under 12 months should sleep in cribs. This mat is appropriate for young toddlers (1 year+) who need a firm, hygienic surface for supervised rest.
Pros
- Safety: Low profile prevents fall injuries.
- Hygiene: Waterproof vinyl wipes clean instantly.
- Storage: Folds up compactly.
- Cost: Generally an affordable option.
Cons
- Stiffness: Can be uncomfortable without added sheets.
- Cleaning: Not machine washable (wipe only).
- Noise: Vinyl can be crinkly when moving.
Our Ratings
Stephen Joseph All-Over Print Nap Mat
Best for Traveling
Stephen Joseph mats are famous for their adorable, high-quality designs. From sharks to unicorns, these mats make nap time fun. The all-in-one design features a soft velboa blanket attached to a polyester mat.
It is designed for families on the go. The mat rolls up tightly and includes backpack-style straps, so your child can carry it like a backpack. This frees up your hands for other bags or siblings.
The blanket is oversized (28 inches wide), ensuring your child stays covered even if they wiggle. The entire unit is machine washable, though you should remove the pillow before washing.
Pros
- Transport: Backpack straps make carrying easy.
- Warmth: Extra-wide, velvety blanket attached.
- Maintenance: Machine washable components.
- Style: Vibrant, kid-friendly themes.
Cons
- Padding: Thinner than foam mats; best for carpets.
- Pillow: Must be removed before washing.
Our Ratings
My First Mattress Memory Foam Nap Mat
Best Memory Foam Nap Mat
This premium mat uses high-density memory foam to contour to your child’s body. It specifically incorporates cooling gel foam to prevent the heat retention often associated with standard memory foam.
The mat is a half-inch thick, which sounds thin, but the density of the foam provides surprising support. It rolls up efficiently and secures with velcro straps.
The exterior is a soft, velvety fabric that is removable and machine washable. Note that this is purely a mat and pillow combo; it does not include an attached blanket, so you will need to pack one separately.
Pros
- Temperature control: Cooling gel prevents overheating.
- Safety: CertiPUR-US approved foam.
- Cleanliness: Cover is machine washable.
- Portability: Rolls up nicely with a handle.
Cons
- Protection: Not waterproof.
- Thickness: Only 0.5 inches thick.
- Missing items: Does not include a blanket.
Our Ratings
Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat
Best Disney Theme
Sometimes, the only way to get a toddler to nap is to bribe them with their favorite character. The Aquatopia mat offers a wide range of licensed Disney designs, from Mickey Mouse to Frozen.
Beyond the graphics, it is a solid sleeping system. It features a memory foam base for comfort and a soft microfiber blanket attached to the side. The pillow is included but removable for washing.
It rolls up and secures with velcro, making it easy to store in a cubby. The polyester material is durable and holds up well to regular washing.
Pros
- Appeal: Official Disney prints kids love.
- Comfort: Memory foam base plus quilted blanket.
- Convenience: All-in-one roll-up design.
Cons
- Waterproofing: Not waterproof; absorbs spills.
- Handles: Lacks a dedicated carrying handle.
- Fabric: 100% synthetic polyester.
Our Ratings
Regalo My Cot Portable Bed
Best Nap Mat With Frame
The Regalo My Cot is technically a portable toddler bed rather than a mat. It uses a sturdy steel frame to lift your child nine inches off the floor. This is excellent for camping or drafty rooms where you want to avoid cold floors.
Despite the steel frame, it is surprisingly light (around four pounds) and folds up like a camping chair into a carry bag. It comes with a fitted sheet, but the canvas material of the cot itself is waterproof and wipeable.
This is best for older toddlers who can climb in and out safely. It is not suitable for children who roll aggressively in their sleep, as they could fall off.
Pros
- Elevation: Keeps child off the cold or dirty floor.
- Cleaning: Waterproof canvas is easy to wipe down.
- Strength: Steel frame supports up to 75 pounds.
Cons
- Size: Shorter than some mats (48 inches).
- Safety: Risk of falling off for active sleepers.
What Age Can My Toddler Use a Nap Mat?
Most nap mats are designed for children aged 2 to 5 years. Always follow safe sleep guidelines.
- Under 12 Months: Do NOT use nap mats. Infants require a firm, flat surface like a crib or pack-n-play without loose bedding, pillows, or soft surfaces that could pose a suffocation risk.
- 12 to 24 Months: Nap mats can be used for supervised naps, provided the child can roll over and push up independently. However, at this age, many children still sleep better in a contained space like a travel crib to prevent wandering.
- 2 to 5 Years: This is the “golden age” for nap mats. Toddlers in day care or preschool are usually required to use them. They understand the concept of staying on their mat during quiet time.
- 5+ Years: While they may not nap, older kids use mats for lounging, reading nooks, or sleepovers.
Nap Mat FAQs
Do Kids Need Nap Mats for Kindergarten?
It depends on the school. Some kindergartens have a dedicated rest time, while others have phased it out. If they do have rest time, the school may provide mats or ask you to bring one. Always check the supply list or call the school office to confirm.
What Are Nap Mats Made Of?
Most soft nap mats feature a cotton or polyester blend exterior with a polyester fill or foam insert. Institutional mats (like those found in day cares) are typically made of thick foam covered in easy-to-clean vinyl.
How Thick Should Nap Mats Be?
Ideally, a nap mat should be at least 1.5 to 2 inches thick to provide comfort on a hard floor. Thicker mats (3 inches+) offer more comfort but are bulkier to carry. If using a thin mat, placing it on a carpeted area helps.
Are Nap Mats Safe?
Nap mats are safe for children over one year old who can move freely. Remove any plastic packaging or loose tags before use. For children under two, avoid mats with heavy, fluffy blankets or large pillows that could obstruct breathing.
How Do You Wash a Nap Mat?
Check the care label first. Fabric mats are usually machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water; remove the pillow insert if possible. Hang drying is recommended to prevent the fill from clumping. Vinyl mats should be wiped down with a disinfectant spray or warm soapy water.
Can I Use a Sleeping Bag Instead of a Nap Mat?
You can, but nap mats are generally better for indoor use. Sleeping bags are made of slippery nylon and can be noisy or too hot for a classroom. Nap mats also include integrated padding for the floor, whereas sleeping bags require a separate pad for comfort.
The Bottom Line
For a versatile option that works for day care, travel, and home, our top pick is the Urban Infant All-in-One Nap Mat. Its ability to secure to day care cots, combined with its machine-washable durability and “secret” pocket, makes it a winner for both parents and toddlers.
If you need something strictly for the floor, the Wildkin Original offers great padding and portability.
Remember, the best nap mat is one your child feels safe in. Involving them in the choice, letting them pick the color or character, can make nap time something they actually look forward to.
