If you’re a new parent and wondering whether it’s okay to start using a playmat with your newborn - the answer is yes. In fact, it’s encouraged. Playmats can be a gentle and helpful way to support your baby’s development, starting from just a few days old.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the benefits of using a playmat early on, what to expect at each stage, and how to choose the right one for your baby.
Why a Playmat Is a Great First Step
Playmats aren’t just a soft spot for your baby to lie on - they’re actually a great developmental tool. Here's why:
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Tummy time support: It helps your baby build strength in their neck, shoulders, and core.
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Sensory development: The textures, shapes, and gentle colors help your baby process new sights and sensations.
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Early motor skills: Even lying and stretching on a playmat helps babies understand their body and movement.
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Bonding time: It creates a moment to connect with your baby — eye contact, gentle interaction, singing, or simply being present. That makes it comfortable for you to join your baby.
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Free space:The liberty to discover its motor skills.
When Can You Start Using a Playmat?
It’s safe to begin using a playmat during the first week after birth. The key is to start slow and keep it short.
0 - 1 Months
Begin with short tummy time sessions - just 1-2 minutes, a couple of times per day. At this stage, babies are still adjusting to the sensation, so it’s okay if they fuss or seem uncomfortable.
2 Months
Your baby might be ready for slightly longer sessions - up to 5 minutes at a time, several times a day. A good time to try is after a nap or feeding, when your baby is alert but calm. Make sure to build in half an hour so your baby will not have reflux. Should some be spilt on the play mat, that’s not a problem because you can just wipe it clean.
3 Months
Tummy time becomes more productive. Most babies are able to hold their head up briefly and push up a little with their arms. Around this time, playmat time often increases to 15–30 minutes per session.
4 - 6 Months
You’ll likely notice big leaps in your baby’s mobility and engagement. They may roll over, reach for toys, and interact more actively. Many parents find this is when their baby truly starts to enjoy the mat. The improved grip that the play mat gives makes the development of motor skills go faster.
6 - 9 Months
The playmat becomes more of a play space than just a place for tummy time. Babies are learning to sit, crawl, and explore their environment.
9 - 12 Months
While your baby may not spend as much time stationary on the mat, it’s still a helpful soft surface for crawling, play, and gentle landings as they become more mobile. They are also now associating the play mat as their safe space.
When to Phase Out a Playmat
Most families tend to think that play mats are not going to be used once their baby starts walking - usually around 12 to 14 months. That said, the mat is still useful as a defined play area or safe surface for diaper changes and quiet time with books and toys.
How to Choose a Good Playmat
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a playmat, especially for a newborn:
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Non-toxic materials: Look for certified EVA foam or OEKO-TEX®. Avoid mats with unclear ingredient lists.
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Minimal designs: Built-in toys may seem convenient but often aren’t very engaging long term. A clean, simple mat allows you to swap in toys your baby actually enjoys.
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Cleaning ease: Especially in those early months, you'll want something that’s easy to clean - wipeable, clean in seconds.
A Good Option to Start With: Eeveve Playmats
One option I often recommend to other parents is the Eeveve playmat. It checks all the right boxes for both newborns and growing babies:
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Soft but stable for safe tummy time with its 0.47” thick foam
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Made with safe, certified materials. You don’t want to compromise on that!
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Timeless, beautiful design that blends into your home
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Lightweight and wipe clean
It’s the kind of mat that works from the very start - and grows with your baby well into childhood.
FAQs About Playmats
Can newborns safely use a playmat?
Yes. You can begin using a playmat with your newborn for short, supervised tummy time sessions - even just a few minutes a day is beneficial for their development.
How much time should a newborn spend on a playmat?
Start with 1–2 minutes a few times per day, then gradually increase as your baby grows stronger and enjoys seeing the world around it.
What is the best surface for tummy time?
A soft foam play mat placed on a firm floor is ideal. Avoid fluffy blankets or beds, which don’t provide enough support or grip.
Is it okay if my baby doesn’t like tummy time at first?
Completely normal. Many babies resist tummy time in the beginning. Stay close, talk or sing to them, and keep sessions short and positive.
FAQs About Eeveve
Are Eeveve mats safe for newborns?
Yes, Eeveve playmats are designed with newborn safety in mind. They're free from harmful chemicals and made with baby-friendly materials.
What makes Eeveve different?
Eeveve focuses on high-quality, interior-friendly products that support your child’s development and fit beautifully in your home.
Where are Eeveve mats made?
Eeveve products are responsibly made in China and Taiwan, using strict safety and quality standards.
Do they only make playmats?
No, Eeveve also offers a full range of complementary products like dinnerware and placemats - all designed with the same style and safety focus.
Final Thoughts
Introducing a playmat early on is a small step with big benefits for both cognitive and gross motor skills development. It helps your baby grow stronger, explore their world, and connect with you (don’t underestimate how many hours you’re going to spend on the floor as well) - all from the safety of a soft, well-designed surface.
Whether you’re in the first days of parenthood or getting ready for milestones like rolling or crawling, a playmat like Eeveve’s is a smart, supportive choice.
