A play mat endures a lot of wear and tear every day.
Cars, cookies, spills, and minor mishaps are all part of the deal.
However, maintaining a play mat doesn't have to be complicated — if you know what to look out for.
In this article, you'll learn how to properly care for a textile play mat, such as those from Mats & Joy, so that it remains soft, beautiful, and hygienic for years to come.
1. Daily maintenance: less is more
For normal use, the following is sufficient:
- Regular vacuuming (low suction setting)
- Treat small stains immediately
- Use a slightly damp cloth for accidents
Avoid aggressive cleaning agents. They can damage the fibres or the print.
👉 The sooner you treat a stain, the less chance of permanent discolouration.
2. Can you machine wash a play mat?
Not every play mat is machine washable. Foam puzzle mats, for example, cannot be machine washed.
Textile play mats like Mats & Joy can.
When washing is necessary:
- Use a delicate cycle at 30°C
- Low spin speed
- Little detergent
- No fabric softener
- No wool wash programme
- Wash the mat separately
Make sure your washing machine is large enough for the mat to move freely.
3. How do you dry a play mat correctly?
After washing:
- Dry flat
- Do not tumble dry
- Do not iron
- Do not bleach
- Do not dry clean
Allow to dry completely before using the mat again.
4. How often should you wash a play mat?
As with any textile:
The less often you wash, the better for the lifespan of the fibres and the print.
Wash only when necessary. Excessive washing shortens the lifespan of any textile product.
Regular vacuuming and prompt action on stains prevent the need for frequent full washes.
Why correct maintenance is important
A quality play mat is an investment in comfort and fun.
Mats & Joy play mats are:
- Machine washable
- Anti-slip
- CE + EN71 compliant
- Made from 100% polyester
- Designed and digitally printed in Belgium
Thanks to durable printing techniques and quality finishing, the colour remains beautiful for a long time with normal use.
Conclusion
Maintaining a play mat doesn't have to be difficult.
Regular vacuuming.
Treat stains quickly.
Wash only when necessary.
This way, your play mat stays soft, safe, and comfortable for years — ready for new adventures.