Top 7 Best Nap Mats For Daycare: Portable & Cheap
Have you visited countless stores and still can’t decide on a nap mat that matches your preferences?
If that’s the case, I have researched the best nap mats for your daycare kids, including Urban Infant Tot Cot, Wildkin Original Nap Mat, Stephen Joseph Nap Mat, Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat. They are easy to clean and durable, making them the perfect choice for daycare.
I have created 7 best nap mats for daycare, including factors and tips for choosing the best ones. I have extensively covered the best nap mats for different age groups. From toddlers to preschoolers. so that your kids have the best nap in daycare.
Let’s look at the top choices for daycare nap mats.
Top 7 Best Nap Mats For Daycare
Here are the top7 nap mats for daycare according to various sources:
1. Urban Infant Tot Cot
Urban Infant Tot Cot is one of the most popular nap mats for daycare. It has been specifically designed to meet the needs of toddlers and preschoolers. It comes with a built-in pillow, name label, and blanket. The mat is made from a soft, durable material that can be easily cleaned.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 22 x 50 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Includes built-in pillow, name label, and blanket
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Lightweight and compact design for easy portability
- Folds up into a small carrying case for convenient storage
- Unique elastic straps to secure the mat when folded
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Comes with built-in pillow, name label, and blanket
- Durable material that can withstand daily use
Cons:
- May not be suitable for older or taller children
- Price may be on the higher side compared to other nap mats
Usability
Urban Infant Tot Cot is designed with daycare in mind. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and store. The built-in pillow, name label, and blanket make it convenient for daycare staff to keep track of each child’s mat. The elastic straps also ensure that the mat stays securely folded during transportation.
Why Choose Urban Infant Tot Cot?
Urban Infant Tot Cot is a top choice for daycare because of its durability, convenience, and design. It has all the necessary features for a comfortable nap time at daycare and is easy to clean and maintain. Its compact design and built-in features make it a hassle-free option for both parents and daycare staff.
Price Overview
Urban Infant Tot Cot is a bit more expensive than other nap mats, with prices ranging under $ 50 depending on the color and design. While it may be pricier, its durability and convenience make it worth the investment for daycare use.
2. Wildkin Original Nap Mat
Wildkin Original Nap Mat is another top choice for daycare nap mats. It comes in various fun and playful designs that will surely catch your child’s eye.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 50 x 20 inches x 1.5
- Recommended for: Preschoolers
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Attached blanket with built-in pillow
- Easy roll-up design with Velcro closures and carrying handle
- Comes in various fun designs
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fun and playful designs to choose from
- Attached blanket and built-in pillow for extra comfort
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
Cons:
- May not be suitable for toddlers or older children
- Some may find it less padded compared to other nap mats
Usability
Wildkin Original Nap Mat is perfect for preschoolers with its attached blanket and built-in pillow. The easy roll-up design with Velcro closures and carrying handle makes it convenient to transport and store. Its soft material also provides a comfortable place for children to rest during nap time.
Why Choose Wildkin Original Nap Mat?
Wildkin Original Nap Mat stands out for its fun and playful designs, making it a great choice for a child’s personal nap mat in daycare. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it practical for daily use.
Price Overview
Wildkin Original Nap Mat is reasonably priced, ranging under $ 30 depending on the design. Its affordability and durability make it a popular choice among parents for daycare use.
2. Baby Boom Nap Mat
Baby Boom Nap Mat is a complete set with a mat, blanket, and pillow. It is designed for easy travel and comfortable naps for your child.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 46 x 21 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Includes mat, blanket, and pillow
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Easy roll-up design with Velcro closures and carrying handle
- Comes with a convenient strap for easy transportation
- Can be easily separated into a mat, blanket, and pillow for individual use
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Complete set includes mat, blanket, and pillow
- Easy to transport and store
- Durable material for daily use
Cons:
- May not be suitable for older or taller children
- Some may find it less padded compared to other nap mats
Usability
Baby Boom Nap Mat is perfect for daycare with its complete set and easy roll-up design. It can also be easily separated into a mat, blanket, and pillow for individual use if needed. The convenient strap makes it easy to transport and store. The durable material ensures that it can withstand daily use at daycare.
Why Choose Baby Boom Nap Mat?
Baby Boom Nap Mat offers a complete set for a comfortable nap time for your child in daycare. Its easy transportation and storage features make it practical for both parents and daycare staff. It is also made from durable material, ensuring long-lasting use.
Price Overview
Baby Boom Nap Mat is priced reasonably and competitively, with prices ranging under $ 20 depending on the design. Its affordable price and complete set make it a great option for daycare use.
3. Stephen Joseph Nap Mat
Stephen Joseph Nap Mat is a popular choice among parents and daycare facilities for its fun and vibrant designs, durability, and convenience.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 20 x 52 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Attached blanket with built-in pillow
- Easy roll-up design with Velcro closures and carrying handle
- Comes in various fun designs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fun and vibrant designs to choose from
- Attached blanket and built-in pillow for extra comfort
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
Cons
- May not be suitable for older or taller children
- Some may find it less padded compared to other nap mats
Usability
Stephen Joseph Nap Mat is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers with its attached blanket and built-in pillow. The easy roll-up design with Velcro closures and carrying handle makes it convenient to transport and store. Its soft material also provides a comfortable place for children to rest during nap time.
Why Choose Stephen Joseph Nap Mat?
Stephen Joseph Nap Mat offers a wide selection of fun and vibrant designs, making it a popular choice among young children. Its convenient features such as the attached blanket and built-in pillow, as well as its durability and ease of maintenance, make it a top choice for daycare use.
Price Overview
Prices for Stephen Joseph Nap Mat range from under $ 25 to over $ 50, depending on the design and seller. Despite its slightly higher price point compared to other nap mats, its fun designs and durability make it a worthwhile investment for parents and daycare facilities.
4. Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat
Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat is a simple and functional option for nap time at daycare or on the go. It offers a compact design with attached blanket and pillow, making it easy to transport and store.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 50 x 28 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Attached blanket and pillow for convenience
- Compact design with easy roll-up closure and handles for transportation
- Comes in various colors and patterns
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport
- Durable material for daily use
- Offered in a variety of colors and patterns to choose from
Cons
- May not be suitable for older or taller children
- Some may find it less padded compared to other nap mats
Usability
Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers with its compact design and attached blanket and pillow. The easy roll-up closure and handles make it convenient to transport, while the soft material provides a comfortable place for children to rest.
Why Choose Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat?
Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat is a simple and practical option for nap time, whether at daycare or on the go. Its lightweight and compact design, along with its variety of colors and patterns, make it a popular choice among parents.
Price Overview
Prices for Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat range from under $ 20 to over $ 25, depending on the design and seller. Its affordable price and functionality make it a great choice for daycare use.
5. JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat
JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat is a versatile option for nap time, with its removable pillow and blanket. It also offers a compact design and convenient carrying strap.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 21 x 46 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Removable pillow and blanket for customizable comfort
- Compact design with easy roll-up closure and carrying strap
- Comes in various colors and patterns
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Customizable comfort with removable pillow and blanket
- Lightweight and compact for transport
- Variety of colors and patterns to choose from
Cons
- May not be suitable for taller or older children
- Some may find it less padded compared to other nap mats
Usability
JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat offers the flexibility of a removable pillow and blanket, allowing for customizable comfort. Its compact design and carrying strap make it convenient to transport, while its soft material provides a comfortable spot for children to rest during nap time.
Why Choose JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat?
JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat’s versatility and convenience make it a popular choice among parents. Its removable pillow and blanket, along with its compact design and variety of colors and patterns, make it a top contender for daycare use.
Price Overview
Prices for JumpOff Jo Toddler Nap Mat range from under $ 40 to over $ 50, depending on the design and seller. Its slightly higher price point is justified by its customizable comfort and functionality for nap time. Overall, it’s a great investment for both parents and daycare facilities.
6. Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat
Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat offers superior comfort with its memory foam padding and attached pillow. It also features an easy fold-up design for storage and transportation.
Product Overview
- Dimensions: 52 x 21 inches
- Recommended for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Made from soft, durable material
- Machine washable
Features
- Memory foam padding and attached pillow for extra comfort
- Easy fold-up design with carrying handle for convenience
- Available in various Disney character designs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Superior comfort with memory foam padding
- Attached pillow increases support and cushioning
- Compact and easy to transport with fold-up design and carrying handle
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other nap mats
- Limited designs available
Usability
Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat is a top choice for parents and daycare facilities looking for ultimate comfort for their children during nap time. The memory foam padding and attached pillow provide extra support and cushioning, while the easy fold-up design makes it convenient to store and transport.
Why Choose Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat?
Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat stands out for its superior comfort and support, making it a great investment for nap time. Plus, with its Disney character designs, children will love their favorite characters keeping them company during their naps.
Price Overview
Prices for Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat range from under $ 50 to over $ 60, depending on the design and seller. While it may be pricier than other options, its quality and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for children’s rest and relaxation. Overall, when choosing a nap mat, consider factors such as size, material, convenience, and cost to find the best fit for your child’s needs.
Why Should You Trust My Selection?
I understand the importance of finding quality products for children. I am dedicated to providing unbiased and thorough research when selecting the best nap mats.
Criteria for Selection
When selecting nap mats, I consider factors such as durability, comfort, convenience, and affordability. These are important aspects that can make or break a product’s usefulness for children. I also take into account customer reviews and feedback to ensure that the chosen products have a good track record among parents and caregivers.
Unbiased Research Approach
I prioritize unbiased research when selecting products to provide honest and reliable information for readers. This means I do not receive any form of compensation or incentives from manufacturers or sellers, ensuring that my selections are based solely on their quality and suitability for children.
Overall, my goal is to provide helpful and informative content that parents and caregivers can trust when making decisions about products for their little ones. From affordable options like Hi Sprout Lightweight Nap Mat to high-end choices like Aquatopia Deluxe Memory Foam Nap Mat, there are many great nap mats available in the market.
Daycare Nap Mats for Different Age Groups
Nap time is an essential part of a child’s day at daycare. It gives them the rest and recharge they need to continue learning and playing throughout the day.
As caregivers, we are responsible for ensuring that children have a comfortable and safe place to nap. One way to achieve this is by providing age-appropriate nap mats for different age groups.
Infant Nap Mats
Infant nap mats are designed for babies under 12 months old who need more supervision and care during naps.
- They should be firm, flat, and free of loose bedding, pillows, or toys that could pose a choking or suffocation hazard.
- They should also be placed on their back and away from any cords, heaters, or windows that could cause injury or overheating.
- Infant nap mats should be cleaned and sanitized regularly to prevent infections or rashes.
Toddler Nap Mats
Toddler nap mats are designed for children between 1 and 3 years old who are more independent
and active during naps.
- They should be soft, cozy, and fun to encourage them to sleep and relax.
- They should also have features like removable pillows, nap bags, or funky designs to make them more appealing and personalized.
- Toddler nap mats should be washed and dried frequently to keep them fresh and clean.
Preschool Nap Mats
Preschool nap mats are designed for children between 3 and 5 years old who are more mature and responsible during naps.
- They should be comfortable, durable, and hygienic to support their growth, development, and health.
- They should also have some options, such as quilted surfaces, mattress protectors, or padding, to make them more adaptable and versatile.
- Correct labeling and storage of preschool nap mats are essential to prevent confusion, as young children in this age group often prefer sleeping on their designated mats.
Factors to Consider For Choosing Best Nap Mat For Daycare
When choosing a nap mat for your child, it is important to consider age-appropriateness, comfort, safety, convenience, and value for money. Each child has unique needs and preferences, so it is essential to consider these factors carefully to find the best fit.
Portability and Ease of Use
For caregivers, it’s essential to consider the portability and ease of use of nap mats. Look for options that are lightweight and easy to fold or roll up for storage and transportation. It’s also helpful to have a carrying handle or strap for convenience. The Urban Infant Tot Cot All-In-One Preschool Nap Mat is a great example, with its compact and portable design.
Safety Features and Compliance with Standards
Nap mats should also prioritize safety features and comply with industry standards. Look for options that are flame-retardant, have non-slip backing, and meet CPSIA testing requirements. The KinderMat Basic Rest Mat is a top choice for its reliable safety features.
Ideal Size for Daycare Mats
The nap mat size should match the child’s height and weight, as well as the space available at the daycare.
You don’t want a nap mat that is too small or too big for your children, as that could affect their comfort and safety. The ideal size for a nap mat is usually between 45 and 60 inches long and between 20 and 30 inches wide.
You don’t want a nap mat that takes up too much room or doesn’t fit on the cot or floor at the daycare. So do consider the size of your available cots and floor.
Material of Daycare Mats
The material of the nap mat affects its comfort, durability, and hygiene.
Buy a nap mat made of soft fabrics, such as cotton, polyester, flannel, or fleece.These fabrics are gentle on a child’s skin and provide warmth and insulation.
Consider buying a nap mat with a waterproof or water-resistant layer or cover, such as vinyl or nylon. This layer protects the nap mat from spills, stains, and germs and makes cleaning easy.
Ideal Price for Daycare Mats
The price of the nap mat depends on its quality, size, material, and design.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get good nap mats for your daycare, but you also don’t want to compromise on quality or safety.
The ideal price range for a nap mat is usually between $20 and $60. But it really depends on the age group of children. Babies would require more safe nap settings, i.e., cribs or cots, and they would cost more.
Design of Toddler Mat
The design of the nap mat affects its appeal and functionality. Opt for a nap mat design that has a fun and colorful look. Your children will love and enjoy using such designs.
You should also consider buying a nap mat that has some useful features, such as:
Removable Pillow
A removable pillow provides extra support and comfort for the child’s head and neck. It also makes it easier to wash and store the nap mat.
Nap Bag
A nap bag is a carrying case or pouch holding the nap mat when rolled up or folded. It makes it convenient to transport and store the nap mat.
Funky Designs
Funky designs are patterns or prints that make the nap mat more attractive and interesting for your child.
They can include animals, characters, shapes, letters, numbers, or anything children normally like.
Quilted
Quilted means that the nap mat has stitching or seams with soft fillings that create a texture on the surface. This makes the floor mat more comfortable and cozy to sleep on.
You might also like to read: Best Blanket for Daycare for more information on choosing the best blanket for your child’s daycare needs.
Tips For Choosing Best Nap Mats
When it comes to choosing the best nap mats for your children, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Consider your child’s age and size when selecting a nap mat.
- Check the material of the nap mat for comfort and durability.
- Read user reviews online to get a better idea of other parents’ experiences with the product.
- Ensure that the nap mat complies with safety standards.
- Choose a nap mat that is portable and easy to use for caregivers.
- Pay attention to the ideal size for daycare mats, considering both available space and child’s size.
- Look for nap mats made of soft fabrics with a waterproof or water-resistant layer for added protection and hygiene.
- Keep in mind the ideal price range for a good-quality nap mat.
- Consider fun and functional design features, such as a removable pillow, nap bag, or quilted surface.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find the best nap mat for your child that meets their needs and keeps them comfortable and safe during naps. Remember to also involve your child in the decision-making process by letting them choose from a few options.
You might also want to read: How to Get Toddler to Nap at Daycare
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Do Kids Use Nap Mats?
Nap mats are suitable for children who are 12 months old or older, but how they are used will vary depending on their age group.
- Babies under one year: You should not use nap mats for infants. Babies are the safest sleeping in cribs, pack-n-plays, or bassinets without bumpers or blankets.
- Toddlers between one and three years: You can use nap mats for toddlers who need a comfortable and hygienic place to nap away from home. Toddlers usually need one or two naps per day, depending on their sleep schedule and needs.
- Preschoolers between three and five years: You can use nap mats for preschoolers who still take naps at school or daycare. Preschoolers usually need one nap per day, but some may outgrow napping by age four or five.
How Thick Should a Nap Mat Be?
The thickness of the nap mat depends on the child’s preference and comfort level. Generally, a nap mat should be at least one inch thick to prevent your child from feeling the floor or cot underneath. However, it should not be too thick to cause overheating or suffocation.
Are Toddler Nap Mats Safe?
Toddler nap mats are safe as long as they meet the following criteria:
- They are made of high-quality materials that are free of harmful chemicals, such as BPA, phthalates, zippers, and allergens.
- They have a waterproof or water-resistant layer or cover that protects them from spills, stains, and germs and makes them easy to clean.
- They have a removable pillow insert that provides extra support and comfort for your child’s head and neck. The pillow should also be small and firm to prevent suffocation.
- They have straps, handles, or hooks that make them easy to carry and store. The straps should also be secure and not pose a choking hazard.
- They are labeled and stored properly to avoid confusion or loss and transfer of germs.
Can a 1-Year-Old Use a Nap Mat?
- A 1-year-old can use a nap mat as long as they are supervised and cared for during naps.
- A 1-year-old should not be left alone on a nap mat, as they may roll off, get tangled in the blanket, or suffocate on the pillow.
- A 1-year-old should also be placed on their back and away from any cords, heaters, or windows that could cause injury or overheating.
What is a KinderMat?
A KinderMat is a brand name for a type of stackable mat that is commonly used in schools and daycare centers. A KinderMat is made of vinyl-covered foam that is easy to wipe, clean and sanitize.
A KinderMat has interlocking edges or corners that keep it in place when stacked on each other. A KinderMat is space-saving but may not be very comfortable or hygienic.
Conclusion
Choosing the best nap mat for daycare can be challenging, but ensuring a child’s comfort, well-being, and parents’ satisfaction is worth it.
A good nap mat can help children in your care get enough sleep, which boosts their immune system, brain function, growth hormone production, mood regulation, and overall health. A good nap mat can save you time, money, and effort in cleaning and maintaining it.
By considering the child’s age and size, material quality, user reviews, safety standards compliance, portability, available space, design features, and price range, and involving your child in the decision-making process, you can find the perfect nap mat that meets all your needs and preferences.
Ensure also to follow safety guidelines and instructions when using nap mats for your child. Happy napping!