Question from Stacey
Hi Debra, I am looking for an organic playmat for my baby.
I found one by Nook Sleep Systems. The fabric is made from eucalytus and organic cotton. The interior of the playmat is made from PETE (recycled water bottles). Supposedly, the eucalyptus is antimicrobial.
Other playmats I have found are cotton but with polyester fill, or completely polyester. I did find one that is completely organic but is very expensive.
I also found playmats made of “high density foam,” supposedly phalate and lead free, and/or mats made of “high density non-recyled, EVA foam.” They are much cheaper, but would you use these for children/baby? Could these contain flame retardants? Thanks again!
Thanks so much for the great information!
Debra’s Answer
Well, first, I wouldn’t put an infant down on a eucalyptus cover. I haven’t seen one of these, but if they claim it is antimicrobial, there must be enough eucalyptus oil present to have that effect. I grew up in California where there are a lot of eucalyptus trees, and the smell often made me sick. I am of the belief that we should support and strengthen our immune systems to fight bacteria, not put antimicrobials, even natural ones, all over everything.
I’m curious why you think the 100% organic cotton playmats are expensive. I’m looking at one here that is 100% GOTS certified organic cotton with organic cotton fill. It’s only $68 and the Nook one is $120.
I would get the one that is 100% organic cotton.
Hello Debra, I wasn’t able to open up the link. I’m also looking for a non toxic play mat for my baby. Thank you!
Hi, it’s Lisa. Debra retired from the site in 2019:). The least toxic option for a playmate would be GOTS certified organic cotton with cotton or wool fill. You can find some good options on Etsy that are like thin comforters. Etsy is great because you can often request that they make them with specific materials. For example, if you find on that has a GOTS certified cover but polyester fill ask if they can make it with organic cotton or wool fill.
I know that many people want to have a foam mat that has an easy-to-clean surface like PU. These materials are obviously not as safe as certified organic cotton but if you really want this type of mat, Cream Haus is the best I have found.
It meets all of the safety requirements and is free of some of the more concerning ingredients you might find in this type of product including PVC, EVA, TPA, BPA, Lead, Phthalate, Fire Retardants, Formamide, and Formaldehyde. It is considered food safe in the event that a child licks it. This one is made of polyurethane leather and polyethylene foam. The problem with polyurethane foam or polyethylene foam is that they are often made with chemical additives. This one has additional assurance because it is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified. That means that it limits the use of harmful chemicals but not that it is totally free of chemicals.