Test Result Preview
Manufacturer’s product description
The Nuby Reversible Play Mat is a foldable foam play mat designed specifically for babies from birth. Measuring 200 x 150 x 1 centimeters, it creates a spacious, soft play surface that protects against bumps and is ideal for crawling, playing, tummy time, or relaxing. Thanks to its reversible design with child-friendly motifs on both sides, the play mat can be quickly adapted to different rooms or moods—a real plus for parents who value flexibility.
Advantages include its ease of care (simply wipe clean), compactness when folded and transported, and comfort for the child. The mat largely meets the manufacturer’s specifications and provides a safe, pleasant environment.
However,a negative aspect is that the slip resistance on smooth floors (e.g., laminate or tile) is only moderate—more grip would be desirable here for active toddlers.
Overall, a solid, practical baby toy that combines everyday practicality with childlike joy.
Advantages
- Very comfortable
- Versatile design
- Easy to fold
- Easy to clean
Disadvantages
- Moderate slip resistance
First impression
Packaging and contents
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Product protection
Box is sturdy, product is adequately protected
Points
Sustainability of packaging
Unnecessary packaging waste has been eliminated; the box protects the play mat
Points
Package Contents & Scope
Complete
Points
Instructions
The product is self-explanatory, but also includes instructions on the packaging
Points
OVERALL
100
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The Nuby Reversible Play Mat impressed us right from the moment we unboxed it with its well-thought-out and eco-friendly packaging. The box is sturdy and robustly constructed, ensuring the product was optimally protected during transport—no damage or deformation was observed. A positive highlight is the sustainability of the packaging: Nuby deliberately avoids unnecessary packaging waste; the box serves as effective protection and is recyclable. The package contents were complete and matched the product description exactly. A separate instruction manual is clearly printed on the packaging, though the product is largely self-explanatory —folding and flipping it work intuitively. Overall, a very good first impression that builds confidence in the quality and makes it easier for parents to get started.
First time in hand
Product build quality and appearance
Before moving on to the practical test, we take a close look at the product’s workmanship. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Before we move on to the practical test, we take a close look at the product’s workmanship. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Visual appearance
Child-friendly design and attractive colors
Points
Workmanship
Very good workmanship
Points
Stability
Very stable
Points
Product sustainability
No information
Points
OVERALL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Upon first encounter with the Nuby Reversible Play Mat, the child-friendly design immediately impresses with cheerful, appealing colors and playful motifs on both sides. The look is inviting and sparks curiosity in the little ones. The workmanship is high-quality: clean edges, uniform foam, and no sharp corners. The stability is impressive—the mat feels sturdy and retains its shape even after being folded multiple times. Regarding sustainability, there are no explicit manufacturer specifications regarding recycled materials; however, the robust foams used suggest a durable construction that won’t wear out quickly. Overall, the baby play mat is a visually appealing, solidly crafted product that looks great both in the nursery and on the go, and meets the high demands of everyday use.
Here are the results of our hands-on test
Does the manufacturer deliver on its advertising promises?
Our practical test carries the highest weighting. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We evaluate the functions and product claims of the test item.
Our practical test carries the highest weighting. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We verify the functions and product claims of the test item.
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Slip resistance
The mat slips on smooth surfaces; the mat itself has a pattern that reduces the risk of slipping
Points
Water repellency
Water beaded off the surface and no moisture penetrated the mat
Points
Odor
A faint, almost imperceptible odor is noticeable, but it dissipates within a few moments
Points
Foldability and storage
The mat can be folded and unfolded multiple times without issue, takes up minimal storage space when folded, and shows no signs of material fatigue
Points
Playability and comfort
The mat is very comfortable, and the child felt at ease while playing. Only the slip resistance on the floor could be slightly better for toddlers playing energetically (depending on the surface)
Points
OVERALL
92
Points
Weighting: 45%
*The maximum score is 100 points
In our detailed practical test, the Nuby play mat delivered on most of its promises very well. The water-repellency was excellent: water beaded cleanly off the surface without any moisture penetrating—ideal for quick wiping after spills. The odor was only faint and almost imperceptible, and it disappeared completely within a few minutes. A particular highlight: The folding and storage features worked flawlessly—the mat could be folded and unfolded multiple times without showing any signs of material fatigue, and took up very little space when folded. In terms of playability and comfort, the child was visibly at ease; the soft padding provided good protection from the floor and encouraged extended play. One minor drawback: Slip resistance on smooth surfaces was limited, although a textured pattern on the mat itself minimizes slipping—with very active toddlers, this could be noticeable depending on the floor covering.
Overall, a good test result: The play mat is comfortable, practical, and largely slip- and water-resistant—a recommended baby toy for daily use.
Test Plan
You can find a detailed overview of the evaluation criteria for the practical part of the test as well as the point distribution here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Value for money
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend purchasing it?
Finally, we examine how the product stacks up against the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend purchasing it?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Value for money
Satisfactory performance in the mid-price range
Points
TOTAL
60
Points
Weighting: 15%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Prices of up to€104.89are listed online for comparable products. Very affordable products areavailablestarting at€34.99.Thereversible play mat from Nuby is currently pricedat €63.73, placing itinthe mid-range price segment. The value for money is rated as satisfactory. This rating takes into account both the average quality and performance as well as the price in the mid-range segment, resulting in an overall satisfactory value.
Overall result
Weighting
Score achieved*
1. Packaging & Contents
20%
Points
2. Product Workmanship & Appearance
20%
Points
3. In practical testing
45%
Points
4. Value for money
15%
Points
TOTAL
89 points
*The maximum score is 100 points
