If you’re a parent looking for a soft, durable play mat for your kids, you’ve likely come across both Toki mats and Gathre play mats. These two popular brands both offer brightly colored mats made from safe, high-quality materials.
But which is better for your family?
Here’s an in-depth comparison of Toki mats and Gathre play mats to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Toki Mats | Gathre Play Mats |
| Materials | 100% polyester surface, silicone backing | Cotton surface, rubber backing |
| Construction | Foldable origami style | Non-folding |
| Prints/Colors | Bold patterns and colors | Neutral solids and color blocking |
| Care | Machine washable, air dry | Machine washable and dryable |
| Portability | Folds into included bag | Rolls up with strap |
| Prices | $$ typically under $200 | $$$ over $200 |
| Sizes | 2×3 ft up to 4×8 ft | 3×5 ft up to 4×10 ft |
| Best For | Younger kids, travel | Older kids, customization |
Key Features of Toki Mats and Gathre Play Mats
Toki Mats
Toki mats are known for their unique, origami-style folding. They are made from 100% polyester with a food-grade silicone backing. Key features include:
- Foldable design – Folds into a compact shape for easy portability and storage. Unfolds to lie flat.
- Dual-sided design – Often reversible with a different pattern on each side. Provides two stylish options in one mat.
- Variety of prints – Fun, modern prints appeal to kids and coordinate with home decor.
- Safe materials – Free from BPA, phthalates, lead, and latex.
- Water-resistant – Can be spot cleaned or wiped down easily.
- Portable – Folds down small for travel and fits into the included carry bag. Weighs under 2 lbs.
- Machine washable
Gathre Play Mats
Gathre play mats feature a minimalist, canvassy look. They are constructed using tight woven cotton with a non-toxic rubber backing. Key features include:
- Stylish design – Understated solids and color blocks fit a contemporary aesthetic.
- Durable cotton surface – Soft woven cotton is easy to spot clean.
- Non-slip grip – Rubber backing helps keep the mat in place.
- Custom options – Size, thickness, edging, and monogram can be customized.
- Heirloom quality – Gathre states their mats are meant to last for generations.
- Antimicrobial – Receives an antimicrobial treatment to inhibit bacterial growth.
- Machine washable
Key Differences Between Toki Mats And Gathre Play Mats
- Quality and Construction
Both Toki and Gathre mats are well-made from high quality materials.
However, there are some differences in their construction and durability.
Toki mats are designed specifically for use by kids, with details like foldability for easy storage and reversible prints. The polyester surface is soft but textured, helping hide stains.
The silicone backing grips most surfaces well.
Overall, they are highly portable and easy to clean, though some parents don’t like that they can’t go in the dryer.
Gathre play mats have a luxe, heirloom feel thanks to the tightly woven cotton and classic color options. They have a smoother surface than Toki mats.
The rubber backing is effective at keeping the mat in place. The heavy duty cotton and construction allow Gathre mats to be washed and dried similar to a towel. Being able to throw them in the dryer is a major perk for parents.
When it comes to durability, both brands report that their mats are made to last. But some parents say Toki mats show wear sooner, with the folded ends becoming dog-eared after regular use. Gathre’s cotton seems to resist pilling and tearing better over time.
- Ease of Cleaning Comparison
Due to messes that come with kids and pets, an easy-to-clean mat is essential.
Toki mats are straight-forward to spot clean. Their textured polyester tends to hide stains and dirt well. For quick cleaning, you can simply wipe the mat down.
Toki states you can machine wash the mats but advises air drying. Some parents don’t like having to air dry as it takes longer.
Gathre play mats can be machine washed and dried without any special instructions. Their smooth cotton makes spot cleaning simple too. Just be aware that stains on the white or light color mats may be more visible.
But Gathre’s cotton material washes extremely well overall.
- Style and Design Options
Both brands offer play mats in a range of stylish prints and colors to suit modern homes.
Toki mats are known for their bright, whimsical patterns featuring animals, shapes, colors, and illustrations appealing to young kids. They come in several color combinations like neutrals, primary colors, and pastels. The foldable design and reversible prints give you flexibility to switch up the style. Toki also regularly releases new prints and colors.
Gathre mats have an understated, neutral palette focusing on solids and color blocking. They take a more minimalist approach but offer some muted patterns as well.
Customization like monogramming and colored piping allow you to add flair. The solid colors easily match existing decor. While not as boldly colorful as Toki, their classics hues still conceal stains.
Ultimately both brands allow you to introduce stylish colors and prints to your kids’ play space. It comes down to whether you prefer Toki’s overtly playful look or Gathre’s relaxed, modern aesthetic.
- Size Options
Both Toki and Gathre come in a few standard size options to fit whatever space you need covered.
Toki mats sizes include:
- 2×3 ft (great for infant tummy time)
- 3×5 ft
- 4×6 ft
- 4×8 ft
Gathre mat sizes are:
- 3×5 ft
- 4×6 ft
- 4×8 ft
- 4×10 ft
Toki’s smallest 2×3 size is better suited for babies and compact nurseries. Gathre’s largest 4×10 ft option provides even more expansive coverage for big playrooms. Both brands have similar offerings in the middle sizes.
Keep in mind Toki’s folded size will be smaller than Gathre’s for the same dimensions.
Overall the size range of both should accommodate small crawlers up to school-aged kids. Measure your space before ordering so you get the right fit.
- Cost Comparison
When it comes to price, Gathre play mats are the more expensive investment generally.
Toki mat pricing averages:
- 2×3 size: $59
- 3×5 size: $89
- 4×6 size: $139
- 4×8 size: $169
Gathre pricing averages:
- 3×5 size: $178
- 4×6 size: $248
- 4×8 size: $328
- 4×10 size: $408
But Gathre regularly has sales bringing prices down 20% to 30%. They also offer discounts for bundling mats and for military families. Here is a cool review of it.
Toki also runs frequent promotions taking 15% to 25% off. Signing up for emails can provide access to sales and coupon codes for additional savings.
Based on regular prices, Toki mats cost about 50% less than Gathre. But with sales, Toki mats end up being about 25-40% cheaper for similar sizes.
Both brands command their price points based on quality, but Toki mats are the more budget-friendly choice overall.
- Weight and Portability
If you plan to travel with your play mat, portability is a key consideration.
Folded Toki mats are incredibly easy to transport and store thanks to the origami-inspired design. They fold down into a compact square that fits into the included drawstring bag.
The 2×3 size folds to just 6” x 8”, while the 4×8 is only 11”x 11” folded. They weigh between 1-2 lbs, so they don’t add much bulk while traveling.
Gathre’s canvas play mats don’t fold up. You have to roll them to transport and store them. A strap is included to secure the rolled mat. Even rolled, they take up more space than a folded Toki mat. Gathre mats also weigh a bit more, ranging from 3-8 lbs depending on the size.
For frequent travelers or those short on space, Toki’s folding portability gives them the edge. But Gathre’s rolled mats aren’t overly cumbersome for occasional trips.
Is a Toki Mat or Gathre Play Mat Better for Babies?
Both mats work well for babies, but some parents may prefer Toki mats for the smallest family members.
The 2×3 ft size Toki is perfect for baby tummy time and play. Babies seem to love crinkling and grabbing the textured polyester fabric. The whimsical patterns give them color stimulation.
Being lightweight and foldable makes Tokis easy to move room to room for your crawling baby too.
Gathre play mats work well for babies too thanks to the smooth, durable cotton material. But even the 3×5 size takes up more space in a nursery. If you want an heirloom style mat for your baby, going with a Gathre in a classic solid color minimizes visible stains.
Which Mat is Better for Toddlers and Older Kids?
Either Toki mats or Gathre play mats are great choices for toddlers and big kids. A few differences may make one brand preferable depending on your needs.
The bright, playful patterns of Toki mats seem to appeal most to young toddlers and preschoolers. The textured polyester stands up well to wear and tear from this age. Older kids may find the colors a bit juvenile.
Gathre’s understated colors suit kids of all ages, especially in the larger sizes. The tight weave of the cotton withstands rough play from big kids better over time. Some parents do worry about staining with art supplies, food, etc. So solids or darker Gathre colors are best for school-aged kids.
Both mats give an ample, cushy play surface for building forts, playing games, doing crafts or just lounging around. Their durable construction and easy care make them ideal for older kids too.
Which Play Mat is Best for Your Family?
While both are great options, choosing between Toki and Gathre play mats depends on your needs and preferences:
Consider Toki mats if you want:
- A lightweight, portable mat for travel or storage
- Fun, colorful patterns that appeal to young kids
- An affordable price point under $200
- Machine washable but air dry material
Opt for Gathre mats if you prefer:
- A long-lasting heirloom quality investment
- Understated, neutral colors to match decor
- Being able to machine wash and dry
- More size options including a 4×10 size
- Customization like monogramming
Frequently Asked Questions About Toki and Gathre Play Mats
No, Toki mats are designed to fold up easily into a compact shape. The flexible polyester folds smoothly along the creases. Simply follow the printed folding instructions on the mat. It takes just seconds to fold, making storage a breeze.
Yes, Gathre play mats are durable enough for adults to sit on comfortably. Their tight cotton weave and reinforced seams allow them to support over 100 lbs. Many parents use them for floor seating while playing with kids. Just don’t wear shoes that could damage the surface.
Toki mats usually grip hard floors well thanks to the silicone backing. Placing them on a rug also helps prevent sliding. If your mat moves too much on hard floors, try a non-slip mat underneath to keep it in place.
Gathre advises against prolonged outdoor use as sunlight can fade the colors over time. The moisture outside could also damage the cotton. They are designed for indoor use only. But you can safely put them outside for temporary activities as long as you avoid exposing them to dampness.
Great question! Whether you need two play mats depends on your kids’ ages and how they use the space. If your kids are young and always playing together, one large shared mat could work. Older kids who use their rooms individually may want their own. Consider your budget and space too. But having two mats gives each child their own designated clean play area.
If paint dries on a Toki mat, start by scraping off any hardened bits. Then spot clean the area with dish soap and warm water using a sponge. Allow to fully dry, then repeat cleaning if paint residue remains. For tougher stains, spray with an all-purpose cleaner before scrubbing. With some elbow grease, you can remove dried paint from the durable material.
Yes, Gathre’s cotton mats are fine to use in a baby’s nursery even if you have pets. Just be sure to keep the mat clean and wash it regularly. The antimicrobial treatment helps inhibit any bacterial growth. So as long as you clean up any messes promptly, pets and babies can safely share space on a Gathre mat.
Final Thoughts
No matter which brand you choose, both Toki and Gathre mats provide stylish, non-toxic play spaces kids will love. Evaluate your family’s needs to decide if the folding convenience of Toki or the luxe quality of Gathre is better for your home.
With their durable construction and kid-friendly designs, you can enjoy either mat for years to come!