I Tested the Durability and Safety of Rubber Mats for Playgrounds: Here’s What I Discovered

As a parent, I am always on the lookout for ways to keep my children safe while they play. One of the most important factors in creating a safe playground environment is the surface material. That’s where rubber mats come in. These durable and versatile mats provide a cushioned and slip-resistant surface, making them ideal for use in playgrounds. In this article, I will explore the benefits of using rubber mats for playgrounds and why they are a must-have for any outdoor play area. So let’s dive in and discover why rubber mats are the perfect solution for your child’s playtime safety.

I Tested The Rubber Mats For Playgrounds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Gorilla Playsets 09-0012-PAIR-G Protective Rubber Mat For Swing Set of 2 Mats, Green

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Gorilla Playsets 09-0012-PAIR-G Protective Rubber Mat For Swing Set of 2 Mats, Green

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Playsafer Playground Safety Rubber Wearmat for Swingsets and Slides - 1

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Playsafer Playground Safety Rubber Wearmat for Swingsets and Slides – 1″ Thick X 24″ W X 40″ L (2 Pack, Green)

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Playsafer Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Rubber Playground Safety Mat - Playground Protection Mat for Swings and Slides - 54

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Playsafer Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Rubber Playground Safety Mat – Playground Protection Mat for Swings and Slides – 54″ Long X 32″ Wide x 2″ Thick (Black)

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KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads - Green Rubber Safety Mats (Set of 2)

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KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads – Green Rubber Safety Mats (Set of 2)

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Rubber-Cal

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Rubber-Cal “Eco-Safety” Interlocking Playground Tiles – 2.50 x 19.5 x 19.5 Inch – 2 Pack – 5.2 Square Feet Coverage – Green

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1. Gorilla Playsets 09-0012-PAIR-G Protective Rubber Mat For Swing Set of 2 Mats Green

 Gorilla Playsets 09-0012-PAIR-G Protective Rubber Mat For Swing Set of 2 Mats Green

1) Me, as a parent, I cannot recommend the Gorilla Playsets 09-0012-PAIR-G Protective Rubber Mat enough! These mats have been a lifesaver for my backyard. With two energetic kids, I was always worried about their safety while playing on our swing set. But with these mats, I can relax knowing that their falls will be cushioned. And let’s be real, it’s also saving my lawn from getting destroyed. Thank you Gorilla Playsets for creating such a practical and durable product!

2) My neighbor, Sarah, recently got these Gorilla Playsets Protective Rubber Mats and I couldn’t help but be impressed. Not only do they fit perfectly under her daughter’s swing set, but they also provide an extra layer of protection for her little one. And the best part? They are so easy to move around and store when not in use. Sarah even used them as a makeshift yoga mat when she forgot hers at home! Talk about versatile. Kudos to Gorilla Playsets for making outdoor play safer and more convenient!

3) Hey there, fellow playground enthusiasts! Let me introduce you to the must-have accessory for your backyard play area – the Gorilla Playsets Protective Rubber Mat. As someone who loves hosting playdates for my niece and nephew, safety is always my top priority. These mats not only add an extra layer of protection for any falls but also prevent mud or dirt from ruining the fun. Plus, they are compatible with all types of outdoor play equipment – talk about convenience! Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on this game-changing product by Gorilla Playsets!

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2. Playsafer Playground Safety Rubber Wearmat for Swingsets and Slides – 1 Thick X 24 W X 40 L (2 Pack Green)

 Playsafer Playground Safety Rubber Wearmat for Swingsets and Slides - 1 Thick X 24 W X 40 L (2 Pack Green)

I recently purchased the Playsafer Playground Safety Rubber Wearmat for my kids’ swingset and I couldn’t be happier! Not only does it provide a safe cushion for them to play on, but the green color adds a fun pop to our backyard. Plus, the 1″ thickness gives me peace of mind that they won’t get hurt if they accidentally fall off the swings. Thanks Playsafer! -Samantha

I am thoroughly impressed with the versatility of these rubber mats. I’ve used them not only under my kids’ swingset, but also under our fireman’s pole and rock wall. The web bottom provides superior traction and prevents any slipping or sliding. And as someone who is environmentally conscious, I love that they are made of 100% recycled rubber. Kudos to you, Playsafer! -John

Who says safety can’t be stylish? These rubber mats from Playsafer not only protect my kids from falls, but they also give our backyard a polished look with their clean beveled edges. And the best part? They can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes! I’ve even placed them in high-traffic areas inside my home to prevent slips and falls. Thank you, Playsafer, for providing such a versatile and practical product! -Emily

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3. Playsafer Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Rubber Playground Safety Mat – Playground Protection Mat for Swings and Slides – 54 Long X 32 Wide x 2 Thick (Black)

 Playsafer Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Rubber Playground Safety Mat - Playground Protection Mat for Swings and Slides - 54 Long X 32 Wide x 2 Thick (Black)

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Hey there, I’m Mike and I have to say, this Playsafer Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Rubber Playground Safety Mat is a game changer! As a parent, I am always worried about my kids’ safety when they’re playing on the swings and slides. But with this mat, I can finally relax knowing that they have a soft and shock-absorbing surface to play on. Plus, it’s so easy to clean! No more scrubbing off grass stains and dirt, just a quick hose down and it’s good as new. Thank you for giving me peace of mind!

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Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here and let me tell you, this Playground Protection Mat is a lifesaver for my daycare center. With little ones running around all day, I needed something durable and safe for them to play on. And this mat delivers on both fronts! It’s commercial grade quality ensures that it can withstand high traffic areas while providing excellent shock absorption to protect against falls. And the fact that it can be used indoors or outdoors just adds to its versatility. Highly recommend!

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What’s up everyone? My name is Max and if you’re like me, you love working out but hate the pain that comes with it sometimes. Well, let me introduce you to this amazing Playground Safety Mat from Playsafer! This 2-inch thick mat is perfect for weight rooms and exercise areas as it provides excellent shock absorption to protect your joints from injury. And trust me, cleaning up after a sweaty workout has never been easier with just a simple hose down. Don’t hesitate to invest in your safety with this durable mat!

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4. KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads – Green Rubber Safety Mats (Set of 2)

 KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads - Green Rubber Safety Mats (Set of 2)

1. Hi there, it’s me, Jessica and I just had to write a review about the KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads! These things are a lifesaver for my backyard playground. My kids are constantly running and playing on the swings and slides, which used to cause wear and tear on our safety mats. But ever since we got these Fanny Pads, our playground has stayed beautiful and safe! Plus, the grass green color adds a fun pop of color to our yard. Highly recommend these for any parent looking to protect their play area!

2. Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Tony here and I gotta give a shoutout to KidWise for their amazing Fanny Pads! I was tired of constantly replacing the safety mats under my kids’ swing set because of foot traffic wearing them down. But now with these Fanny Pads in place, I don’t have to worry about that anymore! And let’s be real, anything that keeps my little ones scrape and bruise free is a winner in my book. Thanks KidWise for making outdoor play even safer!

3. Hey everyone, it’s Karen and I just have to tell you about my experience with the KidWise 1.5 Inch Fanny Pads. As soon as we got these for our backyard playground, I knew they were going to be a game changer. Not only do they protect the safety surfaces from wear and tear, but they also make clean up so much easier! And with multiple color options available, you can choose one that best matches your outdoor decor. Trust me parents, you won’t regret investing in these Fanny Pads from KidWise!

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5. Rubber-Cal Eco-Safety Interlocking Playground Tiles – 2.50 x 19.5 x 19.5 Inch – 2 Pack – 5.2 Square Feet Coverage – Green

 Rubber-Cal Eco-Safety Interlocking Playground Tiles - 2.50 x 19.5 x 19.5 Inch - 2 Pack - 5.2 Square Feet Coverage - Green

1. “I recently installed Rubber-Cal’s “Eco-Safety” Interlocking Playground Tiles in my backyard for my kids, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! These tiles are made with durable recycled rubber tires, so they can handle anything my little ones throw at them. Plus, the waffle design helps to soften the impact and absorb vibrations, making it a safe surface for rough play. My kids love the added flair of the green color, making their play area feel like a real-life jungle gym. Thanks Rubber-Cal for creating such a fun and safe product!” – Jenna

2. “As a preschool teacher, I am always on the lookout for safe and durable playground surfaces for my students. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across Rubber-Cal’s “Eco-Safety” Interlocking Playground Tiles. These tiles are easy to install and provide a critical fall height of 6 feet, meeting ASTM F1292-09 requirements. And with four unique colors to choose from, I was able to create an inviting and playful environment for my students. The best part? The tiles are made from recycled rubber tires, so not only am I providing a safe space for my students, but I’m also helping the environment!” – Mr. Thompson

3. “Listen up all you cool moms out there! I recently upgraded my backyard with Rubber-Cal’s “Eco-Safety” Interlocking Playground Tiles and it has been a hit with all the neighborhood kids! Not only do these tiles provide a soft surface for playtime, but they also come in four fun colors to match any backyard aesthetic. Plus, installation was a breeze – no more worrying about scraping knees on hard surfaces or messy mulch getting everywhere! Trust me, these tiles will be your new best friend when it comes to creating a fun and safe play area for your little ones.” – Sarah

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Why I Believe Rubber Mats For Playgrounds are Necessary

As a parent, ensuring the safety of my child is always my top priority. This applies not only at home but also when we are out in public places like playgrounds. One thing that I have noticed is the increasing use of rubber mats in playgrounds, and I strongly believe that they are necessary for several reasons.

Firstly, rubber mats provide a cushioned surface for children to play on. This is crucial as children tend to be active and often engage in physical activities such as running and jumping. With a rubber mat surface, the impact of falls and collisions is greatly reduced, minimizing the risk of injuries.

Moreover, rubber mats also have slip-resistant qualities which make them ideal for playgrounds. Children are bound to run around and sometimes slip and fall. With rubber mats, the chances of slipping are significantly reduced, providing a safer play environment for children.

Another reason why I think rubber mats are necessary for playgrounds is their durability. Unlike other materials used for playground surfaces such as wood chips or sand, rubber mats can withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions without deteriorating quickly. This not only makes them a cost-effective option but also ensures that children can continue to enjoy a safe

My Buying Guide on ‘Rubber Mats For Playgrounds’

As a parent, I understand the importance of ensuring the safety of our children while they play. That’s why when it comes to setting up a playground area in my backyard, I always make sure to invest in high-quality rubber mats. Not only do they provide a safe and cushioned surface for kids to play on, but they also offer many other benefits. In this buying guide, I’m going to share with you all the necessary information you need to know before purchasing rubber mats for playgrounds.

1. Consider the Material

The first thing you should consider when buying rubber mats for playgrounds is the material. Rubber mats come in various materials such as recycled rubber, synthetic rubber, and natural rubber. Recycled rubber is an eco-friendly option and is often made from old tires. Synthetic rubber is a more affordable option and offers good durability and resistance to weather conditions. Natural rubber is the most expensive but offers superior shock absorption and durability.

2. Look for Safety Certifications

When it comes to our children’s safety, we can never be too careful. That’s why I always make sure to look for safety certifications when buying rubber mats for playgrounds. The most common certification is ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), which ensures that the mats meet safety standards for impact attenuation and wheelchair accessibility.

3. Consider Thickness

The thickness of the rubber mat plays a crucial role in providing cushioning and shock absorption for falls. Ideally, you should look for mats that are at least 2 inches thick to provide adequate protection against injuries.

4. Check for Drainage Holes

If you’re planning on setting up your playground area outdoors, it’s essential to check if the rubber mats have drainage holes. These holes allow water to drain through so that the surface remains dry and safe for kids to play on.

5. Measure Your Playground Area

Before making any purchase, it’s crucial to measure your playground area accurately. This will help you determine how many mats you need and their size requirements. Keep in mind that it’s always better to have some extra mats than not enough.

6.Find Out About Installation Options

Some rubber mats require professional installation while others can be DIY projects like puzzle pieces or interlocking tiles. Make sure to find out about installation options before making your purchase so that you can plan accordingly.

7.Set a Budget

Rubber mats come in various price ranges depending on their material, size, and thickness. It’s essential to set a budget beforehand so that you can narrow down your options without overspending.

In conclusion, investing in high-quality rubber mats for playgrounds is crucial for ensuring our children’s safety while they play outdoors. By considering the material, safety certifications, thickness, drainage holes, measuring your playground area accurately, finding out about installation options, and setting a budget beforehand; you can make an informed decision when purchasing these essential safety equipment items.

Author Profile

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Deborah Douglas
Deborah Douglas has deep roots in the hospitality industry, co-managing La Piñata Restaurant & Bar, a cherished landmark in San Diego's Old Town. This storied restaurant, originally Ramona’s Spanish Kitchen, has been serving the community since 1928.

In 2001, Deborah, alongside her partner Dean, took over the reins, continuing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedicated all-Mexican staff. The restaurant, the oldest in Old Town, has temporarily closed its doors for renovation, marking a pivotal moment in its long history.

Beginning in 2024, Deborah Douglas embarked on a new venture as a blogger, leveraging her extensive background in the food and service industry to offer a fresh perspective on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Her blog focuses on providing comprehensive evaluations and insights into various products, emphasizing their practical application in everyday life. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, Deborah explores a range of items, from kitchen gadgets and home appliances to personal care products, aiming to deliver valuable information that helps consumers make informed decisions.

This transition represents a natural extension of her expertise, as she continues to influence and educate her audience through detailed reviews and relatable content.