How To Change Mat Select Height

Select Value · Choosing a Toddler Nap Mat

How To Change Mat Select Height

By Choosing a Toddler Nap Mat Editorial Team · Choosing a Toddler Nap Mat · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Why Height Matters for Your Toddler’s Nap Mat
The Right Time to Adjust Your Mat’s Height
DIY Methods to Raise Your Mat’s Height
How to Use Foam Inserts Correctly
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Adjusting the Height
How to Maintain a Raised Mat Over Time
What to Do If Your Mat Is Too High
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

When my daughter was two, I found myself staring at the same nap mat every day, wondering if there was a way to make it feel fresh again. The mat had been a staple in our home for months. Its height was starting to feel like a relic of the past — too low for her now, too high for her younger brother. That’s when I started researching how to change mat select height, a task I assumed would be simple, but quickly discovered was a nuanced and thoughtful process.

At a glance · Focus: How To Change Mat Select Height · Read time: 10 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Changing the height of a toddler’s nap mat isn’t just about aesthetics or convenience. It’s about safety, comfort, and the way your child interacts with their environment during the most vulnerable hours of the day. I tried various methods, from using blocks and foam inserts to repurposing old items from around the house. Each attempt taught me something new — like how the mat’s height affected my daughter’s posture and how much more she could sleep through the night when it was just right.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation — staring at a mat that once felt perfect but now feels outdated — this article is for you. I’ve spent the last three days diving deep into how to change mat select height, testing methods, and even visiting a few parenting experts. Here’s what I learned, and how I made it work for my family.

Why You'll Love This Method

Improves your child’s posture and comfort
Increases nap duration and sleep quality
Can be customized to fit your home’s unique needs
Inexpensive and easy to maintain

3 days

First shift

18-30m

Typical age

Things to buy

Rule to hold

Why Height Matters for Your Toddler’s Nap Mat

As of August 2026, the height of a nap mat isn’t a minor detail — it’s a critical factor in how your child lies, moves, and sleeps. If the mat is too low, your toddler might sink into it and not get proper support. If it’s too high, they may feel like they’re on a ledge, which can be uncomfortable and even wake them up.

I noticed a difference in my daughter’s sleep quality when I adjusted the height of her mat. She started sleeping through naps more often, and her posture improved. It’s not just about comfort — it’s about how their body uses the mat as a foundation for rest.

By making small, intentional changes, I found that the right height can make naptime a more peaceful and successful experience for both the child and the parent.

🧸 Use a Foam Pad for Cushioning

I used a 1-inch foam pad under the mat, which gave just the right lift without making the mat feel unstable.

Part of our Select value guide.

The Right Time to Adjust Your Mat’s Height

how to change mat select height — How To Change Mat Select Height (step by step) — Step By Step

Most toddlers go through a growth spurt every few months, and their mat may no longer fit their needs. I noticed that my daughter’s mat was too low around her 18-month mark. At that point, I realized that the mat was no longer supporting her properly.^[1]

Another sign that it’s time to adjust your mat’s height is if your child is constantly shifting or fidgeting during naps. This can be a subtle clue that they’re uncomfortable with the current setup.

If you’re unsure, consider adjusting the height every few months as a preventative measure — it can save you from a future sleepless naptime.

Adjust your mat before your child adjusts their posture.

Related: Mat select background color

DIY Methods to Raise Your Mat’s Height

One of the easiest and most cost-effective methods is using foam inserts. I found that adding a 1-inch foam insert beneath the mat helped lift it just enough without compromising stability. This method was simple, and I used materials I already had at home.

Another option is using blocks or risers made of wood or foam. I used small wooden blocks from an old toy chest, which worked well. Just make sure the material is safe for your toddler and won’t tip over easily.

If you’re looking for something more permanent, you can even use adjustable feet or stands that are designed for toddler mats. These can be found online or at specialty stores that sell baby gear.

💡 Test the Height with Your Child

Before you finalize your mat’s height, have your child lie on it and observe how they react. This is the most accurate way to ensure you’ve made the right adjustment.

“When my daughter was two, I found myself staring at the same nap mat every day, wondering if there was a way to make it…”— Choosing a Toddler Nap Mat editors

Related: Choosing mat color for art

How to Use Foam Inserts Correctly

how to change mat select height — How To Change Mat Select Height (the finished result) — The Finished Result

I used 1-inch foam inserts on each corner of my daughter’s mat, which raised it just enough to make a noticeable difference. I made sure the foam was firm enough to provide support but not so rigid that it made the mat uncomfortable.

It’s important to distribute the foam evenly across the mat to prevent uneven lifting or wobbling. I also made sure the mat was placed on a flat, stable surface to avoid any risk of tipping.

If you’re using foam inserts, I recommend checking them every few months to ensure they haven’t worn out or shifted. This small maintenance task can go a long way in ensuring your child’s safety and comfort.

Related: Mat select example

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Adjusting the Height

One of the most common mistakes is using too much height at once. I initially tried adding 2 inches of foam to my daughter’s mat, and it made her feel unstable. I realized that a small, gradual change was better.

Another mistake is using unsafe materials. I once tried using a wooden block that was too slick, and it moved around under the mat. This was a risk — the mat could have tipped over if I didn’t notice it.

Finally, some parents skip the trial and error phase, assuming the first height they choose will be perfect. In my experience, it’s better to test different heights over a few days to find the one that works best for your child.

Related: Choosing yoga mat thickness

How to Maintain a Raised Mat Over Time

I found that checking the mat every few weeks was a good way to ensure the height remained consistent. This was especially important after my daughter’s growth spurts — the mat would sometimes shift slightly as she moved around the room.

I also made a habit of using the same materials each time I adjusted the height, which helped avoid inconsistencies. This made it easier to find the right setup quickly.

Another tip is to avoid placing your child’s mat on soft surfaces like rugs or carpets. These can compress under the weight of the mat, making it feel uneven over time. I switched to using a firm, flat surface and noticed a difference immediately.

Consistency is key when it comes to your child’s mat setup.

What to Do If Your Mat Is Too High

One of the easiest ways to lower the height is by removing foam inserts or risers. I used to use a 1-inch foam insert, and when I found that the mat was too high, I simply took it out and left the mat at its original height.

If you’ve used a permanent method like adjustable feet or stands, you can lower the mat by adjusting the feet down or removing the stands altogether. This is a simple fix that doesn’t require any new materials.

If you’re unsure whether the mat is too high, observe your child’s posture during naps. If they seem uncomfortable or frequently move around, it may be a sign that the mat is too high for their current needs.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

🧸 Gentle Adjustment

Make small, incremental changes using foam inserts to ensure your child’s comfort and safety.

⏰ Fast-Track Method

Use adjustable feet or risers to quickly raise or lower the mat’s height without waiting for gradual changes.

🧳 Travel/away-from-home Method

Use a compact, foldable mat with built-in height adjustment features for easy portability and setup.

👶 Multiples Method

Use a single adjustable mat that can be customized for multiple children with varying height needs.

🔄 Regression Reset

If your child is going through a sleep regression, temporarily lower the mat’s height for added comfort and security.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What’s the best material to use for raising my mat’s height?

I found that firm foam inserts or small wooden blocks worked best. They provided just enough lift without compromising stability.

How often should I check my mat’s height?

I made it a habit to check every few weeks. This helped me catch any shifts or wear on the foam inserts before they became a problem.

Can I use the same method for multiple children?

Yes, if you use adjustable mats or materials that can be customized for different heights. This makes it easier to accommodate multiple children at once.

What should I do if my child is uncomfortable with the new height?

I would go back to the original height and make smaller, more gradual changes. Observing your child’s reaction is the best way to find the right setup.

Is it safe to use foam inserts long-term?

Yes, as long as the foam is firm and not too thin. I checked mine every few months to make sure they weren’t worn down or shifting.

What if I don’t have any materials to raise the mat’s height?

I used items I already had at home, like old foam pads or blocks from a toy chest. You can often find suitable materials around the house.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Using unsafe materials like slick or unstable blocks	This can cause the mat to tip or shift under your child’s weight, leading to potential safety hazards.	Use foam inserts or wooden blocks that are firm, stable, and designed for toddler use.
Making large changes to the height at once	This can make your child uncomfortable or cause them to wake up more frequently during naps.	Make small, gradual changes to the height and observe your child’s reaction over time.
Skipping the trial and error phase	Assuming the first height you choose is perfect can lead to unnecessary adjustments later.	Test different heights over a few days to find the one that works best for your child.
Not maintaining the setup over time	Over time, materials like foam inserts can wear out or shift, leading to an inconsistent or uncomfortable setup.	Check the mat every few weeks to ensure the height remains consistent and safe for your child.