I open the Monkey Mat and place it right on the rug, and if the floor isn't carpeted, I place a blanket under since she is just lying down now. Since it is portable it can be tossed into my diaper bag or attached onto my bag or stroller by the buckle it comes with. I look forward to using it at the park once the weather is nicer out, and really any place where I might need to put baby down - I'll have the Monkey Mat. Of course you could carry a blanket if you are going to the park but the Monkey Mat comes in handy when you can't carry so much or you find yourself in the need of a mat for baby unexpectedly. I for one have way too much I carry with my two kids already so I would avoid carrying any sort of blanket just in case, but the Monkey Mat makes being prepared convenient. It would be great for little picnics, really large enough for us four to sit around on at the park.
The reason why I love it, is obvious. It's water repellent, machine washable because you know it will get something spilled on it! It's soft, lightweight which is great because as I mentioned I definitely don't need to carry anything heavier than I already do. The corners are weighted down, and if you are outside there are loops you can use to keep mat from flying in the wind. Not just a mat for cleanliness, the little one/s can have with it too, you can attach their favorite toys in the loops in the middle.
As I said, I love our Monkey Mat and the best part is that as big as it is, it folds away into it's little pouch. The pouch is attached so there's no losing it either! The product is simple and genius, versatile and convenient. For more information including where to get your own, go to www.MonkeyMat.com. And of course you can connect with them on facebook and twitter.
*I received the product for the purpose of review, no other compensation was provided. All opinions are a 100% my own.