Mad Mattr markets itself as a moldable compound that never dries out. It’s positioned as an alternative to Kinetic Sand, with bright colors and a unique foamy texture that looks nothing like traditional play materials.
But parents have two questions before buying. First: is this stuff safe for kids? The bright colors and unusual texture raise toxicity concerns. Second: does it actually work well, or is it a mess nightmare?
We purchased this Mad Mattr for our kids ages and watched them play with it for five months. During this time we researched its safety profile, certifications, and ingredient composition. Here’s what we found about both safety and performance.
The short version? Mad Mattr is non-toxic and meets federal safety standards. But messier than advertised, and texture is polarizing. Different from Kinetic Sand, not necessarily better.
At-a-Glance Summary
Best For: Ages 3-8, kids who like squishy textures
Texture: Soft, foamy, slightly sticky (like fluffy clay)
Mess Level: Moderate to High (leaves sticky residue)
Storage: Must stay in airtight container
Our Take: Unique alternative to Kinetic Sand, but messier and texture won’t appeal to everyone
What is Mad Mattr?
Mad Mattr is a moldable foam compound made by Relevant Play, the same company behind Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. It’s not sand-based like Kinetic Sand. The texture feels like a cross between foam and lightweight clay. It’s available in bright colors (blue, pink, green, purple, orange), which is one of its main selling points.
According to manufacturer Relevant Play, Mad Mattr is formulated to never dry out. The compound comes in bright colors (blue, red, teal, purple) which is one of its main selling points. It’s available in various sizes, plus themed kits with molds and tools.
The proprietary formula composition isn’t disclosed. The marketing claims focus on three things: won’t dry out, easy cleanup, and stretches while it molds.
- Relevant Play is the global manufacturer of Mad Mattr, the Unbelievable Dough You Build With!
- Mad Mattr is an addictive, super-soft modeling compound that shapes easily. Press it, mold it, knead it, stretch it, squeeze it, paint it, sculpt it, float it, sink it, or just pull it slow and watch it flow! And clean-up is a breeze since it sticks to itself and not to you.
- Mad Mattr is gluten, casein, and wheat-free and available in 8 colors that can be mixed together, too! For Ages 3+.
Is Mad Mattr Safe or Toxic? Safety Analysis
Before reviewing performance, let’s address safety. Parents need to know if this compound is safe for children to handle regularly.
Quick Safety Answer
Is Mad Mattr toxic? No. Mad Mattr is labeled non-toxic and has passed ASTM safety testing for toy materials.
Is it completely risk-free? No. Choking hazard exists for children under 3. Ingestion of large amounts could cause stomach discomfort. Proper age guidelines matter.
Recommended age: 3 years and up per manufacturer, which aligns with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.
What is Mad Mattr Made From?
Mad Mattr is a proprietary polymer compound made by Relevant Play, the same company behind Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. The exact formula isn’t publicly disclosed, which is standard in the toy industry.
What we know from available product information:
- Polymer-based formulation (not sand, not traditional clay)
- Contains no wheat, gluten, or casein
- Free from harmful phthalates and BPA
- Does not contain latex
- Uses approved dyes for bright colors
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), toy manufacturers must ensure products meet federal safety standards, including limits on toxic substances like lead, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. Mad Mattr’s certification indicates it meets these requirements.
Safety Testing and Certifications
Mad Mattr carries ASTM D-4236 certification. This is the standard specification for art materials used by children. It means the product has been evaluated by a toxicologist for acute and chronic hazards.
Key certifications:
- ASTM D-4236 (Art Materials Safety)
- CPSC compliant (Consumer Product Safety Commission standards)
- Non-toxic label verified by independent testing
These certifications don’t mean the product is edible. They mean it meets safety thresholds for incidental contact and small ingestion amounts typical in play scenarios. Independent testing focuses on heavy metal content, phthalate levels, microbial contamination, and acute toxicity.
Age-Related Safety Risks
The choking hazard is the primary concern. Mad Mattr can be torn into small pieces, and children under 3 frequently put objects in their mouths.
Why the 3+ age recommendation matters: The CPSC uses 3 years as a dividing line for small parts. Toys for children under 3 cannot have parts small enough to fit in a test cylinder (approximately 1.25 inches diameter by 2.25 inches deep). Mad Mattr can be molded into pieces that fit this size.
Supervision by age:
- Ages 3-4: Direct supervision required (still explore with mouths occasionally)
- Ages 5-7: Casual supervision sufficient (understand “don’t eat” but accidents happen)
- Ages 8+: Minimal supervision needed for safety
What Happens if a Child Eats Mad Mattr?
Small amounts ingested accidentally are unlikely to cause serious harm. The non-toxic certification means the compound won’t poison a child who gets a small piece in their mouth.
Expected outcomes for small ingestion:
- Unpleasant taste (most kids spit it out immediately)
- Possible mild stomach discomfort
- May cause loose stool if swallowed
- No toxic effects from small amounts
When to call poison control:
- Child eats large amount (more than marble-sized)
- Shows distress (difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain)
- Has persistent vomiting
- You’re uncertain about amount consumed
American Association of Poison Control Centers: 1-800-222-1222 (available 24/7).
Most incidents involve tiny amounts that pass through without issue. Large amounts could potentially cause intestinal blockage, which is why supervision matters.
Skin Contact and Allergies
Mad Mattr is designed for hand contact. Most children can play with it without skin issues.
Common experiences:
- Leaves slight oily film on hands (washes off with soap)
- No irritation for most users
- Rare reports of mild skin sensitivity
We found no irritation during five months of testing with two children. The compound washed off easily with standard hand soap. But individual sensitivities vary.
If your child has eczema or sensitive skin, test with a small amount first. Let them play for 5 to 10 minutes, then check for reaction.
What’s NOT in Mad Mattr
Parents often ask about specific substances. According to manufacturer specifications, Mad Mattr does NOT contain:
- Wheat, gluten, or casein (safe for celiac disease)
- Latex (safe for latex allergies)
- Harmful phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP banned in children’s toys)
- BPA (bisphenol A)
- Lead or heavy metals above CPSC limits
- Formaldehyde
- Parabens
These exclusions address most common allergen and toxicity concerns.
Safety verdict: Mad Mattr meets federal safety standards and is non-toxic for appropriate ages. The 3+ recommendation should be followed. Main risks are choking hazard for young children and standard supervision needs. Not a safety concern for kids 3 and up when used as intended.
How We Used Mad Mattr
Our 3-year-old primarily squished it while the 6-year-old attempted to building and molding objects.
Play frequency averaged 3 to 4 times per week. We used it on a contained tray, directly on the kitchen table, and accidentally on carpet (more on that disaster later). Cleanup methods included damp cloths, scraping, and one failed vacuum attempt.
Storage was in the original container with the lid sealed. For comparison purposes, we also compared it to Kinetic Sand during the same period since we had both products in the house.
Detailed Performance Review
Texture and Feel
The texture is completely unique. Soft and foamy with a slightly sticky quality. It feels like lightweight modeling clay or thick mousse.
There’s no grittiness like Kinetic Sand. This is a completely different sensory experience. The compound has a slightly oily or slick feel that leaves a subtle residue on your hands. It doesn’t stick to itself as much as Kinetic Sand sticks to itself, but it sticks to surfaces more than it sticks to hands. Which is counter-intuitive.
When you pull it, it stretches slightly. This elastic quality sets it apart from both sand and clay. It warms to hand temperature quickly. The bright colors are visually very appealing.
But the texture is polarizing. Our 3-year-old loved the squishy feel. Our 6-year-old found it “weird” at first and took several sessions to warm up to it. It leaves a slight film on your hands that washes off easily with soap.
Playability and Moldability
Mad Mattr molds fairly well but doesn’t hold shapes as long as Kinetic Sand. It’s best for squishing, stretching, and making blobs. Detailed shapes are difficult because the edges crumble.
You can’t build tall structures because it’s too soft and everything collapses. It works OK with molds but doesn’t release as cleanly as Kinetic Sand.
The stretching property is interesting though. You can pull Mad Mattr into strings and ribbons, which Kinetic Sand can’t do. You can also mix colors to create marbled effects. This appeals to some kids.
Play sessions typically lasted 15 to 30 minutes in our household which was shorter than typical Kinetic Sand sessions. The novelty factor was high initially, but repeat play was moderate. It’s better for sensory exploration than construction projects.
It’s better for sensory exploration than construction projects. The 10 oz size is enough for one child. You’ll want 20+ oz for building activities or multiple kids playing together. The bright colors do maintain their appeal across multiple sessions.
The Mess Factor
This is where Mad Mattr struggles. The marketing claim is “easy cleanup” but I found that to be mostly false.
Mad Mattr was messier than Kinetic Sand by a significant margin. It sticks to surfaces like tables and trays, leaving residue behind. A damp cloth is required for cleanup, dry wiping doesn’t work.
And carpet mess is a disaster scenario. The compound embeds deeply and is extremely hard to remove completely. I learned this the hard way.
On hard surfaces, cleanup is manageable with a damp cloth, but it takes time. The compound leaves a slight oily film on the play surface. Your hands wash clean easily with soap, but they feel tacky until you wash them properly.
Cleanup time: 7 to 10 minutes, which is longer than Kinetic Sand’s typical 5-minute cleanup. Vacuuming doesn’t work well because the compound sticks to surfaces rather than sitting on top of them like sand does.
Best cleanup method we found: Scrape all the Mad Mattr into a ball using your hands. Get as much as possible back into the storage container. Then use a damp cloth (not dry) to wipe the residue from surfaces.
When playing with Madd Mattr, using a container is essential. You need a tray with at least 2-inch sides. Playing freely on the floor is not recommended. It spreads, sticks, and retrieval is difficult. Prepare for mess or frustration is inevitable.
The compound collects dust and lint if left exposed, so proper storage in an airtight container is necessary. My honest assessment? The mess is more annoying than Kinetic Sand’s mess. This factor alone might be a dealbreaker for some families.
Age Appropriateness
The manufacturer recommends ages 3 and up, which is appropriate due to choking hazard concerns. Kids under 3 shouldn’t use it because small pieces are possible and many toddlers still mouth toys regularly.
Ages 3-4: Sensory play is the main appeal. Squishing and stretching provides tactile engagement. Construction isn’t really possible yet anyway, so the moldability limitations don’t matter. Supervision necessary for mess prevention.
Ages 5-7: Can explore moldability more. Frustration may develop when shapes don’t hold. Better for kids who enjoy process over product. More independent play possible.
Ages 8+: Novelty wears off faster. Less engaging for older kids who can build more sophisticated structures with other materials. The sensory appeal isn’t enough to sustain interest.
The sweet spot is 4 to 6 years old. But texture preference varies wildly. Some kids genuinely hate the sticky feel. Not all sensory-seeking kids like it. This isn’t universal appeal like blocks or crayons.
Supervision is needed to prevent carpet disasters regardless of age. Compared to Kinetic Sand, the age range is similar, but the sensory experiences are different.
Does It Really Never Dry Out?
After over five months of usage, I’ve found this to be mostly true.
The Mad Mattr was stored in its original container with the lid closed. The texture remained consistent throughout and it didn’t harden or crumble. A slight film forms if you leave it exposed to air overnight with the lid open, but that film is easily worked back in by kneading for about 30 seconds.
This is far superior to Play-Doh, which dries out quickly if you forget to seal the container but it’s similar to Kinetic Sand in this regard. Neither product dries out when stored properly. This is a genuine advantage over traditional modeling clay. But you must store it correctly. Container sealed, no issues. Container left open, minor film develops but compound remains usable.
Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓ Never dries out (genuine benefit, confirmed after 5 months)
✓ Non-toxic and safe for ages 3+ (ASTM certified, CPSC compliant)
✓ Bright colors very appealing to kids (blue, pink, green, purple, orange)
✓ Unique soft, foamy texture provides different sensory experience
✓ Stretches and molds in ways Kinetic Sand can’t
✓ Washes off hands easily with soap and water
✓ Gluten-free and latex-free (safer for allergies than Play-Doh)
✓ Relatively affordable depending on size
✓ Can mix colors for custom shades
✓ Good for kids who like squishy textures specifically
Cons
✗ Messier than advertised (sticky residue on surfaces)
✗ Cleanup requires damp cloth (more work than Kinetic Sand)
✗ Sticks to carpet and extremely hard to remove
✗ Texture is polarizing (some kids dislike sticky feel)
✗ Doesn’t hold shapes as well as Kinetic Sand
✗ Leaves slight oily film on play area
✗ Can’t build tall structures (too soft, collapses)
✗ Collects dust and lint if not stored properly
✗ Less moldable precision than Play-Doh
✗ Novelty wears off faster than Kinetic Sand
✗ Smaller amount per dollar than most Kinetic Sand packages
✗ Choking hazard for children under 3
Mad Mattr vs Kinetic Sand
This comparison matters because most parents are deciding between these two products.
Safety Comparison
| Safety Factor | Mad Mattr | Kinetic Sand |
|---|---|---|
| Age Rating | 3+ years | 3+ years |
| Choking Risk | Moderate (can tear into small pieces) | Moderate (grains can be mouthed) |
| Allergens | Gluten-free, latex-free | Gluten-free, contains silicone |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic, ASTM certified | Non-toxic, ASTM certified |
| Ingestion Risk | Low (unpleasant taste, may cause upset) | Low (passes through, may cause upset) |
Both products are equally safe from a toxicity perspective. The risks are similar.
Texture Comparison
| Feature | Mad Mattr | Kinetic Sand |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, foamy, slightly sticky | Grainy, flows like wet sand |
| Moisture | Slightly oily feel | Dry to the touch |
| Stretch | Yes, pulls into strings | No, crumbles when pulled |
| Temperature | Warms quickly to hand temp | Stays cooler longer |
These are completely different sensory experiences. Kinetic Sand is more sand-like. Mad Mattr is more clay or foam-like. There’s no clear winner. It depends on preference.
Moldability Comparison
Kinetic Sand holds shapes better and builds structures more reliably. Mad Mattr molds softer and collapses easier.
If your goal is castle building or detailed work, Kinetic Sand wins clearly. If your goal is squishing and stretching for pure sensory input, Mad Mattr is viable. Kinetic Sand’s firmness allows for more precise molding. Mad Mattr’s softness makes it better for tactile exploration but worse for construction.
Mess Level Comparison
Kinetic Sand creates moderate mess, vacuums relatively OK, and has less surface adhesion. Mad Mattr creates higher mess, leaves sticky residue, and requires damp cloth cleanup.
Kinetic Sand is easier cleanup overall. Mad Mattr is more frustrating on carpet and hard surfaces. Both require contained play for reasonable cleanup, but Mad Mattr requires more effort even with containment.
Winner: Kinetic Sand for cleaner experience.
Price and Value
Price and Value Comparison
Both products fall in similar price ranges for comparable sizes. Kinetic Sand typically offers more material per dollar. Mad Mattr’s bright colors cost a premium.
Both last indefinitely because neither dries out. Long-term value is similar if you factor in longevity. But for equal weights, Kinetic Sand usually costs less per ounce.
Neither product needs replacement due to drying or degradation. The main replacement scenario is loss due to mess or accidental carpet disposal.
Our Recommendation
Try Kinetic Sand first if you’re new to moldable play materials. It has easier cleanup, better moldability for most play patterns, and slightly better value.
Consider Mad Mattr if your child specifically loves squishy, stretchy textures and you don’t mind extra cleanup work. Or if your child tried Kinetic Sand and disliked the grainy texture.
If we’re choosing between them head-to-head? Kinetic Sand edges it out for most families. Better moldability, easier cleanup, more versatile play.
If budget allows and your child likes variety? Get both. They provide genuinely different sensory experiences. But start with Kinetic Sand to establish whether moldable play materials appeal to your child at all.
Read our full Kinetic Sand review for detailed analysis of that product.
Best Mad Mattr Kit to Buy
If you decide Mad Mattr is right for your family, here’s our breakdown of the available options.
Best Starter: Single Color 10oz
The basic 10 oz tub in a single color is the best way to test whether Mad Mattr works for your family. Available in blue, purple, red, or teal. This size provides enough compound for satisfying play with one child without committing to larger amounts or tool sets.
Why this wins: Straightforward, affordable, no extra tools you might not use. If your child loves it, you can add more colors or tools later. If they don’t, you haven’t invested in accessories.
Best for: First-time buyers, ages 3-5, testing texture preference
View Mad Mattr 10oz on Amazon →
Best Value with Tools: Ultimate Pack
The Ultimate Pack includes 10 oz of Mad Mattr in 2 colors plus 9 tools including brick makers, extruders, and a safe cutting tool. This is the sweet spot for most families who want tools without overwhelming quantity.
Why this works: Good tool variety without going overboard. Two colors for mixing. Brick makers are genuinely useful for building (even though structures collapse, kids enjoy the process). Extruders create fun shapes.
Best for: Ages 4-6, kids who like building activities, families wanting complete starter kit
Note: Tools are nice-to-have, not essential. Kitchen items work fine, but dedicated tools add play variety.
View Mad Mattr Ultimate Pack on Amazon →
Premium Option: Quantum Tool Box
The Quantum Tool Box includes 10 oz in 2 mystery colors plus 20 tools and a brick maker, all in a storage toolbox. This is the most comprehensive kit.
Important caveat: Age recommendation is 5+, not 3+ like other options. The increased tool count and smaller pieces make this less appropriate for younger children.
Why consider it: If your child is 5 or older and you want maximum tool variety. The toolbox provides organized storage. 20 tools offer extensive creative options.
Best for: Ages 5-8, kids who enjoy detailed building, families wanting premium experience
Skip if: Your child is under 5, you prefer simple play, you don’t want tool clutter
View Mad Mattr Quantum Tool Box on Amazon →
Themed Option: Dino Pack
The Dino Pack includes 10 oz in 3 mystery colors plus 4 spring-loaded dinosaur molds. Age recommendation is 5+.
Why it’s appealing: Kids who love dinosaurs get dedicated molds. Three colors for mixing. Spring-loaded molds are easier for small hands than traditional compression molds.
Best for: Ages 5-7, dinosaur enthusiasts, kids who prefer themed play
Consider: This is a specialized option. If your child isn’t particularly into dinosaurs, the Ultimate Pack offers more versatile tools for similar value.
View Mad Mattr Dino Pack on Amazon →
Skip These Options
Monster Meteorite Pack: Contains only 57g (about 2 oz) of Mad Mattr. This is barely enough for one brief play session. Frustratingly small. The novelty monster feature doesn’t compensate for the inadequate compound amount.
6-Pack Black Set: Marketed for party favors and goodie bags. Six small black tubs. Only makes sense if you’re specifically planning a party and want Mad Mattr as favors. Not a good value for regular play.
Our Specific Recommendations
For ages 3-4: Start with a single color 10oz. Test texture preference before investing in tools.
For ages 5-6: Ultimate Pack offers the best balance of compound, colors, and tools. Or Dino Pack if the child loves dinosaurs specifically.
For ages 7-8: Quantum Toolbox if they enjoy detailed building. But honestly, many kids this age have moved past moldable compound interest.
For multiple kids: Get two single-colour 10-oz tubs rather than one larger kit. Separate containers reduce fighting and allow color separation.
Amount guidance: 10 oz is the minimum we recommend for satisfying play. Two kids playing together need 20+ oz total to avoid frustration.
Color recommendations: All colors are equally vibrant and appealing. Blue and purple tested well in our household. Red and teal also available. Choose based on child preference. Single color is fine, multiple colors enable mixing experiments.
Tool philosophy: Nice to have but not essential. If budget constrained, skip tools entirely and use kitchen items (cookie cutters, plastic knives, garlic press works as extruder). Tools add variety but don’t fundamentally change the play experience.
Storage reminder: Keep the original container regardless of which option you choose. It’s designed to seal properly and prevents the compound from collecting dust and lint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mad Mattr dry out?
No. We confirmed this after five months of regular play. Store it in an airtight container with the lid properly sealed. If you accidentally leave the lid off overnight, a slight film may form on the surface, but you can knead it back in within 30 seconds. The compound remains soft and moldable indefinitely when stored correctly. This is one claim that’s genuinely true.
Is Mad Mattr messy?
Yes, it’s messier than Kinetic Sand by a significant margin. Mad Mattr sticks to surfaces and leaves residue that requires damp cloth cleanup. It embeds in carpet and is extremely difficult to remove completely from fabric. On hard surfaces like tables, it’s manageable but takes 7 to 10 minutes to clean thoroughly. Use a contained tray with sides, and avoid carpet at all costs. The “easy cleanup” marketing claim is misleading.
What age is Mad Mattr for?
The manufacturer recommends ages 3 and up, which is appropriate due to choking hazard concerns. The best age range is 4 to 6 years old. Kids under 3 shouldn’t use it because they still mouth toys frequently. Ages 3 to 4 need supervision to prevent mess disasters. Ages 5 to 7 can play more independently. Ages 8 and up often find the novelty wears off quickly.
Can you vacuum Mad Mattr?
Not effectively. Mad Mattr sticks to surfaces rather than sitting on top of them like Kinetic Sand does. Vacuums won’t pick it up well. The best cleanup method is to scrape it into a ball with your hands first, collecting as much as possible. Then use a damp cloth to wipe away the residue left on surfaces. On carpet, you’ll need to pick at it manually and possibly use a damp cloth to get the last bits out.
Which is better, Mad Mattr or Kinetic Sand?
Depends on what you want. Kinetic Sand is better for building, holds shapes longer, and has easier cleanup. Mad Mattr is better for squishy sensory play and offers unique stretching properties. If you’re choosing just one product, we recommend Kinetic Sand for most families because the moldability and cleanup are superior. Mad Mattr is worth considering if your child specifically dislikes the grainy texture of sand-based products. Read our Kinetic Sand review for detailed comparison.
How do you clean up Mad Mattr?
First, scrape all the compound into a ball using your hands. Collect as much as possible back into the storage container. For residue left on surfaces, use a damp cloth (not dry) to wipe it away. The compound leaves a slightly oily film that won’t come off with dry wiping. For carpet accidents, pick out what you can manually, then use a damp cloth to work on the embedded pieces. Be patient because it takes time. Avoid letting it spread to carpet in the first place.
Can Mad Mattr be reused?
Yes, indefinitely. That’s one of its genuine advantages. The compound doesn’t dry out or degrade with use. You can store it in its sealed container and pull it out weeks or months later. It’ll be exactly the same texture. Just make sure the container lid is properly sealed to prevent dust and lint from collecting on the surface. We used the same 10 oz tub for five months with no degradation in quality.
Final Verdict
Mad Mattr is worth trying if Kinetic Sand’s texture didn’t appeal to your child. The unique foamy, stretchy quality provides a different sensory experience. But it’s messier than expected, which is the biggest downside while we used it.
The bright colors are genuinely appealing to kids. The compound works better for squishing than building. It’s not superior to Kinetic Sand, just different. If you decide to try it, we recommend starting with the 10 oz Super Tub. Use a contained tray with high sides, and avoid carpet at all costs.
If we’re choosing between Mad Mattr and Kinetic Sand with no other context? Kinetic Sand edges it out for most families. But if your child loves squishy textures specifically, Mad Mattr is worth the purchase. Just set realistic expectations.
This is a solid sensory play option but not a miracle toy. We would not repurchase for our family because the Kinetic Sand worked better for our kids’ play patterns and our cleanup tolerance.
For more indoor and outdoor play options beyond moldable compounds, see our guide to best active play toys for kids.
View Mad Mattr on Amazon →