Teething toys
When choosing teething toys for your baby, there are some important rules to keep in mind. Of course, one of the main factors is whether the teether is suitable for your child and whether it will actually help with relieving teething symptoms. However, above all else, safety should always come first – which is why we have compiled a list of things you should check when searching amongst the many teething toys the market has to offer.
Beware of the following materials
- Plastic teethers – especially if they contain BPA, PVC or phthalates
- Painted teethers made in China may contain lead, so it is best to avoid them
- Any teethers that do not look well-made or have parts that could break off and present a potential choking hazard for your baby
It would be best to avoid teething biscuits as well – sugar that the majority of these biscuits contain can put your child at risk of cavities.
Safe materials for teethers
The best materials for a teether are natural materials, like 100% natural rubber or cotton. Stuffed toys or a simple soft cotton cloth can offer relief and enjoyment for your little one. Medical grade silicone is also safe and probably the most resistant to physical damage, and the easiest one to clean among the mentioned materials.
When choosing a teether, think about your child’s behavior so far – if your baby prefers to chew on blankets and clothing, then a cotton teether would probably be appropriate. On the other hand, if your little one prefers hard surfaces and household items, then perhaps you should consider a hard rubber or a wooden toy.
Some additional features you may look for in a teething toy include:
- Is it easy to clean?
- Does it provide additional benefits for your baby, such as development of motor skills?
- Does it provide different kinds of stimulation, such as squeaking, colorful design or various textures?
- Can it be chilled in the fridge?
For additional relief, you could chill the teether in the fridge – cold will help numb the gums and reduce the pain. Just don’t freeze it, since direct contact with icy surfaces can cause gum damage. You could also apply a teething gel to the points of contact of the teether with the gums.
How to take care of teething toys
Clean the toy after each use – depending on the teether, you may be able to wash it in the dishwasher or in the washing machine, just check the instructions first.
Check the teether regularly for any damage – as your baby’s teeth grow, it is possible that the toy will suffer some chipping and scratching, so if you notice any parts that may break away and be swallowed by your baby, replace the toy immediately.