Fantastic Teething Toys for Your Baby

Teething. It’s a word that sends a shiver down the spine of many new parents.

That magical time when your baby’s first teeth start to poke through their gums is a major developmental milestone. But while it’s exciting, it’s also often accompanied by drooling, crankiness, interrupted sleep, and a desperate need for relief for baby and parents.

Fortunately, teething toys exist to make this transition smoother. But with thousands of options on the market, how do you know which ones are safe, effective, and worth buying?

This blog post explores everything you need to know about baby teething and presents a curated list of fantastic teething toys that parents and babies adore. From cooling rings to chewable toys that double as sensory aids, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best products for your baby’s comfort and development.

Understanding Teething: What’s Going On?

Before we get into the toys, let’s take a quick look at what’s happening when your baby is teething.

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, though some may start earlier or later. The first teeth to emerge are usually the bottom central incisors, followed by the top ones.

Common Signs of Teething:

• Excessive drooling
• Chewing on fingers or toys
• Irritability or crankiness
• Swollen or tender gums
• Trouble sleeping
• Refusal to eat
• Mild temperature rise (not a true fever)

It’s important to note that while teething can cause discomfort, high fevers, diarrhea, and rashes are not normal symptoms. If your baby exhibits these signs, consult a pediatrician.

Why Teething Toys Matter

Teething toys, also known as teethers, are specifically designed to be chewed on, providing pressure and relief to sore gums. Many are made of safe, flexible materials and come in a range of shapes, textures, and functions.

Benefits of Teething Toys:

1. Soothing Gum Pain: Gentle pressure on gums eases inflammation.
2. Distraction and Engagement: Toys keep babies occupied and comforted.
3. Oral Motor Development: Chewing strengthens jaw muscles and promotes oral awareness.
4. Sensory Play: Many teething toys double as sensory tools, supporting cognitive development.
5. Safe Chewing: Instead of gnawing on random (and unsafe) household objects, babies have a hygienic option.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some of the most fantastic teething toys you can buy today.

1. Sophie la Girafe Teething Toy

A global icon in the baby world, Sophie la Girafe is more than just a teether—it’s a classic.

Why Parents Love It:

• Made from 100% natural rubber and food-grade paint
• Lightweight and easy to grip for tiny hands
• Soft and chewable with multiple textured areas
• Emits a gentle squeak, engaging babies’ hearing

Bonus: Sophie is handmade in France and free from phthalates, BPA, and harmful chemicals.

Best for: Babies aged 3+ months

2. Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys

Affordable and highly effective, Nuby’s Ice Gel Teether Keys are perfect for babies who need a bit of cooling comfort.

Features:

• Keys can be chilled in the fridge for extra gum-soothing action
• Textured surfaces massage gums
• Easy to hold and brightly colored
• BPA-free and widely available

Best for: Babies aged 3–12 months who benefit from cold therapy

3. The Matchstick Monkey Teething Applicator

This multi-functional toy is designed for babies who are struggling with teething pain but also need a tool to help apply teething gel or medicine.

Why It’s Fantastic:

• Textured bumps for soothing sore gums
• Helps apply teething gel directly where it’s needed
• Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
• Made from food-grade silicone

Best for: Babies 3+ months and especially those with molar teething pain

4. Comotomo Silicone Baby Teether

Simple, safe, and very effective, the Comotomo Teether is designed to mimic fingers because babies always seem to want to chew on those.

Highlights:

• Four flexible “fingers” for chewing
• Soft and textured silicone design
• Small enough for babies to grasp and self-soothe
• Easy to clean (boilable and dishwasher-safe)

Best for: Babies from 3 months who prefer minimalist designs

5. Munch Mitt Teething Mitten

Some babies just don’t want to hold anything, but they will chew on their hands. That’s where the Munch Mitt comes in.

How It Works:

• A wearable teething mittens that fastens around your baby’s wrist
• Made with textured silicone for safe chewing
• Crinkly material entertains with sound
• Machine washable

Best for: Babies aged 2–8 months who haven’t mastered hand coordination yet

6. Haakaa Silicone Pineapple Teether

From the trusted Haakaa brand, known for its breast pumps and silicone products, the Pineapple Teether is cute and effective.

Features:

• Soft silicone construction
• Multiple chew zones
• Bright colours for visual engagement
• Freezer-safe for added relief

Best for: Babies who need a fun, fruit-themed friend for teething time

7. RaZbaby RaZberry Silicone Teether

Designed like a pacifier, this teether is made for babies who prefer sucking and chewing at the same time.

Why It’s Great:

• Shaped like a raspberry with textured bumps
• Made from 100% medical-grade silicone
• Can be chilled for extra relief
• Comes with a pacifier handle for easy gripping

Best for: 3–6-month-olds transitioning from pacifier to solid foods

8. Boon Pulp Silicone Feeder

Not only a teether, but also a tool for introducing first foods, the Boon Pulp Feeder is a multi-use wonder.

Benefits:

• Fill with frozen fruit or breastmilk cubes for teething relief
• Promotes chewing and hand-eye coordination
• Easy to clean and assemble
• Encourages safe self-feeding

Best for: Babies 6+ months, especially those starting solids

Choosing the Right Teething Toy for Your Baby

When shopping for teething toys, here are a few important considerations:

1. Safety First

• Choose toys labelled BPA-free, phthalate-free, and food-grade silicone or natural rubber.
• Avoid small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
• Ensure durability, worn-out toys can be dangerous.

2. Easy to Clean

Babies explore everything with their mouths, so you’ll want teethers that are dishwasher-safe, boilable, or quick to sterilise.

3. Age-Appropriate Design

Babies develop grip strength and coordination at different rates. Younger babies benefit from mittens or lightweight rings, while older babies may enjoy textures or feeders.

4. Chillability

Some teething rings can be refrigerated (not frozen solid) for additional gum relief. Avoid gel-filled toys unless they come from a reputable brand and are puncture-proof.

5. Multi-Functionality

Some teething toys also double as rattles, sensory aids, or feeding tools. These offer extra value and engagement.

Bonus: Natural Teething Remedies (to Use Alongside Toys)

While teething toys are the first line of relief, there are other safe, natural ways to comfort a teething baby:

• Cold Washcloth: Wet and chill a clean cloth for your baby to chew on.
• Massage: Use a clean finger to gently rub the baby’s gums.
• Chamomile tea-soaked cloth: Known for soothing properties (use with pediatrician approval).
• Breastfeeding: The comfort of nursing can ease teething fussiness.

Avoid using gels with benzocaine or lidocaine, as they may pose health risks. Always talk to your child’s pediatrician before using medicated teething treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I give my baby a frozen teething toy?

A: Cold teething rings are great, but avoid freezing them solid as this may cause gum damage. Refrigerated is safer and still effective.

Q: How many teething toys do I need?

A: Having 2–4 options is ideal. Babies may develop preferences and like switching between textures.

Q: When should I clean teething toys?

A: Clean daily or immediately after a drop on unsanitary surfaces. Dishwasher-safe toys make this easy.

Q: My baby doesn’t like any teething toys: what now?

A: Every baby is different. Try different textures, shapes, and temperatures. Sometimes, a chilled washcloth or your finger is all they want.

Final Thoughts

Teething doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right teething toys, you can bring your baby comfort, reduce fussiness, and support healthy oral development, all while saving your sanity.

From the beloved Sophie la Girafe to modern silicone teethers and hands-free mittens, there’s a perfect toy out there for every baby. Choose ones that suit your child’s age, personality, and chewing style, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

The best teething toy is the one that soothes your baby and brings those gummy smiles back.