If your baby can't get enough of chewing on their sleeve or your fingers, it may be time to consider a teether.
Shape
✓ The ideal option is a large rubber ring [1]. It's comfortable to hold and can’t fit into the baby’s mouth. The only disadvantage is that when the teeth come in, the baby will not be able to bite into the ring with them and you'll have to buy another teether.
? Teethers in the form of animals or other cute things are also suitable. But they should be well constructed with parts that can not come apart. In general, the simpler the toy, the better. There have been cases when children bite off a piece of a toy and teether and end up with it down their throats.
✕ Beads and bracelets are not suitable as teething toys. They can tear and cause choking [1]. Do not give children teethers with holes, as mold can grow inside them.
Material
✓ A teether can be made of hard plastic or rubber [1]. Make sure to purchase brands that are made in the USA or the EU, as they have the strictest standards when it comes to the safety of children's toys. Before buying, you can check the product on the Saferproducts.gov website.
? Teethers with water (or liquid) inside can be controversial. Yes, they can cool and alleviate your baby’s gums, but the liquid can breed bacteria and if the baby somehow punctures the toy, the liquid will get into their mouth [2].
✕ Some parents let their children chew on amber jewelry, which can be dangerous because stones can scratch the gums [1].
