Teething is an inevitable part of a baby’s development, and as parents, we want to do everything we can to ease their discomfort. That’s where teethers and soothers come in. These little gadgets are designed to provide relief to your little one’s sore gums, and they can make a world of difference during this challenging phase.
In this ultimate guide, we will explore the different types of teethers and soothers, factors to consider when choosing one, safety considerations, popular brands in the market, reviews and recommendations, homemade teething remedies, cleaning and care tips, and teething tips and tricks for parents. By the end of this guide, you will be well-equipped to find the perfect teether and soother for your little one.
Why are teethers and soothers important for babies?
Teething can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for babies, as their gums become swollen and tender. That’s where teethers and soothers come in. These handy devices provide babies with something safe and soothing to chew on, helping to alleviate their discomfort and providing a distraction from the pain.
Teethers are typically made of soft, chewable materials, such as silicone or rubber, which babies can gnaw on to help ease the pain in their gums. Soothers, on the other hand, are pacifiers that babies can suck on to provide a calming effect. Both teethers and soothers can be a lifeline for both babies and parents during the teething phase.
Different types of teethers and soothers
When it comes to teethers and soothers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different babies have different preferences, so it’s important to explore the various types available to find the one that works best for your little one. Some common types of teethers include:
1. Silicone Teethers: These teethers are made of soft, flexible silicone material that is gentle on your baby’s gums. They often come in various shapes and sizes, such as rings or animal shapes, and can be chilled in the refrigerator for additional relief.
2. Rubber Teethers: Rubber teethers are another popular option. They are usually made from natural rubber and have a bumpy texture that provides a satisfying chewing experience for babies. Rubber teethers are also easy to clean and durable.
3. Wooden Teethers: Wooden teethers are a natural and eco-friendly option. They are usually made from untreated wood and are free from harmful chemicals. Wooden teethers have a firm texture that can provide more pressure on the gums and offer a different sensory experience for babies.
Soothers, on the other hand, are available in various shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose of providing comfort and calming your baby. Some soothers have orthodontic shapes to support healthy oral development, while others have textured surfaces for additional sensory stimulation. It’s important to consider your baby’s preferences and needs when choosing a teether or soother.
Factors to consider when choosing a teether or soother
With so many available options, choosing the right teether or soother for your baby can feel overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider to help you make an informed decision:
1. Safety: Safety should always be the number one priority when choosing a teether or soother. Look for teethers and soothers that are made of non-toxic materials and are free from harmful chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and lead. Also, ensure that the teether or soother doesn’t have any small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
2. Age appropriateness: Different teethers and soothers are suitable for different age ranges. Make sure to check the recommended age range on the packaging to ensure that the teether or soother is suitable for your baby’s developmental stage.
3. Texture and shape: Babies have different preferences when it comes to texture and shape. Some babies may prefer a softer teether, while others may prefer a firmer one. Similarly, some babies may prefer a teether with a particular shape or texture. It may take some trial and error to find the right teether or soother that your baby finds most soothing.
4. Ease of cleaning: Babies have a knack for getting things dirty, so it’s important to choose a teether or soother that is easy to clean. Look for teethers and soothers that can be easily washed with warm, soapy water or are dishwasher safe.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find a teether or soother that is safe, suitable, and enjoyable for your little one.
Safety considerations for teethers and soothers
When it comes to baby products, safety is of utmost importance. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when using teethers and soothers:
1. Regular inspections: Before each use, inspect the teether or soother for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Discard any teethers or soothers that are cracked, chipped, or damaged, as they could pose a safety hazard.
2. Size and shape: Make sure that the teether or soother is an appropriate size for your baby to prevent choking. Avoid teething toys with small parts that could easily break off and become a choking hazard.
3. Supervision: Always supervise your baby when they are using a teether or soother to ensure their safety. Never leave your baby unattended with a teether or soother, especially during sleep.
4. Cleanliness: Keep your baby’s teethers and soothers clean and hygienic. Regularly wash them with warm, soapy water and allow them to air dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents that could be harmful to your baby.
By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure that your baby’s teething experience is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Popular teether and soother brands in the market
With so many brands competing for your attention, it can be challenging to choose the right teether or soother for your little one. Here are some popular teether and soother brands that have received positive reviews from parents:
1. Sophie la Girafe: The little giraffe was born on 25th May 1961…Saint Sophie’s Day. The only animal toys available were farm animals or pet figures. That is why one day in France Monsieur Rampeau came up with the idea of designing a giraffe.
Such an exotic wildlife figure would be a first, and its size and shape would be ideal for a baby’s small hands to grasp. Sophie the Giraffe, who looked the same then as she does today, went into production. Sophie quickly became a “must-have”. Designed to stimulate the senses and soothe teething gums. Since 1961 Sophie the Giraffe has wowed over 50 million babies worldwide.
Safety Warning
Warning! Remove all packaging and ties before use. As with all products for babies, this toy must only be used under adult supervision. Please note! Do not sterilize. We advise you to wipe clean the surface of this toy with soapy water and a damp cloth.
Examine the product carefully before each use, especially when the child has teeth. Pull the product in all directions and discard if it shows the slightest sign of deterioration or fragility. Do not be exposed to direct sunlight and keep away from sources of heat.
2. Nuby Fruitsicles:
We call frozen fresh fruit on a stick Fruitsicles here at Nuby HQ but whether you call them fruity ice pops, ice lollies, popsicles or something totally unique, they’re amazing for hungry little ones who love trying new flavours & even teething babies to help soothe sore gums.
• Perfect tool for making puree popsicles at home
• Helpful design catches any little drips
• Dinky handles fit perfectly in little hands
•Tasty and soothing for teething babies
•BPA Free
Either use fresh homemade puree or your breast milk & pour it into the moulds before you pop them inside the tray included & slot them into your freezer. Our top tip for removing the fruitsicle when frozen is pouring a little warm water on the outside of the mould to get the full portion every time.
The perfectly shaped handles are ideal for small hands so your baby has control & can feed at their own speed. The clever design also catches any drips as they’re getting stuck in.
They’re so brightly coloured making feeding even more fun & to top it off when your baby has finished, they’re really easy to clean so you can crack on with making more.
Safety Warning
Warning: always use this product with adult supervision.
3. MAM Night Soothers:
MAM Night soothers glow brightly at night time, making it easy for any new mum or dad to find in the dark without disturbing their little one.
Each soother has a MAM SkinSoft silicone teat, accepted by 94 Percent* of babies, and has been designed in close cooperation with paediatricians, dentists and orthodontists. The silicone also prevents slipping, keeping the soother in the baby‘s mouth. The symmetrically shaped teat ensures that your newborn’s jaw is always in the correct position, nurturing a healthy jaw and teeth development.
MAM Night soothers come with a self-sterilising travel case for quick and easy sterilising.
MAM soothers are carefully tailored to precise age groups. These soothers are for babies between 0-6 months – look out for MAM 6+ months soothers, as well as MAM wider range of baby products, covering everything from MAM Bottles to the MAM Starter Set.
Product Description:
Silicone Teat – Featuring SkinSoft technology
glow in the dark – Easily find a soother at night
Travel Case – Sterilise in a microwave
Healthy Development – Designed with medical experts
Contains 2 SkinSoft soothers and 1x travel case
4. Tommee Tippee Fun Style Soothers: The instinctive action of sucking helps to calm and soothe babies and all parents know there’s nothing more wonderful than a calm, content baby. So, when you need to turn screams and sobs into smiles and sleep, simply pick up a Tommee Tippee Fun Style soother.
Soothers are known by many different names such as dummies, pacifiers, dodies and binkies. At Tommee Tippee we use the word ‘soother’ as it does just that, soothe the baby. Our orthodontic* Fun Style soothers feature an oval, reverse ortho baglet that is vented meaning it compresses more easily than traditional, air-filled baglets and therefore reduces pressure on baby’s developing teeth and gums.
The symmetrical, soft silicone baglet is fully reversible and has no ‘wrong’ side-up so the soother will always be placed correctly in your baby’s mouth, even when the baby puts the soother in their mouth themselves. The curved shield sits comfortably between the baby’s chin and nose and the holes in each side allow extra airflow and prevent the build-up of moisture which helps to protect the baby’s delicate skin against irritation.
The easy-to-clean, BPA-free silicone baglet is soft and flexible whilst also being robust and durable. We recommend that you replace the soother every month and always at the first signs of damage or wear. We recommend against prolonged soother use over 24 months and stopping soother use when your child is older than 36 months.
*as compared to traditional round unvented soothers which do not compress as easily. **From an independent study in July 2021 of 416 mums with a 0-36m child, who is currently using a Tommee Tippee soother: · **99% of mums would recommend a Tommee Tippee soother · **97% of mums say a Tommee Tippee soother helped settle baby · **93% of mums say babies love their Tommee Tippee soother · **97.5% of babies accept a Tommee Tippee soother
These are just a few examples of popular teether and soother brands in the market. It’s important to do your own research and read reviews from other parents to find the brand that best meets your baby’s needs and preferences.
Reviews and recommendations for the best teethers and soothers
When it comes to finding the best teethers and soothers for your baby, it can be helpful to hear from other parents who have tried and tested different products. Here are some reviews and recommendations for the best teethers and soothers:
1. Sophie la Girafe Teething Toy: This classic teething toy has been a favourite among parents for decades. Its soft and flexible design makes it easy for babies to hold and chew on, providing relief for teething pain.
2. Nuby Silicone Teethe-Eez Teether: This silicone teether features multiple textures and massaging bristles that gently stimulate sore gums. Its unique design allows babies to reach their molars, providing relief for the entire teething process.
3. MAM Perfect Night Orthodontic Soother: This orthodontically designed soother is specially designed for nighttime use. It features a glow-in-the-dark handle, making it easy to find in the dark, and its symmetrical shape allows for proper jaw development.
4. Tommee Tippee Fun Style Soothers: As a parent of a toddler, I am always on the lookout for high-quality baby products that are not only safe but also fun and appealing to my little one. The Tommee Tippee Fun Style Soothers have truly exceeded my expectations, and they have become an essential part of our daily routine.
These are just a few examples of highly recommended teethers and soothers. It’s important to consider your baby’s preferences and needs when choosing a teether or soother, as every baby is unique.
Homemade teething remedies and alternatives
If you prefer a more natural approach to teething relief, there are several homemade teething remedies and alternatives that you can try. Here are some ideas:
1. Chilled fruit or vegetable: Give your baby a chilled slice of cucumber, watermelon, or carrot to gnaw on. The cold temperature can provide relief to sore gums, and the natural sweetness of the fruit or vegetable can be soothing for your baby.
2. Frozen washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist it into a tube shape, and place it in the freezer for a few minutes. The cold washcloth can provide relief to your baby’s gums when they chew on it.
3. Breast milk popsicles: If you’re breastfeeding, you can make breast milk popsicles by pouring expressed breast milk into a popsicle mould and freezing it. Cold breast milk can provide relief to your baby’s gums while also providing them with a nutritious treat.
4. Homemade teething biscuits: You can make your teething biscuits using simple ingredients like flour, water, and a pinch of cinnamon. These biscuits provide a safe and edible option for your baby to chew on.
It’s important to note that not all homemade teething remedies are suitable for every baby. Always monitor your baby closely when trying new remedies and consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Nuby IcyBite™ Keys – Soothing Teether | Multiple Teething Surfaces | Refrigerator Safe | Suitable from 3 Months Plus
Features
| Safety warning | Use under parental control |
| Model Number | 455 |
| Product Dimensions | 7.62 x 2.54 x 15.24 cm; 120 Grams |
| Item model number | 455 |
| Target gender | Unisex |
| Material Type | Silicone, PVC |
| Material-free | BPA Free |
| Care Instructions | Machine Wash |
| Additional product features | BPA Free |
| Number of items | 1 |
| Style | Teether Keys |
| Batteries required | No |
| Item Weight | 120 g |
- SOOTHING TEETHER – Nuby’s Icy Bite Keys Teether has multiple teething surfaces to help relieve the discomfort of sore and tender gums. Advised for younger babies around 3 months of age with the on-set of teething
- STAY COOL – They are easy for little hands to hold and uses PureIce Gel, which stays cooler for longer compared to water filled teethers. Place in the fridge (only) for cooling the gel
- ORAL DEVELOPMENT – Encourages oral motor skills, helping the development of lips, tongue, jaw, and the hard and soft palates. The movement of which are particularly important in speech development, safe swallowing, and consuming various textures
- STERILISATION – They are not suitable for any forms of sterilisation, wash only in hot warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. We recommend that you use sterilised wipes
- TEETHING RANGE – At Nuby, we pride ourselves on guiding (new) parents every step of the way: this baby teething toy is part of our fantastic teething collection, available through our Store Front
User reviews
Good practical product. Colourful and nice gift for babies teething!
Baby loves it. Helps with teething. Easy to clean and sterilise. Not too Chucky can take out and about!
Excellent product. Excellent product for teething
Great but could improve. Love Love Love – my son loves it too always rattling it like he actually has a set of keys haha!Here are some pros and cons for this product;Pros;- Easy to clean – warm water and soap- Easy for baby to hold (not the physical key shape though that’s a little awkward for him but still manages it)- Can tell the varying surface and gel-like center does quite sooth his gums- Can be put in the fridge for further soothing capabilitiesCons;- Ring keys could be softer as we know babies love to chomp on anything they get their hands on- Unable to freeze to use on those hot days- Top of the keys themselves are a little hard and not ideal for when baby is waving their arm around while holding it.Hope this helps
Teething keys. Daughter loves these, loves to chew them and the bobbly one massages her sore gums
Excellent. Sturdy, colourful and so much fun for baby great price
Grandson liked them. Maybe useful to be able to take keys off the ring so can have one in the fridge whilst using one.
DONT STEAM THEM. I put them in my steriliser and hour after I received them and they melted. Its probably common sense but yes…..Don’t put them in a steam steriliserOtherwise… Great. Weird smell bur great
Belle carine nel colore….gli piace molto morderle
Unsere Tochter liebt es mit den drei Beißringen zu spielen. Da diese jedoch mit Wasser gefüllt sind und somit nur im Kühlschrank gekühlt werden können (Bitte nicht in den Gefrierschrank zum kühlen und nicht in der Mikrowelle sterilisieren!) wärmen sie sich relativ schnell auf. Sie brauchen aber etwas lange bis sie wieder abgekühlt sind. Das Material ist angenehm weich und wir können es als Zahnungshilfe empfehlen.
Muy útiles en la dentición, aunque son un tanto pesadas para los bebés.
Too big teether not good for infant or even toddler with teething issues.Doesn’t go in mouth it’s enormous and heavy for infant to lift, waste of money
Es beruhigt und kühlt zugleich
2 Pack Teething Toys for Baby, Teething Mitten for Babies, Baby Toys 0-6 Months, Silicone Teether for Toddler Infant, Baby Boy Girl Shower Gifts Teething Relief Chew Toys (Chicken, Beige + Pink)
Features
| Model Number | Baby Teether-001 |
| Package Dimensions | 19.3 x 11.6 x 2.7 cm; 90 Grams |
| Item model number | Baby Teether-001 |
| Material Type | Silicone |
| Material-free | BPA Free |
| Care Instructions | Machine Wash |
| Batteries required | No |
| Item Weight | 90 g |
- 🥰【Safe Material】Silione baby teether mitten is made of BPA-free food-grade silicone, non-toxic and odorless, certified by Children’s Products, and can be used in dishwashers and refrigerators. High temperature is resistant to sterilization in hot water and steam sterilizers. Simply rinse with tap water after each use.
- 🥰【Mitten Design & Never Drop】The gloves are designed with cutouts to fit your baby’s hands comfortably, are wear-resistant, and never fall off. Prevent your baby from biting your thumb while reducing the growth of bacteria. There is a rod in the middle to exercise the baby’s grasping ability.
- 🥰【Relieve Baby’s Teething Pain】The teether is designed with bumpy massage particles, which can help relieve discomfort during teething and prevent the baby from sucking and chewing fingers. Protect the baby’s delicate gums and promote tooth development.
- 🥰【Unique Shape】The cute chick shapes are very attractive to babies, making it quickly become the baby’s favorite baby teether.
- 🥰【Love Gift】When your baby starts to suck on fingers and chew toys, you are ready to give your baby teething toys that exercise their gums. Our soft silicone cactus teether is the best gift for your baby.
User reviews
Decent product. Totally recommend for either new teething tots or just for your little one to hold in their hand. These are pretty decent for the price. Nice neutral colours, silicone which is sturdy but nice and soft, they’re quite big for tiny hands but this is good as it allows my daughter to cling onto the bar inside while still being able to move her fingers or hand if she’s had enough.
Amazing for teething babies. Really good teethers, baby can hold on to them with ease and they get flung about much less than my others! I think about 15 of my mum friends have since purchased these!
Stays on baby’s hand so well. Great little teether. I’ve put water in the little wings and frozen it too when baby’s teeth are being a bit of a pain
Excellent invention. Very pleased with this product!My little one has started teething much earlier than her sister did so at only 2 months old, was finding it harder to keep more traditional teething rings in her hands to get a good chew.She’s 3 (almost 4) months old now and this works wonders and is good value for money to get a pack of 2. It’s a lovely soft silicone and she gets very excited and does her happy legs when she sees me bringing one towards her – keeps her chewing and content for a good while.Not sure if they existed 6 years ago when my first was born but I think they’re genius!
Amazing for teething. My baby girl loves these and they are so cute.
My 5 month old loves these. These are great for teething babies, nice for them to have something to bite down onto. Sometimes I put them in the fridge before giving to her so it’s extra soothing on her gums
Great teether. I bought these teethers for my son after seeing them and thinking the design looked really good and was very impressed when they arrived. They are so easy for him to hold, he automatically grabs onto the middle bit and manages to keep hold of them and rarely drops it, unlike many other teethers he has. The size is just perfect for him and the bobbly textured bits poking out from the sides are by far his favourites to chew and soothe his gums.
Good. I highly recommend them, my son loves them, one of the best teethers. easy to clean, easy to hold
Li ho presi per la mia bambina di 4 mesi e ha capito subito come usarli, ora non li molla più, ci dorme pure insieme, l impugnatura è perfetta solo che per fargliela prendere bisogna aiutarli ma come massaggia gengive è ottimo, lo consiglio tantissimo
Unser Enkel kaut gerne darauf rum wenn sich ein neuer Zahn ankündigt. Scheint ihm gut zu tun.
Mais jumeaux on pas aimer prise en main pour eux trop compliqué
Son geniales cuando se meten mucho las manitas en la boca y lo bueno que al tener la manita dentro no se cae todo el rato al suelo como otros mordedores
Sollievo alle gengive
Baby Einstein, Teether-pillar Rattle and Chill Teething Aid Toy, Soothing relief, Multisensory Stimulation, Massages Sore Gums, Easy to Hold, Water filled, Ages 3 months +
- Water-filled teether can be chilled in the refrigerator for extra soothing
- Colourful baby einstein caterpillar character is easy for little hands to hold
- Soothes baby’s sore gums while at home or on the go
- Part number: 10573
User reviews
Instant teething relief. My 5 month old was in need of some teething relief that worked better than having both fists in his mouth! It is quite heavy so my son needs to use two hands to hold it currently. This toy has been working a treat and comes with us everywhere now, it can be put in the fridge for added gum relief too. Be aware it can not be put in steam sterilises as it will burst (we found this out the hard way) and on our second one now.
Excellent teething ring. My daughter loves this when she is teething, loves the colours, the rattle is also a bonus! And she can hold it also
Probably suitable for older baby. Great design and was what I wanted but it’s quite thick so my 6 month old struggles to hold it and fit it in her mouth, sure it will be better when she is older but wouldn’t recommend for young babies .
Good product. Good product for a teething baby.
Lovely Product. This is very good quality and as my little one is only just starting to teeth it should come into its own with it being easy to use.
Hapoy. Easy to hold, my baby is coming up to 4 months
Lovely. Good
Beautiful but big for my baby. It’s a helpful product when baby is teething but it’s big for my baby’s hands. It looks nice and when is cold provides a release. I would not buy again.
Looks great Beautiful
This is one of the best teether I have bought. It was super easy for my baby to hold. It chilled really well when placed in the fridge and provided so much relief. It was an awesome toy too for them.
Buen producto buena calidad
Regalato alla mia nipotina di pochi mesi…..le piace moltissimo
The soft part leaked after a few days of use. No hot water used to clean it. The hard part is too hard for a baby.
How to clean and care for teethers and soothers
To ensure that your baby’s teethers and soothers remain clean and hygienic, it’s important to establish a regular cleaning routine. Here are some tips on how to clean and care for teethers and soothers:
1. Wash with warm, soapy water: After each use, wash the teether or soother with warm, soapy water. Use a mild baby soap or dish soap to clean the teether thoroughly. Rinse it well to remove any soap residue.
2. Air dry: Allow the teether or soother to air dry after washing. Placing it in direct sunlight can also help to kill any bacteria or germs.
3. Boil or sterilize: If the teether or soother is dishwasher safe, you can also run it through a dishwasher cycle for a thorough clean. Alternatively, you can boil the teether or soother in water for a few minutes to sterilize it.
4. Store in a clean, dry place: After cleaning and drying, store the teether or soother in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing it in airtight containers or plastic bags, as this can promote the growth of bacteria.
By following these cleaning and care tips, you can keep your baby’s teethers and soothers clean and safe for use.
Teething tips and tricks for parents
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate this phase with ease:
1. Provide comfort: Offer plenty of cuddles and reassurance to your baby during teething. Sometimes, all they need is some extra love and attention to help them through this uncomfortable phase.
2. Use a teething gel: If your baby is experiencing severe discomfort, you can try using a teething gel that is specifically formulated to provide temporary relief for teething pain. Remember to always follow the instructions and consult with your paediatrician before using any medication or gel.
3. Use a teething necklace: Teething necklaces are designed to be worn by parents, with beads made of silicone or wood that babies can safely chew on. These necklaces provide a convenient and safe way for babies to relieve their teething pain while being close to their parents.
4. Try different textures: Babies have different preferences when it comes to teething toys. Experiment with different textures and shapes to find the one that your baby finds most soothing. Some babies may prefer a smooth teether, while others may prefer a bumpy or textured one.
Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and flexible in finding what provides the most relief for your little one.
Conclusion: Finding the perfect teether and soother for your little one
Teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, but with the right teether and soother, you can make this journey a little smoother. By considering factors such as safety, age appropriateness, texture, and shape, you can choose a teether or soother that is suitable for your baby’s needs.
Popular brands like Sophie la Girafe, Nuby, MAM, and Comotomo offer a wide range of teethers and soothers that have received positive reviews from parents. Additionally, homemade teething remedies and alternatives provide a natural and safe option for teething relief.
Remember to regularly clean and care for your baby’s teethers and soothers to ensure their hygiene and safety. Finally, don’t forget to provide comfort and love to your baby during this challenging phase. With the right teether and soother, as well as some patience and understanding, you can help your little one navigate teething with ease.
