Classic teethers
Many teething toys – like our teething rings – are made of firm rubber or silicone and come in various shapes and sizes. They're durable and easy to clean, making them a reliable choice. Many classic teethers feature textured surfaces to provide extra gum stimulation.
Gel-filled teethers
These teethers are filled with non-toxic gel and can be chilled in the fridge to help soothe inflamed gums. The instructions that come with the ring should tell you how long to chill it for. Never put a teething ring in the freezer, as it could damage your baby's gums if it gets frozen.
Using a gel-filled teether? Make sure that the casing is sturdy to prevent leaks and check it regularly for any damage.
Wooden teethers
Made from natural wood, these teethers offer a firm chewing surface. They're a popular eco-friendly option. Look for untreated, smooth wood.
Cloth teethers
These teethers combine soft fabric with a harder teething surface like silicone or rubber. If you choose to use a teether with fabric on it, make sure it’s machine-washable for easy cleaning.
Teething mitts
These wearable teethers fit over your baby's hand, so they can soothe their gums while developing motor skills. They're ideal for babies who haven't yet mastered grasping and can help prevent sore spots on their hands from constant sucking and chewing.
Food teethers
Teethers - like our Fresh Food Teether - consist of a pouch that you can put soft fruit or puree inside, and your baby can chew on the silicone to taste the flavour of the food. These are great for introducing weaning babies to new tastes and textures but they do need to be cleaned very thoroughly.
How to clean teething toys
It’s important to clean and sterilise your baby’s teething toys, but what’s the best method? In general, you should clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually with soap and hot water, or sometimes in the dishwasher.
But what about sterilising? Let’s take a look at the options.
- Steam sterilising: Uses hot steam. Often done with electric or microwave sterilizers.
- UV sterilising: Uses ultraviolet light. Chemical-free and convenient.
- Cold water sterilising: Uses a chemical solution in cold water to disinfect. Good for when heat sterilisation isn't possible.
- Boil sterilising: A traditional method that involves boiling teethers in water for around 5 minutes. It's effective for heat-resistant materials like silicone and some plastics.
