Are Silicone Teethers Safe?

Teething can turn a sweet baby into a drooling, chomping, cranky one. Silicone teethers are a favorite because they're soft on sore gums, but many parents wonder whether they're safe. For the most part they are, as long as you pick well and care for them properly. Here's what to look for.

What to look for when choosing a teether

  • One solid piece. Skip anything with small parts that could snap or twist off. 

  • Easy for little hands to hold. Look for a shape and a mix of textures that baby can grip and explore.

  • Soft but sturdy. It should be gentle on gums yet hold up to enthusiastic chewing.

  • No filling. Gel-filled teethers can leak or be bitten through, so avoid them.

  • Food-grade material, free of BPA, phthalates, and PVC. Be wary of silicone that feels sticky or oily or smells odd.

A note on beaded teethers

Beaded teethers are a great way to give baby variety in texture, but they need a little extra care. For our beaded teethers, check the beads and string before every use. If you find a loose bead, fraying, or cracks, dispose of the teether. Always supervise while baby chews, and never let a teether hang around the neck or wrist.

Keeping the pacifier on hand, safely

Skip any cord long enough to loop over a grown-up's head, since it's long enough to tangle a baby. A short clip attached to baby's clothing keeps pacifiers and teethers off the floor without the risk. We designed our single-piece silicone pacifier clip (Faux Beaded Clip) with this in mind. 

Keeping teethers clean

Babies put everything in their mouths, so clean teethers after each use.

  • Silicone: Wash in warm, soapy water. Many silicone teethers can also go in the dishwasher or be boiled for about three minutes. Always check for defects and discard at the first sign of damage or wear. 

  • Beechwood and beaded teethers: Wood generally shouldn't be soaked, boiled, or run through the dishwasher. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth instead. 

Dispose of any teether that shows damage, cracks, splinters, or wear.

Making teething days easier

  • Chill, don't freeze. Pop a silicone teether in the fridge for about 30 minutes for extra relief. Freezing makes it too hard.

  • Offer variety. Different textures keep curious babies interested.

  • Try alternatives. A clean finger rubbed on the gums, or a chilled damp washcloth, can help.

  • Offer comfort. A cuddle, a walk, or floor play can turn a fussy stretch into a connection moment.

Teething Takeaways

Choose a teether designed for your baby’s age, inspect it regularly for damage, and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Supervise your baby during use, and avoid making claims that a teether will eliminate teething pain. Silicone teethers can be a safe, soothing way to help baby through teething. A few simple habits keep things safe:

  • Choose well. Pick age-appropriate, solid teethers with no loose parts and no filling.

  • Check often. Look over beaded and wooden teethers before every use, and retire anything cracked, frayed, or worn.

  • Keep it clean. Wash teethers after each use, following the care instructions for each material.

  • Clip it short. Use a short clip on clothing, and never a cord around baby's neck or wrist.

  • Supervise. Stay close while baby chews, whether they're an infant or a toddler.

Our Promise

Your baby's comfort and safety matter to us. As parents we designed our teethers and clips with little ones in mind, and we want every item to arrive in perfect condition.

If anything arrives damaged, we'll make it right. Contact us at via our website or at Wondrouskidcompany@gmail.com and we'll send a replacement. [Please include your order number and a photo of the damage.]

We also encourage you to look over every teether and clip before first use and regularly afterward. If you notice cracks, tears, or wear, stop using it and get in touch.

Have questions about your teethers? Visit www.wondrouskidco.com for tips and product info.

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