How to Choose the Best Teething Toys for Your Baby
Introduction
Teething is one of the biggest milestones in your baby’s first year. It usually starts around 4–7 months and can last well into toddlerhood. While exciting, it can also bring discomfort. Babies may become fussy, drool more than usual, and chew on anything they can find.
That’s where teething toys come in. A safe, high-quality teether can soothe sore gums, support sensory development, and keep little hands busy. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which teething toy is best for your baby?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best teething toys in Australia, from safety standards to cleaning tips.
Why the Right Teething Toy Matters
Not all teething toys are created equal. A well-designed teether is more than just something to chew on. It:
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Relieves pressure on sore gums
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Provides safe chewing alternatives to random household objects
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Encourages fine motor skills and grip
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Stimulates sensory development through touch, sight, and even sound
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Offers peace of mind to parents who want safe products
Choosing wisely means your baby benefits from comfort, safety, and learning opportunities all at once.
1. Safety Comes First
The most important factor when buying a teether is safety. Babies explore the world with their mouths, so their toys must be made from non-toxic, durable materials.
Look for these features:
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Food-grade silicone: Soft yet durable, safe for chewing.
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Natural wood: Often combined with silicone, it’s sturdy and eco-friendly.
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BPA-free plastics: Only if labelled safe for infants.
❌ Avoid:
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Teethers with detachable small parts
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Items with sharp edges or weak seams
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Materials containing BPA, PVC, or phthalates
👉 At The Teething Co, every toy is made with baby-safe materials that meet Australian standards.
2. Perfect for Little Hands
A teether should be easy for small hands to grab and hold. Babies are still learning coordination, so the shape and weight make a big difference.
Choose designs that are:
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Lightweight
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Small enough to fit comfortably in tiny hands
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Textured for extra grip
Our Montessori Busy Board Teether is a great example — easy to hold, textured, and engaging.
3. Multi-Sensory Benefits
Teething toys can do more than ease gum pain. The best designs also provide multi-sensory stimulation.
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Touch: Different textures massage gums and engage fingers.
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Sight: Soft colours capture attention without overstimulation.
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Coordination: Hand-to-mouth movements help develop motor skills.
Some toys even combine teething relief with rattles or soft sounds, keeping babies curious and engaged.
4. Easy to Clean
Hygiene is crucial. Since teethers spend most of their time in your baby’s mouth, regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup.
Look for toys that are:
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Dishwasher safe (great for silicone)
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Wipeable with a damp cloth (for wooden designs)
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Resistant to mould and moisture buildup
👉 Need help? Read our full Teething Toy Cleaning Guide.
5. Age-Appropriate Choices
Not every teething toy is right for every stage. Babies have different needs as they grow.
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0–6 months: Soft, lightweight teethers that are easy to grasp.
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6–12 months: Larger, textured designs that reach further in the mouth.
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12 months+: Multi-use toys that combine chewing with sensory play.
Choosing toys that match your baby’s stage makes teething easier and safer.
6. Style Meets Function
Teething toys don’t have to look boring. Modern designs blend function with style, meaning they’re practical for babies and beautiful for parents.
Silicone teethers now come in shapes like animals, rainbows, and even Montessori-inspired toys. This makes them enjoyable for little ones while looking stylish in the nursery or nappy bag.
7. Eco-Friendly Options
Parents today care about sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly teething toys is a win for your baby and the planet.
Look for:
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Natural wood teethers treated with safe oils
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BPA-free silicone
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Minimal packaging
At The Teething Co, we offer eco-conscious designs that are safe, durable, and kind to the environment. To learn more about eco friendly toys. Click the following link to our eco friendly store. THE GREEN TOY BOX
8. Don’t Forget Cooling Teethers
Some babies find relief from cold pressure. Cooling teethers can be chilled (never frozen) for extra comfort.
Safety tip: Always check product instructions before placing in the fridge, and avoid freezers as extreme cold can harm gums.
9. Pairing Teethers with Other Comforts
Teethers work best when combined with other soothing strategies:
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Gentle gum massages with a clean finger
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Extra cuddles and comfort
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Cool, damp washcloths for chewing
A balanced approach helps your baby cope with the toughest teething days.
10. Trust Customer Reviews
One of the best ways to choose a teether is by reading other parents’ experiences. Reviews can tell you if a toy is durable, easy to clean, and actually soothing.
👉 Browse our product pages for real customer feedback from Australian parents who’ve already tested our teethers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best teething toy doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Focus on safety, comfort, and development benefits, and you’ll find the perfect fit for your baby.
A good teether is more than a toy — it’s a soothing tool, a learning aid, and a way to make teething just a little easier for your little one.
👉 Explore our full range of Teething & Sensory Toys to find safe, stylish, and effective solutions today.