A Parent’s Guide to Safe Rattles and Teethers

Your little one has officially entered the teething phase. Soon, your child will have chompers they can use to explore so many more foods. But until then, they’re managing the discomfort of their erupting teeth through chewing, which applies soothing pressure to their tender, shifting gums. Suddenly, everything within reach ends up in their mouth, and oftentimes much to your dismay. It is a cute but messy and stressful milestone.

You want to offer them relief in the form of a toy designed to be chewed on, but the baby aisle is packed with too many options, many of them unsafe. Some are toxic, some are choking hazards, some will fall apart in a week, and some simply aren’t fit for little eyes, hands, and mouths. How can you possibly know if any one teether or mouthing rattle you pick out is okay to give to your kid?

This parent’s guide to safe rattles and teethers is coming to the rescue. Read on to learn what qualities to evaluate so you can shop confidently and relieve your baby’s pain safely.

Is the Material Nontoxic?

The first thing you should check is the label. Your baby will gnaw on this object for hours, so the materials must be nontoxic and tough enough to not break apart in their mouth. Unfortunately, this can be tricky in a world full of mass-produced, cheap baby products.

Your best bet is to look for certifications that guarantee the product is safe for oral use. Food-grade silicone, organic cotton, and natural woods (don’t worry; they won’t splinter) are excellent choices. If you go with a synthetic material like silicone, then make absolutely sure that it is free from common nasties. Look for these certifications:

• BPA-free
• phthalate-free
• PVC-free
• made with nontoxic paints or dyes

Will the Construction Hold Up to Chewing?

We briefly mentioned that you don’t want the toy to fall apart as your baby is chewing it. This is a huge part of teether and rattle safety, so ensure you examine how the toy is built. After all, babies are surprisingly strong when they are determined to chew to relieve pain.

When you pick up a toy, pull on the parts to test their strength. If it is a plush rattle, check the seams. You want to see tight, reinforced stitching that won’t give way. Additionally, avoid items with glued-on decorations that could pop off. Instead, if the toy has features (like eyes on a stuffed animal), look for embroidering. This is a safe, durable option that won’t give way to chewing.

Is It Big Enough To Not Be a Choking Hazard?

Babies can choke more easily than adults, so you want to make sure that anything they put in their mouths isn’t a choking hazard. The object must be large enough that it cannot become lodged in your child’s throat.

A classic method for testing this is the toilet paper roll rule. Try passing the toy through the tube. If it fits inside, it is too small for a baby under three years old. Conversely, the toy shouldn’t be too heavy or bulky for tiny hands to hold. A lightweight design helps them practice their grip without bonking themselves on the head.

Does It Offer Benefits Beyond Teething?

While teething relief is the main goal of mouthing rattles and teethers, these toys are also developmental tools. Specifically with rattles, when babies shake them, they hear a sound. This teaches little ones about cause and effect, and the auditory stimulation is calming.

So if you can find a teether with a rattle component, that speaks to its quality. Just keep in mind that the sound should be gentle, not loud and harsh. This is for the sake of both you and Baby.

Is It Easy To Clean?

Let’s be honest about the mess. These toys will be covered in saliva, dropped on the floor, and probably tossed in the dirt. You will 100 percent need to clean the toy—probably quite often—so it needs to lend itself to this. The toy’s material should be washable, it should come with detailed washing instructions, and it should be strong enough to be washed often without falling apart.

Check the washing instructions before you buy. Many fabric options are machine washable, which is something you’re sure to appreciate on your busier days. If it has a hard surface, however, it should be easy to wipe down with warm, soapy water.

Will Your Child Connect With It Emotionally?

Finally, consider the comfort factor. The best teether or rattle is more than a utilitarian tool for relieving gum pain. Rather, it can also become an attachment object for your little one, something that helps them stay calm and regulated as they navigate their new, surprising world.

A cold plastic ring might feel good on their gums, but it isn’t very cuddly. Combining a teether with a soft friend offers the best of both worlds. It provides a chewable surface alongside a plush companion to hug. This dual purpose can help soothe a fussy baby faster, and it becomes a familiar friend during an uncomfortable time.

Find Your Rattle or Teether at Bunnies By the Bay

Navigating the teething phase is a rite of passage for babies and parents alike. It always involves sleepless nights and plenty of laundry. However, having the right tools makes the journey smoother for everyone involved, and that’s exactly what we hope this parent’s guide to safe rattles and teethers has provided you. By focusing on safety, construction, cleanability, sensory details, and comfort, you can find the right toy. After all, you deserve peace of mind while your baby explores their new world.

When you are ready to find a companion that soothes and entertains, check out the collection at Bunnies by the Bay. Our adorable options meet all these safety standards, and they double as cozy companions for little ones. Our selection of baby rattles and teethers includes charming characters like the Friendly Chime Bunny. They feature baby-safe embroidered faces and soft velour, making them perfect for shaking, chewing, and loving. Whether you want something small and simple like the Carrot Rattle or something huggable like our Knotty Friends, we have a solution perfect for your baby.