Easy Teething Toys That Really Work

28 August 2025

Teething… oh, the joys of parenting! If you’re here, chances are your baby is in full-blown teething mode—drooling, chewing on everything, fussy, and just not their usual happy self. And let’s be honest, watching your little one struggle with sore gums is tough. But don't worry—you’re not alone, and yes, there are easy teething toys that really work.

In this post, we’re diving deep into the best teething toys out there—ones that actually soothe sore gums, keep your baby entertained, and don’t cost an arm and a leg. Whether you're a first-time parent or on baby #4, this guide has something to save your sanity (and your fingers—they will chew on those too).

What Exactly Is Teething?

Before we jump into the toys, let’s quickly break down what’s happening.

Teething is when your baby’s teeth start pushing through their gums, usually between 4 to 7 months of age, though it can start earlier or later. You’ll notice signs like:

- Excessive drooling
- Red or swollen gums
- Constant chewing
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Mild fever

While this stage is completely normal, it can be super uncomfortable for your baby—and by extension, for you too. That’s why having effective teething toys on hand is a game-changer.

What Makes a Teething Toy “Work”?

Good question. Not all teething toys are created equal. The best ones usually tick off the following boxes:

- Soft but firm: Just the right texture to massage those sore gums.
- Safe materials: BPA-free, non-toxic, food-grade silicone or natural wood.
- Easy to clean: Because, well… everything ends up in their mouth.
- Age-appropriate: Designed for little hands and mouths.
- Engaging design: Bright colors, textures, and even a little noise to keep them entertained.

Now, let’s check out the teething toys that parents—and babies—swear by.

1. Silicone Teething Rings

Let’s start with a classic. Silicone teething rings are basically the OG of teething toys—and for good reason.

Why They Work:

They’re simple, soft, and the perfect size for tiny hands. Pop one in the fridge for a few minutes (not the freezer, that’s too cold) and you’ve got an instant gum soother.

Parent Pro Tip:

Go for textured designs. The bumps and ridges feel amazing on swollen gums. And always go for food-grade silicone—it’s the safe bet.

Fan Favorite:

The Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys – They’re colorful, textured, and babies love the “keyring” design that’s easy to grip and chew on from multiple angles.

2. Teething Mittens

Yep, gloves for their hands that double as a chew toy. Genius, right?

Why They Work:

Many babies chew on their fingers anyway, so this just makes it safer and more effective. Plus, most mittens come with crinkly fabric and bright patterns that liven things up.

Bonus:

It stays on their hand, so they don’t keep dropping it every 30 seconds. Less picking it up off the floor? Yes, please.

Try This:

Munch Mitt Teething Mitten – Super popular and designed just right for self-soothing.

3. Natural Wooden Teethers

If you're into eco-friendly parenting or just want something more natural, wooden teethers are a go-to.

Why They Work:

Wood is naturally antimicrobial. Paired with a smooth finish and sometimes silicone beads, these toys offer different textures that are satisfying for sore gums.

Keep in Mind:

Always make sure the wood is untreated or finished with baby-safe oils like coconut or beeswax.

Parent Pick:

Maple wood and silicone ring teethers – Stylish, natural, and baby's gums get the best of both worlds.

4. Teething Necklaces (for Parents to Wear)

Nope, not for baby to wear—these are designed for YOU to wear while your baby chews on them.

Why They Work:

Babies love being held and snuggled, and they’ll try to chew on your jewelry anyway. This gives them a safe option that’s always within reach.

Style Meets Function:

They’re made with food-grade silicone, come in cute designs, and you won’t feel like you’re wearing a toy around your neck.

Hot Pick:

Chewbeads – Chic enough for coffee dates, functional enough to soothe a cranky baby mid-errand.

5. Freezable Teething Toys

Craving that “ahhhh” feeling for your little one’s gums? Cool temps do wonders.

Why They Work:

Cold helps reduce inflammation and numbs the discomfort a little, kind of like how you'd hold ice against a bump.

Safety First:

Only use toys that are specifically designed for freezing. Never freeze a liquid-filled teether solid—it becomes too hard and can hurt their gums.

Worth Trying:

RaZbaby RaZberry Teether – It's shaped like a pacifier but with a bumpy texture and can go in the fridge for extra cooling.

6. Teething Toothbrushes

These pull double-duty. They help massage irritated gums AND start teaching oral hygiene habits early.

Why They Work:

Soft silicone bristles feel sooo good on sore gums, and the toothbrush shape helps babies get used to having something in their mouth besides milk.

Bonus Points:

You’re setting the stage for brushing routines, which will come in handy soon.

Try This:

Baby Banana Infant Toothbrush – It's soft, bendy, and looks like a banana, which weirdly adds to the fun.

7. Teething Toys with Handles

Let’s face it: babies drop stuff. A lot. Toys with built-in handles or loops are easier for them to grip—and harder to lose.

Why They Work:

The added grip factor means longer chewing sessions. Plus, designs like rings or loops let babies explore different biting angles.

Great Option:

Comotomo Silicone Baby Teether – This one has little prong-like “arms” that mimic fingers and fit perfectly in tiny mouths.

8. Textured Cloth Teethers

Soft, chewable, and often infused with comforting scents like chamomile, cloth teethers are a lesser-known but super effective tool.

Why They Work:

For babies who prefer something softer, these offer relief without being too firm. They're machine washable and sometimes double as lovies or blankies.

Pro Tip:

Look for versions without loose threads or parts that could fall off.

Try This:

Mary Meyer Taggies Soft Teether Blanket – Doubles as a comfort item and a chewing delight.

9. Sophie la Girafe

Ah yes, the fancy French giraffe that every baby seems to own at some point.

Why It Works:

Sophie is made from 100% natural rubber with food-grade paint. It's got long limbs and ears that are easy to chew, and babies seem to love her squeak and smooth texture.

Heads Up:

She’s a little pricier than most teethers, but most parents say it’s worth every penny.

10. DIY Teething Hacks

Out of toys and can’t get to the store? You can still offer relief with a few safe, homemade tricks.

Cool Washcloth:

Dampen a clean baby washcloth, twist it up, and pop it in the fridge or freezer (for a few minutes, not until it's rock hard). Let your baby gnaw away.

Mesh Feeder with Frozen Fruit:

Place chilled fruit like bananas or strawberries in a mesh baby feeder—your little one can nibble and soothe at the same time.

Note: Always supervise and check for choking hazards.

Tips for Choosing the Right Teether

Still unsure which one’s best? Here are a few quick tips:

- Look for age-appropriate labels
- Avoid anything with small or detachable parts
- Stay away from gels or liquid-filled toys that can leak
- Watch for allergic reactions (especially with rubber or wood)
- Don’t forget to sanitize regularly

Final Thoughts

Teething might be a tricky stage, but with the right tools (and a lot of coffee), you’ve totally got this. Every baby is different—some will find comfort in soft and squishy silicone, while others might go wild for a wooden ring or a crinkly mitt.

The key is to try a few and see what works best for your little drool monster. And remember, this phase won’t last forever—even if it feels like it in the moment.

Got a teething tip or favorite toy that worked like magic? Share it in the comments—because let’s be real, we’re all in this parenting thing together.