Essential Items to Have on Hand for Teething Relief

17 July 2025

If you’ve ever held a cranky, drooling, red-cheeked baby in your arms and wished you could just magically take away their discomfort, then you, my friend, are in the thick of the teething stage. Welcome to one of the most bittersweet parts of parenthood—watching your little one's first set of pearly whites break through while juggling endless cries, sleepless nights, and soggy shirts.

Teething is tough. For babies and parents. But don’t worry—you’re not helpless here. With the right items in your parenting toolkit, you can soothe sore gums, ease fussiness, and keep your sanity (mostly) intact. Let's chat about the absolute essential items to have on hand for teething relief, so you can tackle this phase head-on—with confidence, comfort, and a whole lot of love.

Understanding Teething: What’s REALLY Going On?

First, let’s break down what exactly is happening.

Most babies start teething around 4 to 7 months, but it’s totally normal for it to kick in earlier or later. The process can last until around age 3. You’ll know it’s started when your baby begins drooling like it’s their full-time job, gnawing on anything within reach, and showing signs of irritability or difficulty sleeping.

Why all the drama? It’s because those tiny teeth are pushing through sensitive gum tissue. Imagine a little iceberg slowly rising through your gums… yeah, not fun.

Luckily, there are plenty of practical, soothing solutions to make this stage more manageable. Let’s go over the must-have items that’ll be your lifeline during this drool-drenched phase.

1. Teething Toys – Your Baby’s Favorite Chewy Friends

Let’s start with the obvious (and most essential): teething toys.

These are more than just baby chewables—they’re gum-soothing, mood-calming lifesavers. The pressure from chewing helps counteract the discomfort of the tooth breaking through. Plus, toys with different textures offer extra sensory engagement.

What to Look For:

- BPA-free and made from safe, non-toxic materials
- Easy for tiny hands to grip
- Different textures or surfaces for massaging gums
- Can be chilled (for added soothing relief)

Pro Tip: Keep a few teethers in the fridge—not the freezer! Frozen teethers can be too hard and may damage your baby's gums.

2. Teething Rings – Classics for a Reason

There’s a reason why teething rings have stood the test of baby time—they’re simple, effective, and babies love them.

Some come with gel or water-filled chambers you can chill, while others use silicone for durability and gentle pressure. The cooling sensation can bring immediate relief.

Best Features:

- Thick enough for firm chewing
- Lightweight for independent use
- Textured surfaces to massage gum tissue

Keep a few on rotation so there’s always a clean, cool one ready to go.

3. Silicone or Wooden Teething Necklaces (For Mom or Dad!)

Want your baby to have a chew-fest without handing them something every two minutes? Enter: teething necklaces.

These are genius. Stylish enough for you to wear, safe enough for your baby to gnaw on. Silicone versions are squishy and smooth, while natural wood ones are antibacterial and offer a different chewing texture.

Bonus: They double as a distraction tool when you’re out and about or trying to survive a stroller meltdown.

4. Cold Washcloth – The Old-School Hack That Still Works

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. A soft, chilled washcloth can be both refreshing and satisfying for teething babies.

Just dampen a clean cloth, roll it up, toss it in the fridge for a bit, and hand it over. Baby will happily gnaw on the cool fabric, helping numb sore gums and keep busy hands occupied.

It’s cheap, quick, and available in every household. Win-win.

5. Teething Gels – Use Wisely and Sparingly

Some parents swear by over-the-counter teething gels or balms designed specifically for teething pain. These are typically made with clove oil or natural soothing agents like chamomile.

A word of caution: Always consult your pediatrician before using any medicated gels. Avoid anything with benzocaine or lidocaine—these ingredients can be dangerous for infants.

Look for organic or homeopathic versions that are designed for babies and free from alcohol or artificial additives.

6. Baby-Safe Pain Relievers (As a Last Resort)

When nothing else works and your baby is clearly in distress, baby-safe pain relievers like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months) can offer some much-needed relief.

Again—always check with your pediatrician first regarding dosage and safety. This isn’t a first-line solution, but it’s an option for those especially rough nights.

7. Drool Bibs – The Unsung Heroes

Teething means buckets of drool. Seriously, you’ll start to wonder how such a tiny human can produce so much liquid.

Enter: drool bibs. These are like little shields, protecting your baby’s chest and neck from constant sogginess, which can lead to rashes or discomfort.

Look for bibs that are:
- Absorbent (think cotton front, fleece backing)
- Adjustable and comfy around the neck
- Cute enough to match their outfit (because, why not?)

Bonus—they save you from doing four outfit changes a day.

8. Frozen Foods or Mesh Feeders (For Older Babies)

Once your baby starts solids (usually around 6 months), cold foods can be a game changer.

Try giving them:
- Chilled cucumber slices
- Frozen banana chunks
- Cold apple slices (peeled)
- Yogurt pops

Use a mesh feeder or a silicone fruit teether to keep things safe—no choking hazards here. These feeders let baby enjoy the flavors and cooling benefits without the risk.

It’s soothing and delicious—what’s not to love?

9. Pacifiers – The Multipurpose Soother

Pacifiers aren't just for sleep or calming—they can provide a gentle, rhythmic pressure that soothes aching gums. Some pacifiers are specifically designed for teething with thicker or textured silicone surfaces.

Bonus points if it’s chillable. A cold pacifier? Instant gum relief.

10. Soothing Teething Wipes

Teething means constant mouth action—and with that comes potential for bacteria buildup. Teething wipes help clean those chompers-in-progress while soothing sore spots.

Many are infused with natural ingredients like aloe or xylitol and are safe for oral use. Great for on-the-go relief or just keeping things fresh and clean.

11. Amber Teething Necklaces: Trend or Treasure?

You’ve probably seen them—those pretty little amber necklaces that claim to relieve teething pain naturally. The idea is that Baltic amber releases succinic acid when warmed by baby’s skin, which can have anti-inflammatory properties.

Sounds cool, right? But here’s the truth: there’s no solid scientific proof that they work.

Even worse? They can pose a choking or strangulation risk if not worn correctly. If you do go this route, talk to your pediatrician and NEVER let your baby sleep with one on.

12. Comfort Items and Extra Snuggles

Let’s not overlook the most important “item” of all: you.

Your baby is going through a tough time, and sometimes what they need most is cuddles, comfort, and reassurance. Don’t underestimate the power of a warm hug, a gentle bounce, or a whispered lullaby.

A soft blanket, a favorite stuffed animal, or a cozy rocker can work wonders too. When pain flares and nothing else works, your presence is the best medicine.

Tips to Keep in Mind While Navigating Teething

Here are a few golden nuggets of advice to carry with you:

- Rotate your teething tools—babies love a little variety.
- Keep everything clean—babies put everything in their mouths.
- Don’t overdo the medication—less is more unless directed by a doctor.
- Stay calm. Teething is hard, but it passes.
- Take care of yourself too. A well-rested, calm parent is an even better comforter.

Remember, this is a phase. A frustrating, sleep-depriving, bib-soaking phase—but a phase nonetheless. Those tiny teeth will come and go, but the love and care you give right now? That’s what they’ll hold onto forever.

Wrapping It Up

Teething can feel like a long and exhausting road, but with the right gear on hand, it doesn't have to be a nightmare. From soothing teethers and chilled washcloths to natural remedies and lots of snuggles, you’ve got everything it takes to ease your baby’s discomfort.

Just remember—every baby is different. What works wonders for one might not even register with another. Experiment, stay flexible, and trust your instincts. You’ll find your rhythm.

Hang in there, tired parent. Those teeth are coming in one way or another, and you’re doing an amazing job helping your little one through it.