The Essential Guide to Safe Teething Remedies

Do you think your baby might be teething? 

This can be a challenging time for both you and your baby. 

If your baby isn't sleeping, that means you aren't sleeping. But there are ways to get some relief!

You may have already considered giving your baby something to ease the symptoms during this time. 

But did you know there are natural teething toys available?

Let's take a look:

How Do You Know if Your Baby is Teething?

When your baby is teething, there are a few noticeable signs.

In addition to being irritable, they may appear restless and have a decrease in appetite.

A fever may be present, with red cheeks and excessive biting as common symptoms.

Unsurprisingly, the gum area may appear red and swollen. Your baby may have a fever and be drooling more than usual.

The symptoms of teething may mimic those of a regular cold. You may even notice a small white tooth trying to pop through as well.

Teething may last up to seven days per tooth. They may even have multiple teeth coming through at once!

It is worth investing in some natural teething toys to get through this difficult period.

Safe Remedies for Teething Include

There are a few natural methods you can try at home. These may help to ease the pain:

• A washcloth they can suck on which has been wet and placed in the freezer.
• Frozen fruit placed inside a mesh feeder (this needs to be contained to avoid choking). Try watermelon, strawberries or banana. 
• Rubbing your finger on their gum can provide some relief. 
• Giving them a pacifieror breastfeeding can provide comfort.
• Giving them natural teething toys to put in their mouth.

Try to keep your baby (and yourself) calm by offering them lots of cuddles.

They will be extra clingy at this time and need you to make them feel secure.

Before using any medications or other remedies, please consult with a health professional for advice.

Why Should You Choose Natural Teething Toys?

There is a range of different teething toys available on the market, but going natural is better for your child.

It is also going to be better for the environment.

Many plastics contain toxic ingredients which could leech into their tiny bodies.

This risk worsens when the plastic is heated. Which is a problem since many of us love to throw containers right into the dishwasher.

Some commercial teething toys are low quality and are made with poor environmental practices.

Just remember, whatever you give them they are going to put in their mouth!

What to Avoid in Teething Toys

Before we tell you what to look for, it is important to know what to avoid.

This is anything that could be potentially toxic to your baby.

You should also be careful to avoid anything that could be a choking hazard.

Here are a few common plastic ingredients to avoid:

• Latex is popular as it is a flexible plastic, but many children can be allergic to this. 
  
  A latex allergy can be developed over time due to prolonged use. Reactions may include hives, itchy, burning and cold-like symptoms.
• BPA (Bisphenol A). For any plastics which could come into contact with your mouth, you should always avoid BPA. 
  
  While the effects are still being researched, it can affect the brain and cause behavioral problems. Fortunately, many companies are now beginning to label their products "BPA-free".
• PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride). PVC is made using vinyl chloride and has cancer-causing properties. 
  
  Things made out of PVC could contain heavy metals and be quite toxic as well.
• Phthalates sometimes act as a fragrance, and you really don't need to put anything like this in your baby's mouth ever! 
  
  There are a few different types, but these can be found in almost everything we eat. However, they can be potentially harmful to our health so if you can avoid them - you should! 
• PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate). The way PET is made is the key to understanding how damaging it can be. The plastic is created using toxic metal and this can make its way into your child's body.
  
  The longer the plastic sits, the more harmful it becomes. Sunlight and high temperatures can make it worse too!

What to Look For in Teething Toys

If you have decided to try natural teething toys for your precious baby, this is a smart choice.

However, there are a few things to look out for.

Your natural teething toys should be independently tested and meet international safety standards.

They should be free from any toxic ingredients, including the ones listed above.

If they are wooden, they should be free from any types of treatments or waxes. Toys should be suitable from birth and have a smooth finish.

They need to be easy to clean so they can be kept hygienic. If they are high-quality, wiping them with a damp cloth should be sufficient. 

Did you know we have a range of natural teething toys in our store for your baby? Not only are they safe but they look cute too!

Banjo the koala is one of our favorites, or you may prefer Luna the mouse!

They are 9.5cm high and 7cm wide with a large hole for your baby to hold onto. the perfect design for tiny fingers.

These teething toys are made from natural wood and every piece is unique.

These are sure to become popular teething toys in your home. They're gentle on the gums and have earned a soft spot in the hearts of parents and babies alike.

Remember, teething is an exciting milestone. While it can be a difficult time, it is something you should try to embrace. 

We hope these tips help to bring some teething relief to your household.