Why Non-Toxic Matters for Teething Toys

Babies love putting everything in their mouths, and when they’re teething, that urge gets even stronger. That’s why choosing toys without harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and lead is so important. These toxins can sneak into lower-quality toys and aren’t something you want your baby chewing on. The best brands go the extra mile by using safe materials and getting their products tested by third-party labs to make sure they’re truly safe.

What Makes a Teething Toy Safe?

• Safe materials: Look for materials that you know are safe enough to go in your baby’s mouth. Food-grade silicone is soft, flexible, and dishwasher-safe, making it a top pick for modern teething toys. Natural rubber is another great option—it’s biodegradable, durable, and gentle on gums. If you like something more eco-friendly, untreated wood like maple or beech is naturally antibacterial and doesn’t need chemical finishes. And for a plush, cozy option, organic cotton works well, especially for younger babies.
• Certifications to look out for: It’s not just about the material—the toy should meet some solid safety standards too. Make sure it’s labeled BPA-free and check for certifications like CPSIA compliance, FDA approval, or ASTM certification. These labels mean the toy has passed important safety checks.
• Baby-friendly design: A good teething toy is designed with your baby’s tiny hands in mind. You want something lightweight, easy to hold, and without any small parts that could break off. Textured surfaces help massage sore gums, and one-piece designs are ideal since they’re easier to clean and less likely to trap mold.
• Easy to clean: Let’s be real—teething toys are going to end up covered in drool and everything else. So, you want one that’s easy to wash. Some can go straight into the dishwasher, while others might need a quick boil or wipe down. Either way, avoid toys with small holes or hidden crevices where moisture and bacteria can hide.

Our Favorite Non-Toxic Teething Toys

• Sophie la Girafe: This classic teether is a longtime favorite. Made from natural rubber and food-safe paint, it’s safe to chew. Its long neck and legs are easy for babies to hold and reach back gums. It even squeaks for extra fun.
• Mushie Silicone Teething Ring: Mushie’s teething ring has a clean, minimalist design and comes in pretty colors that don’t scream “baby toy.” It’s made from food-grade silicone, has soft bumps for extra gum relief, and is small enough to toss in your diaper bag. Plus, it’s free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates, which is a big win.
• Haakaa Silicone Palm Teether: This one’s shaped like a little hand, which makes it extra fun for your baby to hold. It’s made entirely from food-grade silicone and has different textures all over to help soothe sore gums. No parts to break off, and it’s super easy to sterilize—just what you want in a teething toy.
• Green Sprouts Cooling Teether: Water-filled teether: Perfect for tough teething days. Chill it in the fridge (not freezer) for soothing relief. Made with sterilized water, BPA- and PVC-free, and shaped as an easy-to-hold ring for little hands.
• Hevea Panda Teether: If you’re into eco-friendly options, Hevea’s Panda Teether is made from 100% natural rubber and completely biodegradable. The design is one solid piece, so there’s no risk of mold or trapped water. It’s soft, bendy, and perfect for babies who love to chomp.
• Maple Landmark Wooden Rattle: Made in the USA from sustainably harvested maple wood, this teether doubles as a rattle for extra fun. It’s sanded super smooth and doesn’t have any finishes or paints, making it a safe and natural option. Wood also has natural antibacterial properties, so it stays cleaner between uses.
• Loulou Lollipop Silicone and Wood Teether: This stylish pick combines beechwood with food-grade silicone for a fun mix of textures. Babies love chewing on both materials, and the soft silicone beads provide a gentle massage for gums. It’s easy to clean, safe to use, and makes a great baby shower gift.

Tips for Safe Teething Toy Use

Even with the safest teething toys, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Always watch your baby while they use a teether.
2. Inspect toys before each use to check for cracks, loose parts, or damage.
3. Clean them regularly following the brand’s instructions.
4. Make sure toys are dry before storing them away to prevent mold.
5. Don’t freeze toys solid—especially gel-filled ones. A cold teether is fine, but frozen ones can be too hard on your baby’s gums.

Where to Buy Non-Toxic Teething Toys

You’ve got plenty of good options when it comes to shopping. Big-name retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart carry a lot of the top brands, and you can usually read plenty of reviews before buying. For more eco-conscious or handmade items, check out baby boutiques or brand websites like Haakaa, Hevea, and Mushie. Buying directly from the brand can give you more info on how the toys are made and whether they’re third-party tested.

Online stores usually offer the best variety and sometimes better prices, too. Just be sure to double-check that what you’re buying is actually certified and not just labeled “natural” with no proof to back it up.

Conclusion

When it comes to teething, safety should always come first. That’s why choosing a non-toxic teething toy is such a big deal. With so many cute and safe options out there, it’s totally possible to find one (or a few) that your baby loves to chew on and you feel good about giving them.

Whether you go for something soft and squishy like silicone or prefer something more natural like wood or rubber, the most important thing is that it’s safe, soothing, and easy to clean. A happy baby means a happy home, and the right teething toy can make those tough teething days a little easier for everyone.

Key Takeaway: Stick with teething toys made from food-grade silicone, natural rubber, untreated wood, or organic cotton. These are safe, easy to clean, and perfect for helping your baby through those tough teething days.

FAQs

Are silicone teething toys better than wooden ones?

Both have their own perks. Silicone is softer and great for cooling relief, while wood is firm and naturally antibacterial. It really depends on what your baby prefers.

Can I make my own teething toys at home?

It’s possible, but not always recommended unless you’re sure about the safety of the materials and how they’re handled. Store-bought options usually go through safety testing.

How do I clean a natural rubber teether?

Most natural rubber toys can be wiped clean or boiled briefly, but avoid dishwashers and harsh chemicals.

Why does my teething toy smell funny out of the box?

Some toys made from natural rubber may have a mild smell at first, but it usually fades after a few washes. If it smells like chemicals, don’t use it.

Should I rotate teething toys or just use one?

Rotating a few toys keeps your baby interested and gives you time to clean and sanitize the others. It’s a good idea to have a few on hand.