I still remember the first time I realized my baby was teething.
I naively thought it’d be a quick phase—some drooling, maybe a little crankiness.
But soon, it turned into sleepless nights, constant fussing, and an endless cycle of my baby chewing on literally everything in sight.
That’s when it hit me—finding the right teething relief would be crucial.
But not just any solution.
I wanted something safe and, importantly, not filled with who-knows-what.
That’s where natural and organic teething toys came in.
You’ve probably heard people talking about natural and organic teething toys, right?
That must have left you wondering why there’s such a fuss.
Isn’t a teething toy just a toy? Not quite.
The market is full of teething toys made from materials that are hard to pronounce, let alone trust.
As parents, we’re becoming more and more mindful about what our babies are exposed to.
And for good reason—these teething toys will spend countless hours in your baby’s mouth.
Why Opt for Natural and Organic Teething Toys?
So, why make the switch to natural and organic?
Well, this movement isn’t just a fad—it’s driven by an increased awareness of harmful chemicals lurking in everyday items, including baby products.
Think about it: your baby spends months chewing on teething toys.
It only makes sense to choose toys that are free from toxic substances like BPA, phthalates, and other nasties that could seep into their little systems.
When we talk about a natural teething toy, we’re referring to toys made from natural materials, such as wood, cotton, or natural rubber.
These materials don’t contain synthetic fillers or get treated with chemicals.
Organic goes even further, ensuring that the materials are grown or produced without pesticides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
It’s like getting a two-for-one deal: safety for your baby and peace of mind for you.
The Key Materials in Natural Teething Toys
Let’s take a closer look at what makes up the best natural teething toys.
Here are some materials to keep an eye on:
1. Wood
Something is enduring about wooden teething toys.
They’re not only biodegradable and non-toxic but also super durable.
Many are coated with natural oils like beeswax or olive oil, making them perfectly safe for your little one to chew on.
And bonus—they’re often sourced from sustainable materials, meaning they’re also a win for the planet.
2. Natural Rubber
Many natural teething toys are made from rubber sourced from rubber trees.
Rubber is soft, flexible, and ideal for soothing sore gums.
Moreover, it’s free from harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, making it a top choice for parents who want a safer alternative.
3. Organic Cotton
Some teething toys are soft cloth or cuddly animals made from organic cotton.
These toys serve a dual purpose—they’re cozy to snuggle with and safe to chew on.
Organic cotton is pesticide-free, which makes it a great choice for babies with sensitive skin.
4. Silicone
While silicone isn’t technically natural, food-grade silicone is considered a safer alternative to plastics.
Silicone teething toys are durable and free of harmful chemicals.
They’re also easy to clean and withstand a lot of wear and tear, which is ideal for a teething baby who’s a little chew machine.
What Should You Look for in a Teething Toy?
Navigating the teething toy market can feel like information overload.
With so many choices, where do you even begin?
The good news is that it boils down to a few essential factors: safety, durability, texture, and sustainability.
Let’s break it down:
1. Safety Above All
Always check for certifications that verify the toy is free from toxic substances like BPA, phthalates, and PVC.
You want to feel confident knowing that what’s going into your baby’s mouth won’t cause harm.
2. Built to Last
Teething isn’t a short phase, nor should your teething toys.
You need toys that can withstand being chewed on for weeks—maybe even months.
Wood, rubber, and silicone tend to last longer than plastic alternatives, which can degrade or even break over time.
3. Texture Matters
Babies are all about texture when they’re teething.
Toys with various textures can help massage sore gums and provide a bit of entertainment.
The more texture options, the better!
4. Easy to Clean
Let’s be honest—teething toys are going to end up on the floor, under the couch, or worse.
You want something that is easy to clean.
Silicone and rubber toys are often dishwasher-safe, while wooden toys can be wiped down.
Top 5 Picks for Natural and Organic Teething Toys
Now that you know what to look for, where should you start?
Here are some of the most popular natural and organic teething toys that parents like me have sworn by:
1. Sophie the Giraffe
This one’s practically a legend.
Made from natural rubber, Sophie is soft, flexible, and designed perfectly for little gums.
It’s also painted with food-grade paint, so it’s safe even for the drooliest babies.
2. Hevea Rubber Star Ball
This star-shaped teether is made from 100% natural rubber and is free from plastic, BPA, and phthalates.
The unique design makes it easy for babies to grip, and it’s also biodegradable, so it’s good for the planet.
3. PlanToys Wooden Teether
PlanToys is known for their eco-friendly wooden toys, and their teething toys are no exception.
Made from sustainable rubberwood and coated with non-toxic finishes, this teether is as safe as it is durable.
4. Lanco Natural Rubber Toys
Lanco’s range of natural rubber teething toys offers fun, whimsical designs that are both soft and safe for babies to chew on.
5. Under the Nile Organic Cotton Teething Lovey
This organic cotton teething toy is a great pick if your baby prefers something soft.
Made from 100% organic Egyptian cotton, it’s a snuggly friend and also a safe teether.
The Bigger Picture: Environmental and Ethical Considerations
One of the most rewarding parts about choosing natural and organic teething toys is knowing your choice has a broader impact.
Many of these toys are produced by companies prioritizing sustainability and ethical production.
When you purchase a toy made from sustainably sourced wood or organic cotton, you’re supporting your baby’s health and contributing to a healthier planet.
Many wooden teething toys, for example, come from forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring that the wood was harvested in a way that protects ecosystems.
Similarly, many organic cotton toys are produced using fair trade practices, which supports workers and communities in developing countries.
Your purchase can have a far-reaching positive impact.
Conclusion
Teething might feel never-ending while you’re in the thick of it, but eventually, it does pass.
In the meantime, finding the right teething toy can make a world of difference for both you and your baby.
Natural and organic teething toys provide a safe, non-toxic way to soothe sore gums, all while contributing to a more sustainable planet.