Hand me downs are not a bad thing for babies. Many infant items are only worn or used for a couple of months since babies quickly outgrow them, so they’re either kept in the locker waiting for the next baby in the family or donated to other expecting moms. Be it a crib, onesies, socks, baby shoes, toys, and whatnot. That’s a practical tip that’s safe provided that moms prep them properly before use.
But what about teethers? A teether is a device caregivers provide teething babies to relieve the discomforts brought by growing teeth. They’re usually made from rubber or silicone and are designed to be chewed. Teethers are often filled with a liquid or gel. Because they’re lodged in the mouth, can you reuse teething toys for other babies? This and more about teethers will be discussed in the following sections, so read on.
When to Give Teething Toys to Babies?
Teething is an event that excites parents but stresses babies. When a tooth erupts, the baby can experience pain from the pressure of those pearly whites trying to stick out the gums. Often, babies start to develop a tooth when they turn 4-6 months, with some babies later, others sooner. To give parents a clue, teething is usually signaled by a baby’s excessive want to chew everything their hands can get hold of—a behavior that can pose health risks. With this behavior, your babies are more prone to choking hazards, and they may chew on unsanitized items, which can upset their tummies. As caregivers, you should provide the baby with a clean and dependable teething support to alleviate the discomforts they’re going through while ensuring their safety. Other signs that your baby is teething are the following:
- Extreme drooling
- Irritable and grumpy
- Swollen and painful gums
- Increase in temperature but not feverish
Types of Teething Devices
When a baby goes through developmental changes, parents should provide support –such as when the baby starts to teeth. As this event can be painful for your little ones, parents can give teethers to their young ones. A teether is different from a pacifier because the first is meant for chewing, while the latter is for sucking. Here’s a list of teething devices that are safe for your babes.
Teething Toys – While teethers are designed mainly for pain relief, it’d be great if it also entertains! Teethers don’t have to be boring. There are selections out there that come in the form of toys. They’re made from natural rubber with refined texture; they won’t hurt your baby! Some are also hybrid, where one end is a toy and the other a teething device. 2-in1s are great options, so caregivers don’t have to bring in more stuff during travels.
Teething Rings – If you like the more traditional ones, you can choose a teething ring. It is a basic teething support in the form of solid plastic. It’s often filled with fluid or gel. Just like teething toys, it intends to alleviate gum tenderness.
Staged Teethers – Teething comes in stages – before the tooth erupts, when it starts to show, and when it grows. Stage teethers support your child’s teething journey in different stages as they come with 3-4 teethers meant for various stages. With this, you are steps ahead of your baby’s teething needs.
Novelty Teethers – This device is unlike others as the designs are not constrained to the typical teether, but comes in exciting shapes and colors. These are teethers in the form of a banana, pizza, and other fun and creative designs. Not only will it soothe your baby’s sore gums, but it’ll provide fun as well!
Teething Jewelry – It’s a teething toy in the form of jewelry like necklaces and bracelets crafted from baby-friendly teething materials. Be very cautious when using this type of teether as it may lead to your babies’ strangulation. Better yet, choose other types of teether.
Whatever type of teething device you give your child, make sure they’re made from durable and BPA-free materials.
What if your firstborn’s teether has outlasted infanthood, can you give it to your next born? Or what if your family or friend hands you down a used teether, can you reuse teething toys?
Can Teething Toys be Handed Down?
When it comes to teething devices, can you reuse teething toys? While it may seem a pocket-saver to reuse teethers, it is not advisable. Teethers can get contaminated when stored for some time, and molds and mildew could grow in it. This is unsafe for a child. Also, because teethers are subject to chewing, they might have been damaged from the biting, and microorganisms can lodge into the tears and slits. Like nipples and pacifiers, it is best to start with a new one for your baby. Brand new teethers only cost a few dollars, but compromising your baby’s health can bleed resources in the long run and put your baby in peril. So when doubting if can you reuse teething toys, better not. Your baby deserves a new, cleaner teether.
Conclusion
When it comes to your little ones, safety should always be your top priority. Look for products that won’t only assist your babies’ needs but are also safe for them. Even if you have to spend on new items, if it ensures your baby’s health, let it be. Don’t be tempted with the idea that it’s ok or that if can you reuse teething toys. If there are items that can be handed down, let the teethers be on your purchase list. Find out more about teething.