Start with Safety and Materials
When choosing a silicone teether for teething relief, the first thing to confirm is that the material is truly safe for your baby. Look for teethers made from 100% food-grade silicone, which is free from BPA, latex, lead, and phthalates. This type of silicone is also non-toxic and odourless, making it a reassuring choice for little ones who explore everything with their mouths.
The OB Designs silicone teethers, such as the Silicone Sunflower Teether | Lemon, are made from 100% food-grade silicone and are FDA approved. They also comply with mandatory safety standards for toys under 36 months (AS/NZS 8124 and ASTM), giving you extra confidence in their safety.
Safety and Material Facts to Check
- Silicone Sunflower Teether | Lemon: Made from 100% Food Grade Silicone, contains no BPA, latex, lead, or phthalates. These are the key safety criteria for any teether, ensuring it is free from common harmful substances.
Silicone Sunflower Teether | Lemon - Silicone Shell Teether | Ocean: Complies with mandatory safety standards for toys under 36 months (AS/NZS 8124 and ASTM). Compliance with recognized standards means the teether has been independently tested for safety.
Silicone Shell Teether | Ocean
Match the Shape to Your Baby's Needs
Teething babies often prefer different shapes depending on where they feel discomfort. A sunflower shape with multiple petals gives your baby different angles to chew on, which can help reach sore gums in the front and back of the mouth. A shell shape offers a smooth, curved surface that is easy for small hands to grip, while a rainbow shape provides a larger, arch-like design that is fun to hold and chew.
Consider which shape might appeal to your baby's current teething stage. If they are just starting to teeth, a smaller, easier-to-hold shape like the Silicone Shell Teether | Ocean might be ideal. If they need more surface area to gnaw on, the Silicone Rainbow Teether | Peach could be a better fit. All three are designed for ages 3m+ and are soft on sore gums.
Comparing OB Designs Silicone Teethers
- Silicone Sunflower Teether | Lemon: This teether has a flower shape with multiple petals, offering various chewing surfaces. It measures 8 x 8 x 1 cm and is made from 100% food-grade silicone. It is suitable for ages 3m+ and is free from BPA, latex, lead, and phthalates.
- Silicone Shell Teether | Ocean: This teether has a smooth shell shape that is easy for little hands to grasp. It measures 9 x 6.5 x 1 cm and is also made from 100% food-grade silicone. It is suitable for ages 3m+ and has been independently safety tested.
- Silicone Rainbow Teether | Peach: This teether features a rainbow arch design, providing a larger chewing area. It is made from 100% food-grade silicone and is suitable for ages 3m+. It is also free from BPA, latex, lead, and phthalates.
How to Care for Your Silicone Teether
Proper care keeps the teether hygienic and safe for repeated use. According to the product information, silicone teethers can be washed with warm soapy water or wiped with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the silicone.
Before each use, check the product for any signs of wear or damage. Always use the teether under adult supervision and do not alter it in any way. Remove the packaging before giving it to your child, as the packaging is not a toy.
What to Consider Before Buying
While the catalog provides solid information on materials and safety, it does not specify the exact firmness of the silicone or whether the teether can be chilled. Some babies prefer a firmer texture, while others like a softer one. If your baby prefers a cold teether for extra relief, you may want to check if the product can be safely refrigerated, though this is not confirmed in the supplied information.
Also, consider the size and shape in relation to your baby's age and grip strength. The sunflower and shell teethers have specific dimensions (8 x 8 x 1 cm and 9 x 6.5 x 1 cm respectively), while the rainbow teether does not list dimensions. If size is a critical factor for you, you might want to reach out to the store for more details.
Steps to Choose the Right Silicone Teether
- Check the material: Ensure the teether is made from 100% food-grade silicone and free from BPA, latex, lead, and phthalates.
- Verify safety standards: Look for teethers that comply with recognized safety standards, such as AS/NZS 8124 and ASTM, and have been independently tested.
- Match the shape to your baby's needs: Consider which shape (sunflower, shell, or rainbow) might best suit your baby's grip and chewing preferences.
- Plan for care and supervision: Remember to wash with warm soapy water or wipe with a damp cloth, and always use under adult supervision.
