Teething is one of the biggest milestones in a baby’s early years, but for parents, it often comes with sleepless nights and fussy days. By the time your baby reaches 5 months, their first set of teeth is starting to make its way through, which can cause discomfort and even pain. But don’t worry – the right teething toys for 5-month-olds can make all the difference!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about teething toys, from selecting the best ones to understanding why they matter for your baby’s development. Plus, we’ve rounded up our top picks of the best teething toys that are safe, effective, and enjoyable for both babies and parents alike.
Why Do Babies Need Teething Toys?
Before diving into our top picks for teething toys, let’s first understand the importance of these products. At 5 months old, your baby’s first set of teeth, known as milk teeth, are starting to push through the gums. This process can be uncomfortable, causing babies to feel irritable and in pain. Teething toys provide a simple, natural way to alleviate that discomfort and keep your little one entertained.
Benefits of Teething Toys for 5-Month-Olds:
- Pain Relief: Teething toys help massage your baby’s gums, which can alleviate pain caused by the pressure of emerging teeth.
- Safe Exploration: They allow babies to explore textures and materials safely, as they love to put everything in their mouths.
- Developing Fine Motor Skills: Teething toys encourage babies to grasp and manipulate objects, helping to develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
- Distraction from Discomfort: The right teething toys can keep your baby distracted, especially when they’re feeling irritable or fussy.
What to Look for in Teething Toys for 5-Month-Olds
Not all teething toys are created equal, so when selecting one, consider the following features:
- Safety: Ensure the toy is made from non-toxic materials (e.g., BPA-free, phthalate-free). The last thing you want is a toy that could be harmful.
- Size and Shape: Choose a toy that’s easy for your baby to grasp and manipulate. Avoid small parts that could present a choking hazard.
- Durability: Babies are tough on toys! Look for teething toys that are durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Texture Variety: A variety of textures, such as smooth, ridged, or soft silicone, can provide different types of sensory feedback for your baby.
- Ease of Cleaning: Teething toys can get dirty quickly, so select toys that are easy to clean – dishwasher-safe or wipeable.
10 Best Teething Toys for 5-Month-Olds in 2025
- Sophie the Giraffe by Vulli
- Why it’s great: Sophie the Giraffe is a classic, and for good reason. Made from natural rubber and painted with food-grade paint, Sophie is safe, non-toxic, and perfect for soothing aching gums.
- Best for: Babies who like to gnaw on things.
- Comotomo Silicone Baby Teething Toy
- Why it’s great: With its soft, squishy, and flexible design, the Comotomo teething toy is a great option for teething babies. The silicone material is gentle on little gums while being easy to grip.
- Best for: Babies who love to chew on silicone-based toys.
- Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder
- Why it’s great: This dual-purpose teething toy doubles as a food feeder. You can fill it with ice cubes or frozen fruit to soothe baby’s gums while providing a healthy snack.
- Best for: Cooling relief and introducing solid foods.
- Baby Banana Infant Toothbrush and Teething Toy
- Why it’s great: This adorable toothbrush not only provides relief for teething gums but also promotes early oral hygiene habits.
- Best for: Starting oral care early and soothing gums simultaneously.
- Nuby Teething Towel
- Why it’s great: A soft towel designed specifically for teething babies. It’s filled with nubs that provide gentle massage to soothe aching gums.
- Best for: Babies who prefer fabric-based toys.
- Green Sprouts Soft Silicone Teething Ring
- Why it’s great: This teething ring is made from food-grade silicone and is easy for babies to hold. It’s also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- Best for: Parents who prioritize ease of cleaning.
- The First Years Set of 3 Teething Rings
- Why it’s great: A set of three colorful, textured teething rings that offer a variety of options for babies to explore. The materials are soft yet durable.
- Best for: Babies who love texture variety.
- Vulli Calisson Teething Toy
- Why it’s great: The Calisson toy is made of soft, safe rubber and features multiple textures, making it great for babies experiencing different stages of teething.
- Best for: Multi-texture soothing.
- Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether
- Why it’s great: With its bright colors and safe plastic design, the Winkel rattle is easy for babies to hold. It also doubles as a rattle, so it entertains while soothing.
- Best for: Babies who love toys that make noise.
- Matchstick Monkey Silicone Teething Toy
- Why it’s great: This monkey-shaped teether features raised bumps that massage baby’s gums, providing immediate relief from teething pain.
- Best for: Babies who love textured, quirky designs.
How to Use Teething Toys Safely
While teething toys are incredibly helpful, it’s essential to use them safely. Here are some tips to ensure your baby benefits without any risks:
- Always supervise play: Never leave your baby alone with a teething toy, especially if it’s small or has detachable parts.
- Clean regularly: Teething toys can get dirty quickly, so make sure to wash them frequently with warm water or follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
- Store properly: Keep teething toys in a clean, dry place to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.
- Rotate toys: Avoid overstimulation by rotating your baby’s teething toys every few days to keep them engaged.
Read More:
Is Finger-Sucking Safe for Infants? A Comprehensive Guide
Finger Sucking in Children: Understanding the Habit and Its Implications
FAQs
Q: At what age do babies start needing teething toys?
A: Most babies begin teething around 4-6 months, though some may start earlier. Teething toys can help soothe discomfort during this time.
Q: Can I use frozen teething toys?
A: Yes! Many parents choose to freeze silicone teething toys to offer extra relief. Just be sure not to freeze them for too long, as extreme cold can harm your baby’s gums.
Q: Are silicone teething toys safe?
A: Silicone is a great material for teething toys as it’s non-toxic, durable, and soft on baby’s gums. Ensure that the silicone is BPA-free and meet safety standards.
Q: How do I clean teething toys?
A: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most silicone teething toys can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Some are even dishwasher safe!
Q: Do teething toys really help with pain?
A: Yes, teething toys provide gentle pressure on the gums, which can help relieve pain and discomfort. Additionally, they can serve as a distraction from the discomfort.
Q: Should I use a teething toy if my baby isn’t showing interest?
A: Babies can be picky about toys. Try offering different textures or shapes until you find one your baby enjoys. Rotating toys can also help maintain interest.
Q: Can I make my own teething toys at home?
A: While you can make DIY teething toys, always ensure that the materials you use are safe, non-toxic, and free from small detachable parts that could present a choking hazard.
Q: How long should I let my baby use a teething toy?
A: It’s best to limit the use of teething toys to 15-20 minutes at a time to avoid overstimulation. Always supervise your baby during use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right teething toys for 5-month-olds can make a world of difference in easing your baby’s discomfort. Whether you choose a classic favorite like Sophie the Giraffe or opt for something unique like the Matchstick Monkey, the key is to select toys that are safe, effective, and engaging.
Remember, every baby is different, so what works for one might not work for another. Be patient, rotate toys, and pay attention to what your baby enjoys most. By selecting age-appropriate, well-made teething toys, you’re not just easing pain – you’re helping your baby explore the world through their senses and building foundational skills for the future.