Silicone Vs Rubber Teethers: Which One Should Your Baby Be Chewing On?

The teething stage is a challenge every parent meets, with lots of drool, frustrating situations, and no sleep for parents. As soon as babies want to explore with their mouths, teethers are essential. Even so, some teethers differ much more than others. Most parents have probably heard about the discussion between silicone and rubber teethers. Deciding on the best one could greatly help your baby feel better, stay safe, and make your life easier overall.

Silicone Vs Rubber Teethers: A Parent’s Guide To The Best Choice

What Is A Silicone Teether Used For?

Silicone teethers are produced from medical- or food-grade silicone, just like baby bottle nipples and what is found in kitchens.

Pros:

• Materials That Are Non-Toxic And Safe

Since they are created from safe, non-toxic, and chemical-free materials, silicone teethers are okay for your baby to bite.

• Hygienic And Water-Resistant

Unlike dogs, cats do not drink water, so they aren’t likely to swallow it and become dirty or incur bacteria buildup.

• Sterilisation And Freezing Friendly

You can comfort your baby’s sore gums by boiling, sterilising, or freezing silicone chew toys.

• Durability And Longevity

Since these teethers are strong, they resist cracking and are able to last multiple months as your child enjoys them.

• Variety Of Textures For Gum Relief

No matter if the surface is smooth or textured, silicone teethers give the relief and stimulation that your baby requires.

Cons:

• Not Biodegradable

The fact that silicone doesn’t break down in nature might be a problem for people who care about the environment.

• Firmness Might Be Challenging For New Teethers

A few babies could discover that silicone teethers are too firm for them at first and choose to use a softer kind of teether instead.

What Is All About Rubber Teethers?

Teethers made of rubber are regularly made from natural rubber that comes from trees, and little to no processing.

• Inherently Squishy And Soft

Applying Teether's rubber to a baby's sensitive gums is safe and gentle.

• Both Ecologically Friendly And Biodegradable

Since the natural rubber used to make these teethers will decompose naturally over time, they are environmentally benign.

• Warm To The Touch

Because rubber is soft and feels like their mother's breast, it is more natural for babies to utilise it.

• Hand-Made And Painted With Natural Dyes

A lot of rubber teethers are shaped by hand and treated with natural and safe dyes, making them even more attractive by adding an artisan feel.

Cons: 

• May Contain Latex (Allergy Risk)

Since natural rubber might include latex, which can cause allergies in some babies, parents should be careful if their babies are sensitive to latex.

• Can Degrade Faster

Regularly chewing and washing causes rubber teethers to wear out faster compared to silicone teethers.

• Absorbs Saliva And May Hold Odours

With time, rubber may develop moisture and start to smell, so you should clean it more thoroughly and frequently.

Comparing Key Features: Silicone Vs Rubber Teethers

Teething Made Easy: What Your Baby Needs From 0–12+ Months 

• Newborn To 6 Months

At this early time, your baby has sensitive gums for the first time. Given how gentle they are, rubber teethers are just right for new teeth.

• 6 To 12 Months

Silicone teethers are the best choice when the baby’s teething becomes intense. Most wheelchair cushions are built to last, can have textured designs for more comfort, and can be put in the freezer for an extra soothing effect.

• 12 Months And Older

Compared to first teeth, molars require stronger teethers. Silicone toys with different textures are ideal for your baby at this stage because they will not wear out easily despite your baby’s powerful chewing.

Ease Of Cleaning: Silicone Takes The Lead

Let’s face it: teething means drool, lots of it.

Silicone:

• Doesn’t absorb moisture

• Can be washed in a dishwasher

• Easily sterilised with boiling water.

Rubber:

• Absorbs saliva

• Can get sticky or discoloured

• Must be washed gently by hand and air-dried

• Can grow mould if not dried properly

• In terms of long-term use and hygiene, silicone is more sensitive.

1st Step: For Exceptional Baby Care Essentials

Selecting proper products for your baby’s well-being is very important. That’s the reason we make sure our baby products are safe, comfy, and top-quality. From nursing to caring for tiny teeth, hygiene to sleeping, we aim to help you take care of your child with our caring and trustworthy products..

Conclusion

It is not always clear which one is better: silicone or rubber teethers. Make your choice based on your child’s age and if their gums feel sensitive, as well as what your family wants. Because silicone teethers are durable, hygienic, and safe for a baby's health, many people choose them.  Experts say those rubber teethers are soft and close to nature, but sometimes, some people can have an allergic reaction to them. Whatever teether you buy, check that it is safe and make regular efforts to clean it. The process will ease your baby’s teething and give you more peace of mind.

FAQs About Silicone Vs Rubber Teethers

1. Are silicone teethers safe enough for use by babies?

Silicone teethers made using safe and BPA-free substances would be safe for children to use. Check if the product has the safety certification and select a reliable brand so that you know it is top quality.

2. Are there chances for babies to get allergies from using rubber teether toys?

Admittedly, babies can sometimes be allergic to natural rubber because it consists of latex. If you or any of your family members have previously experienced latex allergies, then you should not choose rubber teethers.

3. Should I be cleaning my baby’s teething toys just once a week, or should I make a habit of cleaning them daily?

Once you have finished with the machine. To keep these teethers clean, just wash them in boiling water and put them in the dishwasher. To stop mould from growing, rubber teethers should be cleaned with water and a tiny bit of mild soap, then left to air dry.

4. Can one of the teether types be given to a baby?

Of course. Sometimes, the way and age of the baby's chews help parents choose between different types of teethers, which are usually both silicone and rubber. At different points during the teething process, both may be advantageous.

5. Are silicone teethers freezer-safe?

The majority of silicone teethers are safe to store in the freezer. If you want to soothe painful gums, you should make sure the teether is marked as freezer-safe before you do this.