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While a new baby is the ultimate gift, showering the parents with practical and splurge-worthy presents to celebrate their little one’s arrival is always appreciated. The best baby gifts are useful, safe, stylish and, most importantly, items the parents want or need. I always recommend taking a peek at parents’ registries first to see what’s already been purchased, the specific items they’re asking for and to get an overall sense of their style, be it more modern and neutral or cute and colorful.
Whether you’re shopping for big-ticket items like a chic travel stroller or new mom must-haves like a breastmilk cooler, we’ve rounded up the best baby gifts that are both fashionable and functional.Our top picks for the best baby gifts Best practical baby gift: Frida Baby Ultimate Baby Kit
Best practical baby gift:
This Frida Baby kit is packed full of all the sick-day basics and newborn must-haves parents often find themselves needing in the middle of the night, like a SnotSucker to clear up mucus or a handy little tool to instantly help relieve gas and calm colic. There’s also a rectal thermometer to get an accurate temperature, special baby nail clippers so new parents don’t slice a tiny finger, a soft 100% silicone brush to remove dry skin and cradle cap, plus more grooming, teething and health and safety essentials.
Price on publish: $99.99.What we like:Excellent value.Includes 10 grooming and wellness essentials, as well as the nice-to-haves just in case.Practical gift any parent can use.
What we don’t like:Parents may not end up needing every product.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This clever gas relief, grooming and wellness kit is a must-buy for any new parent. It contains lots of little essentials — and ones they never knew they needed.
Get it here: Frida Baby Ultimate Baby KitBest baby pajamas: Bellabu Bear Bamboo Convertible Footie
Bellabu Bear is one of my all-time favorite baby pajama brands, and I’ve tried plenty of them as a mom of three. Made from the most buttery-soft and breathable bamboo fabric, the company’s onesies are hypoallergenic, moisture-absorbing, antimicrobial and naturally temperature-regulating, so littles sleep for longer stretches comfortably. They also feature a two-way zipper for fast diaper changes and convertible feet to cover up at night, as well as hand covers to prevent newborns from scratching their faces. There are no tags to irritate a baby’s sensitive skin, and this onesie comes in lots of neutral colors and fun prints and patterns to choose from.
Price on publish: $33.What we like:Supersoft and stretchy breathable bamboo.Convertible footies and hand covers.Two-way zipper for easy diaper changes.Excellent quality.Lots of cute print and color options.
What we don’t like: The AP Buyline takeaway:
These bamboo pajamas are so soft you’ll want them in your size.
Get it here: Bellabu Bear Bamboo Convertible FootieBest crib mattress: Avocado Organic Crib Mattress
Best crib mattress
Avocado Organic Crib Mattress
It’s always nice when someone offers to buy the big baby essentials, like this dual-sided and breathable Avocado Organic Crib Mattress. It’s handmade in California with certified organic cotton, wool and latex, so you know the baby is only snoozing on the best and not breathing in toxic chemicals. The mattress features two levels of firmness to grow with their child: one side for the baby stage and the other for toddlers. I have this mattress in our nursery at home and can vouch for its superior quality — my toddler sleeps like a dream now and has stopped waking in the night ever since replacing his old mattress with this one.
Price on publish: $395.What we like:Flippable design to grow with kids.Handmade in California.Crafted with certified organic cotton, wool and latex.Nontoxic.Breathable.
What we don’t like: The AP Buyline takeaway:
Even parents will sleep like a baby when their wee one gets cozy on this nontoxic, certified organic crib mattress with a dual-sided design that grows with kids.
Get it here: Avocado Organic Crib MattressBest portable crib: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
Best portable crib
BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
Traveling with a newborn is tough, to say the least, but this ultrasleek and lightweight BabyBjörn portable crib makes it easy. It’s perfect for setting up at home for naps, on vacation at your hotel or bringing to grandma’s house so the baby can catch some Zs in a cozy, familiar space. It’s seamless to set up — it opens in one quick step — and the breezy mesh allows parents to keep an eye on their little one while they breathe easily. The mattress is built-in, and the crib comes with a fitted organic cotton sheet so parents don’t have to purchase anything extra. It accommodates kids from birth up to age 3, so this is a gift they can use for the long haul.
Price on publish: $279.99.What we like:Long-lasting, as it fits kids from birth to age 3.Comfortable, built-in mattress.High-quality, stylish design.Easy to set up and break down.Breathable mesh sides.Lightweight.
What we don’t like: The AP Buyline takeaway:
This lightweight and stylish travel crib is super comfortable for babies and even more convenient for parents who like to go places.
Get it here: BabyBjörn Travel Crib LightBest baby bath essentials: Lalo Bath Full Kit
Best baby bath essentials
As a parent who appreciates good style, I’m obsessed with this Lalo Bath Kit, which looks as good in your bathroom as it is functional. It comes with a minimalist baby bath to safely wash newborns and modern tub accessories to make cleaning them and their toys easier. Plus, caregivers receive knee and elbow savers for a touch of comfort. Buy it in coconut — which is actually white and gray, despite the name — to go with every aesthetic, or spice things up with the chic sage set.
Price on publish: $160.What we like:Fashionable and functional products.High quality.Nontoxic and safe for babies.Durable.
What we don’t like:Some parents in the reviews complained about the location of the support post for infants.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This beautiful bath bundle comes with everything parents need to make bath time easier and more comfortable for everyone.
Get it here: Lalo Bath Full KitBest car seat that converts into a stroller: Doona Car Seat & Stroller
Best car seat that converts into a stroller
Doona Car Seat & Stroller
The Doona is a cult-favorite baby product for a reason — the convenience factor for busy parents seriously can’t be beat. A car seat and stroller all in one, this fully integrated travel system allows parents to go straight from the car to running errands or vice versa without waking a sleeping baby. And anything that lets babies stay asleep is worth every penny — trust me. It’s available in seven stylish colors and features an all-black inner seat with a sleek charcoal aluminum frame. The maneuverability and ease in stroller mode is excellent, too.
Price on publish: $550.What we like:Safe and stylish.Available in lots of colors.Excellent quality.Two-in-one design is super convenient.
What we don’t like: The AP Buyline takeaway:
If there’s one piece of baby gear every new parent needs, it’s the Doona car seat and stroller combo.
Get it here: Doona Car Seat & StrollerBest carry-on bag: BÉIS The Mini Roller
Mom can match her mini with this kid-sized Béis carry-on bag that’s perfectly sized for all baby things, including diapers, wipes, onesies, pacifiers, blankies and burp cloths. It comes with a “stink bag” to stash all the dirty stuff so spit-stained jammies and diaper blowouts don’t touch the clean clothes. Other nice features include 360-degree smooth-rolling wheels, an adjustable trolley handle with a cushioned grip and a soft front pocket so mom can easily access all of the baby’s essentials, like a bottle. Organizational pockets inside allow parents to separate stuff and easily find them at their destination.
Price on publish: $188.What we like:Durable and stylish.Can be used from the baby stage into the big kid years.TSA lock.Included laundry bag.Lots of zippered pockets to stay organized.Made to match parents’ luggage.Holds up to 50 pounds.
What we don’t like: The AP Buyline takeaway:
This is the perfect getaway bag for babies and big kids that parents will want to steal for themselves.
Get it here: BÉIS The Mini RollerBest stylish stroller: Bugaboo Butterfly
A lot of new parents only register for a big and bulky everyday stroller, but a chic and compact travel stroller, like the Bugaboo Butterfly, is essential for quick trips to the grocery store and air travel. The Butterfly is gorgeous, incredibly durable and a dream to push and maneuver in tight spaces. It also folds and unfolds in a flash so parents aren’t struggling for long with a fussy baby or holding up the line at airport security. It weighs just over 16 pounds, is super compact for storage and can stand up when folded to save more space. The spacious basket holds just over 17 pounds of baby essentials.
Price on publish: $479.What we like:Lightweight.Folds compact.Excellent maneuverability.Modern, stylish design.Easy to open and close.Spacious underneath storage.
What we don’t like:It’s expensive.I wish it came with more accessories.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This stylish and compact travel stroller is a fast-opening, durable game-changer for parents on the go.
Get it here: Bugaboo ButterflyBest breast milk cooler: Mila’s Keeper The Milkeeper
Best breast milk cooler
Mila’s Keeper The Milkeeper
A breast milk cooler is one of those items new moms don’t know they need until they need it, like, now. The great thing about this one is that it caters to the needs of working moms and moms on the move by serving many purposes. It keeps breast milk cold for up to 20 hours, so finding a fridge before the milk spoils isn’t a worry. The MilKeeper also doubles as a bottle warmer for breast milk or formula and can be repurposed as a water bottle for Mom once she’s done feeding. It fits in most cup holders and comes in several cute colors and designs. Milk can be poured directly into it, or moms can stow bags or bottles of pumped milk in there to feed the baby when out and about.
Price on publish: $49.What we like:Can be used as a breast milk cooler, thermos or water bottle.Keeps milk cold for up to 20 hours.Fits in most cup holders.Luxe, eco-friendly design.Includes a BPA-Free breast milk ice pack.
What we don’t like:I wish it held more than one bottle.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Whether she’s a working mom or likes to travel, she’ll love this multipurpose breast milk cooler, which keeps milk cool and fresh for up to 20 hours.
Get it here: Mila’s Keeper The MilkeeperBest baby toy: Bright Starts Oball Easy-Grasp Rattle
Best baby toy
Bright Starts Oball Easy-Grasp Rattle
This bestselling, BPA-free baby ball has over 6,000 rave reviews and a near-perfect 4.9 average star rating. It’s easy for infants to grasp, perfectly sized for baby hands and wildly entertaining for a toy that only costs $6. Littles can grab, grip and shake, shake, shake it up with three rattles in one, strengthening fine motor skills and stimulating the auditory system. It’s the perfect toy to take along — just toss it in the diaper bag or in the stroller storage basket to soothe them when they start to get fussy.
Price on publish: $5.99.What we like:Excellent value.Entertaining for babies.Easy to take along.Developmentally beneficial.Easy for small babies to grasp and hold.
What we don’t like:Not great for teething, as it can be hard for littles to get in their mouth.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For just $6, this easy-to-grasp ball is the gift that keeps on giving, entertaining babies so parents can catch a quick break.
Get it here: Bright Starts Oball Easy-Grasp RattleBest curated crate for tummy time: Kiwico Let’s Bond! Plus Panda Crate
Best curated crate for tummy time
Kiwico Let’s Bond! Plus Panda Crate
Figuring out what to do or how to play with a newborn baby can be daunting as a new parent, which is why I love this curated Kiwico tummy time crate. It’s stocked with everything new parents need to bond with the baby and help them discover their developing senses of hearing, vision and touch while working on fine and gross motor skills, focus, attention, language and more. Inside, there’s a tummy time pillow and mirror, sensory mat, star lovey, black and white cards, and a grownup guide with activity ideas for parents to try at home.
Price on publish: $80.What we like:Curated kit of tummy time essentials.Comes with a guide for parents on ways to play.Colorful, aesthetically pleasing design.Great quality.
What we don’t like:Newborns will grow out of the toys somewhat fast.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This cute and colorful curated tummy time kit makes playing with a new baby easy, providing parents with plenty of activity ideas.
Get it here: Kiwico Let’s Bond! Plus Panda CrateBest mealtime bundle: Morepeas First Foods Set
As a parenting commerce writer, I’ve tried an absurd amount of baby-feeding essentials. The brand I always keep coming back to is Morepeas, and not just for the bright and fun colors (though they are a bonus). It’s the versatility and clever design of all of their products that seals the deal for me. This curated First Foods Set comes with three incredibly convenient interchangeable lids. Serve up snacks and drinks, steam vegetables directly in the cup, suction it to the table to prevent spills or stack and store the included bowl and cup together. It also includes a bold bib that rolls up compactly and snaps together, so you can store the spoon set inside. Choose from four fun colors, and select the gift option at checkout for special packaging and a personalized gift message.
Price on publish: $72.What we like:Clever, multipurpose design.Bold, fun colors.Bib doubles as spoon storage rolled up.Portable and packable.Made from 100% food-grade silicone, FDA-approved and CPSC-certified.Microwave, freezer, dishwasher and oven safe up to 350 degrees.
What we don’t like:I prefer to hand wash anything silicone, including my Morepeas cups, as silicone can taste like soap after running through the dishwasher.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This multipurpose First Foods Set is fun to look at and even more fun to use, whether at home or on the go.
Get it here: Morepeas First Foods SetWhy I chose these baby gifts
I’m a mom of three small children, all 7 years old and younger, as well as a professional commerce writer specializing in baby and kid gear. I’ve tried and tested tons of baby essentials over the years, such as car seats, strollers, baby bouncers, carriers, luggage, food sets, toys and more. I have a pulse on all the latest and greatest baby gear and can attest to the things new parents actually need as a seasoned parent who’s been there myself. To help further inform my selects, I spoke with two baby gear and gifting experts.Things to remember when choosing the best baby gifts Will this gift be helpful?
According to Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat Director of Operations Katie Billingsley, one of the most important things to consider when deciding on a gift for new parents or a new baby is whether the gift will truly be helpful. “Trust us, families do not want or need 361 stuffed animals and baby blankets, or bottles and pacifiers they didn’t select themselves,” Billingsley said. “When in doubt, always choose something from their baby registry as that’s guaranteed to be appreciated.”
If you want to go off the registry, make sure the gift aligns with the parents’ style and will get used. “Practical items such as diapers and footie pajamas are often appreciated. High-quality diapers and gentle, hypoallergenic wipes are practical essentials too,” she noted. “Please refer to their registry when possible, but if not, select a ‘luxury’ option such as Coterie, Kudos, Healthy Baby or Honest.”Is it safe?
Safety is of the utmost importance when selecting a great baby gift. “Ensure the gift is free from small parts that could pose a choking hazard and is made from nontoxic materials,” Billingsley said. This is especially important as babies grow and tend to put everything in their mouths.Is it developmentally beneficial?
“Gifts that support the baby’s development, like soft toys, teething items or books, are excellent choices,” Billingsley said. You may also consider a curated toy subscription box, often delivered quarterly, so the parents don’t have to think about what to buy their baby to engage and entertain them as they grow.What are the parents’ preferences?
Billingsley advised friends and family to consider the parents’ lifestyle and values. “Some families might prefer eco-friendly or organic products or Montessori-style toys without batteries,” she said. Others may be going for a certain nursery aesthetic or taking a more minimalistic approach to parenting and don’t want to be bogged down with a ton of stuff. Still, others may be short on space, with room for only compact baby essentials.Frequently asked questions (FAQs) What to give a newborn baby?
“Gifts that make life easier for new parents can also focus on the baby,” Alli Cavasino, co-founder and CEO of JoyLet, said. For example, a toy subscription service that automatically delivers developmentally appropriate toys every few months makes it so parents don’t have to do the research. Other ideas include modern swaddles with easy diaper access, a portable bouncer that keeps a baby happily contained so parents can take a shower and diapers in the next size up for when the baby suddenly hits a growth spurt. “Feeding supplies like muslin burp cloths or bibs can be helpful, but avoid specific items like bottles unless you know the parents’ preferences,” Billingsley said.What do you get a mom for a newborn?
“New parents often have many questions or concerns that may require specialist assistance,” Cavasino said. “Gifting packages or gift cards for services like lactation consultants, doulas and courses focused on newborn sleep or first aid can provide new parents with peace of mind. Breastfeeding parents will appreciate comfy nursing loungewear to make feeding easier and cozier.” She, like me, especially loves the line from Hatch, “which is on the pricier side and can feel like a treat for new parents.” Nutritious snacks, a meal delivery service or even a DoorDash gift card can be incredibly helpful, Billingsley added, “and for some people may even be a critical part of their postpartum recovery.”What to bring to the hospital for someone who just had a baby?
When visiting a new mom in the hospital, Billingsley recommended bringing items that show care and consideration, like healthy, easy-to-eat snacks and a water bottle to keep the new mom nourished and hydrated. “Universally loved and luxurious items such as lip balm — try Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask — silk hair ties, or body wipes — Yuni Beauty makes some great ones — can be refreshing and convenient,” Billingsley said. “Magazines, a book or a tablet preloaded with movies or shows can provide a welcome distraction.”
Related article: Best online photo printing services: Which is best?
02
The Best Baby Formula
No matter how you do it, feeding a baby is hard work.
If you’re using formula, there are the added challenges of deciphering long lists of ingredients and distinguishing among the dozens of brands and types. And formulas can differ drastically in cost, which can create more confusion, not to mention worry.
We spent more than 80 hours researching formulas, interviewing pediatricians and other experts, and reading more than 20 scientific studies and journal articles. And we learned that all FDA-approved formulas made for healthy, full-term infants are safe and nutritionally adequate for normal growth and development from birth through the first year. We then analyzed the ingredients of more than 60 formulas to find the ones that we think offer the best combination of evidence-backed benefits and value.Top pick
This Sam’s Club formula uses lactose (the same sugar that’s in human milk) as its only carbohydrate. And it has several potentially beneficial extra ingredients found in much more expensive formulas.
Because traditional formulas are all required to meet the same basic nutritional standards, we looked for the most affordable formulas that offer the most additional potential benefits. Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark Infant Premium (around 80¢ per ounce, and a little less if you’re a Sam’s Club member) includes expert-recommended ingredients, such as lactose (the carbohydrate found in human milk), as well as a few desirable extras. This formula is also sold as Up & Up Infant Premium at Target, Parent’s Choice Premium Infant at Walmart, and Mama Bear Infant Premium on Amazon, so it’s easy to find.Top pick
This Costco formula also contains lactose as the only carbohydrate. And it has many of the same potentially beneficial extras found in more expensive options.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula (about 69¢ per ounce) uses lactose, the sugar naturally found in human milk. And this formula provides many of the same extra nutrients you’ll find in formulas that cost two or three times as much.Also great
This Target formula also uses lactose as its sole carbohydrate, and it has many of the same extra nutrients as formulas that cost twice as much.
Though more expensive than our main picks, Up & Up Advantage Premium (around $1 per ounce) is still among the least expensive formulas we found. Unlike our main picks, this formula is available in smaller 23- and 36-ounce sizes. It’s also sold in grocery and drugstore chains, as Walmart Parent’s Choice Advantage Premium, Sam’s Club Member’s Mark Advantage Premium, CVS Health Advantage Premium, and Amazon’s Mama Bear Advantage Premium, among others, so it’s also easy to find.Also great
This formula is made with all partially hydrolyzed whey protein, which may be easier for some babies to digest than the intact milk proteins used in our traditional formula picks.
Most babies do well on traditional formula, but if your pediatrician recommends giving your baby a “gentle,” “tender,” or partially hydrolyzed formula (containing partly broken-down milk proteins, which may be easier for some babies to digest), we suggest Bobbie Organic Gentle. Though it costs considerably more than other “gentle” formulas at about $2 per ounce, it’s one of a few that doesn’t contain intact proteins—which would defeat the purpose—and does contain lactose as its sole carbohydrate.Also great
This Target formula is made with extensively hydrolyzed casein proteins and is typically appropriate for babies who have certain diagnoses, like cow’s milk protein allergy.
If your doctor recommends a hypoallergenic formula, Up & Up Hypoallergenic Infant Formula is equivalent to Enfamil Nutramigen and Similac Alimentum but available at a lower price (roughly $2.02 per ounce). It’s the same as other store-brand hypoallergenic formulas, including Mama Bear Hypoallergenic Infant Formula, Walgreens Well Beginnings Hypoallergenic Infant Formula, and Parent’s Choice Hypoallergenic Infant Formula, among others.Also great
This is among the least expensive organic formulas that uses lactose as its sole carbohydrate. It’s also one of the few that contains the potentially beneficial component MFGM.
If you want a formula made from USDA-certified organic ingredients, we recommend Aussie Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula Stage 1. It’s among the least expensive organic formulas we found that has lactose as its only carbohydrate, and it contains whole milk in addition to nonfat milk. Some evidence suggests that milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), which is naturally found in whole milk, may be beneficial.Also great
This is one of only a few goat milk-based infant formulas available in the US. But it is expensive.
Goat’s milk is sometimes considered more similar to human milk than cow’s milk, because, like human milk, it predominantly contains A2 beta-casein protein. (Most cow’s milk contains mainly A1 beta-casein.) There aren’t any studies that suggest goat milk is better than other formulas as far as tolerability, though there isn’t an abundance of research on it. Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula Stage 1 is among the most expensive of our picks, at about $1.42 per powdered ounce.
03
10 of the best baby teethers
Bear in mind, also, that teeth continue to emerge until well into toddler age – so it’s worth investing in a quality teething toy that lasts the distance. You’ll want something sturdy enough to endure plenty of gnawing and biting. Having a teether on hand also means your infant is less likely to start chomping on unsafe alternatives lying around the house – cutlery, remote controls – which we all know babies have a sneaky habit of doing the moment our heads are turned.Best baby teethers at a glanceBest for healthy teeth: Brush-Baby My FirstBrush and Teether Set, £7Best eco option: MAM Friends – Max The Frog, £8.99Best cloth/multi-sensory option: Cheeky Chompers Handychew, £9.99Best for every stage of teething: Tommee Tippee Kalani Maxi Sensory Teething Toy, £10.99Best for play: Mini Mizzie the Kangaroo, £9.99Best for hygiene: Matchstick Monkey Gigi Giraffe Teether, £9.99Best for value: Nuby Lots A Loops Teether, £5.49Best timeless design: Sophie La Girafe Original Teether, £15Best cooling teether: Skip Hop Explore & More Stay Cool Teether, £6Best for early teethers: Gummee Glove Teether, £16.99
Baby teethers safety: how to clean baby teething toys
Teethers can be made of various materials – silicone is particularly common, a type of synthetic rubber that’s safer to chew on than plastic, as it won’t leach any chemicals. However, you can also buy natural wood, natural rubber and cloth teethers. If you purchase a plastic teether, check they are free of BPA, PVC and phthalates, which may be harmful.
Whatever they are made of, baby teething toys are specially designed to be safe to put in your baby’s mouth and are usually easy to clean. If you’re concerned about hygiene, look for ones you can pop in the dishwasher – check the label when you buy – or that can be sterilised. Some may be suitable for steam sterilisers, others for cold water sterilising. Otherwise check if they can safely be washed in hot soapy water. Some can only be surface cleansed, particularly those made of natural rubbers, which may be an issue if you’re worried about bugs and germs.
More like thisWhat to look for in baby teething toys
Textured surfaces – Look for plenty of knobbly bits, ridges and flexible surfaces so your baby can gnaw, bite and chew to their heart’s content and efficiently soothe sore gums. Some teethers may feature both harder and softer parts, to suit baby’s preference or match different teething stages.
A ring shape or a handle – The most basic teether designs are teething rings – easy for little fingers to grab onto and guide to their mouths. These can sometimes be filled with water and chilled. Similarly, many teething toys also feature round, curved handles that make them easier to hold.
A bright design – A bold colour or smiley face might help your baby find their teether easily, and provide some extra fun. Many teethers double up as cute mini toys, so choose something your baby seems drawn to. There are plenty of lovely novelty designs around so explore what’s on offer before buying.
The chill factor – Babies love teethers that have been chilled for extra soothing powers – check the packaging to see if they can be safely popped in the fridge or freezer.
BPA-safe – Most teethers will be BPA safe these days, but it’s always worth checking the packaging when you buy, just in case.
Something different – There’s a huge range of baby teething toys out there from classic designs to clever modern solutions such as teething necklaces that mums can wear. Also remember that some babies prefer to chew on cloth teethers, rather than something harder. You can also buy teething sets that offer solutions for different stages of teething.How much should I expect to pay for a baby teething toy?
A simple plastic or silicone teether can be picked up for a few pounds. However, more expensive modes can cost up to £20. This might be because they’re a stylish, modern design, or made from a more eco-friendly or natural material.
The choice is yours, but bear in mind that the teething stage can last a long time – as long as 25 to 33 months. It might not seem like something you want to splash out on at first, but a teething toy that works for your baby could make a big difference to their happiness and yours during this trying time. It might be worth spending slightly more on a product they really love if it calms inflamed gums and reduces grizzles. You may also want more than one, in case one is in the dishwasher, or you’re out and about.
We’ve spoken to our mum testers – and done some in-depth research of our own – to come up with 10 of the best baby teethers and soothers out there to help calm a grizzly teething baby.How did we choose our 10 of the Best?
Our 10 of the Best lists are compiled by qualified and experienced parenting journalists. They rely on a number of sources, including our independent reviews, testing undertaken during the MadeForMums Awards, and feedback from our home testing panel and Top Testers Club. Each year thousands of products are put through their paces by hundreds of parents across the country on behalf of MadeForMums, to ensure we’re bringing you honest and true reviews and recommendations.
When testing these teethers we looked at design, age suitability, quality, texture/shape, value for money, ease of cleaning, as well as whether our child testers found them soothing.
Our list is not an ordered ranking from 1-10, instead it is a carefully selected group of tried-and-tested products, each of which we believe is best for a different situation or requirement. We don’t just tell you what is best, we help you discover what is best for your family.Here’s our pick of the best teething toys for babies for 20211. Brush-Baby My FirstBrush and Teether Set, £7Best for healthy teeth
Age suitability: From birth | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Steriliser safe: Yes | Fridge suitable: Yes | Award: Gold – Teethers and teething products, MadeForMums Awards 2021
Once baby’s first tooth breaks through, the drooling and pain continues for a fair while yet – but mums and babies also have something new to worry about: brushing those brand-new pearly whites. Luckily, this smart set encourages oral hygiene from a tiny age – this set includes a brush-like teether plus a first toothbrush to keep teeth pristine.
The teether has soft silicone bristles to massage gums and gently scrub enamel – you can use it with tiny smear of toothpaste to get your baby used to the taste and habit. The long handle means babies can hold it instinctively, and there’s a flower-shaped mouthguard for safety.
Admittedly, this isn’t the most beautiful, fun or stylish teether out there. It’s about practical rather than providing entertainment. But users report the teether is light and easy to use, and, most importantly, that it offers genuine relief to fretful babies.
Our home tester, Ionela, mum to a 1-year-old, wouldn’t be without it now. “The teether helped my son soothe his gums,” she commented. “He’s got four molars coming through at the moment, so he is a big screamer. Every time he sees the teether he knows it will help him. He just grabs it, chews on it for five minutes and he is all better. It’s always in my changing bag!”
Pros: Practical, good value, encourages good oral hygieneCons: Plain design doesn’t double as a toy, like many other teethers
Available from: Amazon and Boots2. MAM Friends – Max the Frog, £8.99Best eco option
Age suitability: From 4 months | Dishwasher safe: No | Steriliser safe: No | Fridge suitable: No
MAM makes sweet animal-shaped teethers from natural rubber. These aren’t the cheapest teethers, but babies make a beeline for their bright colours and they feel great quality.
They’re light and ring-shaped so babies can easily grab them, then chew and drool to their heart’s content whenever the urge strikes. They also have plenty of ridges and bumpy bits to run over inflamed gums and painful teeth.
Max the Frog is typical of the range – a happy smile and bulbous froggy eyes mean it’s a toy that tiny ones will engage with from a small age. (Also look for a teething snail, bee and turtle.) MAM Friends teethers are all BPA-free, too.
Our reviewers particularly loved that these sweet teethers are made from 100% natural rubber, locally sourced and expertly crafted by hand in Thailand – giving it eco credibility. “The natural rubber is a good justification of the price,” pointed out our home tester Kat, mum to a 9-month-old.
She added, “The quality is beautiful as with all MAM products. As with most teethers, there are interesting patterns and textured areas in the rubber to satisfy curious gums. The rubber, being natural, also feels slightly rough to touch, unlike plasticky silicones – I feel this would just add to the satisfaction of the chewing.” The size and build were perfect, too. “It feels weighty enough to suggest it’s well-made, but light enough for small hands.”
Pros: Made of eco-friendly rubber, good qualityCons: Can’t be cleaned in the dishwasher or chilled
Available from: Mam Baby and Amazon3. Cheeky Chompers Handychew, £9.99Best cloth/multi-sensory option
Age suitability: From birth | Machine washable: Yes | Steriliser safe: No | Fridge suitable: No | Award: Silver – Teethers and teething products, MadeForMums Awards 2021
Not all babies like to chew on silicone while in the midst of a full-on teething episode. In fact, some prefer a good old chomp on a soft cloth. A fabric option will help mop up dribbles and drools, plus it’s just nice to hold, offering that ‘blankie’ feel that so many babies find comforting.
It’s no wonder our testers loved this soft, fleecy Handychew, which packs in extra features – including a rattle, a dummy loop and myriad textures, such as a chewable silicone elephant ear, ribbons and crinkles. The strap proved popular too – something many teething toys lack – meaning it won’t mysteriously fall out of the buggy on your travels.
“It’s definitely worth the money, you get multiple features in one item – the chewy ear, the textured parts, the rattle and dummy strap plus the Handychew acts as a comforter,” enthused our home tester, Nicola, who has a baby girl.
Tester Heidi, who also has a baby daughter, added, “I am obsessed with this Cheeky Chompers Handychew! It’s really an amazing product that my baby girl loves and so do I. So many different features, it’s so cute, very reasonably priced and I can’t say anything negative about it! It’s the best teething toy I own yet, and I own plenty.”
Pros: Lovely design, machine washable, doubles as a sensory toy and rattleCons: Can’t be chilled, not for babies who prefer harder surfaces to chew on
Available from: Cheeky Chompers and Amazon4. Tommee Tippee Kalani Maxi Sensory Teething Toy, £10.99Best for every stage of teething
Age suitability: From 3 months | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Steriliser safe: Yes | Fridge suitable: Yes | Award: Silver – Teethers and teething products, MadeForMums Awards 2021
With its owl design, bug eyes and bright colours (choose from orange or green), at first glance the Kalani may look cute and appealing – but otherwise like a fairly ordinary teether.
In fact this sensory teething toy, made from medical grade silicone, is designed to assist your baby through different stages of teething – from first teeth to final molars. (We hate to break it to you, but the misery won’t end once that first bottom incisor pokes through those red, angry gums.)
Each part of this bird is designed for a different job. So the smooth, hard head is for the earlier stages of teething. The body and wings should help your baby reach back teeth. The softer, chewy ‘feathers’ are designed to encourage good oral hygiene. And the feet are built to be nibbled on by sharp canines. All this and the winged shape makes it highly grippable.
This teether was a huge hit with home tester Aamna and her 1-year-old daughter. “She loved the design instantly – bright and eye-catching but not garish,” enthused Aamna. “This teether feels sturdy, tough and resilient, and is easy to clean and sanitise (especially as it can be put in the dishwasher). It’s very easy for children to carry and hold and encourage [developing] motor skills.”
Silicone toys and teethers have a habit of attracting dust and fluff, which can be irritating. Not this one, however – it boasts anti-static superpowers to stop dirt collecting on the surfaces. “It stayed very clean considering my daughter had been holding it in her hand most of the day,” said Aamna. “I also carried it around in my pocket for a day and that didn’t attract any fluff or lint either. I was really impressed as a nuisance of silicone toys is the fact they always become very dusty and dirty.”
Pros: Lots of surfaces for different teething stages, antistatic design repels dustCons: Simple design
Available from: Tommee Tippee and Amazon5. Mini Mizzie the Kangaroo, £9.99Best for play
Age suitability: From birth | Dishwasher safe: No | Steriliser Safe: No | Fridge safe: No
Another seriously cute animal-shaped teether, Mini Mizzie is the younger sibling of the larger Mizzie kangaroo-shaped teether. This travel-friendly version features a ring-shape even smaller babies can cling onto easily, before thrusting that tempting kanga head in their mouths for some serious chewing action.
The main appeal of this teether, apart from its compact size, is definitely the cute cartoon-style character – no surprises to learn it’s an Australian design. The makers say the Mizzie has been designed to develop sight, touch and smell through fun and play.
MFM tester Naomi, mum to a 6-month-old, agreed Mizzie made a fun play pal. “We could involve it in everyday play because of the face and character which meant it was more interesting,” she recalled. “Pippa used it regularly to soothe her gums and she found it very easy to hold. We were both very pleased with it.”
Made from 100% rubber and painted using water-based, non-toxic dyes, Mini Mizzie is also free from PVC, BPA, nitrosamines and phthalates. Ideal when your baby embarks on their next marathon nibbling session.
Pros: Natural materials, engaging design, handy ring shapeCons: Fairly expensive, can’t be sterilised or cleaned in the dishwasher
Available from: Mizzie the Kangaroo6. Matchstick Monkey Gigi Giraffe Teether, £9.99Best for hygiene
Age suitability: From 3 months | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Steriliser safe: Yes | Award: Bronze – Teethers and teething products, MadeForMums Awards 2021
Matchstick Monkey makes super-stylish teething toys that really work. Our testers’ babies love this modern classic, which features plenty of textured ridges to massage aching gums. You can also apply teething gels to the head for a double win – helping babies reach those frustratingly hard-to-reach back molars.
Our testers also liked how the giraffe’s ‘arms’ are ergonomic handles, designed to be a doddle for tiny hands to grip.
Where this teether really stands out, however, is on the hygiene front. The silicone forming the teether has added antimicrobial technology to prevent the growth of germs on the surface. Crucially, it’s not a coating that wears off, but will last your teether’s lifetime – so no need to panic each time your baby throws lion on the floor with a shriek of joy.
Users of this teether love the fact it’s dishwasher safe, and safe for steam and cold-water sterilising – a surprising number of teethers aren’t.
“It’s perfect to know this teether is hygienic and safe,” agreed our reviewer Sara, who has a baby daughter. She added, “It looks really cute – the design is beautiful. It’s my daughter’s favourite teething toy by far. And so far I haven’t seen any marks, in spite of a lot of biting.”
It can also be popped in the fridge for the extra-soothing chill factor, and it gets particularly good feedback for young babies of around 4-5 months.
Pros: Super-stylish, hygienic, easy to holdCons: Not the cheapest
Available from: Matchstick Monkey and Amazon7. Nuby Lots A Loops Teether, £5.49Best for value
Age suitability: From 3 months | Dishwasher safe: No | Steriliser safe: No | Fridge suitable: Yes
If you’re looking for a bright, simple teether that won’t break the bank, but still works as a toy, this is your number-one contender. Featuring numerous colourful, interwoven plastic loops, there’s plenty of choice for fussy babies to suck on. All those irresistible loops mean it’s simple to find and hold, even for very small hands – so great for developing hand-eye coordination.
Our reviewer Zoe, mum to a little boy, was a big fan of the rainbow design. “The bright colours means he picks this first out of all his toys – it’s very eye-catching,” she reported. “There is a not-too-loud rattle inside, which is great.” She also appreciated the pocket-friendly price tag. “This is cheaper than some teething toys on the market. It’s easy to use and soft to chew on. My son has had great use as he’s currently got two teeth breaking through and I feel it’s been a blessing for him.”
This teething toy also features a built-in rattle for extra sensory fun. It can be safely popped in the fridge to cool down hot little gums, though bear in mind it won’t hold the cold as long as specially designed cooling teethers. It’s also BPA-free.
The only negative? Our reviewer said that, as it was a little on the large side, it might not be suitable for taking out and about.
Pros: Bright colours, good value, easy to holdCons: Less suitable for travel
Available from: Amazon, Nuby and Boots8. Sophie La Girafe Original Teether, £15Best timeless design
Age suitability: From birth | Dishwasher safe: No | Steriliser safe: No | Award: Bronze – Teethers and teething products, MadeForMums Awards 2021
Sophie is a classic for a reason. The old-school French-designed giraffe has a huge following thanks to her cute picture-book looks. However, she’s not just a stylish nursery accessory – Sophie has been easing unhappy gums since 1961, and our testers confirm she’s still a brilliantly effective teething toy. Babies love the little squeak in her tummy, and it’s decorated using safe food-grade paint.
Light and easy to grasp, the giraffe’s long neck and limbs are ideal for babies to drool on, with plenty of chewable edges to explore. The squishy, natural rubber feels soothing against sore gums – and this plant-based material gives Sophie eco-credentials compared to plastic teething toys.
There’s no doubt that, at around £15, it’s on the pricy side for a baby teething toy. But our testers felt Sophie still offered superb value for money. Our reviewer, Emily, mother of a baby boy, said, “It may seem expensive, but having used the toy for some time now, it really is worth it. It’s really well-made and has stood the test of time, with my son chewing it every day for extended periods. It looks lovely and is great as a regular toy, not just a teether” She also praised the patterned skin, which interested her “wee man’s vision”.
If there’s a disadvantage, it’s that Sophie can only be surface-cleaned with a cloth moistened in soapy water. But overall she’s a clear winner.
Pros: Cute, timeless, made of natural rubber, squeaksCons: Can’t be sterilised or put in the dishwasher, surface clean only
Available from: Amazon and John Lewis9. Skip Hop Explore & More Stay Cool Teether, £6Best cooling teether
Age suitability: From 3 months | Dishwasher safe: No | Steriliser safe: No | Fridge suitable: Yes
There are plenty of silicone baby teethers out there, but this smart teething toy stands out from the crowd thanks to its stainless-steel disc insert – designed to stay chilled and ultra-comforting. Simply pop the teether in the fridge, freezer or under the cold tap to get the cooling benefits for dribbly baby mouths. The disc pops out lollipop style to encourage sucking action and numb sensitive gums.
“My nine-month-old loves this cooling effect on his teeth. It’s bright and colourful as well as being easy to hold. Worth the money,” our home tester Emma Louise reported.
The soft silicone-coated disc has plenty of textures for gums, tongues and teeth to explore. It’s reasonably priced compared to some other teethers, and our tester loved the owl and bee design – there are also a bee and a fox, if you want some variety.
Pros: Can be chilled for extra soothing action, good value, comes in a range of charactersCons: Can’t be sterilised. Some users report it doesn’t stay cold for that long
Available from: Amazon and Polly and Tots10. Gummee Glove Teether, £16.99Best for early teethers
If you find yourself dealing with a very early teether, it can be difficult to help soothe those aching gums in a safe way, especially if your baby hasn’t quite learned how to grab and hold a teether properly. That’s where the Gummee Glove comes in.
With options suitable from birth (the one pictured is for 3+ months) these gloves fasten onto your baby’s hand with velcro and have knobbly teethers and a detachable heart-shaped teething ring for those tiny little teeth.
MadeForMums team member Gemma tried this with her son and said, “it looks a bit odd – like a tiny baby boxing glove – but it’s such a great idea if your child begins teething early on. It’s easy to fasten on and stays put as they chew away. I also liked that once he was older I could remove the teething ring and keep using it.”
Pros: Designs work from birth, can be adapted with ageCons: Can be tricky to put on and off, fabric can get grubby quickly
Available from: Amazon and Gummee Glove