Let’s be real—teething is one of those stages that sounds cute in theory (“aww, my baby’s first tooth!”) but in practice… it can be rough. Between the drooling, the fussiness, and the endless gnawing on anything within reach, both babies and parents end up exhausted. The good news is, there are plenty of natural teething remedies out there that can ease the process without resorting to harsh medications. If you’re looking for simple, safe, and effective ways to soothe your little one’s sore gums, you’re in the right place.
Why Babies Need Relief During Teething
Teething usually kicks off around six months, though every baby is different. Some start as early as three months, while others don’t sprout a tooth until after their first birthday. Regardless of the timeline, the process is pretty much the same: gums swell, teeth push their way through, and babies suddenly discover they’ve got a whole new set of discomforts.
The thing is, sore gums can make babies cranky, disrupt their sleep, and sometimes even affect their appetite. While teething itself isn’t dangerous, helping your baby feel more comfortable makes the journey smoother for everyone involved. That’s where natural teething remedies come in—gentle options that don’t involve unnecessary chemicals or strong painkillers.
Chilled Washcloths: Old but Gold
You know those parenting hacks that have been around forever? This is one of them. A clean washcloth, dampened with water and chilled in the fridge (not frozen solid), can be a lifesaver. Babies love chewing on the textured fabric, and the coolness helps numb sore gums.
It’s simple, cheap, and totally safe. Just make sure you supervise—because let’s be honest, babies have a knack for stuffing too much into their mouths at once.
Cold Foods for Teething Babies
Once your baby is old enough for solids, cold foods can double as a soothing tool. Think chilled cucumber sticks, cold applesauce, or even a smooth frozen banana (just watch closely to avoid choking hazards). The cold temperature eases inflammation, while the chewing motion gives them something productive to do with all that teething energy.
Honestly, it’s like edible relief—comfort and distraction rolled into one. And bonus: you can experiment with different healthy snacks to see what your baby prefers.
Wooden Teethers Over Plastic
Plastic teethers are everywhere, but if you’re leaning toward natural teething remedies, wooden teethers are a better bet. They’re free from harmful chemicals, durable, and babies seem to love the firm texture against their gums. Look for unfinished, untreated wood—maple and beech are popular choices.
Plus, wooden teethers are eco-friendly, which is a nice little win for the planet while you’re in the trenches of parenthood.
Breastfeeding and Teething Comfort
For babies who are breastfed, nursing can be both a comfort and a challenge during teething. Some babies nurse more because it soothes them, while others get fussy because sucking makes their gums hurt. If your little one is biting during feeds (yep, it happens), gently unlatch them and offer a teether right after. The closeness and comfort of nursing combined with other natural teething remedies can create a balanced approach.
Chamomile Tea: Nature’s Gentle Calmer
Chamomile has been used for centuries to calm fussy babies, and it can be part of a teething toolkit too. You can brew a weak cup of chamomile tea, let it cool completely, and dip a clean cloth in it for your baby to suck or chew. Some parents even rub a tiny bit on baby’s gums with a clean finger.
It’s soothing, mild, and has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Just keep in mind: moderation is key, and it’s always smart to check with your pediatrician before trying herbal remedies.
Amber Teething Necklaces: Myth or Magic?
You’ve probably seen those amber necklaces marketed as natural teething remedies, claiming that the beads release a substance that eases pain when worn against the skin. Here’s the truth—there’s no scientific evidence to back that up. Plus, necklaces can pose choking and strangulation risks.
If you’re tempted, it’s worth remembering that safety should always come first. Stick with remedies that are proven and risk-free, even if they aren’t as trendy.
Gentle Gum Massages
Sometimes, the best remedy is the simplest one. Clean your hands thoroughly, then use a finger to gently rub your baby’s gums. The counterpressure can bring relief, and most babies find it surprisingly soothing. It doesn’t cost a dime, and it doubles as bonding time. Just be prepared—they might clamp down harder than you expect once those teeth start poking through!
Teething Rings: Cold, Not Frozen
Teething rings have been a go-to for ages, but here’s the trick—don’t freeze them solid. Frozen rings can be too hard and actually hurt baby’s gums. Instead, pop them in the fridge until they’re cool but still flexible. Silicone or natural rubber rings are often the best choice since they’re safe, durable, and easy to clean.
Comfort and Distraction Go Hand in Hand
Sometimes, no remedy completely erases teething discomfort, and that’s okay. Babies also need comfort beyond just physical relief. Extra cuddles, rocking, singing, or even a little playtime distraction can go a long way. Let’s be real—half the battle is simply helping your baby feel loved and secure while their tiny body works hard to grow.
When to Call the Pediatrician
It’s important to remember that teething doesn’t cause high fevers, severe diarrhea, or extreme fussiness. If your baby has these symptoms, it’s worth checking in with your pediatrician to rule out other causes. Teething can explain a lot, but it shouldn’t be a catch-all excuse for every little health issue.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, teething is just another phase—messy, sometimes exhausting, but temporary. Using natural teething remedies like chilled washcloths, wooden teethers, gum massages, and soothing teas can make the ride easier for your baby and a little less stressful for you. Every baby is different, so don’t be afraid to try a few options and see what works best.
The first tooth is just the beginning of many milestones to come. And while it may not feel like it in the moment, you’ll look back one day and realize how quickly this stage passed. Until then, keep it simple, stay patient, and remember: you’ve got this.