How to Choose a Safe Teething Necklace for Babies
By Mama Bear and Cubs ltd | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to pick a safe, practical teething necklace that soothes sore gums and keeps your baby entertained during feeding.
Quick answer
Choose a silicone teething necklace with chewable, tactile beads that are free from harmful chemicals and designed to break away safely if pulled.
Why silicone is the safest material for baby teething necklaces
Silicone is soft, flexible, and gentle on sore gums, making it ideal for babies who are teething. Unlike hard plastics or metal, silicone beads are chewable and won't damage emerging teeth. They are also easy to clean and free from BPA, lead, and phthalates, which is crucial for anything your baby puts in their mouth.
Silicone teething necklaces are designed with safety in mind. The beads are typically strung on a breakaway cord that releases under pressure, preventing choking hazards if the necklace gets caught on something.
How a teething necklace helps during breastfeeding
A breastfeeding necklace serves a dual purpose: it soothes your baby's teething discomfort while keeping them focused on nursing. The tactile silicone beads provide sensory stimulation, which can reduce nipping, scratching, and hair pulling during feeds. This makes feeding sessions more comfortable for both you and your baby.
Look for necklaces with varied bead shapes and textures to maximize sensory engagement. The more interesting the necklace, the more likely your baby will stay occupied and less inclined to pull your hair or pinch.
What to avoid in a teething necklace
Avoid necklaces with small parts that can break off easily, such as glued-on decorations or beads with sharp edges. Also steer clear of necklaces made from materials that are not explicitly labeled as food-grade silicone or free from harmful chemicals. If the product description does not mention safety certifications, consider it a red flag.
Length matters too. A necklace that is too long can become a strangulation risk. Look for designs that are short enough to stay out of your baby's reach when worn, typically around 16-18 inches. Always supervise your baby when they are using a teething necklace.
Decision rules for choosing a teething necklace
- Material check: Always choose 100% food-grade silicone that is BPA-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free. Avoid necklaces with painted or glued parts. If the material is not clearly stated, do not buy it.
- Safety features: Look for a breakaway clasp or a cord that releases under pressure. This prevents strangulation if the necklace gets caught on furniture or a car seat. Test the clasp before using it with your baby.
- Bead size and texture: Choose beads that are large enough not to be a choking hazard (at least 1 inch in diameter) and have varied textures to soothe sore gums. If beads are smaller than a quarter, skip that necklace.
- Length and fit: Select a necklace that is short enough to stay out of your baby's reach when worn. Standard lengths are 16-18 inches. Never let your baby wear the necklace unsupervised.
Teething necklace options from Mama Bear and Cubs ltd
- Breastfeeding & Teething Necklace - Eira: The Eira necklace features silver tones and chewable, tactile silicone beads designed for sensory stimulation during nursing. Its neutral color and textured beads make it a stylish choice that also keeps your baby engaged, reducing distractions during feeding.
Breastfeeding & Teething Necklace - Eira - Breastfeeding & Teething Necklace - Maple: The Maple necklace is made from silicone and designed to be chewed on when teething, with tactile beads that help maintain focus on nursing. The Maple offers a slightly different bead arrangement, giving you an option if your baby prefers varied textures for teething relief.
Breastfeeding & Teething Necklace - Maple
Who should choose a silicone teething necklace
Best for
- Breastfeeding mothers who want to soothe their baby's teething pain while nursing
- Parents looking for a safe, stylish accessory that doubles as a teether
Not for
- Babies under 3 months who are not yet teething
- Parents who prefer a teether that does not require supervision during use
