When your baby’s gums are sore, a cold teether can feel wonderfully soothing. But should you chill it in the fridge or put it in the freezer?
The simple answer is: use the fridge, not the freezer.
Why shouldn’t you freeze a baby teether?
According to the NHS guidance on helping a teething baby, some teething rings can be cooled in the fridge, but they should never be placed in the freezer.
A frozen teether can become extremely hard and cold, which could hurt or damage your baby’s delicate gums. Freezing may also affect some materials, so always follow the care instructions supplied with your particular teether.
How to chill a teether safely
Place a suitable teether in the fridge for the amount of time recommended by its manufacturer. It should feel pleasantly cool rather than frozen solid.
Before giving it to your baby:
- Check that it is clean and undamaged.
- Make sure it is cool, not painfully cold.
- Always use the product according to its age guidance and instructions.
The Gummee Heart Teething Ring and Link N Teethe can both be safely refrigerated, giving babies a cool, soothing surface to chew when their gums feel sore and tender. Simply place them in the fridge before use—never the freezer—and always check that they are comfortably cool before giving them to your baby.
Other ways to soothe sore gums
Every baby is different, so you may need to try a few things before finding what works. The NHS also suggests gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger, offering comfort and distraction, or asking a pharmacist about suitable pain relief if your baby seems particularly uncomfortable.
Wearable teethers can also be useful for younger babies who instinctively chew their hands but cannot yet hold and control a traditional teething toy.
So, if you are wondering whether to put your baby’s teether in the fridge or freezer, remember: cool from the fridge can be soothing—frozen can be too harsh.
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