Teething turns sweet babies into cranky dictators, and it often feels like nothing helps.
One of the most practical ways to offer relief is by giving your child something safe to gnaw on. However, constantly picking up dropped toys is exhausting.
We tested the market to find the safest, most stylish teething necklaces designed for moms to wear and babies to chew.
Important Warning
- Can be put in the freezer
- Complies with baby and toy safety
- Adjustable length
- Attractive design for both mommy and baby
- 100% kid-friendly material
- Exclusively designed
- Premium BPA- and phthalate-free silicone material
- Stimulate sensory development
- Variety of designs
Types of Teething Necklaces Available
When shopping for teething jewelry, you will generally find two distinct categories; those designed for the baby to wear and those designed for the parent to wear.
Necklaces Worn by Babies (Not Recommended)
Important Note
These are often made of hard plastic or amber beads. The concept is that the baby wears the jewelry constantly to relieve pain. However, due to the high risk of strangulation or the necklace breaking and releasing small beads, we do not recommend these products.
Necklaces Worn by Moms (Safer Option)
The safest alternative is a necklace designed specifically for you to wear while holding your baby. These are constructed from baby-safe, chewy materials like food-grade silicone. They allow your little one to chew safely while in your arms, keeping the teether off the floor and within easy reach.
The Science Behind Amber Teething Necklaces
You have likely seen Baltic amber necklaces on other babies. Manufacturers claim these beads release succinic acid when warmed by the baby’s skin, which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and painkiller.
Unfortunately, this is a myth. There is no scientific evidence that amber beads release a pain-relieving substance or that human skin can absorb it (3).
Modern science does not support the use of amber for teething pain (4). Furthermore, amber beads are hard and can crack, posing a choking hazard. We recommend sticking to 100% food-grade silicone necklaces designed for adults to wear.
Factors to Consider When Buying
Keep these criteria in mind to ensure you get a product that is safe and effective:
- Material Safety: Ensure the necklace is chemically safe. Look for 100% food-grade, FDA-approved silicone. It must be free of BPAs, phthalates, cadmium, lead, and latex.
- Clasp Type: Safety is key for the wearer too. Look for a “breakaway” clasp that pops open if your baby tugs too hard. This prevents the necklace from hurting your neck or breaking the cord.
- Bead Texture and Size: Varied textures can help massage sore gums differently. Ensure the beads are large enough to prevent choking but small enough for a little mouth to latch onto comfortably.
- Cleanability: Teething involves a lot of drool. Choose a necklace that is dishwasher safe or easy to scrub with hot, soapy water.
- Alternatives: If you aren’t sold on the jewelry idea, you can always buy a standard teething toy, use a cold washcloth, or consult your pediatrician about pain relief options like Tylenol.
Product Reviews
We evaluated several top-rated options based on material safety, style, and durability to help you find the perfect match for your teething toddler.
Itybity Baby Silicone Teething Necklace
The Original
This necklace strikes a great balance between style and function, making it ideal for spring and summer outfits. The beads are substantial enough to provide a satisfying chew for your baby but aren’t so bulky that they dominate your look.
The cord is smooth, preventing that annoying hair-pulling sensation at the nape of your neck. Safety is prioritized with a breakaway clasp that pops open if your baby yanks too hard, saving your neck from strain. Crucially, every bead is individually knotted; if the cord were to snap, only one bead would come loose rather than scattering a choking hazard everywhere.
It is crafted from food-grade silicone, meaning it is BPA-free and safe for curious mouths. Cleaning is effortless since you can toss the whole thing in the dishwasher.
Pros
- Freezer-safe silicone provides cooling relief for swollen gums.
- Complies with strict U.S. and European safety standards.
- Individual knotting adds a layer of safety against choking.
Cons
- The breakaway clasp opens very easily, so older babies might pull it off frequently.
- The beads are dense, making the necklace feel slightly heavy.
Our Ratings
Maisonette January Moon Rainbow Sherbet Teething Necklace
Simple But Stylish
The January Moon necklace is designed for the aesthetically conscious parent. It features 100 percent non-toxic silicone beads in a variety of shapes, giving your baby different textures to explore with their tongue and gums.
We love the color palette; the soft pastel shades blend seamlessly with modern wardrobes, avoiding the bright, “toy-like” appearance of some competitors. It is free of BPAs and other harsh toxins, ensuring it is safe for all-day chewing.
Beyond looks, the construction is solid. It utilizes a premium breakaway clasp and gold-plated rubberized stopper beads, which elevate the design. It is a fantastic choice if you want a teething aid that feels more like a treat for yourself.
Pros
- Chic design pairs well with regular clothing.
- Different bead shapes offer varied sensory experiences.
- High-quality hardware ensures longevity.
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than standard teething jewelry.
- The pastel colors may show dirt or lint more easily.
Our Ratings
Atsky Silicone Baby Teething Necklace
Best Budget Teething Necklace
If you need functionality without a high price tag, the Atsky necklace is a solid contender. It provides a safe, chewable distraction for your baby while you are holding or feeding them.
Constructed from food-grade silicone, it serves as a worry-free alternative to plastic toys. It contains no BPA, lead, or phthalates. Like a traditional teething ring, you can pop this necklace in the fridge or freezer to chill the beads, providing extra numbing comfort for angry gums.
Maintenance is simple; wash it with warm soapy water or run it through the dishwasher to sanitize it after a long day of drool.
Pros
- Highly affordable price point.
- Dishwasher safe for easy sanitizing.
- Can be chilled for added pain relief.
Cons
- The aesthetic is basic and may not match formal outfits.
- Some users find the cord slightly shorter than expected.
Our Ratings
Hoaisun Sensory Chew Teething Necklace
Best All-in-One Teething Necklace
Teething is a sensory experience, and this necklace caters to that with a variety of geometric shapes. The different edges and flat surfaces allow your baby to find the exact pressure point they need to soothe their aching jaw.
Made from high-quality silicone, it is free of BPAs and toxins, making it perfectly safe for oral exploration. The clasp is strong enough to stay put during normal wear but will release if pulled aggressively, preventing injury.
The color options are modern and muted, which many parents appreciate. It doubles as a fidget toy for nursing babies, helping to keep their hands occupied and away from your hair or face.
Pros
- Geometric beads provide excellent gum massage.
- Helps keep nursing babies focused.
- Stylish, modern color combinations.
Cons
- The angular beads may feel bulkier against your chest.
Our Ratings
Teething Necklaces FAQs
Which Teething Necklace is the Best?
The best necklace depends on your style and budget, but safety should always come first. The Itybity Teething Necklace is a top choice for its safety knots and durability, while the Maisonette January Moon Necklace is excellent for style-conscious moms.
Are Teething Necklaces Safe for Babies?
Teething necklaces are only safe if they are worn by an adult and the baby is supervised while chewing on them. You should never put a necklace around a baby’s neck due to the high risk of strangulation and choking.
How Long Do Teething Necklaces Take to Work?
Silicone teething necklaces provide immediate physical relief as soon as the baby bites down, as the pressure counteracts the pain of the emerging tooth. Unlike medication, there is no waiting period for them to take effect.
How Long Does It Take for a Tooth to Erupt?
The entire teething process for a single tooth usually takes about 8 days; roughly 4 days before it breaks through the gum and 3 days after. However, the discomfort can vary greatly from child to child.
Why is Teething So Painful for Some Babies?
Teething hurts because the tooth must slice through the gum tissue to emerge, which causes inflammation, swelling, and tenderness. The pressure in the jaw can also radiate to the ears and cheeks, causing general fussiness.
How Can I Help My Teething Baby Sleep?
Offer a cool bath and some extra cuddles before bed to help them relax. If the pain is severe, consult your pediatrician about using an appropriate dose of pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen about 30 minutes before bedtime.
What is the Difference Between Amber and Baltic Amber?
Baltic amber is a specific type of fossilized resin found in the Baltic Sea region that contains succinic acid. While proponents claim this acid relieves pain, there is no scientific evidence that wearing the beads transfers this chemical to the body or reduces pain.
How Do I Clean a Silicone Teething Necklace?
Most silicone teething necklaces are dishwasher safe; simply place them in the utensil basket or a mesh bag. Alternatively, you can wash them by hand using hot water and mild dish soap, then let them air dry completely.
