Best teething toys for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Vulli Sophie la Giraffe remains our top pick for its iconic design, safe natural rubber, and ability to engage babies with multiple textures.
For budget-conscious parents, the Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys offer cooling relief, while the Baby Banana teether is ideal for early chewers, and the Comotomo Silicone Teether delivers a premium, easy-to-clean experience.
Teething is a tough milestone for both babies and parents. Sore gums can make little ones fussy, and a good teether can provide safe, satisfying relief. The best teethers are made from non-toxic materials, easy for tiny hands to grip, and simple to keep clean. When choosing a teether, consider the material: natural rubber or food-grade silicone are top choices. Look for designs with multiple textures to stimulate gums, and make sure there are no small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Ease of cleaning is also key – dishwasher-safe options save time. Below, we’ve rounded up four top-rated teethers that meet these criteria and suit different needs and budgets.
Vulli Sophie la Giraffe Teething Toy
the classic that does it all
4.8out of 5Sophie’s natural rubber and varied textures make her a beloved go-to. She’s lightweight and easy for tiny hands to grasp, but the price is higher and the squeaker can trap moisture if not dried carefully.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys
cool relief on a budget
4.5out of 5The Nuby keys provide soothing cold therapy with their gel-filled tips and easy-grip handle. They’re very affordable, but the gel pack can leak if punctured and the keys are a bit bulky for small mouths.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →Baby Banana Bendable Training Toothbrush and Teether
dual-purpose for beginning chewers
4.6out of 5This bendable banana doubles as a training toothbrush and teether. The soft silicone bristles massage gums while encouraging oral hygiene habits. However, the banana shape can collect lint, and it’s not as effective for older teething babies who need harder relief.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Vulli Sophie la Giraffe Teething Toy | 4.8 / 5 | $$$ | Parents who want a trusted, multi-sensory teether that has soothed babies for decades. | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Parents looking for an inexpensive teether that offers targeted cold relief. | Check price → |
| Best value | Baby Banana Bendable Training Toothbrush and Teether | 4.6 / 5 | $ | Babies just starting teething who also need an intro to brushing. | Check price → |
| Best premium | Comotomo Silicone Teether | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Parents willing to invest in a hygienic, minimalist teether that’s easy to keep clean. | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Vulli Sophie la Giraffe Teething Toy: the classic that does it all
Best overallSophie’s natural rubber and varied textures make her a beloved go-to. She’s lightweight and easy for tiny hands to grasp, but the price is higher and the squeaker can trap moisture if not dried carefully.
Pros
- Iconic design loved by generations
- Multiple textures (ears, legs, spots) for mouth exploration
- Made from BPA-free natural rubber
- Easy for babies to hold and chew
Cons
- Squeaker hole can harbor mold if not air-dried thoroughly
- Relatively expensive compared to silicone alternatives
- Not dishwasher safe – wipe clean only
Who it’s for
Parents who want a trusted, multi-sensory teether that has soothed babies for decades.Who should skip it
You need a dishwasher-safe option or prefer silicone over natural rubber.2. Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys: cool relief on a budget
Runner-upThe Nuby keys provide soothing cold therapy with their gel-filled tips and easy-grip handle. They’re very affordable, but the gel pack can leak if punctured and the keys are a bit bulky for small mouths.
Pros
- Gel tips chill down to numb sore gums
- Easy-to-grip handle for little hands
- Multiple textures (ridges, keys) to chew
Cons
- Gel pack may leak if chewed through or damaged
- Not dishwasher safe – hand wash only
- Can be too large for very young babies or small mouths
Who it’s for
Parents looking for an inexpensive teether that offers targeted cold relief.Who should skip it
You prefer a solid silicone teether without gel inserts or need something smaller for newborns.3. Baby Banana Bendable Training Toothbrush and Teether: dual-purpose for beginning chewers
Best valueThis bendable banana doubles as a training toothbrush and teether. The soft silicone bristles massage gums while encouraging oral hygiene habits. However, the banana shape can collect lint, and it’s not as effective for older teething babies who need harder relief.
Pros
- Dual function as a teether and introductory toothbrush
- Soft silicone bristles are gentle on inflamed gums
- Easy for babies to grasp with the banana-shaped handle
- BPA-free and phthalate-free silicone
Cons
- Bristles can trap dirt and need frequent thorough cleaning
- May be too soft for heavy chewers or older babies with emerging teeth
- Not dishwasher safe – hand wash recommended
Who it’s for
Babies just starting teething who also need an intro to brushing.Who should skip it
Your baby prefers firmer textures or has already cut several teeth.4. Comotomo Silicone Teether: premium, easy-clean silicone
Best premiumComotomo’s one-piece silicone teether is beautifully simple: no crevices, easy to sterilize, and pleasant to chew. The price is high for a single teether, but the quality and safety are top-notch.
Pros
- 100% food-grade silicone – safe and soft
- One-piece design with no gaps to trap bacteria
- Dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning
- Soft yet durable, gentle on gums
Cons
- Expensive for what is essentially a simple silicone ring
- Fewer textures or features than other teethers
- Some babies may find it too plain or boring
Who it’s for
Parents willing to invest in a hygienic, minimalist teether that’s easy to keep clean.Who should skip it
You want a teether with multiple nubs or sensory features, or you’re on a tight budget.Best for specific needs
Best for cooling sore gums
When your baby is in pain, cold therapy can be a lifesaver. The Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys have chilled gel that numbs gums effectively. The handle makes them easy to hold, and the price is unbeatable. Just inspect the gel pack regularly for any damage. Our pick: Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys.
Best for multi-texture exploration
Babies love to explore different shapes and textures with their mouths. The Vulli Sophie la Giraffe offers a variety of bumps, ears, and legs made from natural rubber. She’s lightweight and the squeaker adds novelty. Keep her clean with a quick wipe and let air dry thoroughly. Our pick: Vulli Sophie la Giraffe Teething Toy.
Best for oral hygiene plus teething
If you want to start brushing early while also providing teething relief, the Baby Banana Bendable Training Toothbrush and Teether kills two birds with one stone. Its soft silicone bristles clean emerging teeth and massage gums. Ideal from around 4 months when babies start mouthing. Our pick: Baby Banana Bendable Training Toothbrush and Teether.
Our verdict
Teething is a challenging phase, but the right teether can make a big difference. For most families, the Vulli Sophie la Giraffe is the best all-around choice thanks to its engaging design and natural materials. If you’re on a budget or need cooling relief, go with the Nuby keys. For early teethers who are also starting oral care, the Baby Banana is a smart pick. And if you prioritize safety and easy cleaning above all, the Comotomo silicone teether is worth the investment.