Teething 101: Is Your Baby Teething? Signs, Soothing Tips and What You Really Need

How do you know if your baby is teething?

Common signs include increased chewing, drooling, tender gums and mild fussiness. A cool teether, gentle gum massage and extra comfort may help soothe sore gums. A true fever is not a normal teething symptom.

You know that feeling when your baby is upset, and you wish they could just tell you what's wrong? They want to be held all of the time, they're chewing on their little hands, dribbling more than usual, struggling to settle at bedtime, and you're wondering whether those first tiny teeth are finally making an appearance.

Are they teething? Are their little gums sore? And most importantly, what can you do to help?

Watching your baby feel uncomfortable can be hard. As a parent, all you want is to make things better. The good news? Teething is a completely normal part of growing up, and there are some simple, gentle ways you can help your little one feel more comfortable. We've put together this practical guide to help you recognize the signs of teething, understand what actually works, and discover some useful baby essentials worth keeping nearby.

When do babies start teething?

Most babies get their first tooth around six months old, although some start earlier and others a little later. Those first tiny teeth are usually the bottom front teeth. Some babies sail through teething without much fuss, while others experience tender gums and mild discomfort. Every baby is different, and there's no need to compare your little one's teething timeline to anyone else's.

6 signs your baby might be teething 

1. Everything is going in their mouth!

Their fingers. Their favourite toy. Your shoulder. Sound familiar? Babies naturally explore the world through their mouths, but increased chewing can also be a sign of teething.

Gentle pressure against the gums may help ease mild discomfort.

2. Dribble, dribble, everywhere!

Have you noticed a little more drool than usual? Extra dribbling is common around teething age.

Keep a soft bib or cloth nearby to gently pat baby's chin dry and help prevent dribble rash.

3. Red or tender gums

You might notice a small area of redness or swelling where a tooth is beginning to appear.

Your baby may also show a preference for chewing on one particular side.

4. A little more fussiness than usual

Some babies become more unsettled as a tooth emerges. They might need extra reassurance or find it harder to settle into their usual routine. Fussiness has many possible causes, so don't automatically assume teething is responsible.

A favourite toy can help and a soothing sound, remember you will be your baby's best soother. 

5. Trouble Sleeping

Your little bubba is teething and sore, tender gums make it harder for them to settle, leading to more frequent night time waking. 

Before bedtime, try gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or offering a cool (not frozen) teether while they're awake and supervised.

6. Extra cuddles, please!

Sometimes your usually content little one suddenly wants to be held a little more often. And that's okay.

A familiar voice, gentle cuddle or quiet moment together can be comforting when they're having a difficult day.

5 gentle ways to help soothe your teething baby

When your little one is uncomfortable, you don't necessarily need complicated solutions. Sometimes the simplest things offer the most comfort.

1. Give those little gums something safe to chew

An age-appropriate teething toy can provide gentle pressure against tender gums. For babies who haven't quite mastered holding onto toys, a teething mitt can be particularly handy.

2. Try something cool 

A chilled teething toy may feel comforting against sore little gums. Try cooling an appropriate teether in the fridge, following its care instructions. Avoid frozen-solid teethers, when popping in the freezer allow the item to heat up a little so that it is not rock solid, which can be too hard or cold for delicate gums.

3. Gently massage their gums

With freshly washed hands, gently rub your baby's gums using a clean finger. A little gentle pressure may help provide relief.

4. Keep those little faces dry

All that extra dribble can leave baby's chin and neck damp. Keep soft bibs nearby, change them when they're wet, and gently pat away moisture to help keep delicate skin comfortable.

5. Offer extra cuddles and comfort

Sometimes the most helpful teething essential isn't something you can buy. It's you. A cuddle, a soothing voice or a familiar bedtime routine can help your little one feel reassured.

You can find all of our teething options in our Teething Collection here.

Download Your FREE Printable Teething Checklist

🦷 Teething Old Wives’ Tales: Myth or Fact?

We've all heard them from our mums, grandmas and well-meaning friends! But are these common teething beliefs actually true?

- 🌡️ “Teething causes a fever.” — MYTH
Teething doesn't cause a true fever of 38°C or higher. Don't dismiss a fever as just teething.

- 💩 “Teething causes diarrhoea.” — MYTH
Diarrhoea isn't a normal teething symptom and may indicate an illness.

- 🤧 “A runny nose means a tooth is coming.” — MYTH
Teething doesn't cause colds or respiratory infections.

- 😴 “All babies lose sleep when teething.” — MYTH
Some babies experience mild discomfort that can affect settling, while others barely notice their new teeth.

- 🍷 “Rubbing alcohol on baby's gums helps with pain.” — DANGEROUS MYTH
Alcohol should never be used to soothe a baby's gums.

- 🧊 “Frozen teethers are best for sore gums.” — MYTH
Cool teethers can be soothing, but frozen-solid teethers may damage delicate gums.

- 🦷 “The earlier babies get teeth, the healthier they are.” — MYTH
Every baby develops differently. Early teething isn't a sign of better health.

- 💛 “Amber teething necklaces help relieve pain.” — MYTH
There's no reliable evidence they relieve teething discomfort, and they present choking and strangulation risks.

When it comes to teething, there's no shortage of well-meaning advice. But knowing the difference between an old wives' tale and what actually helps can make those tiny teeth and big feelings a little easier to navigate. 

Your teething essentials checklist

Wondering what you actually need when your baby starts teething?

Keep it simple.

• A safe teething toy or mitt: to provide something suitable for little gums to chew.

• A clean, cool washcloth: for gentle gum comfort during supervised use.

• Soft bibs: to help manage extra dribble.

• A reliable thermometer: to check a suspected fever rather than assuming it's teething.

• A familiar bedtime routine: to help your baby feel reassured and settled.

• Plenty of cuddles: because comfort and connection matter.

You don't need every baby gadget on the market.

A few thoughtfully chosen essentials, a little knowledge and plenty of reassurance can go a long way.

What are the best teething toys for babies?

Here's something worth remembering: there isn't one perfect teether for every baby. Some babies love chewing on their fingers, others prefer grasping a toy, and some enjoy exploring different shapes and textures. Having a couple of safe, age-appropriate options can help you discover what your little one prefers.

Bibipals Teething Mitt — for little hands that love to chew

For babies who constantly chew their hands or find traditional teethers difficult to hold, a wearable teething mitt can be a practical choice. Its textured silicone surface gives your little one something accessible to chew during supervised use. The Bibi Pals is made from high quality 100% food grade silicone, free from BPA, lead, phthalates. 

Mibblers Teething Toy — a playful little teething companion

Who says teething toys can't be adorable? Our Mibblers Teething Toy brings together fun character designs and a practical 100% food grade silicone, free from BPA, lead, and phthalates chewing surface. Orthodontic friendly it promotes natural development of teeth and gums. The Mibbler Teething toy stimulates hand/mouth coordination and motor development.With its distinctive shape and playful colours, Mibblers offers another way for little hands to explore different textures.A cute addition to your nappy bag or collection of baby essentials.

Silicone Rainbow Stacker — teething-friendly sensory play

Teething doesn't mean playtime has to stop! Our silicone Rainbow Stacker is a colourful sensory toy that encourages little ones to explore colours, shapes and stacking. The Silicone Rainbow Stacker has the  7 arches, with the scientific colours of the rainbow. It is safe food-grade silicone - BPA free, with no nasties. The silicone pieces also also develops your baby's  fine motor, sensory, and spatial awareness skills. They can stack and balance, learn colours and sizes and create roads, mountains, towns and mazes. The Rainbow Stacker makes a beautiful nursey display. 

Meet the Bibipals Teething Mitt 

Designed to fit over your baby's hand, the Bibi pals Teething Mitt features a textured silicone chewing surface and an adjustable strap. It's a practical alternative to traditional teethers that little hands might constantly drop.

Available in Dusty Rose, Teal and Latte, it's as adorable as it is useful.

Explore the Bibipals Teething Mitt

We've made teething essentials a little easier 

When your baby is uncomfortable, having a few practical essentials nearby can make everyday parenting moments a little easier to manage.

That's why we've thoughtfully brought together some of our favourite teething products into three value bundles.

Whether you're after extra teething mitts, sensory play or a combination of both, there's an option to suit your little one.

The Teething Comfort Duo

Two teething favourites. Double the comfort.

Little gums need a little extra love. The perfect pairing to help soothe sore gums and keep tiny hands busy through those tricky teething days.

Includes one BibiPals Teething Mitt and one Mibblers Teething Toy. Select your colours.

The Little Teether Duo

A little comfort. A little play.

This sweet combination brings together:

• One Bibi Pals Teething Mitt

• One Silicone Rainbow Stacker

A lovely choice for parents looking for an easy-to-access teething mitt alongside a colourful sensory toy.

The Ultimate Teething Comfort Kit

Three different essentials. One thoughtful bundle.

Our most complete teething collection includes:

• One Bibipals Teething Mitt

• One Silicone Rainbow Stacker

• One Mibblers Teething Toy

Different shapes, textures and play experiences for your little one to discover.

A practical way to have a few teething-friendly options on hand as your baby grows.

DOWNLOAD AND PRINT OUR PDF CHECKLIST 

Teething is a milestone every baby experiences in their own way. Some babies barely seem to notice those first tiny teeth. Others need a little extra comfort as their gums become tender. Whether it's a cool teething toy, a gentle gum massage or simply being held close, the smallest moments of comfort can matter.

And remember, if your baby has persistent symptoms, a fever or seems genuinely unwell, seek advice from a healthcare professional rather than assuming it's teething. If your baby is unusually distressed, has a fever or continues struggling to sleep, seek medical advice rather than assuming teething is the cause.

This article contains general parenting information and does not replace medical advice. Always follow the product's age, care and safety instructions and supervise teething toy use.