How to make homemade teething aids

Our little one is currently undergoing the discomfort of teething. As much as he wants to smile and be happy, his little gums are driving him a little batty. He drools so much he could easily pass for a classical landscaping fountain and looks for anything to chew on.

While we would like to get him a teething ring, we have been unable to find ones that list from what kind of plastics they are manufactured and whether or not they contain BPA. (You of course remember the BPA baby bottle problems.) We instead decided to use an older method using a baby’s washcloth, and below are the instructions on how to make your own homemade teething aid.

1. Find a color-safe baby’s wash cloth. Make sure that the washcloth was not washed in harsh detergents or perfumes.

2. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any residue present on the cloth from its last washing. Remember, if the cloth isn’t free of residue, you’re basically feeding your kid soap.

3. When you’re done rinsing, tie the wash cloth in a knot. Make the knot large enough to ensure that the child will not be able to fit it entirely in their mouth or ingest it. Baby washcloths tend to be small, but make a double knot if required. Also make sure that the corners are not sufficiently long to fit down the child’s throat, making them gag or choke.

4. When you have your super-duper, safe knot tied in the washcloth, put it in the freezer.

5. Wait about 20 minutes or until sufficiently stiff, and hold it for your baby to chew on. The cold will help numb their gums and sooth them while they chew.

* Use common sense and try this at your own risk. I assume no responsibility for use or misuse of this advice. As with anything, only give your kids something to put in their mouth if you’re supervising them.