When your baby is in the process of developing their first set of teeth, they’ll chew on anything to get some relief from the discomfort. It isn’t uncommon for parents to discover tiny teeth marks in toys, pillows, and, yes, even their baby’s crib. So if you’re noticing this behavior in your child, take action to protect both them and your furniture. Here is what to do if your baby chews on their crib and how to keep them safe during their teething stage.

Purchase a Crib Without Lead Paint

Should you suspect that your baby is using their crib for teething, the first thing you need to do is make sure the material isn’t full of harmful toxins. Many older crib models went through processes that involved large quantities of chemicals and used lead-based paints or sealants—making them poisonous for infants to consume. For this reason, the key to keeping your child safe is to switch out your current crib for something more natural and compliant with modern safety standards.

Install Silicon Guards

The next thing you should do if your baby chews on their crib is to place soft guards around the model’s railings and bars. Silicon padding is often the most popular option for this purpose, as it’s flexible enough to be gentle on your baby’s first teeth but firm enough to protect the crib. These cushions also tend to be large, so babies struggle to get their mouths around them, making it less likely that they’ll chew on them at all.

Provide Your Baby With Teething Toys

Lastly, make sure to supply your baby with plenty of teething toys to deter them from chewing on other things. These teethers are non-toxic and safe on an infant’s gums and developing teeth. There are also several different types of toys to choose from, depending on your baby’s specific needs, so you can experiment with a few to find the kind they like the most.

If you’re looking for a safe and sturdy crib for your nursery, look no further than Simply Nursery. Our selection of solid wood baby furniture is free of the toxins that plastic models contain and are strong enough to withstand abuse from even the fussiest infant. They’re also a handcrafted, unique, and beautiful addition to any home.