Watching your little one navigate the teething phase can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster. One minute they’re all giggles and gurgles, the next they’re red-faced, drooling rivers, and clinging to anything they can gnaw on for comfort. That desperate need to soothe sore, inflamed gums is incredibly real for babies, and seeing them uncomfortable tugs at every parent’s heartstrings. Finding the right teething toy isn’t just about distraction; it’s about providing safe, effective relief during one of infancy’s most challenging developmental milestones.
Gone are the days of simply handing over a cold spoon (though that can help in a pinch!). Today’s parents are rightly discerning, seeking solutions that prioritize safety, sensory development, and durability amidst a sea of options. But how do you cut through the marketing noise to identify what truly works? It’s not about chasing the latest viral gadget; it’s about understanding the core principles that make a teething aid genuinely beneficial for your baby’s unique needs and your peace of mind. Let’s move beyond the hype and focus on the essential, evidence-informed factors that matter most when choosing effective relief.
Top 10 Teething Toys
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Baby Montessori Sensory Toys for 0-6 6-12 Months, Baby Teether Teething Toys for Babies 0 3 6 9 12 18 Months, Newborn Infant Learning Developmental Toys Gifts for 1 2 Year Old Boys Girls
Overview: This multi-functional sensory toy targets infants 0-18 months, combining teething relief with developmental play. Its vibrant design features textured silicone balls, a rattle ring, and rotating elements to engage sight, touch, and sound.
What Makes It Stand Out: The 12-color palette and varied textures (smooth, bumpy, clicking) uniquely stimulate multiple senses simultaneously. Its lightweight, travel-friendly size and Montessori-inspired focus on motor skill development—encouraging grasping and reaching—set it apart from basic teethers.
Value for Money: Priced mid-range, it offers exceptional versatility as a teether, sensory toy, and travel essential. Unlike single-purpose teethers, it grows with the child through multiple developmental stages, justifying its cost compared to simpler alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Non-toxic materials, portable design, multi-stage usability, and strong developmental focus. Weaknesses: Small parts (like the rotating ball) pose minor choking risks for very young infants; some textures may not soothe aggressive biters effectively.
Bottom Line: An outstanding investment for holistic infant development. Its sensory richness and adaptability make it a top choice for parents seeking educational, safe, and engaging teething relief from newborn stages through toddlerhood.
2. Chuya Baby Teether Toy Chew Toys for Babies 3-24 Months TV Remote Control Shape Teething Relief for Infants (Black)
Overview: Mimicking a TV remote, this silicone teether targets babies 3-24 months with a familiar shape designed to ease gum discomfort while introducing early learning concepts like color recognition.
What Makes It Stand Out: The novelty remote-control design cleverly engages curious infants, encouraging imaginative play beyond teething. Its extreme temperature resistance (-50° to 230°) allows versatile safe storage (freezer/refrigerator) and thorough sterilization—uncommon in budget teethers.
Value for Money: Positioned affordably, it delivers premium safety features (food-grade silicone) and dual functionality (teether + pretend play). It outperforms similarly priced basic teethers but lacks the developmental depth of higher-end Montessori options.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Durable, easy to clean (dishwasher-safe), effective textured gum massage, and stimulates cognitive development. Weaknesses: Black color shows stains easily; shape may not suit babies preferring rounded teethers; limited sensory variety compared to multi-element toys.
Bottom Line: A practical, fun-focused teether offering reliable relief and early education at a wallet-friendly price. Ideal for parents prioritizing novelty and ease of use, though not the most developmentally rich option available.
3. Frida Baby Silicone Teething Toys, 4-in-1 Teether for Babies & Infants, Teething Relief for 0-18 Months, Not-Too-Cold-to-Hold Baby Teether, BPA-Free
Overview: Frida’s innovative 4-in-1 teether provides targeted relief for babies 0-18 months, featuring a room-temperature silicone handle and interchangeable cooling inserts designed to soothe every emerging tooth.
What Makes It Stand Out: The revolutionary “not-too-cold” ergonomic handle eliminates discomfort from icy teethers, while four distinct textured inserts (bumps, ridges, waves) precisely target incisors, molars, and back teeth. This stage-specific approach is unmatched in comprehensive relief.
Value for Money: Premium-priced but justified by exceptional engineering and longevity. Replaces multiple single-stage teethers, offering 18 months of use. Though costlier than basics, its targeted efficacy and durable build deliver superior long-term value.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unbeatable targeted relief, safe room-temperature grip, BPA-free materials, and dishwasher-safe handle. Weaknesses: Inserts require hand-washing; higher price may deter budget shoppers; complex design might overwhelm very young infants.
Bottom Line: The gold standard for serious teething relief. Worth the investment for parents seeking scientifically designed, adaptable comfort that grows with their baby’s evolving dental needs.
4. Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys - Silicone Soothing Baby Teether Toys for Infants - Gentle for Sore Gums Colorful and Fun Toys - Safe and Durable Infant Baby Teething Toy - Blue
Overview: Nuby’s teether keys offer classic, gel-filled silicone relief for infants 4+ months, featuring colorful, interlocking keys with smooth and textured surfaces to soothe tender gums.
What Makes It Stand Out: The embedded cooling gel provides immediate, long-lasting chill without freezing, while the linked-key design encourages fine motor skills as babies grasp and manipulate the pieces. Its vibrant colors and safe, flexible silicone ensure broad appeal.
Value for Money: Competitively priced for a well-known brand, it delivers reliable cooling and durability. It’s a solid mid-tier option—more effective than basic teethers but less versatile than multi-stage systems like Frida’s. Ideal as a starter teether.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Effective gel cooling, non-toxic materials, easy to grip, and promotes hand-eye coordination. Weaknesses: Limited age range (best for 4-12 months); gel may leak if damaged; fewer textural variations than premium competitors.
Bottom Line: A dependable, affordable entry-level teether perfect for initial teething stages. While not revolutionary, its proven cooling and simplicity make it a safe, worthy choice for first-time parents.
5. ChooKaChoo 2 Pack Baby Teething Toy Silicone Teething Mitten for Babies Over 3 Months Anti Dropping Wrist Hand Teethers Baby Chew Toys for Sucking Needs, BPA Free
Overview: These silicone teething mittens fit over baby’s hand (3+ months), featuring textured surfaces and a wrist strap to prevent drops—ideal for infants too young to grip traditional teethers.
What Makes It Stand Out: The mitten design uniquely solves the “dropping problem” for pre-gripping babies, while nipple-like “arms” mimic breastfeeding for extra comfort. The dual-texture surface and secure fit offer hands-free soothing unmatched by standard teethers.
Value for Money: The two-pack provides excellent value, especially given the specialized design. It’s cost-effective for early teething stages compared to buying multiple basic teethers, though less versatile long-term.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Prevents loss, easy for infants to use, soothing textures, freezer-safe, and includes two colors. Weaknesses: Only suitable for early teething (3-9 months); wrist strap may irritate sensitive skin; not ideal once babies develop stronger grasping skills.
Bottom Line: An ingenious solution for newborns through early teething. Highly recommended as a first teether for drooling, pre-gripping infants, though outgrown relatively quickly as motor skills develop.
6. Infantino Water Teethers – Sensory Exploration, Teething, Cooling & Massaging Relief for Sore Gums, Lime & Blue, 3-Pack
Overview: This 3-pack of water-filled teethers offers chilled relief for teething infants. Designed for babies 3+ months, they use refrigeration (not freezing) to soothe sore gums through gentle cooling and textured massage, coming in lime and blue circular shapes.
What Makes It Stand Out: The purified water core provides consistent, safe cooling without hardening like frozen solids, reducing gum injury risk. The lightweight circular design with ergonomic ridges is perfectly sized for tiny hands, while the 3-pack ensures constant availability—ideal for on-the-go parents needing a clean teether immediately.
Value for Money: Priced competitively for a tri-pack, it outperforms single-teether sets. While not as durable as solid silicone, the reusable water capsules and long-lasting materials justify the cost for short-term teething phases, avoiding frequent replacements.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Safe cooling, easy grip, quick cleaning, and portability. Weaknesses: Water can leak if punctured (rare), and the cooling effect lasts only 10-15 minutes per use. Not suitable for aggressive chewers.
Bottom Line: An affordable, practical solution for mild teething relief. Best for parents prioritizing gentle cooling and convenience, though solid silicone might suit heavy chewers better. Recommended for moderate teething stages.
7. Beiker 20 Pack Puppy Chew Toys - Blue Dog Teething Toys for Puppies, Puppy Teething Rings and Ropes, Blue Rubber Toy Bundle for Small Dogs, Cute Interactive Dog Balls for Small Breed
Overview: This extensive 20-piece bundle targets teething puppies and small dogs with rubber rings, ropes, and interactive toys. Made from natural rubber and cotton, it emphasizes safety and dental health during the critical teething phase for young canines.
What Makes It Stand Out: Unlike gimmicky “20-packs” including non-toys, every item here is a functional chew toy—featuring soft rubber dental rings, plaque-scrubbing ropes, and a treat dispenser. The variety actively redirects chewing from furniture while promoting gum massage and oral hygiene.
Value for Money: Exceptional at this scale. The diverse selection (6 dental toys, 5 ropes, etc.) provides months of engagement, replacing costly single-toy purchases. Ideal for owners needing constant rotation to sustain puppy interest without breaking the bank.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Authentic 20-toy count, dental benefits, and safe materials. Weaknesses: Not for aggressive chewers (supervision required), and some designs lack durability for extended use. Rope toys may fray quickly.
Bottom Line: A top-tier starter kit for new puppy owners. Delivers remarkable variety and dental value, though heavy chewers will need supplemental tough toys. Highly recommended for small-breed teething relief.
8. 3 Pack Ring Teether Baby Infant Toys, Baby Essentials, Silicone Teething Ring Toys for Babies 0-6 Months, Seposeve Toddler Teethers 6-12 Months 12-24 Months, Infant Teething Relief, Purple Pink White
Overview: This trio of food-grade silicone ring teethers caters to infants 0-24 months with multi-textured surfaces (sun, star, moon, etc.). Designed for easy gripping and gum stimulation, it includes pacifier-clip compatibility for hygiene-conscious parents.
What Makes It Stand Out: The dual-sided 5-texture design (bumps, ridges, dots) targets all gum zones effectively. The ring shape doubles as a motor-skill exerciser, while hollow slots seamlessly integrate with pacifier clips—a rarity in teether rings—keeping toys germ-free during play.
Value for Money: Excellent for a 3-pack of CPSC-certified silicone. Dishwasher and freezer safety add longevity, outperforming cheaper single-pack alternatives. The age range (0-24 months) ensures extended usability across teething stages.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Safe materials, clip compatibility, developmental benefits, and vibrant colors. Weaknesses: Smaller size may frustrate older toddlers, and textures wear down slightly after months of heavy use.
Bottom Line: A versatile, hygienic essential for newborns through toddlers. The clip feature and textured variety make it a standout investment. Highly recommended for proactive teething management.
9. HAILI XMGQ Baby Teething Toys 3-6 Months, Baby Chew Teether Freezer BPA Free, Babies Teething Relief for Infants, Banana Toothbrush, Fruit Shape Giraffe Newborn Teether Gift for Baby Boy and Girl
Overview: This 4-piece set features fruit/animal-shaped silicone teethers (banana, giraffe) with freezer-safe cooling. Targeting infants 3-12 months, it combines teething relief with sensory play, including a compact storage box for travel.
What Makes It Stand Out: The functional “banana toothbrush” shape massages gums while mimicking oral care habits—a unique developmental angle. The vibrant, non-toxic designs appeal to babies’ senses, and the included box solves portability/stowage issues common with loose teethers.
Value for Money: Solid for the included storage solution and four distinct shapes. While not as textured as ring teethers, the freezer capability and sensory variety justify the price, especially as a gift-ready set with no filler items.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Creative shapes, safe freezing, and convenient storage. Weaknesses: Limited textural diversity compared to competitors; storage box is flimsy. Banana shape may be too large for younger infants.
Bottom Line: A charming, giftable option with practical cooling and storage. Best for parents seeking visually engaging teethers, though texture-focused buyers might prefer alternatives. Recommended as a starter kit.
10. Hooku 2 Pack Silicone Teething Toys for Babies 0-6 Months, Teethers for Babies 6-12 Months, Remote Teether for Baby, Sensory Toys for Babies, Baby Chew Toys KLW8808
Overview: Mimicking a remote control, these silicone teethers blend sensory play with teething relief for infants 0-18 months. Featuring textured buttons, bright colors, and food-grade material, they aim to redirect chewing habits while aiding development.
What Makes It Stand Out: The remote-control design cleverly taps into babies’ fascination with electronics, encouraging imitation play. Dual-textured surfaces (bumps and ridges) target gums thoroughly, while dishwasher/freezer safety ensures versatility unmatched by most novelty teethers.
Value for Money: Strong for a dual-pack with unique functionality. The remote shape doubles as a sensory tool for neurodiverse children (e.g., reducing hand-chewing in ADHD), adding therapeutic value beyond basic teething—justifying a slight premium over plain rings.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Engaging design, developmental benefits, and robust safety features. Weaknesses: Novelty may wear off quickly; buttons lack true click functionality, potentially disappointing older toddlers.
Bottom Line: A standout sensory-teething hybrid that grows with developmental needs. Ideal for parents seeking toys that soothe and stimulate. Highly recommended for curious infants, though texture-focused buyers should consider supplemental options.
Understanding Teething Toy Essentials
Why Safety Must Be Your Non-Negotiable Priority
The paramount concern with any infant product, especially those destined for constant mouthing, is absolute safety. Teething toys must be free from small, detachable parts that pose choking hazards, constructed from non-toxic materials that won’t leach harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, or lead, and designed without sharp edges or points. Rigorous adherence to current safety standards isn’t optional; it’s the absolute baseline. Always verify certifications and inspect toys meticulously before every use for signs of wear, cracks, or damage that could compromise safety.
Decoding Material Safety and Sensory Impact
The substance a teething toy is made from significantly influences both safety and effectiveness. Food-grade silicone remains a top choice for many parents due to its durability, ease of cleaning, non-porous nature (resisting bacteria), and satisfyingly firm-yet-giving texture that massages gums effectively. Natural rubber offers a softer, more pliable feel that some babies prefer, but requires careful inspection for deterioration. Hard plastic options exist but must be exceptionally smooth and free from coatings. Avoid materials like wood unless specifically designed and certified for infant teething, as splinters or finishes can be hazardous. Consider how the material feels in your baby’s mouth – temperature retention (cold or room temp) and texture variety are key sensory elements.
The Critical Role of Texture and Shape Design
Effective teething relief often comes from targeted pressure. Toys featuring varied textures – raised bumps, ridges, nubs, or gentle undulations – provide different points of contact to soothe specific areas of soreness, from emerging molars to front teeth. The overall shape is equally crucial; it should be easy for small hands to grasp and maneuver independently, promoting motor skill development. Look for ergonomic designs with handles, loops, or contoured sections that prevent the toy from becoming lodged too far in the mouth, enhancing both usability and safety.
Matching Toys to Your Baby’s Developmental Stage
Recognizing Early Teething Cues (4-6 Months)
The first signs of teething often appear around 4-6 months, though timing varies wildly. Symptoms like increased drooling, chewing on fists or clothing, irritability, and mild gum swelling signal it’s time to introduce appropriate relief. Toys for this early stage should be simple, easy to hold, and primarily target the front gums where those initial incisors emerge. Soft, flexible options or small, textured rings work well, focusing on gentle pressure and cool sensations without overwhelming complexity.
Adapting for Molars and Increased Chewing Power (6+ Months)
As babies approach and surpass the 6-month mark, the focus shifts dramatically to the back molars. These larger teeth cause significant discomfort requiring firmer pressure. Toys need to be robust enough to withstand strong chewing forces. Look for designs with thicker, sturdier sections specifically contoured for the back of the mouth, deeper textures, and potentially cooler temperatures (safely achieved). Durability becomes even more critical at this stage to prevent breakage.
Supporting Advanced Skills: Teething Toys Beyond Relief
Teething toys aren’t just for pain management; they’re valuable developmental tools. Around 6-9 months, babies refine their pincer grasp and explore cause-and-effect. Toys incorporating elements like crinkly fabrics, rattles, or simple stacking features engage multiple senses, turning necessary relief into enriching play. Consider how a toy supports fine motor development, hand-eye coordination, and sensory exploration alongside its primary teething function.
Temperature Play: Cold Relief Done Right
The Science Behind Cold Therapy for Sore Gums
Cold application is a proven, drug-free method to temporarily numb gum tissue, reduce inflammation, and provide significant comfort. The principle is straightforward: cold constricts blood vessels, slowing blood flow to the area and dampening pain signals. This offers immediate, albeit temporary, relief during acute episodes of discomfort, making it a cornerstone strategy for many parents.
Safe Methods for Chilling Teething Toys
Achieving the right level of coolness safely is essential. The refrigerator is generally the safest method for chilling solid silicone or rubber toys – aim for cool, not freezing. If using the freezer, never place a solid toy directly against the gums frozen solid; the extreme cold can damage delicate tissue. Instead, chill it only until cool to the touch (15-20 minutes max) or opt for toys specifically designed with a water compartment meant for freezing (ensuring the water chamber is completely sealed and leak-proof). Never give a baby a completely frozen solid toy to chew on.
Avoiding Common Temperature Traps
A frequent mistake is over-chilling. Ice-cold toys straight from the freezer can shock sensitive gums. Another pitfall is using unsafe items like frozen washcloths (choking hazard if they come apart) or household items not designed for infant use. Stick to purpose-made teething toys designed to safely hold and transfer cool temperatures. Always test the temperature on your own wrist before giving it to your baby.
Beyond the Chew: Sensory and Developmental Benefits
Integrating Multi-Sensory Stimulation
The most effective teething toys often engage more than just the mouth. Incorporating elements like crinkly sounds, contrasting colors, varied tactile surfaces (smooth, bumpy, ribbed), and even gentle rattles transforms the toy into a holistic sensory experience. This multi-sensory input not only distracts from discomfort but also supports crucial cognitive development and sensory processing as babies learn about cause-and-effect and different properties of objects.
Fostering Fine Motor Skill Development
The act of grasping, shaking, twisting, and maneuvering a teething toy is fundamental practice for developing fine motor control. Toys with loops, handles, or interesting shapes encourage babies to use their fingers and hands in new ways, strengthening the small muscles needed for future skills like self-feeding and writing. Choosing toys that require two-handed play or have movable parts can further enhance this developmental aspect.
Building Self-Soothing Capabilities
Providing accessible, effective teething relief empowers babies to begin managing their own discomfort. When they learn that gnawing on their designated cool, textured toy brings relief, they develop an early, healthy coping mechanism. This fosters independence and confidence, reducing reliance solely on parental intervention during fussy periods and contributing positively to emotional regulation over time.
Practical Considerations for Busy Parents
The Non-Negotiables of Easy Cleaning
Teething toys live in the germiest environment possible – your baby’s mouth – and are constantly dropped on various surfaces. Therefore, effortless, thorough cleaning is non-negotiable. Prioritize toys that are dishwasher-safe (top rack) or can be easily hand-washed with soap and hot water without trapping moisture in crevices. Avoid toys with complex nooks, crannies, or glued-on parts that harbor bacteria. Quick drying is also a plus to prevent mold growth.
Durability: Surviving the Teething Tornado
Babies don’t chew gently. Teething toys must withstand significant force, drool immersion, and frequent cleaning without cracking, breaking, or degrading. Look for robust construction, thick walls (especially in silicone toys), and high-quality materials. While no toy is indestructible, choosing well-made options minimizes the risk of breakage creating hazards and saves money in the long run by lasting through multiple teething phases or siblings.
Portability and On-the-Go Convenience
Teething discomfort rarely respects your schedule. Toys designed for portability are lifesavers. Consider compact shapes that fit in diaper bags, clip easily onto strollers or carriers, or come with travel cases. Lightweight options are preferable for tiny hands to carry themselves. Quick-clean features also become even more valuable when you’re out and about and need to sanitize a toy on the spot.
Building a Versatile Teething Toolkit
Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Just as babies have unique temperaments, they often prefer different types of teething relief at different times or for different emerging teeth. Having a small rotation of 2-3 different types of teething toys (e.g., a solid silicone teether, a textured rubber ring, and a cool water-filled option) allows you to match the toy to your baby’s immediate need and preference, increasing the likelihood of them accepting the relief offered.
Strategic Rotation to Maintain Interest
Babies can quickly lose interest in a toy they see constantly. Rotating teething options – putting some away for a week or two and reintroducing them later – keeps them feeling new and intriguing. This simple strategy can make a previously ignored toy suddenly appealing again when discomfort strikes, maximizing the effectiveness of your investment without needing endless new purchases.
Complementing Toys with Other Soothing Techniques
Teething toys are powerful tools, but they work best as part of a broader soothing strategy. Combine their use with gentle gum massage (clean finger only!), cool (not cold) washcloths to wipe drool, extra cuddles, and maintaining hydration. Understanding that teething toys are one component of a toolkit helps manage expectations and provides more comprehensive comfort for your little one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my baby is ready for a teething toy?
Signs include excessive drooling, chewing on fists or objects, irritability, swollen gums, and difficulty sleeping. If your baby shows these signs and can grasp objects, introducing a safe teething toy is appropriate. Start with simple, easy-to-hold options.
Are natural rubber teethers safer than silicone?
Both can be safe if made from high-quality, food-grade materials free from harmful chemicals. Natural rubber may degrade faster with exposure to oils, sunlight, or heat, requiring more frequent inspection for cracks or stickiness. Silicone is generally more durable and resistant to bacteria. Prioritize reputable brands with clear safety certifications for either material.
Can I safely freeze my baby’s teething toy?
Solid toys (silicone, rubber) should only be chilled in the refrigerator, not frozen solid. Freezing them makes them too hard and cold, risking gum tissue damage. Only use the freezer for toys explicitly designed with a sealed water compartment, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Never give a completely frozen solid toy to chew on.
How often should I replace teething toys?
Inspect toys thoroughly before each use. Replace immediately if you notice any cracks, tears, discoloration, changes in texture (like stickiness in rubber), loose parts, or if the toy becomes difficult to clean properly. Even without visible damage, consider replacing rubber teethers every few months due to natural degradation, and silicone toys if they show significant wear.
What’s the safest way to clean teething toys daily?
Most solid silicone or rubber teethers can be washed with hot, soapy water and a bottle brush, ensuring all crevices are cleaned, then air-dried completely. Many are top-rack dishwasher safe – check the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid harsh chemicals; mild dish soap is sufficient. For fabric-based toys, follow specific washing instructions, usually hand-washing.
My baby only wants to chew on hard objects like spoons. Is this safe?
While a cool spoon can offer temporary relief, it’s not ideal as a primary solution. Spoons can slip, pose a choking hazard if dropped, and lack the safe, ergonomic design and varied textures of purpose-made teethers. They also don’t stay cool for long. Gradually introduce appropriate teethers alongside the spoon, making the teether more appealing (e.g., chilling it).
How can I encourage my baby to use the teething toy instead of just my fingers?
Gently massage sore gums with a clean finger first to provide initial relief, then offer the chilled teether. Rub the cool toy on their gums to show the relief it offers. Choose toys with interesting textures or colors that might capture their attention more than your finger. Be patient and consistent in offering it during chewing episodes.
Are teethers with liquid fillers safe?
Only if they are specifically designed, rigorously tested, and certified as safe for infant use with a completely sealed, leak-proof compartment. There have been recalls for toys where the liquid could leak. If choosing one, ensure it meets current safety standards, inspect the seal constantly for damage, and avoid if you have any doubts about its integrity.
Can teething toys help with sleep issues caused by discomfort?
Yes, providing safe, effective teething relief before bedtime can significantly reduce night waking due to gum pain. A cool, soothing teether used during the bedtime routine can help alleviate discomfort, making it easier for your baby to settle and stay asleep longer. Ensure the toy is safe to have in the crib (no long strings, small parts).
What features should I prioritize for a baby who is already chewing aggressively?
Focus on durability: thick-walled silicone or solid rubber toys designed for molars. Look for sturdy shapes with thick, textured sections specifically for the back of the mouth. Ensure there are no small, breakable parts. Toys with handles or loops that keep hands away from the chewing zone are beneficial. Prioritize easy cleaning due to the force involved.