The soft, tempting wood of a crib can be an irresistible chew toy for a curious teething baby. While gnawing on something soothing can provide temporary relief for those tender gums, it can also damage the crib and pose a safety hazard if splinters or paint chips are ingested. If your little one has developed a taste for their crib, here’s how to break this teething habit before it becomes a major problem.

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Understanding Crib-Chewing: A Deeper Dive

Cribs are made of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Wooden cribs are particularly susceptible to chewing because the wood is soft and easily accessible to tiny teeth. As babies develop their motor skills, they begin to explore their surroundings with their mouths, and the crib is often one of the first objects they can reach. The act of chewing provides pressure to the gums, which can help to relieve the discomfort of teething.

Mitigation Measures: Solutions for Chewy Cribs

• Teething Toys: Offer your baby an assortment of safe and age-appropriate teething toys to chew on instead of the crib. Look for toys made of soft, BPA-free materials that are designed to soothe sore gums and satisfy their chewing needs.
• Frozen Washcloths: Wet a clean washcloth and freeze it for a few hours. The cold temperature can help to numb the pain in your baby’s gums and reduce their desire to chew.
• Fruit Popsicles: Puree fresh fruit into a smooth paste and freeze it in popsicle molds. These tasty popsicles provide a sweet and healthy way to cool down your baby’s gums while also distracting them from chewing on the crib.
• Pacifier: If your baby is old enough for a pacifier, consider offering one instead of the crib. Pacifiers can provide similar relief to teething toys and can help to keep your baby’s mouth occupied.
• Crib Protectors: Crib protectors or teething guards can be attached to the crib rails to create a physical barrier between your baby’s teeth and the wood. These protectors are usually made of a soft, durable material that can withstand chewing.
• Bitter Spray: As a last resort, you can apply a bitter-tasting spray to the crib rails. This will discourage your baby from chewing on the wood, but it’s important to use a product that is safe for babies and doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals.

It’s important to note that while these methods can be effective, they may not work for all babies. Some babies may be more determined chewers than others. If your baby is particularly persistent, you may need to combine several techniques or explore other alternatives such as:

• Diversionary Tactics: Distract your baby from chewing on the crib by offering other activities, such as playing with toys, reading books, or singing songs.
• Positioning: Try adjusting your baby’s sleep position so that they are less likely to reach the crib rails. You could try swaddling them or placing a rolled-up blanket next to them for support.
• Cradle Cap: A cradle cap is a soft, removable mattress topper that fits over the crib mattress and provides extra cushioning. It can also create a barrier between your baby’s teeth and the crib.

Chewing Versus Teething: Recognizing the Difference

While chewing on the crib may be related to teething, it’s important to rule out any other potential causes. If your baby is excessively chewing on the crib, has a fever, or is showing signs of discomfort or illness, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician to determine if there is an underlying medical issue that needs attention.

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How To Keep Baby From Chewing On Crib

Conclusion: Nibble-Free Cribs

Keeping your baby from chewing on the crib requires patience, consistency, and a multi-pronged approach. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can help your little one break this teething habit and ensure a safe and comfortable sleep environment. Remember that all babies develop at their own pace, and what works for one may not work for another. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep trying different techniques and stay positive. Eventually, your baby will outgrow the urge to chew on everything in sight, and your crib will be safe from those tiny teeth.