How to Make a Teething Necklace for Moms

How to Make a Teething Necklace for Moms

Teething is a difficult time for both babies and their moms. As babies start to grow their teeth, they often experience discomfort that can cause irritability, drooling, and sometimes even disrupted sleep. One way to help ease this discomfort for your baby is by using teething jewelry, specifically teething necklaces. These necklaces are not only stylish for moms but also serve as functional items that babies can safely chew on to help soothe their sore gums. If you’re a mom looking to make your own teething necklace, this guide will walk you through the steps, materials, and safety precautions to ensure that your teething necklace is both effective and safe for your little one.

What Is a Teething Necklace?

A teething necklace is a wearable piece of jewelry designed to be safe for babies to chew on. It’s typically worn by the mother, who then allows the baby to explore the necklace with their mouth. The beads are usually made from materials that are gentle on the gums, like food-grade silicone or natural wood. Some teething necklaces are designed to be both a functional teething aid and a fashion accessory for the mom, making them a convenient solution for moms who want to keep their baby entertained while also reducing their discomfort.

Benefits of Teething Necklaces

Before diving into the making of a teething necklace, it’s important to understand the key benefits that these necklaces offer:

• Soothing Relief for Babies: The textured beads on teething necklaces provide babies with something to chew on, which can help massage their gums and reduce the pain associated with teething.
• Convenience for Moms: As a mom, you might find it difficult to carry around separate teething toys all the time. A teething necklace solves this problem by serving as both an accessory for yourself and a teething toy for your baby.
• Distraction for Babies: Babies are naturally curious and love to explore new objects. A teething necklace can keep your baby entertained while providing them with something safe to chew on.
• Fashionable and Practical: Teething necklaces are available in many colors, shapes, and designs, making them a stylish accessory that complements your outfits while also being functional.

Materials You’ll Need to Make a Teething Necklace

To make a teething necklace for moms, it’s important to use materials that are not only safe but also comfortable for both you and your baby. Here’s a list of materials you’ll need to create your own teething necklace:

1. Silicone Beads: Silicone beads are soft, flexible, and easy to clean, making them the most popular choice for teething necklaces. Be sure to choose beads that are labeled as food-grade, as these are free from harmful chemicals like BPA, PVC, and phthalates.
2. Wooden Beads: Natural wooden beads can also be used in teething necklaces. Choose beads made from untreated, organic wood, like maple or beech, to ensure safety for your baby. These beads are durable and offer a different texture compared to silicone.
3. Clasp or Closure: You’ll need a breakaway clasp or knotting cord to safely secure the necklace around your neck. A breakaway clasp is designed to release if the necklace gets caught on something, preventing injury to both you and your baby.
4. Cord or String: The cord should be strong enough to hold the beads but also soft and comfortable against your skin. Nylon or satin cord works well for this purpose. You can also choose elastic cord if you prefer a stretchy necklace.
5. Bead Spacers: If you’d like to add some variation to your necklace, you can include spacers in between the beads. These can be small silicone or wooden beads that give the necklace a more polished look while also creating a pattern.
6. Scissors: You’ll need a good pair of scissors to cut the cord to the appropriate length.
7. Needle or Threading Tool (Optional): If you’re using a string or cord that’s difficult to thread, a needle or threading tool can make the process easier.
8. Strong Glue (Optional): To ensure your knots stay secure and beads don’t slip off, you can apply a small amount of non-toxic glue to the ends of the cord.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Teething Necklace

Now that you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start making your teething necklace. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

Step 1: Prepare Your Beads and Cord

First, lay out your beads in a pattern that you like. You can mix and match colors, sizes, and textures to create a unique look. It’s a good idea to create a pattern beforehand so you can visualize what your necklace will look like once it’s finished.

Cut the cord to the desired length. A typical length for a teething necklace is around 30 to 35 inches, but you can adjust it based on your preference. Keep in mind that the necklace should sit comfortably around your neck without being too tight.

Step 2: Thread the Beads

Next, take your cord and begin threading the beads onto it one by one. If you’re using a needle, this can make the process a little easier. Make sure the beads are evenly spaced, and leave enough room at the ends of the cord for tying the knots.

You can opt for a simple design with just silicone beads, or you can add spacers or wooden beads for a more intricate look. Be sure to leave enough space for the breakaway clasp or knot at the ends.

Step 3: Secure the Beads

Once you’ve threaded all the beads onto the cord, it’s time to secure them in place. If you’re using elastic cord, simply tie a secure knot at the ends. If you’re using nylon cord, you may want to use a bead stopper or tie several knots to prevent the beads from slipping off.

To make your necklace even more secure, you can apply a small amount of non-toxic glue to the knot. Let it dry before proceeding.

Step 4: Attach the Clasp or Closure

Now, take your breakaway clasp or closure and attach it to the ends of the necklace. The clasp should be easy to use but also secure enough that it won’t come off during wear. If you’re using a knot instead of a clasp, simply tie a strong knot and trim any excess cord.

Step 5: Test the Necklace

Before wearing the necklace, test it by gently tugging on the beads and cord to ensure everything is securely attached. Make sure that the necklace is not too tight and that it has enough length to comfortably fit around your neck. Check the clasp to ensure it is functioning properly and will release if necessary.

Step 6: Safety Check

Before allowing your baby to chew on the necklace, perform a final safety check. Ensure that all the beads are tightly secured, and that there are no sharp edges or rough spots on the beads. If the necklace has any parts that could pose a choking hazard, such as small beads, remove them before giving the necklace to your baby.

Safety Tips for Using a Teething Necklace

While teething necklaces can be a great way to provide relief to your baby, it’s important to follow safety guidelines to avoid any accidents:

• Supervise Your Baby: Always supervise your baby when they are wearing or chewing on a teething necklace. Never leave your baby unattended with the necklace on.
• Avoid Tight Necklaces: Make sure the necklace fits comfortably but not too tightly. If you’re using a breakaway clasp, ensure it works as intended and will release if tugged on.
• Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the necklace for any signs of damage, such as fraying cords or loose beads. Replace or repair the necklace immediately if needed.
• Use Non-Toxic Materials: Always use beads and cords that are labeled as safe for babies, such as food-grade silicone or untreated natural wood.

Conclusion

Making your own teething necklace is a fun and practical way to help ease your baby’s teething discomfort while keeping your hands free. By using safe materials and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a stylish and functional piece of jewelry that both you and your baby can enjoy. Just remember to always prioritize safety by supervising your baby while they wear the necklace and regularly checking for any signs of wear and tear. Happy crafting, and here’s to a more comfortable teething experience for both you and your little one!