Baby mouthing toys

[YourOpalLion]

Just looking for opinions and others thoughts. Like all babies my 8 month old is putting everything in mouth. I have been told by a friend that only teethers should be allowed to go in mouth as in only toys specifically made for the purpose of teething and going in mouth and nothing hard as could hurt her mouth. Obviously I havent been allowing her near choking hazards or anything dangerous but thought larger toys etc were ok as babies explore through mouth and others have said about random household objects wooden spoons etc. I always supervise her whilst playing and mouthing etc. I am feeling I have been irresponsible now. I feel it is impossible to stop a baby mouthing on everything except teethers and thought it was actually a good thing for them to do exploring safe objects with mouth to learn about different textures etc. Please can I get some opinions and please be kind as I am a FTM and am trying my best really. Thanks

Mum of 3 here. I don’t know how you would physically stop a baby mouthing everything/have enough teethers jn the world?! Just make sure it’s safe and clean. Teethers are designed to help ease the discomfort of teething. Baby toys are for babies. Babies put things in their mouth. That’s why the toys will generally be “safe” to mouth even if not designed for it. And, like you, my babies have enjoyed exploring safe and clean household objects under supervision…. Your friends sounds a little holier than thou, does she often give unsolicited advice?

You’re right, your friend is wrong.

Babies explore and learn through mouthing. Your friend is an idiot. Don’t over think.

from another overthinking FTM

Babies put everything on their mouths, from teething specific toys to things that you didn't realise were left under the sofa. It's perfectly normal developmental stuff and your friend is being silly.

Babies put everything in their mouths. It’s what they do.

To stop your baby from mouthing anything except teething rings, you would have to take away every toy she owns! Your friend’s being ridiculous.

The only way you can stop a baby putting everything in its mouth is to somehow restrict access to their mouth! - which is both highly not recommended and ridiculous. Generations didn’t even have ‘teething’ toys. I’d take what your friend says with a
large handful of salt.