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What to do if your teething baby is biting the cot

teething

Online discussions are rife with parents sharing stories about their babies biting the crib, with children ranging in age from 7 months to 24 months indulging in this behaviour. Parents even jokingly refer to their little ones as “beavers.” Checking these online forums can help identify the real issue and provide valuable insights.

In this blog, we will cover the causes of teething, safety concerns, and preventive measures through the features of cot beds. Babymore has a diverse range of cots and cot beds that you can choose for your little one to help them get through this teething stage with comfort and ease.

According to the NHS guide, every baby starts teething at different times. Some babies are born with their first teeth, while others start teething before 4 months old or even after 12 months. When teething begins, babies often gnaw on objects to relieve pain. Since babies spend a lot of time in their cots, the cot is one of the first things they may start chewing on.

If your cot conforms to the BSEN716 safety standard, the paint and materials used meet the requirements for traceable metal content, ensuring they are non-toxic. The space between the slats should be less than 6.5cm to prevent accidents from biting the crib between the slats.

Preventing Your Baby from Biting the Crib

You probably still don’t want your baby gnawing all over their cot, so here are some ways to prevent this:

Teething Rail for Cot

Many cots come with a teething rail because they aren’t designed to be chewed on. Fabric and plastic cot rail covers are available, providing extra protection for both your baby and the cot. If your cot bed does not have a teething rail, consider finding one that does.

Cot Base Position

Always check that the cot base is in the lowest position. This reduces the chance of your baby reaching up to chew on the top. The lowest base position is the safest and should be used as soon as your baby can sit up unaided.

Convert Cot to Bed

  • Change the cot into a bed when your baby can reach over the top rail, or shows any signs of trying to climb out.
  • It’s safer to convert it to a bed so they can’t hurt themselves when escaping, rather than spending hours in A&E with a bumped head.
  • The lowest side of the cot shouldn’t be lower than the shoulder height of your baby.
  • Once your baby is able to pull themselves up to stand (approximately nine months old) and get their arms over the side rail, they will be able to climb out.

Transitioning Smoothly

Transitioning from a cot to a bed can be a big change for your little one. To make the process smoother, try the following tips:

  • Introduce the Change Gradually: 

Start by letting your baby nap in the bed during the day before transitioning to night-time sleep.

  • Keep the Routine Consistent: 

Maintain the same bedtime routine to provide a sense of security and familiarity.

  • Safety First: 

Place the bed against a wall and use bed rails to prevent falls. Ensure the room is baby-proofed to avoid any hazards.

  • Comfort and Reassurance: 

Place familiar items, such as your baby’s favourite blanket or stuffed animal, in the bed to provide comfort.

How to Stop Baby from Grinding Teeth

Teething can sometimes lead to babies grinding their teeth, known as bruxism. To help prevent this, consider the following tips:

  • Teething Toys: 

Provide your baby with teething toys to chew on, which can help soothe their gums and reduce the urge to grind teeth.

  • Comfort and Calming Techniques: 

Gentle gum massages and cool, damp washcloths can provide relief and comfort.

  • Monitor and Consult: 

Keep an eye on your baby’s grinding habits. If it persists or worsens, consult your paediatrician for advice.

Maintenance and Care

Regularly inspect your cot and its components for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all fittings and fixtures are secure. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and care will help extend the life of the cot and ensure your baby’s safety.

As a manufacturer, Babymore has taken all appropriate measures to deliver a safe product. If your baby manages to bite the crib and damage the paintwork, please carefully follow the safety instructions provided with the cot. For more on safe use, visit our guide and advice section on our website.

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