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When Everything Starts Going in Baby's Mouth

When Everything Starts Going in Baby's Mouth

At around 7 months, your baby will likely start putting everything and anything in his or her mouth, but don’t fret! Here’s some great info on why babies go through this phase and what to do when it starts to happen.

What's going on?

It’s perfectly normal for your baby to go through a phase where everything goes straight into their mouth. They could be exploring tastes and textures, looking for comfort from teething pains or channeling their curiosity for new things. Whatever the reason (and teething is definitely a common one), don’t worry - there are things you can teach your baby to help keep them stay safe, and things you can do around the house to help avoid unwanted accidents.

1. Put a lock on it

While keeping close track of your baby is the most useful (and obvious) way to make sure they don't put germ-filled or harmful things in their mouths, locking doors, cupboards and bins is another great method. Make sure all cleaning products are out of your baby's reach, tucked away in locked bins or cupboards.

2. Prep for play time

When purchasing a toy, make sure you choose ones that don't contain small parts that can easily become stuck in your baby's throat or nose. Proofing for choke-size objects is super important because it's pretty much a given that any new toy will go in your baby's mouth. That said, it's also a good idea to get your baby a teether, or some object specifically designed to be used as a chew toy. It provides a safe option for him or her to continue exploring different sensations, and it also soothes aching gums when it's teething time.

3. Keep things clean

Your baby will inevitably be putting somethings in their mouth, despite what you may be doing to help avoid this behavior. Also, as Joe Rubino, Lysol's chief microbiologist says, "Babies need to be exposed to germs," but there are two types: good and bad — and "you never want to expose your kids to the bad germs." To downplay the impact that germs may have on your baby’s health, keep things clean around the house by disinfecting his or her belongings and the objects they come into contact with daily. Lysol Disinfecting Wipes are a good choice for keeping surfaces clean because they kill 99.9% of bacteria. You can also try Lysol's Disinfectant Spray on hard and soft surfaces to help keep germs and bacteria at bay.

4. Take a CPR class

If you're worried about the dangers of baby putting things in their mouth, think about taking a CPR class. You can learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on children, and you'll help alleviate your worries if an accident does happen. Plus, you'll be a potential lifesaver outside of your house, too!

All information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.