Why Do Babies Put Everything in Their Mouths?

If you have a baby, you already know this. Toys, fingers, feet, keys, the TV remote, even the dog's ball. It all goes straight into the mouth. It can be scary to watch, but it is a normal part of growing up. The Cleveland Clinic says nearly all babies go through this stage.

So why do they do it, and how long will it last? And most important, how can you keep your baby safe while they explore? Let's take a look.

Why babies put things in their mouths

1. They are learning about the world

A baby's mouth is full of nerves, and it is one of the first ways they learn. When your baby puts a toy in their mouth, they are finding out if it is hard or soft, smooth or bumpy, warm or cold. They are not always hungry. They are just curious.

2. It helps them calm down

Sucking feels good to babies. Many babies suck on their hands, a toy or a blanket when they are tired, upset or just want to relax. It is one of the ways they comfort themselves.

3. Teething hurts

When new teeth start to push through the gums, it can hurt. Chewing on something gives your baby some relief. A clean, cool teething toy or a cold wet washcloth can help. You can learn more in our post about teething babies.

4. It may help their body get used to germs

Some scientists think that mouthing things may also help a baby's body get used to the germs around them, while they are still young and protected by breast milk. One research paper explains this idea. It is still just an idea and not proven, so it does not mean babies should put dirty things in their mouths.

How long does this stage last?

Babies often start bringing things to their mouths once they learn to grab, around 3 to 5 months old. The Cleveland Clinic says this stage usually ends somewhere between 15 months and 2 years old. Some babies grow out of it fast, and some take longer. Both are normal.

If your child is still eating things that are not food, like dirt, paper, hair or paint chips, after about age 2, talk to your doctor. The Cleveland Clinic says this can be a condition called pica, and a doctor can help.

How to keep your baby safe

You can't stop a baby from mouthing things, and you don't need to. The goal is to make sure what they grab is safe. Get down on the floor at your baby's level and look around. You will be surprised what you find.

The Cleveland Clinic says to keep these things away from children until they are at least 3 years old:

• Small things that can cause choking. If it fits inside a toilet paper roll, it is too small.
• Button batteries, like the ones in remotes, watches and toys
• Magnets and magnet toys
• Cleaning products, medicines and vitamins
• Hot drinks
• Shoes, pet toys and pet food bowls, which carry lots of germs

The American Academy of Pediatrics also says to check under furniture and between couch cushions for coins, small toys and batteries. Keep balloons away too. They can cause choking in children up to 8 years old.

If your baby grabs something unsafe, don't try to explain why. Babies are too young to understand. Just gently take it away and give them something safe to chew on instead. For more ways to protect your little one at home, read our general safety rules for kids.

Songs that can help

A fun game can pull your baby's attention away from something they should not chew. Play Peek A Boo and let your baby find each member of the penguin family.

Your baby wants to learn how things taste, so let food do the teaching. Once your baby starts eating solid foods, Tasty Flavors is a fun way to talk about sweet, sour, salty and spicy.

When those new teeth come in, start good habits early. Brush Your Teeth tells the story of a little penguin who learns why brushing every morning and every night keeps cavities away.

As your child gets older, you can start teaching simple rules like "only food goes in our mouth." You can find lots more kids songs on our music page to sing and learn together.

Questions Parents Ask About Babies and Mouthing

Why does my baby put everything in their mouth?

It is how babies learn. Their mouth helps them find out how things feel. Babies also mouth things to calm down and to ease teething pain. It is a normal part of growing up.

At what age do babies stop putting things in their mouth?

Most babies stop between 15 months and 2 years old. Some stop sooner and some take a little longer.

Is it normal for my 1 year old to still put everything in their mouth?

Yes, this is very normal at 1 year old. Many children still do it for months after their first birthday. Just keep watching them closely and keep small or dangerous things out of reach.

What should I do if my baby swallows something?

If your child is choking, can't breathe, can't talk or is turning blue, call 911 right away. If you think they swallowed something harmful, like medicine or a cleaning product, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. For more warning signs, read our post on when to call a doctor.

What if my child swallows a button battery?

This is an emergency. Go to the emergency room right away or call 911, even if your child seems fine. KidsHealth says not to wait for signs. It also says that if your child is 12 months or older, you can give 2 teaspoons of honey on the way to the hospital, but do not let this slow you down.

How do I know if a toy is too small for my baby?

Try the toilet paper roll test. If a toy or any part of it fits inside an empty toilet paper roll, it is a choking danger for children under 3. Also check the age label on toy boxes.

Should I stop my baby from putting things in their mouth?

No, you don't need to stop it. Mouthing is how babies learn. Just make sure the things around them are clean, big enough and safe to chew on.

This post is for general information only. It is not medical advice. If you have questions about your child's health, please talk to your child's doctor.