Why Do Toddlers Chew on Blankets?

Teething Troubles

• Even though your toddler's teeth have likely been coming in for quite some time, he may still be dealing with some teething discomfort. Teething normally occurs between 6 and 24 months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics website, HealthyChildren.org. While teething, babies and toddlers often drool and want to chew on things -- including on their blankets.

Chewing Habits

• Toddlers often chew on things, such as a blanket, their shirt, their own fingers or toys, simply out of habit. Young children also sometimes put things in their mouth for comfort or to sooth themselves. This is very similar to hair twisting or thumb sucking, notes the website HealthGuidance. Chewing, like many other habits children have, tend to self-destruct on their own, according AskDrSears.com. Chewing on her blanket makes her feel good now but as she gets older, she will likely drop it.

Stopping the Chewing

• Distract your tolddler during the day and keep his blanket put away. Then, give it back to him when he goes to bed at night. If teething is the reason for the chewing, try finding another way to sooth his sore gums. Place a wet washcloth in your freezer for 30 minutes, then offer it to him to chew on. Or, give him a teething ring instead. Speak with your toddler's pediatrician about giving him ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with discomfort, advises KidsHealth.

Potential Dangers and Consequences

• Saliva on your tot's blanket from chewing can cause harmful bacteria to grow, which could make her sick. Prevent this by keeping the blanket washed and clean. Chewing on her blanket can also cause foul smelling breath, because it dries out her mouth and allows bacteria to grow. Another concern is the potential choking danger. If your child's blanket were to shred, or a piece came off while she was chewing on it, it could lodge in her airway and prevent her from breathing. Young children are vulnerable to airway obstruction death because of their tendency to put things in their mouths and their small airways, notes the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.