What Is the Difference Between Feeding Bibs & Teething Bibs?

Bibs are the first line of defense in keeping your baby and his clothing somewhat dry and free of food particles. As you gaze at the bib aisle, you will find feeding bibs, as well as teething or drool bibs. These two types of bibs may look the same, but the construction, design and purpose are different from each other.

Purpose

Feeding and teething bibs have a slightly different purpose. Feeding bibs are meant to protect clothing from food and liquids while you are feeding your baby. Teething bibs not only protect clothing during mealtime, they can be worn throughout the day when your baby is teething, as well. Teething bibs offer extra protection for those excessive drool days.

Materials

Not all bibs offer the same amount of protection power. "Teether" bibs have a plastic or nylon waterproof barrier in one of the bib layers or on the back to prevent drool from seeping through the bib fabric and reaching the clothing. Feeding bibs are usually made of fabric only. The main material for both types of bibs is usually cotton because it is machine washable, relatively durable and absorbent.

Shape and Style

Not all bibs conform to a standard style or basic shape. Feeding bibs often come in a square, rectangular or oval shape, although there are character and animal shapes, as well. At first glance, some teething bibs look just like a feeding bib, while some are clearly different. For instance, you may find a teething bib tapered down or to one side with a fastener. This design allows you to fasten a teething attachment to the teething bib.

Attachments

A teething baby will chew on anything he can get his hands on. Some teething bibs are designed with this in mind. Some have a special textured section that your baby can chew on to help soothe his gums, while others have teething rings or teething pacifiers already attached to them or that you can attach with a built-in fastener. Some teething bibs have no special features besides the extra layer of protection. Feeding bibs do not have these attachment options.