As a new parent, you’re probably searching for ways to keep your baby entertained while also supporting their early development. I remember when my first baby was born I wanted everything to be perfect, from the softest blankets to the safest crib toys. The right crib toy can do more than just keep your little one occupied; it can help with sensory development, encourage movement, and even provide comfort during naps or bedtime.

But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best ones? The key is to find toys that are safe, engaging, and age-appropriate. Newborns are still developing their senses, so high-contrast colors, soft textures, and gentle sounds can make a big difference. Whether you’re looking for a soothing mobile or a soft plush companion, there are plenty of great choices.

Musical Mobiles for a Soothing Sleep

Musical mobiles are a classic crib toy that can help soothe your baby to sleep. They usually come with soft hanging toys that gently spin while playing lullabies or nature sounds. My sister swore by a mobile that played soft classical music—it was the only thing that could calm her baby during fussy nights.

When choosing a mobile, look for features like:

• Slow, gentle movement – Sudden or fast motions can be overwhelming for a newborn.
• Soft music or white noise – Helps create a calming sleep environment.
• Detachable toys – Some mobiles come with plush animals or shapes that can later be removed for playtime.

A good example is the Tiny Love Meadow Days Mobile, which combines soft melodies with colorful hanging animals to keep your baby engaged while winding down for sleep.

Soft Plush Toys for Comfort and Security

A soft plush toy can become your baby’s first best friend. My neighbor’s baby couldn’t sleep without a little elephant plush tucked beside her. The key is choosing a toy that’s lightweight and made from safe, non-toxic materials.

For newborns, look for:

• Breathable fabric – Avoid toys with loose fibers or overly fluffy stuffing.
• Machine washable – Babies can be messy, so easy cleaning is a must.
• Small, lightweight designs – So the toy doesn’t become a suffocation risk.

One of the most recommended options is the Jellycat Bashful Bunny, which is super soft, easy to wash, and just the right size for tiny hands.

High-Contrast Toys for Visual Stimulation

Newborns don’t see the world the way we do. In the first few months, their vision is blurry, and they can only see high-contrast colors like black, white, and red. That’s why high-contrast crib toys are excellent for early visual development.

I remember seeing a friend’s baby completely mesmerized by a black-and-white crib book. It was incredible how such a simple toy could capture a newborn’s attention for so long.

Some great options include:

• Soft fabric books with black-and-white patterns
• Crib toys with bold, contrasting shapes
• Mirror toys – Babies love looking at their own reflection!

A great pick is the Sassy Tummy Time Floor Mirror, which can be attached to the crib and encourages babies to focus on their own face and movements.

Crib Activity Toys for Early Learning

Even though newborns don’t have full control of their hands yet, interactive crib toys can still help with sensory development. Soft fabric activity toys with crinkly textures, gentle rattles, or dangling elements encourage babies to reach and explore.

A close friend of mine had a crib toy that played soft melodies when her baby touched the dangling pieces. She noticed that over time, her baby became more interested in reaching out and interacting with it, which helped strengthen his motor skills.

Look for:

• Textures that encourage touch – Ribbons, crinkly fabric, or soft bumps.
• Gentle sounds – Soft chimes or rattles rather than loud, jarring noises.
• Secure attachment – It should strap safely to the crib without loose parts.

One great option is the Lamaze Captain Calamari Clip-On Toy, which has multiple textures, a peek-a-boo mirror, and soft rattles to engage tiny hands.

Soothing Teething Toys for Comfort

Even though newborns don’t start teething right away, having a safe, soothing toy on hand can be helpful. Some babies enjoy having a soft toy to suck on or chew as they explore their world.

I remember giving my baby a soft, silicone teething toy around three months, and he would just hold it and gnaw on it for comfort. Even before teeth appear, babies use their mouths to learn about their surroundings.

For newborns, consider:

• Soft, BPA-free silicone or fabric teethers
• Chillable options – Some teethers can be cooled in the fridge for extra relief.
• Easy-to-hold designs – Small enough for little hands to grip.

The Sophie La Girafe Teether is a well-loved option, made from natural rubber and designed to be safe for babies to chew on.

How to Choose the Right Crib Toy for Your Baby

When picking crib toys, always prioritize safety. Avoid anything with small parts, loose strings, or materials that could be a choking hazard. It’s also important to follow safe sleep guidelines—never place large stuffed animals or thick blankets in the crib, as they can increase the risk of suffocation.

You’ll also want to think about your baby’s personality. Some newborns love soft music, while others prefer visual stimulation. If one toy doesn’t seem to interest your baby, don’t worry—each baby is different, and sometimes it takes a bit of experimenting to find what works.

Choosing the best crib toys for your newborn isn’t just about keeping them entertained—it’s about supporting their development, providing comfort, and making those early months more engaging. Whether you go for a musical mobile, a soft plush companion, or a high-contrast toy for visual stimulation, the right choice can make all the difference.

As a parent, you’ll love watching your baby’s face light up as they discover new sights, sounds, and textures. Those little moments—when they grab at a toy for the first time or smile at a familiar melody—are the ones you’ll cherish forever.