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Trying to find the ideal dummy is like navigating the treacherous terrain of a finicky baby. Because some infants are quite picky while others show absolutely no interest, picking the correct one might be challenging. Being a mother of two has given me firsthand knowledge of the calming power of a dummy for an anxious infant.
Pacifiers have a relaxing effect, but they also lower the risk of SIDS, according to the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP). Babies associate the repetitive sucking motion with positive emotions like pleasure, comfort, and security, therefore it’s not merely a medical recommendation. Doctor Tina Nguyen says, “A dummy can soothe infants and provide comfort during times of stress.”
Do not be afraid to experiment in your search for the perfect dummy. I have compiled a list of pacifiers that have stood the test of time based on testimonials from other parents and advice from experts. With the help of the What to Expect community and my own experiences, I have carefully selected each option to provide you with a solid foundation from which to build.
When should I introduce a pacifier to my baby?
Introduce a pacifier to your baby after breastfeeding is well-established, typically around 3-4 weeks. It can help soothe and comfort your infant, aiding in self-soothing and reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, avoid using a pacifier before breastfeeding is established to prevent potential nipple confusion. Always choose an age-appropriate, safe pacifier and consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice based on your baby’s unique needs.
Best Pacifiers: Comparison Table
Personal preference for baby dummies. Philips AVENT Soothie, NUK Comfy Orthodontic, BIBS, Nanobebe, and Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci have unique orthodontic designs and materials. Comfort, durability, and cleanliness should come first. Baby comfort and preference determine the best solution. A careful dummy comparison matches parental choices and newborn well-being.
| Feature | Age range | Material | Nipple shape | Shield shape | Features | Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier | 0-3 months | Medical-grade silicone | Symmetrical | Curved | One-piece design, easy to clean | Check Deal |
| NUK Comfy Orthodontic Pacifiers | 0-6 months | Silicone | Orthodontic | Butterfly | BPA-free, orthodontic | Check Deal |
| BIBS Pacifiers | 0-6 months | Natural rubber | Round | Round | BPA-free, lightweight | Check Deal |
| Nanobebe Baby Pacifiers | 0-3 months | Silicone | Symmetrical | Curved | Soft nipple, designed for breastfed babies | Check Deal |
| Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci | 0-6 months | Silicone | Symmetrical | Butterfly | BPA-free, vent holes | Check Deal |
Best Pacifiers
After searching for a safe, comfy, and durable dummy for my infant, I developed a list. These travel-inspired pacifiers soothe newborns and promote oral development with interesting designs and materials. Pacifiers with orthodontic shapes and easy-to-clean surfaces simplify parenting. This list includes good options for varied tastes, relaxing my kids.
Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age range | 0-3 months |
| Material | Hospital-grade, BPA-free and latex-free silicone |
| Design | One-piece construction, specially sized and shaped for a newborn’s mouth |
| Benefits | Calms and soothes babies, adheres to AAP guidelines |
| Sterilization | Steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers, boiling water |
| Check Price |
As a parent, the Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier has been a game-changer for comforting my infant. Its medical-grade silicone nipple not only promotes natural development but also makes cleaning a breeze. The one-piece construction gives me peace of mind regarding durability and hygiene, and it’s no wonder it’s a trusted choice among both parents and healthcare professionals in my experience.
The Good
- Hospital-grade silicone for safety and comfort
- Orthodontic design promotes natural oral development
- Lightweight and easy for babies to hold
- Available in a variety of colors and patterns
The Bad
- One-piece design can be harder to clean
- Not as durable as some other pacifiers
NUK Comfy Orthodontic Pacifiers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age range | 0-6 months, 6-18 months |
| Material | BPA-free silicone |
| Design | Orthodontic nipple, symmetrical shield |
| Benefits | Promotes natural oral development, reduces pressure on jaw and teeth |
| Sterilization | Boiling water, steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers |
| Check Price |
The NUK Comfy Orthodontic Pacifiers have been a lifesaver for my baby’s oral development. The unique nipple shape adapts perfectly to my baby’s mouth, reducing pressure on the jaw and teeth. The heart-shaped shield provides a snug fit and encourages proper oral positioning. For me, as a parent, these pacifiers stand out as a top choice when seeking orthodontic-friendly options.
The Good
- Symmetrical shield prevents jaw misalignment
- Soft and flexible nipple for comfort
- Available in a variety of colors and designs
- BPA-free for peace of mind
The Bad
- Some babies may not like the taste of the silicone
- Shield can get scratched or damaged easily
BIBS Pacifiers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age range | 0-6 months, 6-18 months |
| Material | Natural rubber latex |
| Design | Round nipple, classic shield |
| Benefits | Promotes natural oral development, soft and flexible nipple |
| Sterilization | Boiling water, steam sterilizers |
| Check Price |
BIBS Pacifiers effortlessly blend style and functionality in my parenting journey. The classic round shape and natural rubber nipple provide comfort, satisfying my baby’s natural sucking reflex. The elegant design and extensive color range add a touch of aesthetics without compromising quality. In my experience, BIBS Pacifiers have become a popular choice among parents who value both style and substance.
The Good
- Classic design is timeless and stylish
- Round nipple is familiar and easy for babies to latch onto
- Available in a variety of colors and sizes
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly
The Bad
- Some babies may be allergic to latex
- Not as durable as some other pacifiers
Nanobebe Baby Pacifiers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age range | 0-3 months, 3-6 months |
| Material | Soft silicone |
| Design | Orthodontic nipple, textured shield |
| Benefits | Promotes natural oral development, textured shield helps prevent slipping |
| Sterilization | Boiling water, steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers |
| Check Price |
Choosing Nanobebe Baby Pacifiers has been a thoughtful decision for my baby and me. The unique breast-like shape facilitates a seamless transition between breast and pacifier, ensuring a soothing experience. The use of safe materials adds an extra layer of confidence for parents. From my perspective, Nanobebe strikes the perfect balance between catering to the baby’s needs and offering convenience for parents.
The Good
- Textured shield helps prevent slipping
- Soft and flexible nipple for comfort
- Available in a variety of colors and designs
- BPA-free and phthalate-free
The Bad
- May not be as durable as some other pacifiers
- Textured shield can be difficult to clean
Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age range | 0-6 months, 6-18 months |
| Material | Silicone |
| Design | Orthodontic nipple, vented shield |
| Benefits | Promotes natural oral development, vented shield reduces air pressure |
| Sterilization | Boiling water, steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers |
| Check Price |
Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci has improved both my baby’s dental development and my mental health. A delicate suction-release bulb and a butterfly-shaped cover mimic natural sucking actions. My youngster may sleep soundly and contentedly with these medical-grade silicone pacifiers that are very simple to clean. My personal experience is that HappyPaci by Dr. Brown offers dependable dental care as well as relaxation.
The Good
- Vented shield reduces air pressure, preventing irritation
- Soft and flexible nipple for comfort
- Available in a variety of colors and designs
- BPA-free and phthalate-free
The Bad
- Vented shield can be noisy
- Not as widely available as some other brands
How do I choose the right size for a pacifier?
- Consider Age: Choose a pacifier size appropriate for your baby’s age.
- Look at Nipple Size: Ensure the nipple size suits your baby’s mouth without causing discomfort.
- Check Shield Shape: The shield should be proportionate to your baby’s face and allow for proper breathing.
- Material Matters: Opt for safe, BPA-free materials that are easy to clean.
- Observe Comfort: Monitor your baby’s comfort and response, adjusting sizes if needed. Regularly check and replace pacifiers as your baby grows.
Questions and Answers
Misalignment of teeth and other dental problems can develop from using a dummy for an extended period of time, particularly beyond the age of 2. Always check in with your child’s dentist if you have any concerns about their dental growth.
It is usually advised to wait until breastfeeding is established before introducing a dummy, as doing so too soon could disrupt the process. If you would want personalised guidance, it’s best to consult with a paediatrician or lactation expert.
Try to get a dummy that isn’t made of anything harmful, like latex or medical-grade silicone. In addition to being long-lasting and hypoallergenic, these materials are also simple to maintain.