Table of Contents
I was one of the parents who swore never to let my kids use a pacifier. However, when my eldest was born, I realized I should not have spoken too soon. Since she was a fussy baby, I was at my wit’s end on how to calm her down. Then, a friend advised me to use a pacifier, which totally changed my parenting game. I know the struggle, momma, so I’m here to help you with a list of the best pacifiers for newborns.
Is Pacifier Use Okay?
Pacifiers have been in the hot seat for the longest time because many believed they interfered with a baby’s development. However, over the years, they have evolved into well-designed products. Manufacturers have teamed up with pediatric dental experts to create pacifiers that mimic the natural contours of a mother’s breast and nipple. This design ensures that your baby’s teeth and tongue will be in great shape.
The Highs and Lows of Pacifier Use
We understand if you’re still on the fence about letting your baby use a pacifier. To help you decide, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of binky use.
The Upside of Pacifier Use
- Babies are naturally born to suck. Satisfying this reflex with a pacifier can give even the fussiest baby much joy and pleasure.
- A binky can help your baby’s voyage into dreamland. When putting a baby to sleep becomes challenging, a pacifier does the trick.
- A doctor’s visit can be a stressful time for most babies. During blood tests and shots, a pacifier may help distract your baby from pain or fear.
- Studies show that pacifier use during bedtime significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.
- Letting your baby use a pacifier during flights can lessen their discomfort and ear pain caused by air pressure.
The Downside of Pacifiers
Pacifiers have their downside, too. It’s best to consider the following cons before deciding.
- Letting your babies use a binky longer than they should may cause dental issues in the future. Experts recommend weaning them off their binkies from 12 -18 months.
- Babies may depend on the pacifier too much. You might face crying spells in the middle of the night when their precious binky falls off.
- A pacifier may interfere with breastfeeding. So, remember to start giving it once you’ve gotten the routine down pat. It usually happens between three to four weeks of your baby’s life.
How to Choose the Right Pacifier
Once you decide to go the pacifier route, it’s time to choose the right one for your baby. We’ve lessened your load, momma, and listed the factors you must consider when buying a pacifier. These features also guided us in creating the list of the best pacifiers for newborns.
Made from Safe Materials
We are all sticklers for safety when it comes to our baby’s things, especially those that go into their mouths. Silicone pacifiers are the safest option as they are longer-lasting and more durable than latex ones. This material is also dishwasher and sterilizer-safe. It also does not retain any odors. Just remember to pick BPA-free options for everyone’s peace of mind.
Passed Safety Standards
I know choosing the cutest or most funky-colored binkies in the baby gear section is tempting. However, we must consider the ones that passed the following safety recommendations outlined by the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP).
It’s also best to avoid pacifiers with novelty attachments like plastic ribbons, fake teeth, or mustaches. These variants have parts that may detach, putting your baby in a risky situation.
Just the Right Size
You can buy a pacifier for every stage of your baby’s growth. It’s crucial to choose the right size for your baby’s age. Newborn options are usually smaller than for older babies. One good advice is to stick to the brand that your baby loves and get them in various sizes.
Mouth-Friendly Shape
The pacifiers available in the market come in a variety of shapes. However, orthodontists recommend the ones with a flat bottom and a round top since they fit the mouth’s grooves perfectly. These orthodontic nipples can support your baby’s oral health and development.
Best Pacifiers for Breastfed Newborns
As parents of newborns, you need all the help you can get to survive the first few weeks. A pacifier can be one of the things that can get you and your baby through the day. We’ve asked moms in our community for recommendations on the best pacifiers for breastfed newborns, and they did not disappoint. Check out the list of pacifiers for breastfed babies.
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
Many breastfeeding moms hesitate to use it because it might lead to nipple confusion. However, many parenting pros highly recommend the Soothie because it closely resembles the shape and feel of a mother’s breast. In fact, these pacifiers are the number one choice of hospitals to give out to newborns.
It’s straight nipple design allows your baby’s tongue to lay naturally while they are sucking. It also has a broad base that fits their mouth perfectly. Additionally, this silicone pacifier comes in one piece, so there are no smaller parts to worry about.
MAM Original Start Newborn Baby Pacifier
If you want to take a break from breastfeeding for a few hours, then the MAM pacifier is a great option. The textured silicone and the flexible nipple feel a lot like a momma’s breast, providing a familiar experience for your newborn.
This shape-shifter also conforms to your little one’s mouth, so parents don’t have to worry about any teeth issues in the future. Lastly, one pack of two comes with a microwaveable case. You can sterilize the pacifier by placing it inside, adding water, then microwaving it for a few minutes.
Tommee Tippee Ultra-Light Silicone Pacifier
This small, lightweight pacifier is perfect for your newborn’s tiny, fragile face. It won’t overwhelm or provide unnecessary weight on their lips. This 2.4 oz binky will most likely stay in the mouth, especially since your little ones can’t control it alone. Additionally, there is no right or wrong side because of the nipple’s asymmetrical shape.
One of the notable features of the Tommee Tippee is that it offers sizes for up to 36 months – something that’s rare in the pacifier world. So, if your baby loves it so much, you could buy one appropriate for their age – no need to say goodbye to the familiar feeling. Lastly, this newborn pacifier is made from anti-static materials, keeping dust and dirt away.
Boon Jewel Pacifier
Finally, a pacifier that’s so cute and chic! But it’s not all about the trendy design; it packs in good features, too. This one-piece wonder has a one-of-a-kind nipple that’s shaped like a gem, allowing a snug fit inside your baby’s mouth. The design also promotes correct tongue positioning.
You’ll also appreciate that it’s dishwasher-safe and easy to clean. It also comes in eye-catching colors to match your little one’s wardrobe because It’s never too early to be fashionista.
Best Orthodontic Pacifiers for Newborns
There has always been a stigma behind pacifier use. It is mainly because of the fear that it might interfere with the baby’s oral development. Over the years, manufacturers have teamed up with pediatric dentists and orthodontists to develop mouth-friendly options.
We’ve gathered the best orthodontic pacifiers that soothe your baby while ensuring their teeth develop the way they should.
Chicco Physioforma Pacifier
Do you know why parents trust this orthodontic pacifier? It is because an advisory team of pediatricians, orthodontists, and neonatologists have come up with the pacifier’s unique design. Its construction facilitates unobstructed airflow, making breathing better. The paci’s narrow base and orthodontic-compliant nipples ensure the baby won’t have oral development issues down the road.
Because of the built-in handle, your baby’s little hands will have an easy time gripping the Physioforma. Additionally, the binky comes with a washable case that protects it from dirt and dust. Clean-up is also a breeze! You can just blast it in the microwave with a case; after three minutes, your baby can enjoy it again.
Nanobebe Baby Pacifier
A pacifier that keeps on falling from the mouth frustrates not only you but also your fussy baby. Don’t worry; this ergonomic pacifier comfortably stays in your little one’s mouth. Its softness and flexibility make it a favorite among moms. They noticed that babies quickly suck on the paci without hesitation.
Cleaning this orthodontist-recommended pacifier is also easy. Busy parents will appreciate being able to toss it in the dishwasher’s top rack. Imagine a calm baby plus one less chore to worry about. It’s bliss, isn’t it?
Nuk Comfy Orthodontic Pacifier
This pacifier set proves you don’t have to spend much to get good quality baby gear. It features a heart-shaped shield that lays perfectly under your child’s adorable nose. Babies love its BPA-free silicone nipple, too. The pacifier’s nipple shape and texture closely resemble a mother’s breast, offering a comforting familiarity; it also easily clips on pacifier holders for easy access.
Orthodontists recommend this binkie, making it a crowd favorite among many moms. One momma claims that her baby loves it and won’t take anything else. A big reason for the paci love is the asymmetrically-shaped nipple that has found a perfect spot in the mouth.
Smilo Baby Pacifier
The American Academy of Pediatrics gave their seal of approval to this pacifier. It’s a well-deserved accolade, given the expertise provided by the team of pediatric dentists responsible for its design. It comes in four stages, so there’s an appropriate variant for your child, whether they’re discovering their sucking reflex for the first time or just yearning for some comfort.
This BPA-free binkie is low maintenance, too. You just wash it in the dishwasher, and your baby can enjoy it again after a few minutes. Did I mention that it’s glow-in-the-dark too? It’s such a cool feature for a pacifier.
Tips on Pacifier Use
Now that your heart is set on letting your baby use a binky, you must consider these tips.
- Follow your baby’s cues. Don’t force the paci If you see that they are not interested.
- Let the pacifier be your last resort. Try to exhaust all efforts that can calm your baby. If they’re still fussy after feeding, rocking, and changing their nappies, it’s time to bring in the binky.
- Never coat the pacifier with sugar or syrup. Doing this will lead to oral problems, interfering with their palate’s natural development.
- Check for wear and tear regularly. Discard damaged pacifiers immediately.
- Keep the binky clean. Wash and sterilize it before giving it to your baby.
- Control the urge to “wash” it with your mouth, as it might do more harm than good.
- Avoid attaching the pacifier to a strap or a string that might wrap around your baby’s neck.
Pick the Best Pacifier for Your Newborn
Choosing the best pacifier for your newborn is a gift that will benefit them in the long run. It ensures they get the comfort they need while supporting their oral health. I know the baby gear aisle can get pretty overwhelming, so we hope that this guide can help you pick the right one for your precious munchkin.
Share your funny, heartwarming, and even scary binky stories below. We would love to know what you think about pacifier use. If your bub is obsessed with a specific paci, let us know, too!
Like this post? Click on the image below to share it on Pinterest!
