One mama you know swears by non-toxic natural rubber pacifiers while another insists that they’re not worth the expense because your little one will go through pacifiers faster than diapers. Then there’s the mom who tells you not to use soothers at all because they cause nipple confusion and will ruin your child’s teeth. Who knew something so small could require so much thought?

Here’s the good news: there’s no evidence that pacifiers interfere with breastfeeding and they only tend to cause dental problems and bite issues (such as overbite) if they’re used past the age of two. They may even reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and cavities. 

Which Pacifier Style Should You Choose?

Silicone rounded pacifiers feature a nipple shaped like a small ball (or a flattened ball) while orthodontic pacifiers are flat on the bottom and round on the top. Studies have shown that orthodontic pacifiers are better for the development of a baby’s palate and jaw.

Which Pacifier Material Is Best?

Pacifier nipples come in three materials:

1. Silicone: These nipples are strong, durable, easy to clean and don’t retain odors. But they aren’t as soft and flexible as latex.
2. Latex: Nipples made from latex are softer, but they wear out quickly and tend to retain odors. If your child has a latex allergy, you’ll need to avoid these pacifiers.
3. Natural rubber: One-piece natural rubber pacifiers are a great choice for parents who want to avoid harmful toxins. While all pacifiers have been BPA-free since 1999, natural rubber pacifiers are also free from chemicals such as PVC, phthalates, parabens, chemical softeners and artificial colorants. They tend to be more rigid than silicone or latex, but some babies prefer the solid feel. They’re also more expensive than traditional pacifiers.

Pacifier Safety Tips

Here a few important safety guidelines to follow when choosing and using pacifiers:

• Choose the right size: Pacifiers come in different sizes – generally 0-6 months, 6-18 months and 18 months and up – so buy the right size to ensure it soothes your child and doesn’t present a safety hazard.
• Inspect the shield: It should be at least 1 ½ inches across to prevent your child from putting the entire pacifier in their mouth and choking on it. It should also feature ventilation holes to let air through in the unlikely event your little one manages to get it in their mouth.
• Consider one-piece: They don’t have cracks that retain bacteria and won’t break apart and cause choking.
• Replace them frequently: If your child’s pacifier is worn out (holes or tears), sticky or discolored, it’s time to replace it. 
• Use a short teether: Never tie your child’s pacifier to their clothes or crib with a piece of string or ribbon because it could cause strangulation. Use short tethers or clips specifically designed for pacifiers instead.
• Don’t make your own: Some parents use bottle nipples as pacifiers, but they can pose a choking hazard.
• Wash before use: This is especially important for silicone and latex nipples that may contain harmful chemicals.