5 Best Pacifiers Moms are Talking About

Stock Up! Keep multiple pacifiers on hand—stash them in your home, car, and diaper bag. Having extras ensures you’re always prepared, especially when one inevitably hits the floor or goes missing!
The most prevalent type of pacifier in the United States dates back to the early 1900s and was created by Christian W. Meinecke, known then as a baby comforter. (5) Today, pacifiers come in various sizes, shapes, colours, and materials to suit various preferences. Despite these variations, their fundamental purpose remains consistent: to simulate the natural sucking action of babies and to soothe them between feedings or when they are distressed.   Regarding soothing a fussy baby, pacifiers can be a lifesaver for parents. They offer comforthelp calm irritable infants, and might even reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), though research on this is still ongoing. (3) However, pacifiers do have some potential downsides. Prolonged use can lead to dental issues like crossbites and overbites, to nipple confusion (particularly in breastfed babies) and may become a tough habit to break as the child gets older. Therefore, using pacifiers properly is key to reaping their benefits while minimising drawbacks.   As your child grows, their pacifier needs will change. It’s important to choose pacifiers that support different stages of oral development. Our guide today features 10 of the best pacifiers for breastfed babies in 2024. These options provide comfort and promote healthy oral development, helping you make a well-informed choice.

How we Choose the Best Pacifiers

Finding the ideal pacifier for your breastfed baby can be quite a task. We’ve extensively searched online to compile a list of pacifiers highly recommended by parents. Factors such as cost, materials, ease of cleaning, shape, size, and ventilation were carefully considered to ensure our pacifier recommendations are perfect for your little one.

 

When selecting a pacifier for your baby, the most important factor is finding one they will accept and use comfortably. However, despite their similar appearances, there are significant differences among baby pacifiers available on the market. We also adhered to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines on pacifier safety and practical use. Some pacifiers came highly recommended by these experts, while others matched expert advice and garnered thousands of positive reviews from parents. 

 

Additionally, experts advise against overly complex pacifiers with attachments, like toys or plastic decorations, as these can detach and pose safety hazards.  (2)

We excluded any options that did not meet these safety recommendations to ensure we only featured the safest pacifiers. This approach prioritises both comfort and safety for your baby.

ID: best

Best Pacifier Overall

Philip AVENT Soothie Pacifier

Best Pacifier Overall
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Why we like it

  • Durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Soft nipple
  • Symmetrical shape for jaw and teeth development

Something to Note

  • The hold tab is minimal
  • Round shape means they can roll away if dropped
  • Traps moisture easily.

Customer’s Review

A mom recently shared her experience with these pacifiers, and it’s too good not to share! Here’s what she had to say:

“These pacifiers are a total game-changer! They come with holes that let you easily attach them to a pacifier ‘keeper’ (leash), so you can clip them right to your baby’s shirt. No more lost pacifiers!

And the best part? They can go through the dishwasher over and over again without getting cloudy, cracking, or degrading. They’re incredibly durable—I’ve tugged on them pretty hard, and they don’t rip or tear.

Another thoughtful feature is the hole on the outside of the nipple, which lets you help your baby position it just right. Plus, the one-piece design means I don’t have to worry about any parts coming apart. Just make sure you get the right size for your little one!”

These moms’ rave reviews highlight everything we love about these pacifiers. Durable, easy to clean, and designed with both parents and babies in mind—what more could you ask for? If you’re on the hunt for the perfect pacifier, look no further!

ID: bestone

Best Pacifier for Newborn

Tommee Tippee Ultra-Light Silicone Pacifier

Best Pacifier for Newborn
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Why we like it

  • Curved design results in minimal skin contact.
  • Lightweight, making it easy for babies to hold in their mouths.
  • Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
  • Available in different colours

Something to Note

  • Some babies may not like shape
  • Slightly more expensive than some alternatives

Customer’s Review

A mom recently raved about the Tommee Tippee pacifier, calling it a game-changer for naps and nighttime. She highlighted its ultra-lightweight design, which allows even the youngest babies to keep it in their mouths longer — a lifesaver for parents looking for a few extra winks.

 

She also loves the one-piece construction, which simplifies cleaning. “I regularly check them for wear and tear, but they’ve proven to be sturdy and durable,” she says. “Once we tried these, my baby didn’t want the other kinds.” 

 

This mom’s review underscores why the Tommee Tippee is a must-try for any parent seeking convenience and peace of mind!

ID: bestThree

Best Pacifier for Breastfed Babies

Nanobébé Flexy Pacifier

Best Pacifier for Breastfed Babies
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Why we like it

  • Soft, lightweight and ergonomic shape
  • Eliminate nipple confusion to calm and soothe your little one with ease
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Easiest to clean
  • It comes in affordable multipacks

Something to Note

  • There is no hole to attach a clip
  • Stage 2 is better for mobile babies
  • You may need to switch to a larger size sooner.

Customer’s Review

One mom’s search for the perfect pacifier for her newborn led her to the Nanobebe Active Baby Pacifiers — and she couldn’t be happier! She found that the pacifier’s clever design mirrors the shape of the Nanobebe bottles her baby already loves. This familiar shape made the transition from bottle to pacifier a breeze, with her baby instantly recognizing and accepting it.

Jonathan Rovnyak, an infant mom, says  she also loves the soft silicone construction, which is gentle on her baby’s delicate skin. Unlike traditional plastic pacifiers, the Nanobebe’s silicone conforms to her baby’s mouth without leaving marks, making it comfortable for long periods. The contoured shield ensures proper airflow, preventing irritation, while the orthodontic shape supports healthy oral development.

This mom appreciated the one-piece design for its safety, with no small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Plus, the consistency between the Nanobebe bottles and pacifiers streamlines their daily routine, making switching between them effortless. If you’re on the hunt for a pacifier that matches your baby’s needs and supports healthy development, the Nanobebe pacifiers could be the solution you’ve been looking for!

ID: bestFour

Best Pacifier for Bottle-fed Babies

Dr. Brown HappyPaci 100% Silicone Pacifier

Best Pacifier for Bottle-fed Babies
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Why we like it

  • Soft, lightweight,
  • Affordable
  • Designed to mimic Dr. Brown's bottle nipple shape and size
  • Dishwasher safe

Something to Note

  • Younger babies might struggle to keep this pacifier in their mouths due to its bulky design.
  • The elongated nipple may be challenging for very young babies to manage.
  • Its larger size is more appropriate for slightly older infants.

Customer’s Review

One mom couldn’t believe her luck when she stumbled upon the perfect pacifier for her baby who has food allergies and reflux. After receiving one in a pack of Dr. Brown’s bottles, she saw her baby’s clear preference and immediately ordered six more.

Her baby often needs a bottle to sleep, but this pacifier helps them drift off without needing a “snack,” making it a real game-changer for sleep routines. She loves the seamless, one-piece silicone design that’s not only super easy to clean but also features a big loop. This loop makes it harder to drop, easy for little hands to grasp, and perfect for attaching to a pacifier strap.

Another mom found that the claim on the packaging is true: these pacifiers do make the transition between Dr. Brown’s bottles and pacifiers easier! If you’re looking for a pacifier that can seamlessly fit into your baby’s feeding and sleeping routine, these might just be your new go-to.

ID: bestFive

Best Pacifier for Teething

Ryan and Rose Cutie PAT Pacifier and Teether

Best Pacifier for Teething
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Why we like it

  • Pacifier and a teether in one
  • Handle is a teething ring
  • Available in different colours
  • Attractive design
  • Dishwasher safe

Something to Note

  • Expensive
  • Nipple is thin
  • May be too large for babies

Customer’s Review

One mom shared her success story with the Ryan & Rose Cutie Pat starter pack, which offers various pacifier shapes. Her first son immediately took to the flat style and adored it. She was impressed by the durability and high quality, noting that even through teething, the pacifiers showed no signs of wear. Plus, they’re easy for little hands to pick up.

Her second son, who also loves the flat style, has used them even more extensively. The real test came when he contracted thrush at daycare, requiring nightly boiling of bottles and pacifiers for two weeks. Despite this intense cleaning routine, the pacifiers remained in perfect condition. She’s thrilled with how brand new they still look and couldn’t be happier with her choice. If you’re looking for durable and easy-to-clean pacifiers that your baby will love, Ryan & Rose might just be your answer!

What to Look out for While Shopping for a Pacifier

 

Ultimately, your baby will decide which pacifier they prefer when things get challenging. However, when choosing pacifiers, keep a few key considerations in mind. Consider your baby’s age and whether they’re being breastfed or bottle-fed (or your future plans). Select a range of pacifiers that match their current feeding experience. If you’re breastfeeding, consulting a lactation expert can provide useful recommendations for suitable pacifiers. When evaluating pacifiers, look for the following features. 

 

Size and age range: Pacifiers come in various sizes, typically chosen based on your baby’s preference. However, pacifiers are generally smaller for newborns to accommodate their tiny mouths.

Shape: Pacifier nipples are usually either rounded or flat (orthodontic). Rounded nipples may be easier for babies, especially newborns, to suck on, but they don’t flatten in the mouth like orthodontic nipples, which mimic breastfeeding more closely. Ultimately, the best shape depends on what your baby finds most comfortable.

Materials: Silicone is a popular material for pacifiers due to its softness, flexibility, and safety for all ages. Other options include rubber and latex, and these materials are usually BPA-free.

Design: While a simple design is often sufficient, features like ventilated mouth shields or orthodontic nipples can be advantageous, helping to distinguish one pacifier from another.

Features for specific needs: A pacifier that mimics the breast can be beneficial for breastfed babies. Look for a soft, wide base and a straight nipple, which helps keep the baby’s tongue in a similar position to nursing.

A Note from MindsMaking

A pacifier can provide comfort and meet your baby’s natural urge to suck for reasons other than hunger, aiding in self-soothing. Research indicates that pacifier use may help lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While not essential for every parent or baby, it can be a valuable tool for some families. If you use a pacifier, ensure it’s the correct size for your baby’s age and consult your paediatrician for advice. Since babies have individual preferences, trying out multiple pacifier brands and styles can help you find the most suitable one. Our thorough testing and recommendations are designed to guide you in making the best choice for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pacifiers safe for newborns? +

Can pacifiers help reduce gas? +

Silicone or latex pacifiers, which one is better? +

What is an orthodontic pacifier? +

Is it okay for babies to sleep with pacifiers? +

When should I wean my baby off the pacifier? +

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