7 Best Preemie Pacifiers
Written by Mindsmaking Commerce Writer
Fact Checked by Mindsmaking Professionals
4th, June, 2025
A good preemie pacifier is soft, lightweight, and specially designed for tiny mouths to provide comfort. We’ve rounded up the 7 best preemie pacifiers that are gentle, safe, and loved by both parents and their little ones.
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Bringing a premature baby into the world can be both beautiful and overwhelming. Since preemies are born before their bodies are fully developed, they often require additional support, particularly in areas such as feeding and comfort.
One helpful tool many Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) use is a preemie pacifier. These tiny pacifiers are specially designed for the delicate mouths of premature babies and can do much more than just soothe. They help promote oral development, improve sucking reflexes, and can even make feeding easier over time (1).
For a preemie who needs a pacifier, the right one can boost comfort and development.
With numerous options available on the market, selecting the best can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research. Here are the safest, most effective preemie pacifiers for your baby.
Here's a sneak peek of our 7 Best Preemie Pacifiers
How We Choose the Best Preemie Pacifiers
Dealing with an unexpected early birth can feel like too much at once. With so many new responsibilities and concerns, finding the right pacifier shouldn’t add more stress. For premature babies, the right pacifier isn't just about soothing. It's about supporting their development during a very delicate stage of life.
Since preemies often face unique challenges with feeding, sucking, and self-soothing, we took extra care in researching and selecting the best pacifiers tailored to their needs. Here’s what we considered when making our recommendations:
Safe, Baby-Friendly Materials: We focused on medical-grade silicone and other non-toxic, latex-free pacifiers. They needed to be free from harmful chemicals like benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), to ensure they’re safe for daily use on sensitive skin and developing mouths (3).
Soft and Flexible Nipple: A preemie pacifier should have a soft, pliable nipple to mimic the natural feel of breastfeeding. This not only provides comfort but also helps stimulate the sucking reflex and support oral muscle development both crucial for feeding readiness.
Easy to Clean: Cleanliness is essential when caring for premature babies. We selected pacifiers that are easy to sterilize by boiling or using a steam sterilizer. The simpler the cleaning, the easier it is to maintain good hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.
Proper Size for Preemies: Size matters, especially for tiny mouths. We chose pacifiers specifically designed for preemies or those labeled for newborns aged 0–6 months (1). These smaller designs are safer and more comfortable for early-born babies.
Our 7 Best Preemie Pacifiers
Dr. Brown's HappyPaci 100% Silicone Baby Pacifier
Why we like
- Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, safe and BPA-free.
- Orthodontic design supports healthy oral development.
- One-piece construction makes it easy to clean and hygienic.
- Lightweight and flexible, soothing for babies without irritating their skin.
Something to Note
- Some babies may need time to adjust to the orthodontic shape.
- Not all colors or styles may be available in every store.
- Silicone can sometimes feel firmer than latex pacifiers.
Customer’s Review
This parent used Avent pacifiers for their first two babies, but their third fell in love with these new ones with the bottle set. Despite Avent’s reputation for mimicking breastfeeding, these pacifiers appealed even more to their preemie. The baby now refuses Avent altogether. They found them worth the money and a great baby shower gift, especially on sale.
K, a 2-month-old, has made it clear, this pacifier is her absolute favorite. Her mom tried several brands and styles, but none compared to the others. It’s the only one that truly works for them. It's a go-to choice for fussy little ones.
Medela Baby Pacifier
Why we like
- The ultra-lightweight design makes it easy for newborns to keep in their mouths.
- Designed with orthodontic support to aid natural oral development.
- BPA- and BPS-free, ensuring safety for infants.
- Comes with a sterilizing case for easy, hygienic cleaning on the go.
Something to Note
- Limited color or style options, depending on the seller.
- Some parents report it popping out easily due to its lightweight.
- Not all models come with a handle, which may affect attachment to pacifier clips.
Customer’s Review
One mom shared how these pacifiers were a game-changer for her newborn with a sensitive gag reflex. Smaller than the hospital ones, they were easier for her daughter to hold and use. She loved the loop for attaching clips, found them simple to clean, and appreciated that they were more affordable than MAM pacifiers.
These pacifiers were a hit with one mom’s newborn, thanks to their MAM-like shape and perfect size for smaller babies. Her older son loved them so much that she returned for more. However, her younger son was an interesting proof that every baby has their own preference.
Chicco PhysioForma One Piece Pacifier
Why we like
- Developed with pediatric experts to promote proper tongue placement and healthy oral development.
- Made from 100% soft silicone with a hygienic, one-piece design that reduces the risk of bacteria buildup.
- Designed with ventilation holes to encourage airflow and help prevent skin irritation around the mouth.
- Features satin-textured silicone that is soft, flexible, and comfortable for babies.
Something to Note
- The silicone material can attract lint and dust, requiring regular cleaning.
- Must be correctly sized by age group, as improper sizing may affect comfort and fit
Customer’s Review
This pacifier greatly relieved a parent whose child finally took to it after trying others. Finding the right one can be challenging, so discovering this match made all the difference.
After trying a variety of pacifiers, this parent found these to be the clear winner for their son. Of all the options, these stood out as the most loved and reliable choice.
Tommee Tippee Breast-Like Pacifier
Why we like
- Designed to mimic the natural flex, stretch, and movement of a breastfeeding nipple for easy transition between breast and pacifier.
- Made from ultra-soft, skin-like silicone for a familiar and comforting feel.
- Curved shield and large air holes reduce the chance of skin irritation
Something to Note
- The wider nipple shape may not suit all babies, especially those used to traditional pacifiers.
- Slightly bulkier than standard designs, which might not fit comfortably for smaller infants.
- Some parents report that the silicone wears out more quickly with frequent use.
Customer’s Review
This mom finally found success after her baby girl rejected every other pacifier; these were the game-changers. Now, her little one takes them happily, and she highly recommends them to other parents still searching for the right fit.
Her son quickly settled with this pacifier, falling asleep after some fussing. She preferred it over 100% silicone because it better mimics a real nipple, and she loved the neutral colors, too.
Nanobebe Baby Pacifiers
Why we like
- The pacifier features a curved shape that contours comfortably around the baby's nose and chin, ensuring a secure fit and reducing the likelihood of falling out.
- Designed to prevent nipple confusion, making it suitable for breastfed babies transitioning between breast and pacifier.
- Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, free from BPA and phthalates, adhering to safety guidelines set by pediatric associations
- The one-piece construction is dishwasher-safe and can be sterilized, ensuring hygiene and convenience for parents.
Something to Note
- The silicone material can attract dust and lint, necessitating frequent cleaning to maintain hygiene.
- Some parents have noted that the pacifier may be too small for older babies, potentially requiring a size upgrade as the baby grows.
- The design lacks a loop or handle, making it challenging to attach to pacifier clips or retrieve easily if dropped.
Customer’s Review
One Mom Said, “This is one of her favorite pacifier brands.”She’s bought it for all four of her kids without any issues. Her babies always took to them easily, so she highly recommends and plans to keep repurchasing.
Another Mom said, “This is the only pacifier her baby will accept. It’s lightweight and features a side hole for attaching a string so that it won’t get lost.”
Simply Rubber Pacifiers
Why we like
- Crafted from 100% natural rubber and handcrafted in Italy, these pacifiers offer a soft, flexible feel that closely mimics the breast, providing comfort for babies.
- The one-piece design enhances safety by eliminating joints where bacteria accumulate and simplifying cleaning.
- Available in various sizes, including preemie options with shorter nipples, they cater to different age groups and reduce the risk of gagging.
- The soft, circular shield is designed to touch the baby's nose, simulating breastfeeding and providing additional comfort.
Something to Note
- Natural rubber pacifiers require more frequent replacement, typically every 6–8 weeks, as the material can expand and degrade over time.
- The rubber material can attract dust and lint, necessitating regular cleaning to maintain hygiene.
- They are unsuitable for babies with latex allergies, as natural rubber contains latex proteins that can cause allergic reactions.
- Natural rubber pacifiers are sensitive to light and heat and must be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Customer’s Review
One mom mentioned that the size is perfectly comfortable for the baby to hold and easy for the parents to clean and use daily.
“When my baby struggled with regular pacifiers, this one was the perfect fit, natural, safe, and made from one solid piece,” Another Mom said. As she grew, we kept choosing this brand because she loved it, and I feel confident knowing there’s no plastic involved.
Ryan & Rose Cutie PAT All-in-One Pacifier and Teether
Amazon
Why we like
Something to Note
Customer’s Review
What to Look Out for When Shopping for a Preemie Pacifier
Not all pacifiers are created equal, especially when it comes to preemies. Because premature babies have different developmental needs, it’s important to choose a pacifier that’s made with their safety and comfort in mind. Before you pick one up, here are some key things to consider when choosing a pacifier for your preemie:
- It’s important to choose a pacifier specifically designed for preemies. These pacifiers are typically smaller and shaped to support healthy oral development without causing discomfort.
- Go for pacifiers made from medical-grade silicone or other latex-free materials. These are gentle on sensitive skin and reduce the risk of allergies or irritation. Also, ensure the plastic components are free from harmful chemicals like BPA and DEHP(3).
- Pacifiers with ventilation holes are a smart choice(1). They help keep your baby’s skin dry by allowing airflow and preventing the buildup of saliva around the mouth, which can reduce the chances of rashes and skin irritation.
- A soft, flexible nipple is ideal for preemies. It mimics the natural feel of breastfeeding and helps stimulate the sucking reflex gently, which is important for feeding development and comfort.
- Safety always comes first. Avoid pacifiers with small or removable parts that could pose a choking hazard. A one-piece design is often the safest option for newborns, especially for preemies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pacifiers are best for premature babies?
Pacifiers specially designed for preemies like those labeled “NICU” or “preemie” are best. They're smaller, softer, and shaped to fit tiny mouths comfortably and safely.
Are pacifiers safe for preemies in the NICU?
Yes, they’re often used in the NICU! Pacifiers can comfort preemies, help with sucking practice, and even support feeding development, always under medical supervision.
When can I introduce a pacifier to my preemie?
Usually, once your baby is stable and shows signs of sucking, the NICU team may introduce a pacifier. Always follow your baby’s care team’s guidance.
Do pacifiers help premature babies learn to suck?
Absolutely! Pacifiers promote non-nutritive sucking, which helps preemies develop the skills needed for bottle or breastfeeding.