As a mom, the last thing you ever want to see is your baby crying profoundly.
Although some babies are naturally calm and don’t give their moms too many things to worry about.
Other babies’ natural inclination is to cry most times, especially when they’re not sleeping or breastfeeding.
For babies in this category, there’s no doubt that they’ll give their moms a lot to worry about.
This is because you’ll have to spend more time babysitting or breastfeeding them. Which in most cases is difficult.
To keep these babies calm most of the time you need to get a pacifier. That way, you can have some time for yourself and not bother much about your baby crying.
In this post, we’ll provide you with comprehensive insight on how you can stop your baby from crying profoundly at all times using a pacifier.
Also, we’ll review the 11 best pacifiers for breastfed babies and newborns in 2023.
Are you ready?
Okay, let’s get started.
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Table of Contents
Best Pacifier for Breastfed Babies: Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall Pacifiers For Breastfed Babies: Philips AVENT SCF190/01 Soothie Pacifier
Philips AVENT Soothie Snuggle PacifierIt is easy to understand why Philips AVENT pacifiers top the list of our pacifiers—having been around since 1984, and also one of the leading brands in manufacturing baby products.
This pacifier is present and distributed in most hospitals across the states. It is made from hospital grade, BPA free silicone material, which makes it soft, durable, and safe for your baby.
Since it doesn’t get colored easily, the pacifier comes with a reliable and robust nipple making it smooth and difficult to wear out of shape.
It is designed for babies up to the age of three months and also meets the American Academy of Pediatrics requirement for newborns.
Philips AVENT comes in six different packages giving you a wide choice of colors option to choose and use for your baby.
The nipple with its orthodontic shape is designed to look exactly like a breast, and it goes straight into your baby’s mouth with ease. You can clean and sterilize it easily, either through the use of a dishwasher or immersed in warm water for up to five minutes.
Pros
- It is very affordable.
- Different color options
- Various size options for babies
- Durable and hospital-grade silicone
- Broad base to prevent babies from swallowing and choking
Cons
- Too big for some babies’ mouth to handle.
- Baby’s finger often gets stuck in it.
2. Best Natural-like Pacifier For Breastfed Babies: Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Pacifier
This is another pacifier that moms love for their babies.
It is manufactured from ultra-soft silicone, making it comfortable in your baby’s mouth.
It comes in two different sizes for babies between 0 to 6 months old, and babies between 6 to 18 months, respectively.
That way, you get the flexibility you desire and worry less about choosing the best pacifier for your baby.
Since it is made from silicone, there is no BPA or BPS or any other harmful material, hence making it safe for your baby’s use.
The crafting of the pacifier is inspired by the shape of a natural nipple in mind, making it more attractive to your baby. It also comes with a curve and holes around its base that facilitates steady airflow.
Perhaps, if you are among moms who worry about using a pacifier because of the obstruction of airflow? Then Tommee Tippee pacifier got you covered.
Also, since it is made from silicone, you can clean it easily. It also harbors no germs or any microbial that could threaten the safety of your baby.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Has holes for airflow
- Close to nipple design
- Sturdy and good design
Cons
- Baby’s fingers could get stuck in the hole
3. Best Pacifier For Preemies: Nanobebe Pacifiers
Do you have a 0-3 months old baby?
Or, has your baby been giving you nightmare due to difficulty in latching?
Look no further, Nanobebe pacifier is your best shot that will teach your baby how to self soothe.
It makes babies’ transition to a pacifier seamless.
Not only that, its sleek design makes it fit perfectly inside your baby’s mouth without difficulty—and hence fosters oral growth.
With its cute curved and soft silicone, Nanobebe Pacifier makes suckling easy for babies and also prevents nipple confusion.
The shape conforms with your baby’s mouth, hence eliminating any worries you might have of your baby choking.
I love the fact that it has varieties of colors to choose from and also holes for ventilation.
Since it is made from silicone ultra-soft, it is safe to use, and each comes in two packs.
If you need a pacifier that is smaller than what the hospital gives you, then Nanobebe pacifier is your best shot.
Pros
- It is BPA, phthalate-free
- An ideal choice for preemies
- Comes with a full guarantee
- Available in four different colors
Cons
- Ideal for short nipples
- Could cause skin irritation
4. Best Orthodontic Pacifier For Breastfed Babies: Chicco PhysioForma 100% Soft Silicone One-Piece Pacifier
The Chicco PhysioForma pacifier is not only designed for soothing and baby’s comfort in mind but also to facilitates the breathing and oral growth of your baby.
This pacifier is backed by its world-leading experts such as paediatricians, orthodontists, and even neonatologists. It is also BPA and latex-free.
Its craftiness comes with a unique design and curves that ensure your baby gets an even distribution while using it.
Also, it is designed in such a way that your baby’s tongue palate has a uniform pressure, and with its kind of base, your baby will have no worries closing his mouth.
It also has holes for ventilation, and to keep your moist balance.
Cleaning a pacifier has never been this easy, as Chicco PhysioForma comes with a case that makes sterilizing seamless for you.
All you need to do is put the pacifier in its case and microwave it in less than three minutes.
Pros
- Safe and secure to use
- Has a case for sterilization
- Can be used by six months old baby
- Holes for airflow and moisture balance
Cons
- Nipple could turn out to be long
- It could be cumbersome for some babies
5. Best Pacifier for Soothing Breastfed Babies: The First Years Gumdrop Newborn Pacifiers
If your baby likes to relate with colors, then a First-Year Gumdrop Pacifier that comes in bright colors is your choice.
The pacifier is made from soft silicone making it easy for your baby’s use.
If you’re afraid that your pacifier will come in contact with your baby’s skin and probably cause irritation. No worries, this pacifier won’t.
The First Years Gumdrop comes in one-piece so it can be used at a go without worries of its parts falling off.
I love the fact that the design takes your baby’s nose into consideration. Hence, it won’t get to your baby’s nose, ensuring that they get enough breathable air.
I like to be prepared for unforeseen happening, and I am sure you do too?
With this pacifier that comes in five different packs, you will always have an extra clean pacifier in your bag.
It is free from BPA, Phthalate, and latex and manufactures majorly for babies around ages 0- 3 months.
Pros
- Available in five packs
- Comes in a piece makeup
- BPA free and hospital grade
- Makes breathing ease for your baby
Cons
- Only available for babies between 0-3 months
- Attracts hair strands easily
6. Best Pacifier for Tongue-tie: WubbaNub Brown Monkey Pacifier
The WubbaNub Brown Monkey pacifier is a two in one pacifier and serves the function of baby pacifier and toy with the attached monkey to its end.
If your baby is not using it as a pacifier, he/she can use it as a toy—or both simultaneously.
It can be used by babies up to six months old, and you don’t need to get another one after your baby past the third-month mark.
It is also lightweight: hence enabling the pacifier to stay long in your baby’s mouth and also facilitate a longer suction.
Think about Philips AVENT soothe plus a baby’s companion, and then you have WubbaNub since they are connected.
This companion friend comes in a variety of animals like monkeys, lobsters, and Giraffe, etc.
WubbaNub is not only an ideal pacifier, but it is also BPA, PVC, phthalate, and latex-free. Coupled with medical-grade silicone, which makes it soft and safe to use.
With its round design nipple, piling dirt up isn’t an issue, hence you don’t need to worry about gummy fragments.
Pros
- A match for babies between 0-6 months
- It has no BPA, PVC, and phthalate constituents.
- It is difficult to misplace.
Cons
- Not your regular price pacifier
7. Best Nighttime Pacifier For Breastfed Babies: MAM Start Newborn Pacifiers
There are pacifiers that do the work of a pacifier, but only a few give babies the natural rhythm of breastfeeding without milk.
This is what MAM Start Newborn Pacifiers does for your baby. It is no doubt a well-known brand in the industry.
The pacifier enables your baby to soothe and suck seamlessly and harmlessly.
Putting your baby’s safety and health into consideration, it has wide holes for air ventilation.
To ensure that it doesn’t block the baby’s entire face while this pacifier is in their mouth, the unique design curved shape comes handy. It is also BPA, BPS, and lead-free.
Another feature that captures attention is the fact that this pacifier radiates and beam in darkness.
Made from silicone, the nipple is ultra-soft, comes with a surface feature that ensures that it holds firm in your baby’s hand.
It also comes in four different sizes and can be used for babies at different stages. It is important to note that each size has its own custom design and nipples.
Pros
- Comes with a sterilized case
- Soft nipple like that of mom
- Easy to clean with microwave
- Firm handle design to prevent falling
Cons
- Sterilizingcould go wrong
- Takes time for water to dry off after the wash
8. Best Pacifier for Newborn Babies: Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus Newborn Pacifier
Having to pick up a falling pacifier time and time again irritates not only the baby but also the mom.
If you want a pacifier that will not only help your baby mimic the rhythm of natural breastfeeding but also have a firm grip, then Evenflo Feeding Balance is the best for you.
It is a perfect fit for babies between 0-6 months.
No doubt that using a pacifier at times causes fatigue; however, Evenflo Feeding Balance is designed to help reduce the fatigue that comes with using a pacifier.
One thing I love about it is its cylindrical shape, coupled with a very soft mom’s breast-like nipple, which enables your baby to soothe and suck with ease and comfort.
It is BPA, PVC, phthalate polycarbonates free, and conforms with the FDA standard set for food-grade material.
It comes with a resealable sanitization bag making cleaning in the microwave seamless and can be used over time for cleaning pacifiers.
Pros
- Reduces fatigue
- Easy to use and clean
- Have resealable steam sanitation bag
- Made from silicone material making it soft to use
Cons
- Color could wipe out easily
- Nipple could be too soft for some babies
9. Best Pacifier for Colic Babies: BIBS BPA-Free Natural Rubber Baby Pacifier
The Denmark-based company that produces this pacifier has been in the industry for over four decades and is being run as a family affair.
The BIBS BPA-Free baby pacifier comes with an exquisite and quality design and is widely regarded as moms’ first choice.
It is produced from natural rubber, making it free from harmful and toxic substances such as BPA, PVC, and phthalate.
It also gives your baby a close to perfect soothe and sucking experience. BIBS facilitates self soothe and sucking for your baby distinctively.
Also, since it is made from natural rubber, the softness of its nipples mimic that of mom’s breast.
And unlike other pacifiers that trap saliva and are microbial, it has holes around it that ensures enough ventilation which does not trap such saliva and microbes.
And if your baby likes colors, then it BIB comes in a variety of alluring colors that leave an everlasting expression on your baby’s face.
Pros
- Purely made from natural products
- Elegant and exquisite design
- Holes for airflow to prevent irritation
Cons
- Nipple is too long for some babies
10. Best Pacifier For Babies With Teeth: Ryan and Rose Cutie PAT Pacifier
If you are looking for a pacifier that’d serve your baby even when they develop teeth, then Ryan and Rose PAT pacifier is your best bet.
The pacifier comes in two types which are fit for babies without teeth and babies with teeth, respectively.
It is made from 100% medical-grade material, making it safe for you.
One thing I really love about this pacifier is that unlike others that might weaken your baby’s gum, you are on a safe hand with this pacifier. This is because its soft nipple works gently and softly on the gum of your baby.
Also, it comes in the one-piece design with a dishwasher that keeps it safe from microbes.
It also has holes for airflow that enable your baby to use it without any ventilation difficulties. The product is also FDA, and US CPSIA approved.
Pros
- Holes for ventilation
- Comes in multiples colors
- Come in one piece of design
- Has a clip for attachment
Cons
- Nipple not very durable
- Expensive compared to others
11. Best By Price: Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci 100% Silicone Pacifier, 0m+, Blue, 3 Count
The bottle-like made nipple pacifier by Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci is one of the foremost pacifiers in the industry.
The pacifier is specifically for babies between 0 to 3 months. It has a uniquely attractive and endearing butterfly shape making it easy to get your baby’s attention.
Another amazing feature is the contour-like shape which ensures that it is not a hindrance to your baby’s face.
The product is also lightweight, your baby won’t have to deal with fatigue.
It is made from medical grade silicone which is 100% safe, and free from substances like BPA.
If you’re washing by hand or using a dishwasher, this pacifier is easy to wash in seconds, and comes in different gleaming colors.
This is one pacifier that most moms love, and you can also give it your shot.
Pros
- It is lightweight
- No BPA, Phthalate
- Comes in glowing colors
- Safe and comfortable to use
- Soft nipple for baby’s comfort
Cons
- Some babies reject it
What is a Pacifier?
Pacifiers, which is also known as binky, soother, or paci, are nipple-like substances usually made from silicone (not necessarily though) that babies suck without getting any nutritional benefits in return.
If your baby gives you sleepless nights with persistent crying, then instead of using a sleep-inducing injection or drugs, you should rather get a pacifier.
Below is a YouTube video that goes into some specific details about what pacifiers are.
Types of Pacifiers
Pacifiers come in different styles and sizes, so you’ve got lots of options to choose from.
This varies depending on the brand and the material which it’s made from.
Here are the different types of pacifiers to choose from.
Silicone Pacifiers:
Undoubtedly, the most widely used and available pacifier in the market. They are easier to clean and durable than other types of pacifiers. Also, they are odor-free.
Latex pacifiers:
These are softer and more flexible than silicone pacifiers.
If your baby prefers soft and easy-to-chew things, then you want to go for latex pacifiers. Although, they can easily wear out because of its softness.
Please note that some babies can be allergic to latex, if your baby is one then you want to opt for silicone pacifiers.
Orthodontic Pacifiers:
When you see a pacifier with a flat bottom, and round top, then you are looking at an orthodontic pacifier.
It gives the best natural mimic to babies, and flattens your baby’s mouth hence giving it less pressure.
One-piece Design Pacifiers:
This comes in different materials such as plastic, silicone, or latex. Irrespective of the material it’s made from, they usually come in a single-piece construction. If you nurse the fear of choking, then this pacifier will be a great fit for you.
Multi-Piece Design Pacifiers:
It has a nipple, ring and other attachments which are produced selectively.
Shields:
Shields are known for their curved shapes. Some have their curves toward and away from the baby’s face. It also comes in different shapes and colors—and maybe at times, plastic shields for airflow.
Editor’s Note: Read our in-depth reviews of the best nipple shield for breastfeeding.
Ring or Button pacifiers:
Some pacifiers come with buttons, and others with rings. While the rings come handy for secure and firm grip, buttons make it easy for your baby to handle.
Choosing a Pacifier: How to Select the Best Pacifiers For Your Baby
Choosing a pacifier could be a daunting task especially if this is your first time doing so.
This is because you need to know the type of material of the pacifier and whether your baby will be allergic to it, and some other factors like size, etc.
That said, below are some recommended features you should check out before selecting a pacifier for your baby.
Nipple:
The texture of an ideal nipple should be soft and flexible. A soft nipple makes sucking easy and enhances oral growth.
A hard nipple, on the other hand, leads to fatigue, and uneasiness for your baby.
Nipple with a silky texture mimics mom’s natural breast and makes soothing come naturally.
Nipple Material:
As a mom, you must ensure the safety and well being of your baby. To do this, you must consider the material of the nipple.
Generally, nipples are made from silicone, even though those made from latex are softer. Sadly, most babies are allergic to nipples made from latex material.
We recommend that you should choose the nipple pacifier made from silicone; other moms go with this choice too.
Size:
Buying a pacifier that is too oversized or too small for your baby is like putting a square peg in a round hole.
And this could be hazardous to your baby, causing choking and discomfort to him/her.
Most brands have sizes that range from age: 0-3 months, 0-6 months, and even 6-18 months. Choosing the perfect size gives an ideal mouth fit for your baby.
Orthodontic:
Pacifiers have significant benefits, but orthodontic pacifiers do it better.
They help and facilitate the growth and development of your baby’s mouth.
Orthodontics helps your baby’s tongue and ease the pressure on their palate. Therefore, before buying any pacifier, double-check to be sure it is Orthodontic.
Shield:
At times, while using a pacifier, there is a tendency that babies could swallow it and end up choking themselves with it.
Shields prevent this from happening. When next you want to get a pacifier, ensure that it has a shield that will prevent your baby from swallowing it.
Easy to Clean:
A pacifier that doesn’t come with a dishwasher is not water-friendly. To prevent microbes and germs from the pacifier, check to confirm if it doesn’t require too much effort to clean it.
Price:
Some pacifiers are cost-effective; others will require that you break the bank to get them.
What matters most is getting the one that fits your baby and within the limit of your budget.
Accessories:
Who doesn’t like them? We all do.
Some pacifiers come with some accessories such as storage boxes and sterilization cases. The storage case enables you to keep your pacifier safe, especially if you have only one.
Editor’s note: Check out our comprehensive review of the best breast pump for working moms.
Pacifiers Dos and Don’ts For Parents
If you want to get the best out of your pacifier, then you should imbue some dos and don’ts. Below are some of them, to help you get the best value for your baby and not cause them harm in any way.
- Wait at least three weeks before you use a pacifier for your baby. This is because by then, your baby will have gained more weight and nutrients.
- Pacifiers that have dishwashers enabled and come with material made from silicones are highly recommended.
- Don’t give a pacifier to your baby regularly at the slightest sign of any provocation.
- Never force your baby to accept a pacifier. This might eventually harm them in the long run.
- Ensure that you have more than one pacifier with you. That way, you can always change them on the go.
- Your calmness and composure when using a pacifier for your baby, will make them either fall in love with it or hate it.
- Sterilization of your pacifier is a must. Ensure that you put this into regular practice.
Below is a YouTube video that also shares some dos and don’ts of a pacifier for parents.
How to Care and Clean Baby Pacifiers
Maintenance and care of a baby pacifier will go a long way in making it last longer. Here are some ways to care and clean baby pacifiers.
- Don’t attempt to clean your baby’s pacifier with the mouth or saliva
- Always put your pacifier in a safe place.
- Dispose of any pacifier that has a tear.
- Clean adequately and allow water to dry off before using it for your baby
Tips For Using A Pacifier With Breastfeeding
Using a pacifier with breastfeeding requires some tips and procedures. Below are a few of them:
- Do not forcefully insert a pacifier into your baby’s mouth, whether they are sleeping or awake.
- Never use a pacifier with its attachment or a chord on your baby. Babies could strangle their neck with a chord or attachment.
- Babies should be well fed before giving them pacifiers
- You should constantly clean baby’s pacifiers, as much as possible. This will eradicate any smell, repugnant odor, and be safe from germs.
- Avoid sticky substances like a plague. This could stall your baby’s oral growth
- Make sure you clean the baby pacifier before sterilization
Advantages of Using Baby Pacifiers
Using a baby pacifier comes with some advantages and disadvantages. Some advantages of using a baby pacifier include:
- Serves your baby well by helping them get more rest.
- Helps in self-soothing and to distract your baby in case of any medical examination.
- It prevents SID which has been a leading cause of death for babies in the last few years.
Disadvantages of Using Baby Pacifiers
- Mom’s addiction to pacifiers due to consistent use.
- Weaning will be more difficult as stopping the use of a pacifier will be a big challenge.
- Could cause air infection, which is a disease that babies have because of pacifiers.
Below is a YouTube video that also highlights the pros and cons of using a baby pacifier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pacifiers
Just like anyone, you might still be having some specific questions about pacifiers that you want answers to.
No worries, we are here to clear all your doubts.
Below are a few FAQs that we put together and believe that it’ll be useful for you.
When Should A Pacifier Be Replaced?
Generally, you want to replace your pacifier as soon as the nipple starts to worn out. This could be because your baby is developing teeth, and might have chewed the nipple.
It could also need replacement even without this, maybe your baby doesn’t find it useful again, but you still want a pacifier.
What’s more? A sticky and discolored pacifier is not something you want to use.
Does My Baby Need A Pacifier?
The default answer to this is NO. That said, there are several benefits that come with using a pacifier for your baby. These include:
Enhances your baby suckling ability and promotes self soothe for babies.
It enables babies to get some airflow that could prevent sudden infant death syndrome.
If your baby likes to suck continuously even with no need for breast milk; then, a pacifier comes handy.
When Should I Introduce A Pacifier?
It is important that you introduce a pacifier to your baby at the right time. And this is usually between the third to fourth week of birth.
Introducing a pacifier earlier than this could cause a series of problems.
If done too early, your baby could face latching problems, and if at any stage of using the pacifier your baby isn’t feeding well, then you want to delay it a bit.
How Many Pacifiers Do I Need?
Obviously, pacifiers aren’t something you want in one piece, because of several reasons. For instance, you could lose them easily.
Also, since most pacifier nipples are soft, they could tear and wear in a few weeks.
However, having more than one is not compulsory, but it could come handy when you lose one or even if your baby enjoys playing with it.
Also, if you are a mom on the go, you can have multiple pacifiers and keep them in strategic places such as diaper bags, cars, and wardrobe.
Do pacifiers cause nipple confusion?
Yes, pacifiers could cause nipple confusion, as it demands different muscles, which differs greatly from the actions required for breastfeeding.
However, to avoid these, pediatricians recommend that you attain some level of confidence from breastfeeding before you introduce a pacifier to your baby.
When should you give a newborn a pacifier?
Introducing a pacifier to a newborn is not a must, but if you must do it, wait for some weeks after your postpartum.
Ideally, your newborn baby should have been feeding well from breast milk by then.
Generally, anything between 4-6 weeks after postpartum is okay. Introducing it earlier than this could result in some complications to your baby.
Are pacifiers good/bad for babies?
Pacifiers offer moms a lot of good. Some of which is that it helps them to remain sane and to be calm when the baby is agitating. Pacifiers also help the baby to self soothe which is a good thing.
On the other hand, it has its side effects. One, your baby could get used to it, which isn’t good. Two, as a mom, if you don’t pay utmost attention, any little distress from your baby will result in giving them a pacifier, which might not be what they need.
Can I use a pacifier for a newborn?
Yes, you can give a pacifier to a newborn baby, but it is also important that the baby is well-fed.
Also, a week to two weeks old baby can use a pacifier. However, we highly recommend that you adhere to the period we stipulated above.
Final Thoughts
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve reviewed the best pacifiers for breastfed babies in 2023.
I’m quite sure that any pacifier you decide to pick from the ones reviewed in this post, will surely serve you and your baby well.
This is because we have taken our time to weed out the best from amongst the best, and also offer you useful insights on the exact things you must consider before choosing one.
Also, it is important you know that the 11 best pacifiers for breastfed babies and newborns in 2023 isn’t just our choice but also the choice of most parents and experts.
Overall, our top pick is Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier. And if you’re looking to buy a pacifier for your baby today, we highly recommend that you go for it.
