When to use a baby pacifier for a newborn baby?
Before we get to this question, let’s first understand the need for parents to purchase the best pacifier for newborns.
The basic requirement of these baby pacifiers is to try and keep the breastfed babies content and instantly calm when fussy.
Also, there is a chance that the baby might not like the pacifier at first, perhaps, you need not be disheartened, this is completely normal.
Babies can be surprisingly picky about their best pacifiers, but when they have one, that’s their best pal and soother. But…
When to use a baby pacifier for newborns?
As mentioned above, a pacifier is nothing but a nipple replica for the baby, allowing them to suck on and not feed them perhaps, but have only one sole motive, to soothe the cranky baby.
The best way for you to decode when the baby needs a pacifier is when they just won’t stop crying, we’re sure, this could be quite difficult for the mom as well.
The simple trick is to get them their favorite pacifier, allowing comfort to both, the parent and the baby.
The other way to look out for a pacifier for breastfed babies is when they continue to suckle your breast without an intention of feeding themselves, or when you see them sucking on their fingers or on their toys.
( If you are looking for the best baby bottles, click HERE, these are the best picks from Parenthood Bliss!)
How to choose the best pacifier for breastfed babies?
Due to the wide variety of pacifiers available in the market (from the size, nipple shape, and style), it could get a bit confusing when it comes to picking the best pacifier.
To help you out, here is a list of things you must keep in mind while looking for the best pacifiers for the breastfed babies:
- The size – Most packets include the age-group in their description, usually broken down into, 6 months and under; 6 to 18 months; and older than 18 months. Perhaps, choosing the perfect size for your little baby is important as otherwise, these soothers could turn into a choking hazard.
- The Material – The rounded nipple pacifiers are generally made out of two materials, silicone or latex. Where silicone is much more popular amongst the parents as they are dishwasher-safe, the latter is much softer, but then, babies may have latex allergies. So, choose your option as per what’s best for your baby.
- The outer covering – These are important to help prevent the baby from sucking the whole pacifier into their mouth, causing a choking hazard. Therefore, make sure you pick the one that has a comparatively big shield with a good benchmark.
Now that we are aware of the different kids and what one must look into when selecting the best pacifier, let’s now quickly get into the top best picks from Parenthood Bliss, especially curated for you:
10 best pacifiers of 2021 for breastfed babies
While you go through the list, keep in mind to select the one (amongst the different types of pacifiers) that fits perfectly for your baby in terms of its kind, choice of material, and size
1) The First Years GumDrop baby pacifier
Recommended age – 0 to 3 months
This silicone pacifier comes in a pack of two and is designed to stay away from the little one’s tiny and delicate nose, avoiding any scratches and allowing them to breathe easily.
They feature to be comfortable, are a one-piece design ( limiting any choking hazard), are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and latex-free.
Pros:
- Its one-piece silicone
- Is compatible
- Allows the baby to breathe freely
- Is dishwasher-friendly
- Affordable
Cons:
- Some reviews observed that the babies’ fingers at times get stuck in the holes of the pacifier
2) NUK orthodontic baby pacifiers
Recommended age – 18 to 36 months
This NUK orthodontic baby pacifier is designed to easily fit into a baby’s mouth naturally and promotes and improves oral development.
It features a pack of two, includes silicone materials, has a heart-shaped shield, is BPA-free, and allows the little one to breathe nicely.
Pros:
- The shape of the pacifier allows the baby to exercises their tongue and jaw
- Is BPA-free
Cons:
- This newborn pacifier makes a squeaking noise for some babies when sucked
- Heavier compared to the other pacifiers on the list
3) MAM star newborn pacifier
Recommended age – 2 months
This MAM newborn pacifier comes in a set of two and has a curved shield that allows better airflow for the baby.
This pacifier features big air holes helping the baby to suck and breathe at the same time, has a convenient button at the end for an easy grab, can be attached to a stroller or the diaper bag with a clip, and is made from silicone.
Pros:
- Has a perfect size
- Is lightweight
- Includes a sterilizing case
- Resembles the mom’s soft nipple
Cons:
- The water gets trapped inside when washing
- There are reviews stating that the pacifier is difficult to sterilize as it melts in the microwave
4) Philips Avent Soothie pacifier
Recommended age – 3+ months
This Philips Avent Soothie pacifier comes in a pack of 6 when you buy, making it affordable and an intelligent buy.
The silicone pacifier features in light green color and comes in one piece.
Pros:
- One-piece silicone pacifier
- Made from hospital-grade silicone
- Can be used with pacifier clips
- Include a big shield, preventing the baby from getting choke
Cons:
- The baby could have their tiny fingers stuck in the holes
- Is a very rigid pacifier
5) WubbaNub Dr. Brown’s puppy pacifier
Recommended age – 6 months
Dr. Brown’s WubbaNub pacifier is made from soft medical-grade silicone with a cutie pat or a stuffed animal at the end, making it a to cum pacifier.
The feature of the stuffed animal in the pacifier helps it to stay in place for babies who struggle to get the suction going.
Pros:
- Has an easy-to-hold grip
- Is silicone made
- Are BPA, PVC, and phthalates free
Cons:
- Is expensive
6) Natursutten natural rubber pacifier
Recommended age – 6 months
This is a one-piece pacifier and allows your baby to have a better grip and has a unique design.
It features an inbuilt handle or shield with a single rod that connects the shield directly and blends perfectly to the rounded nipple.
The best part about this natural rubber pacifier is that it has no joints or cracks, which prevents the bacteria from getting trapped and accumulated, has a super soft supple shield that touches the nose of the baby, mimicking your breast.
This pacifier for newborn babies also prevents nipple confusion and is comfortable and enhances self-soothe.
Pros:
- Is unique
- Offers multiple benefits
- Is made from all-natural rubber
- Is soft and supple
Cons:
- When left in the sun, the rubber design could emit a strong scent
7) MAM Clear orthodontic pacifier
Recommended age – 6 months old
MAM orthodontic nipple protects your baby’s teeth and jaw and is designed for a real-like sucking motion.
It features a shield that has a textured surface with multiple holes, has a knob on the back for easy-grip, and comes in a set of two.
Pros:
- Includes a pacifier clip
- Has a sterilizing case
- Offers real-like sucking motion
Cons:
- The parents have reviewed their baby’s finger getting stuck
- The shield could be quite big from small babies
8) Philips Avent Orthodontic Pacifier
Recommended age – 6 months
This orthodontic pacifier comes in a set of two and has a comparatively bigger-sized nipple with a lip tie.
It features a silicone make, is BPA-free, is dishwasher-friendly, and comes with a cap.
Pros:
- Is affordable
- Comes with a ring handle for easy grip
- Includes are air vents in the shield
Cons:
- The nipples are harder to clean
9) Playtex Binky Silicone Pacifier
Recommended age – 6 months
This is the best and top pick that fits well in a baby’s mouth and is designed on the shape of a nipple.
It’s shorter and stubbier than those long bulbous nipples on other pacifiers. It includes a vent in the shield, used to protect the skin, and comes in a pack of 2!
Pros:
- Is easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Is BPA-free
Cons:
- Is pricier
10) Philips Respironics Wee Thumbie pacifier
Recommended age – 7 months
Philips Respironics is specially designed to comfort and soothe your little baby and features the size and shape of a preemie’s thumb, easy for the smaller kids.
However, the company recommends the parents replace the pacifier every four weeks for good hygiene.
Pros:
- First tiny preemie mouths
- BPA-free
- Enhances the baby’s sucking motions
Cons:
- Sterilizing for about 5 mins before the first use is recommended
- Needs to be replaced often
- Is expensive
To Conclude:
Choosing the best pacifiers is very important for the parents as it’s one of the best ways to help your cranky baby to self-soothe.
Perhaps, while you are on the hunt, make sure to pick the one that is chemical-free and is of the right size for your little one with an easy grip.
To know what else you must look for, read the article above!