There are lots of benefits to using a pacifier including preventing SIDS, since it helps some infants not sleep as deeply, plus it can help an infant learn to self-soothe. But, it can be hard to know which one is going to work the best for your breastfed baby, so it may require a lot of testing. Below, I’ve rounded up the top choices for pacifiers for breastfed babies (I’ve breastfed each of my four children until they were 14 months old.)
BEST PACIFIERS FOR BREASTFED BABIES
Brand | Features | Material | Buy | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tommee Tippee Soother | Orthodontic | Silicone | Click Here | |
Dr. Brown's HappyPaci | Nipple shape | Silicone | Click Here | |
Nanobebe Orthodontic | Orthodontic | Silicone | Click Here | |
BIBS Natural Rubber | Classic design | Natural rubber | Click Here | |
Philips Avent Soothie | Used by hospitals | Silicone | Click Here | |
NUK Orthodontic | Orthodontic | Silicone | Click Here | |
Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus | Promotes latch | Silicone | Click Here | |
Natursutten Natural Rubber | Orthodontic | Natural rubber | Click Here |
In most cases, you will have to try several to see which your baby decides he likes best. Every baby is different, but you can help him make the decision by learning about which nipples are actually closer to human nipples and which are made with materials you feel comfortable with. Here are a few tips and reviews to help you find the best pacifier for newborn breastfed babies.
PSST! Our two children that took pacifiers actually chose different ones! Our oldest daughter chose the Philips Avent Pacifier , and our third child chose the NUK Sensitive Orthodontic Pacifiers. Both were offered to each child (along with several others on this list.)
Advantages of Using a Pacifier
• Pacifiers can reduce the risk of SIDS (Mayo Clinic) (Mayo Clinic 2017)
• It satisfies a baby’s natural suck reflex
• They can help a baby learn to self-soothe
Disadvantages of Using a Pacifier
• It can interfere with breastfeeding (American Family Physician 2009)
• Pacifiers can create possible dental issues
• There is an increased risk of ear infections with pacifier use
Features to Look for in a Pacifier
One-Piece versus Two-Piece
A one-piece pacifier is a single molded piece of silicone while a two-piece pacifier comes with a separate nipple and shield piece. With a one-piece pacifier, you have fewer risks than with a two-piece, and they are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
We have always used one-piece pacifiers for these reasons–as well as the fact that they are more easily cleaned and sanitized!
With a two-piece pacifier, there is a risk of a potential choking hazard since the nipple can become separated from the shield. You can also have drool, water, and soap get into the nipple at the seamline where the two pieces are joined together. This moisture can be almost impossible to remove.
However, lots of parents love the classic design of the two-piece pacifier, plus most manufacturers do try to create products that are safe as they can possibly make them. Just remember that if you do choose a two-piece model, take some time to inspect the pacifier frequently to check for loose seams or retained moisture, and practice daily sterilization.
What to Look for in a Pacifier
Type
You will find that there are two types of nipples to choose from, either an orthodontic nipple or a natural nipple. An orthodontic nipple was created to protect your little one’s oral development. In comparison, the best natural pacifier nipple is usually accepted by more babies and with their one-piece design, they are easier to clean and longer-lasting.
Size
You will find the size of the pacifier on the package, so you know what age group that specific pacifier is designed for. Typically, the breakdown is:
- Under 6 months
- 3 months to 6 months
- 6 months to 18 months
- Older than 18 months
Make sure you find the right size pacifier since, if you get one too small, it can be a choking hazard for an older baby. You want to make sure they can’t fit the entire pacifier into their mouth.
Material
Typically, a nipple is made out of latex or silicone. While latex can be softer for your baby, make sure to watch out for latex allergies. Silicone is pretty popular for pacifiers, and it’s a handy material that you can wash in the dishwasher. Just make sure you weigh your options before you make your choice.
Shield
By stopping your baby from sucking the entire pacifier into their mouth, the shield basically prevents the pacifier from becoming a choking hazard. You want to make sure it is large enough to stop that from happening. A good guideline is to choose a guard that 1 ½-inches or larger.
Shape
Another important consideration is the shape of the nipple since you want a shape that mimics that of your breast to discourage nipple confusion or preference. You will find the most common shapes are either cylindrical or orthodontic.
- The best orthodontic pacifier nipple usually features a flat surface on top with a deep nub on the underside of the nipple. Created to reduce irritation on the roof of your baby’s mouth, the best orthodontic pacifier will also encourage your little one to “cup” the pacifier’s nipple using their tongue just like they would if they were nursing.
- A cylindrical nipple is round and has a small bulb found at the tip with a wider lip on the nipple’s base. With a wide base, your little one can splay his lips to form the same king of latch they would use when they are nursing.
Since every baby is different, your baby will probably like one nipple shape better than another baby will. However, the only way you can determine which he will prefer is trial and error. So, you may need to do some experimenting before you find the right pacifier for your little one.
Baby’s Age
As you choose a pacifier for your little one, make sure to keep his age range in mind. Are you pregnant and want to use the pacifier right from the beginning? If so, find a pacifier that has approved for use and is safe for a newborn. Then you need to find a pacifier that was designed for an older baby and find one that is right your little one’s specific age, like 6 months to 9 months. You can also find pacifiers for toddlers, so keep that in mind as you shop.
Best Pacifier for Newborn Breastfed Babies Reviews
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier
Featuring a breast-like shape, this BPA-free pacifier is perfect for babies to latch onto in between feedings. The Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Pacifier was created to act like a soother utilizing a more natural experience. With a familiar feel and shape, newborns have an easier time transition between the bottle, breast, and pacifier.
Using super soft silicone, the Tommee Tippee Pacifier stretches and flexes providing true breast-like comfort for a seamless transition. With a natural, skin-like feel, the supple silicone gives your little one a soothing experience. This is a safe and healthy pacifier that is also naturally orthodontic.
With material that curves away from your newborn’s face, this ventilated pacifier provides better airflow, which will prevent skin irritation and rashes. The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier provides comfort with a soothing natural experience. This is a reassuring alternative to other pacifier for newborn babies that won’t disrupt bottle-feeding or breastfeeding.
- Natural and skin-like material
- Orthodontic design
- Ventilated for better airflow
- Supple silicone material
- BPA free
Pros:
- It has a natural feel with the soft silicone that comforts babies
- It has a curved design that offers better airflow to prevent rashes
- This pacifier won’t interfere with breastfeeding but gives your newborn a close alternative
Cons:
- The nipple tends to collect lint and dust
- Some babies have a problem with the nipple falling out of their mouths
Dr. Brown HappyPaci
Buy on AmazonWith a similar shape to Dr. Brown’s bottle nipple, Dr. Brown HappyPaci comes with a shape that any Dr. Brown baby is used to. Featuring one-piece construction, HappyPaci is lightweight and made with 100 percent silicone. This BPA free pacifier uses a contoured butterfly-shaped that shields your newborn’s face.
Using a curved shape that provides comfort and lots of room for cheeks and noses, the HappyPaci is easy to clean and maintain. Simply wash it on the top rack of your dishwasher. This is a sterilizer safe pacifier that is available in several colors.
Perfect for a breastfed baby that takes a bottle occasionally, Dr. Brown HappyPaci uses the exact round shape as their bottle to eliminate confusion and help a baby latch on easily. This supple nipple is easy for a baby to manipulate in their mouth.
- Familiar nipple shape
- One-piece construction
- 100% silicone
- Contoured shape shield
- Easy to sterilize in dishwasher
Pros:
- It has a one-piece design that is easy to clean
- If your baby likes the Dr. Brown bottles, he will love this pacifier
- The curved shape is comfortable and prevents rashes
Cons:
- Some babies can’t create enough suction to keep the pacifier in their mouths
- The round shape can cause it to spin
Nanobebe Pacifiers
This orthodontic pacifier curves comfortably with your little one’s face contour. The Nanobebe Pacifier is an award-winning product that is made of 100% silicone and is BPA and Phthalate free. Providing a soothing and calmly experience for a newborn, this flexible pacifier discourages nipple confusion while helps to promote healthy oral development.
This extra-soft nipple was created to be comfortable for a baby while its ergonomic design helps to keep it in your little one’s mouth. Its one-piece construction meets the American Academy of Pediatrics standards. Plus, its lightweight design helps it to stay in your baby’s mouth.
The Nanobebe Pacifier comes in a wide range of color options including pink, gray, teal, and white. Shaped to remain in your little one’s mouth, this flexible pacifier forms comfortably to his face. Not only is it gentle on his teeth and gums, but it also helps to promote oral development.
This pacifier doesn’t pose a choking hazard and allows your little one to latch happily and securely. The Nanobebe Pacifier was created carefully to stop nipple confusion. This is a great choice for any new mom who wants to help her little once fall asleep and self-soothe in between feedings.
- Designed to prevent nipple confusion
- Flexible silicone material
- One-piece design
- BPA and phthalate-free
- Gentle on gums and teeth
Pros:
- This nipple has a nice ergonomic design that is comfortable for a baby
- It is lightweight enough that it will stay in your baby’s mouthy without falling out
- It won’t cause nipple confusion
Cons:
- The nipple is too short for some babies
- It slips out easily
BIBS BPA-Free Natural Rubber Baby Pacifier
Buy on AmazonIf you are looking for the best natural pacifier for your baby, check out the BIBS Natural Rubber Pacifier. Made in Denmark, the BIBS Baby Pacifier is BPA-free and made with 100% natural rubber. This pacifier comes in a wide range of vintage-inspired colors that take you back to another time.
With the BIBS Pacifier’s classic appearance, you get a look that is both elegant and timeless. The soft material of this pacifier is very similar to the feeling of a mother’s skin, which will allow your little on to seamlessly transition from breastfeeding to self-soothing. The natural rubber lets your little once exercise his sucking instinct in a very natural way with a pacifier that mimics the soft materials and shape of a mothers’ breast.
Allowing your baby to self-soothe instead of your breast, this all-natural pacifier uses a shape and material that is intended to imitate your breast. Since the rounded shape of the nipple is a little larger than other pacifiers, it can appeal to some little ones more than others. This round shape closely resembles a real nipple and is more appealing to a baby, particularly those that nurse.
With a shield design that prevents drool rash, the pacifier has holes that keep your little one’s mouth dryer than other pacifiers. This can also stop sweat in warmer months helping to prevent fussiness and allow your baby a more comfortable experience. The design also offers a ring where you can attach a clip or hold the pacifier.
- Natural rubber pacifier
- 100% free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates
- Designed and made in Denmark
- Classic appearance
- Texture and appearance resemble mothers breast
Pros:
- It has a close feeling to a mother’s skin, which help with self-soothing
- The rounded shape can be helpful to get a baby to latch on
- This is an all-natural product
Cons:
- Moisture gets stuck in the bulb, and you can’t get it out
- It will squeak when your baby uses it after you wash it
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
Buy on AmazonSupporting healthy oral development, the Philips Avent Pacifier is the pacifier every parent remembers from the hospital. Distributed by hospitals nationwide, this is the pacifier that first helps to soothe and calm newborns. With its unique shape, it fits a newborn mouth comfortably without inhibiting his normal development.
Using a strong silicone construction that provides durability and comfort, the Philips Avent Pacifier uses hospital-grade silicone that does not contain odor or taste. With a strong and smooth nipple, your baby is more likely to accept this pacifier. Plus, it resists becoming misshapen, sticky, and discolored.
Used by over 2,000 hospitals in the United States, this pacifier has a one-piece design that is safe and adheres to the guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics for newborns. The Philips Avent Pacifier is also latex and BPA-free. This is also an easy to clean pacifier that can be washed in the dishwasher.
- Distributed in hospitals nationwide
- BPA and latex free
- Hospital grade silicone
- Sized and shaped for babys mouth
- One-piece design
Pros:
- It’s a familiar pacifier everyone gets in the hospital, so you know its safe to use
- It’s a very durable nipple that doesn’t get sticky
- This pacifier is great for soothing
Cons:
- The nipple is bigger than other pacifiers, which some babies don’t like
- Some babies have a hard time latching on to this nipple
NUK Sensitive Orthodontic Pacifiers
Buy on AmazonFeaturing the original NUK nipple shape, the NUK Sensitive Orthodontic Pacifiers are modeled after the shape of a woman’s nipple. Making an easy transition from the breast to a pacifier, the NUK Sensitive Orthodontic Pacifiers also come with a heart-shaped shield that fits perfectly under your little one’s noise allowing him to breathe easier and prevent irritation.
The NUK Pacifier comes in a reusable storage case, which lets you easily clean the NUK in the microwave. It has a 100% silicone design contouring to your baby’s face and stopping any marks from forming on their sensitive skin.
The orthodontic nipple shape is asymmetrical and comes with a scooped bottom. This BPA-free pacifier can also be cleaned in the top-rack of your dishwasher.
- 100% silicone
- Contours to babys face
- Heart-shaped shield designed for easy breathing
- Orthodontic nipple shape
- BPA Free and dishwasher safe
Pros:
- It’s super easy to clean
- The pacifier has a great design that won’t leave marks on your baby’s skin
- It comes with a handy case
Cons:
- You don’t get a choice in color since the packs come as an assortment
- The nipple is too hard for some babies
Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus Pacifier
Buy on AmazonDesigned by pediatric feeding specialists, the Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus Pacifier allows your newborn to self-soothe as it supports your little one’s healthy sucking skills. With its cylindrical shape, it will help to promote a natural tongue position allowing your baby to mimic the tongue shape they use as they breastfeeding. This is also a comfortable pacifier for a baby to hold thanks to the integrated vent holes that keeps his skin dry and free of rashes.
By promoting tongue cupping, the Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus Pacifier was created to help safeguard your breastfeeding experience. As you breastfeed, your nipple and areola change shape when your little one latches on. Your baby gets used to cupping his tongue around your nipple and the cylindrical shape of the pacifier him mimic this same tongue shape as he breastfeeds.
Equipped with easy-grip handles, the Evenflo Feeding Balance Plus Pacifier makes it easy for both parent and baby to hold onto it. The one-piece design is made of soft silicone making it lightweight and flexible. Plus, the curved faceplate makes it easier for your little one to suck for a longer period of time.
The Evenflo Pacifier features a design that discourages your little one’s mouth from becoming fatigued. And, it Is a BPA free pacifier that is also free of phthalates, PVC, and polycarbonates and is only made with FDA approved food-grade materials.
- Developed by pediatric feeding specialists
- One-piece design-- easy to clean
- Soft silicone material & BPA free
- Promotes healthy sucking skills
- Easy- grip design
Pros:
- The curved design lets your little one use it longer
- It helps improve a baby’s sucking skill
- It’s great for self-soothing and in between feedings
Cons:
- The nipple is too big for a newborn
- They don’t come with a case
Natursutten Natural Rubber Pacifier
Buy on AmazonThis BPA-free pacifier is made of 100% natural rubber. Manufactured in Italy, the Natursutten Natural Rubber Pacifier has a small and rounded design that does not contain any allergy-causing substances. This is a one-piece design that is free of cracks and joints and does not allow bacteria to accumulate.
Featuring no phthalates, no BPA, phthalates, or even chemical softening agents, the Natursutten Natural Rubber Pacifier has a patented design that is easy to clean and provides a more gentle, natural feel. You can easily wash it by hand with water and soap, plus it adheres to strict U.S. safety standards.
The soft rubber has a more natural feel than you get from the artificial silicone that is used in other pacifiers. Natursutten Natural Rubber is created from liquid rubber milk that is sustainably harvested from a rubber tree. Available in two different models, neither one comes with buttons or clips that could be a potential choking hazard.
The natural rubber also won’t leave any marks on your little one’s face. The Natursutten features a large shield that will touch your baby’s nose and comfort him while also more closely simulating breastfeeding. Uniquely hygienic, there are no artificial colors, hormone-disturbing substances, parabens, or PVC in this pacifier.
- 100% natural rubber softer than silicone
- One piece design
- Made in Italy by family business
- No BPA, nintrosamines, PVC, Phthalates, checmical softeners, or artificial coloring
- Easy to clean
Pros:
- It’s comfortable and won’t leave marks on your baby’s face
- It’s made with 100% natural rubber
- This pacifier is easy to clean and has a natural feel
Cons:
- On the expensive side for a pacifier
- Some babies have a hard time latching on to it
Motherhood Easier’s Choice for Best Pacifier
The winner of the best pacifier for breastfed babies roundup is the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier. Offering a breast-like shape design, this BPA-free pacifier is perfect for babies to latch onto in between feedings. The Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Pacifier was created to act like a soother utilizing a more natural experience providing a familiar feel and shape that newborns have an easier time transition between the bottle, breast, and pacifier.
This is a safe and healthy pacifier that is also naturally orthodontic, and it features material that curves away from your newborn’s face offering better ventilation and airflow, which will prevent skin irritation and rashes. The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier provides comfort with a soothing natural experience that won’t disrupt bottle-feeding or breastfeeding.
Ultimately, the pacifier your baby chooses will be up to him or her; but, you can give them the best choices! Some children are flexible–others not so much. Two out of my four children took pacifiers. One took the Philips Soothie, and the other NUK Orthodontic Pacifier.
Your best bet is to gather an assortment of these pacifiers and see which ones your baby likes best–all are fantastic choices!