Choosing the right pacifier for your newborn can feel overwhelming with so many options available. You want something that’s safe, soothing, and suited to your baby’s needs. Whether you’re a first-time parent or looking for an upgrade, finding the perfect pacifier is crucial for your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 20 best pacifiers for newborns, covering a range of designs, materials, and features. From orthodontic shapes to eco-friendly materials, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the top picks that will help keep your little one calm and content.
Materials and Safety of Pacifiers
Choosing the right pacifier involves understanding the materials and ensuring safety to keep your baby comfortable and secure. Here’s what you need to know about the materials used and the importance of safety standards.
Silicone vs. Latex: Which Is Better for Newborns?
Silicone and latex pacifiers are common, but each has different benefits. Silicone is durable and can withstand high temperatures, making it easy to sterilize. It’s also hypoallergenic, so it’s less likely to cause an allergic reaction. On the other hand, latex is softer and more flexible, which might feel more natural to your baby. However, latex can break down quicker and might cause allergies in some infants.
Product Highlight: Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
The Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier is a popular choice among parents. Made from medical-grade silicone, it’s durable and easy to clean. Parents love its one-piece construction and the fact that it’s used by medical professionals. Its shape is designed to help your baby develop natural suckling.
- The pacifier brand distributed in hospitals nationwide, used by doctors & nurses to soothe newborns
- 1 piece construction specially sized and shaped for babies 0-3 months old; Adheres to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines
- Orthodontic design respects the natural development of baby's teeth and gums
- Made of hospital-grade, BPA-free and latex-free silicone for strength, comfort and durability
- Dishwasher safe; Can be sterilized
Importance of BPA-Free Pacifiers
BPA-free pacifiers are essential for newborn safety. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical found in some plastics that can seep into food or beverages, potentially leading to health issues. When choosing a pacifier, ensuring it’s BPA-free will protect your baby from harmful substances.
Product Highlight: NUK Orthodontic Pacifier
The NUK Orthodontic Pacifier is another highly recommended option. It’s BPA-free and designed to encourage healthy oral development. The unique shape mimics a mother’s nipple, providing a comfortable and soothing experience for your newborn. The pacifier’s base is contoured to fit under your babyโs nose for easier breathing.
Diverse Types of Newborn Pacifiers
Orthodontic Pacifiers
Orthodontic pacifiers help support the natural development of your babyโs palate, teeth, and gums. They feature nipple shapes that flatten under the babyโs suckling pressure, mimicking the breast. A popular choice is the NUK Newborn Orthodontic Pacifier. Made with BPA-free silicone, itโs designed for healthy oral development and comfort.
- Orthodontic nipple shape is asymmetrical with a scooped bottom: Flatter to allow for more room for natural sucking motion, slimmer to reduce pressure on jaw and teeth, and narrower to help prevent teeth misalignment
- Natural shape is modeled after mom's nipple while breastfeeding and won't cause nipple confusion (Based on Market Research, 2017, tested with 307 pacifier users)
- Heart-shaped shield fits perfectly under baby's nose for easy breathing
- Pack of 2 orthodontic pacifiers with a smaller nipple, ideal for newborns; Size 0-2 months
- BPA-free; silicone nipples; top-rack dishwasher safe; easily clean pacifiers in microwave with new NUK reusable storage case
Cherry-shaped Pacifiers
Cherry-shaped pacifiers are well-loved for their round, bulb-like nipple that resembles a mother’s breast. This shape is ideal for breastfed babies who are learning to latch correctly. The First Years GumDrop Newborn Pacifier’s unique design promotes natural oral development, and its one-piece construction ensures easy cleaning.
- DETACHABLE: Infant Pacifier is detachable from stuffed animal. No more lost Pacifiers
- HOSPITAL PACIFIER: Distributed in hospitals, NICU and used by medical professionals worldwide
- SILICONE: 100% Medical Grade Silicone, durable one piece construction, orthodontic nipple, BPA Free
- JOLLYPOP BINKY: Pacifier made in the USA, lightweight
- Pacifier made in the USA
Flat-shaped Pacifiers
Flat-shaped pacifiers are designed to rest naturally against your baby’s palate, minimizing pressure on their gums and developing teeth. The Philips AVENT Ultra Soft Pacifier is a standout product in this category. Its flexible shield follows the natural curves of your babyโs face, providing maximum comfort without leaving marks.
Top 5 Silicone Pacifiers for Newborns
Choosing the right pacifier for your newborn is crucial for their comfort and development. Here are five silicone pacifiers that stand out based on Amazon reviews.
Features and Benefits of Each Pacifier
- Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
The Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier is crafted from medical-grade silicone, ensuring safety and durability. It’s designed to support natural suckling behavior, making it a favorite amongst parents. - Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci Silicone Pacifier
Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci is made from 100% silicone, which is BPA-free and easy to clean. Its one-piece construction helps prevent bacteria buildup. - Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier
The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier uses soft silicone to mimic the natural feel of a mother’s nipple. It features a symmetrical orthodontic design to support healthy oral development. - Chicco PhysioForma Silicone Pacifier
Chicco’s PhysioForma Silicone Pacifier is engineered with a unique design that promotes proper breathing and reduces the risk of SIDS. The extra-soft silicone is gentle on your baby’s face. - MAM Clear Orthodontic Pacifier
The MAM Clear Orthodontic Pacifier features an anti-slip silicone nipple to stay in place. Its symmetrical design is gentle on baby’s skin and promotes healthy oral development.
- The pacifier brand distributed in hospitals nationwide, used by doctors & nurses to soothe newborns
- 1 piece construction specially sized and shaped for babies 0-3 months old; Adheres to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines
- Orthodontic design respects the natural development of baby's teeth and gums
- Made of hospital-grade, BPA-free and latex-free silicone for strength, comfort and durability
- Dishwasher safe; Can be sterilized
- Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
Pros: Users praised its safety, durability, and ability to soothe their babies effectively.
Cons: Some parents found it difficult to keep in their baby’s mouth during sleep. - Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci Silicone Pacifier
Pros: Reviewers loved its simplicity and hygienic design, as well as its soft, natural feel.
Cons: A few users mentioned that it could wear out faster than other pacifiers. - Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier
Pros: Parents appreciated the natural nipple feel, its ease in transitioning from breastfeeding, and its orthodontic benefits.
Cons: Some users felt the size was too large for smaller newborns. - Chicco PhysioForma Silicone Pacifier
Pros: Commended for promoting better breathing, its gentle touch, and its safety design.
Cons: A few reviews noted that it might be pricier compared to other brands. - MAM Clear Orthodontic Pacifier
Pros: Liked for its anti-slip feature, skin-friendly material, and support for oral development.
Cons: Some parents reported that the pacifier could discolor over time.
Top 5 Latex Pacifiers for Newborns
Features and Benefits of Each Pacifier
- Natursutten Original Pacifier
Natursutten Original Pacifier features 100% natural rubber, making it extremely soft and durable. It’s eco-friendly and BPA-free, ensuring safety for your baby. The large shield prevents choking and irritation.
- Original Baby Pacifier: The cut-out top of a Natursutten Butterfly Binky gives the shield a butterfly shape and makes more room for the baby's nose. Pacifier holder pouch available
- One-piece construction is easy to clean: Molded in one piece without joints or cracks so dirt cannot accumulate. Clean on a daily basis, by washing it in mild liquid soap under running water
- Baby 100% BPA-Free Pacifier: Natural pacifier made exclusively from pure and natural rubber from Hevea Brasiliensis trees
- Better For Your Baby And Our Planet: Established in 2006 and created by a mother of three, Natursutten offers natural products for babies and toddlers - baby pacifiers, pacifier accessories, baby bottles and teether toys. Adheres to the strictest European and US safety standards. Eco-friendly packaging is made from paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and printed with natural soy ink. Even the clear window is made of bioplastic - from corn, not petroleum
- Natural Rubber-Latex: The latex allergy provoking protein is removed from our products during the production. Never use a product made from natural rubber for a child with a diagnosed latex allergy
- NUK Classic Latex Pacifier
NUK Classic Latex Pacifier offers a naturally-shaped nipple which orthodontists recommend. Its nipple mimics the mother’s breast, promoting healthy oral development. The material is extremely flexible, reducing the risk of dental misalignment.
- Orthodontic nipple shape is asymmetrical with a scooped bottom: Flatter to allow for more room for natural sucking motion, slimmer to reduce pressure on jaw and teeth, and narrower to help prevent teeth misalignment
- Natural shape is modeled after mom's nipple while breastfeeding and won't cause nipple confusion (Based on Market Research, 2017, tested with 307 pacifier users)
- Heart-shaped shield fits perfectly under baby's nose for easy breathing
- Pack of 2 latex orthodontic pacifiers; Size 18-36 months
- BPA-free; latex nipples; top-rack dishwasher safe
- BIBS BPA-Free Natural Rubber Baby Pacifier
BIBS Baby Pacifier is designed with a lightweight shield and a round nipple to support breastfeeding babies. Itโs made of natural rubber, providing a soft and natural experience. This pacifier is popular for its Scandinavian design and functionality.
- ๐๐๐๐ฆ ๐ฃ๐?๐๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ฆ: A favorite for both moms and babies for over forty years, the BIBS natural rubber baby pacifier allows your child to self-soothe by exercising their instinctive sucking instinct in the most natural way possible, by mimicking both the shape and soft materials of mothersโ breast. The Iconic and classic pacifiers appearance captures a look thatโs both timeless and elegant.
- ๐๐ก๐๐๐จ๐๐๐ฆ ๐ฎ ๐ฃ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ฆ: Each purchase includes 2 premium baby pacifiers in a variety of beautiful colors and tones which are distinctively BIBS. Available in 3 sizes in size 1 (0 to 6 Months), size 2 (6 to 18 Months) and size 3 (18 to 36 Months). A pacifier makes the perfect gift for baby girls and baby boys.
- ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐: Designed and manufactured in Denmark. BIBS pacifiers are made of the highest quality materials and are 100% free of BPA, PVC and phthalates. Always striving for excellence, BIBS pacifiers are often imitated but never duplicated.
- ๐ก๐?๐จ๐ฅ๐๐ ๐ฅ๐จ๐๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ซ: Latex is a natural product with many positive properties like softness, high bite endurance, and tensile strength. However, latex is subject to natural material fluctuations which can become noticeable through a different optical appearance. Therefore, the nipple can vary in clearness and colour. The quality or product safety is not affected by our use of natural rubber latex.
- ๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ก๐ฆ๐ง๐ฅ๐จ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐ก๐ฆ: Sterilize each pacifier before use by pouring boiling water over it, squeezing any remaining water out, and letting dry for 4โ6 hours. We recommend a replacement every 4-6 weeks for both safety and hygienic reasons. Rubber latex is a natural material and is affected by sunlight, high temperatures, and moisture. If you experience a change in the material, the pacifier must be replaced.
- Hevea Natural Rubber Pacifier
Hevea Natural Rubber Pacifier combines sustainability with comfort. The ergonomic butterfly shape ensures a comfortable fit while preventing vacuum around the mouth. Made from natural rubber, itโs free of harmful chemicals.
- TRUSTED BY PARENTS TO BE NATURAL AND SAFE FOR NEWBORNS โ Made from 100% natural rubber, HEVEA pacifiers are plant-based and vegan certified, and therefore completely free from BPA, PVC, Phthalates, and other harmful materials. Additionally, our color pigments are also natural
- LEAVING GREENER FINGERPRINTS FOR OUR PLANET - Since rubber is a friendly natural material, it will biodegrade when no longer in use - unlike plastic and silicone. Additionally, our packaging is also biodegradable - we use a FSC certified box with Earth First window, made from plants
- PICK A SHAPE TO YOUR BABYโS PREFERENCE - With three teat options to choose from with HEVEA , the orthodontic teat shape is designed to prevent tooth misalignment issues later on with a flattened bottom and round top
- DANISH DESIGNED - Not only do our look amazing - with beautiful color options and four adorably-shaped ventilation holes (surpassing safety standards), the teatโs ventilation hole makes the teat super soft and malleable for your newborn
- HYGIENIC โ The one-piece design means no hidden nasties. Plus, our pacifiers are incredibly easy to clean!
- Goldi Sauger Natural Rubber Pacifier
Goldi Sauger is free from BPA and other synthetic materials. Its soft and flexible design mimics the natural breastfeeding process. The larger shield prevents swallowing and supports healthy oral development.
- LESS GAGGING: Our Small pacifier size is slightly shorter than other pacifiersโa great option for babies who may be gagging on other pacifiers.
- SYMMETRICAL NIPPLE: Our symmetrical nipple more closely resembles the shape of a motherโs nipple, so itโs great for breastfeeding babies.
- SOFT CIRCULAR SHIELD DESIGNED TO TOUCH BABYโS NOSE โ Unlike most pacifiers, our uniquely soft, circular shield is designed to touch your babyโs nose and comfort them by more closely simulating breastfeeding. Our rubber is soft, just like a motherโs breast.
- WON'T LEAVE MARKS ON BABY'S FACE: Our pacifiers wonโt leave marks on your babyโs face, and they have 3 vent holes for breathability.
- SAFER, ONE-PIECE DESIGN โ Simply Rubber Pacifiers are made as one piece, which means theyโre easier to clean and safer. In fact, The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends one-piece pacifiers for safety reasons.
Comparative Analysis with Silicone Pacifiers
Latex pacifiers, such as Natursutten Original and Hevea Natural Rubber, offer a softer, more natural feel than silicone options. They are highly flexible and eco-friendly, made from organic materials that biodegrade. However, they tend to wear out faster and need frequent replacements.
Silicone pacifiers, like the Philips AVENT Soothie and MAM Clear Orthodontic, are more durable and easier to sterilize compared to latex pacifiers. They provide a firmer texture which some babies may prefer. These pacifiers also resist wear and tear better, making them a longer-lasting option.
When choosing between latex and silicone, consider your babyโs preference and any allergies they might have. Latex offers a soft and natural experience, while silicone provides more durability and easy maintenance.
Orthodontic Pacifiers: Special Mention
Orthodontic pacifiers are designed to support natural oral development. They align with your baby’s natural palate shape, reducing the risk of dental issues.
Top 5 Orthodontic Pacifiers for Safe Teething
- Philips AVENT Soothie Snuggle Pacifier
Combines a plush toy with a silicone soothie. Easy for babies to grasp. Highly rated for its dual functionality.
Bestseller No. 1
Philips AVENT Soothie Snuggle Pacifier Holder with Detachable Pacifier, 0m+, Elephant, SCF347/03- 1 Count (Pack of 1)- Comes with the 0-3 month Soothie pacifier used by doctors and nurses to calm newborns
- Pacifier and stuffed animal detach for easy cleaning
- Stuffed animal makes the pacifier easy for parents and babies to find; it also keeps the pacifier close to baby
- Stuffed animal has a second attachment point for pacifiers with ring handles
- BPA free
$14.95Buy on Amazon - NUK Sensitive Orthodontic Pacifier
Crafted from 100% medical-grade silicone. The heart-shaped shield fits under the babyโs nose. Delivers advanced comfort and skin-friendliness. - MAM Perfect Night Pacifier
Glows in the dark for easy locating. Symmetrical nipple ensures proper placement. Adaptative shape fosters balanced jaw development. - Dr. Brown’s Happypaci 100% Silicone Pacifier
Designed by a pediatric dentist. Single-piece silicone for durability. Features a soft bulb for better nipple acceptance. - Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Soother
Breathable shield prevents skin irritation. Accepted by 97% of babies. Supports oral development with its symmetrical silicone nipple.
- Supports A Healthy Jaw
Promotes natural oral development by mimicking the natural shape of the palate. Helps in preventing orthodontic issues later on. - Prevents Teething Discomfort
Engineered to alleviate pressure on gums during teething. Minimizes discomfort, promoting happier teething phases. - Reduces The Risk Of Misaligned Teeth
Aligns with your baby’s oral structure, ensuring proper teeth alignment. Lowers the chance of future dental corrections. - Skin-Friendly Design
Often comes with a shield that allows ample airflow. Prevents skin irritations and rashes commonly seen with prolonged use. - Easy to Clean
Made from high-grade silicone, they are simple to sterilize. Dishwasher safe, promoting better hygiene for your newborn.
These top-rated orthodontic pacifiers on Amazon are popular for their safety, design, and ease of use.
Budget-Friendly Pacifiers for Newborns
Finding high-quality pacifiers that don’t break the bank is essential for new parents. Below, you’ll discover top-rated, budget-friendly pacifiers available on Amazon.
Top 5 Affordable Yet High-Quality Pacifiers
- Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
Recommended by hospitals, the Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier supports natural oral development. Its silicone design is both durable and comfortable for newborns. Customers rave about its durability and ease of cleaning. - MAM Newborn Start Pacifier
With an orthodontic nipple design, the MAM Newborn Start Pacifier supports healthy jaw development. Unique air holes help reduce skin irritation, and parents appreciate the included sterilizing box for convenience. - Chicco PhysioForma Orthodontic Pacifier
The Chicco PhysioForma features a nipple designed to support natural breathing. Its soft silicone ensures comfort, and parents commend its engaging design and affordability. - NUK Orthodontic Pacifier
Made with a unique nipple shape that promotes natural oral development, the NUK Orthodontic Pacifier is a favorite among parents. Silicone materials make it durable and easy to clean. - RaZbaby JollyPop Baby Pacifier
Simple yet effective, the RaZbaby JollyPop Baby Pacifier offers a durable, soft silicone design. Loved for its affordability, it’s widely recommended for both breastfed and bottle-fed babies.
Tips on Where to Find Cost-Effective Options
Amazon Deals Section
Amazon frequently updates the deals section with discounts on baby products. Keep an eye on lightning deals and daily discounts to find pacifiers at reduced prices.
Subscribe & Save
Take advantage of Amazon’s Subscribe & Save option. By subscribing, you get regular deliveries of pacifiers at a discounted rate, plus free shipping.
Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews to find hidden gems. Many budget-friendly pacifiers have high ratings and detailed reviews that can guide you in making the best choice.
Amazon Bestsellers List
Check out the Amazon Bestsellers list to find the most popular and affordable pacifiers bought by other parents.
Pacifiers With Additional Features
When selecting the right pacifier for your newborn, some models come with additional features to enhance convenience and functionality. Here are some top picks.
Top 5 Pacifiers with Built-in Plush Toys
These pacifiers come with attached plush toys, offering comfort and ease of use.
- WubbaNub Infant Pacifier: This model combines a Soothie pacifier with a plush toy, making it easier for your baby to grasp and hold onto. Parents appreciate that it helps prevent the pacifier from getting lost.
- WubbaNub Brand- The Original Pacifier/Plush Animal combination
- Durable one piece construction is both functional and stylish. Patented design makes it easy for baby to grasp
- Distributed in hospitals, NICU and well-baby units nationwide
- Made with 100% silicone pacifier. Latex free, BPA, PVC and Phthalate free
- Recommended for newborns through six months. (Not suggested for babies with teeth or in teething stage)
- Philips AVENT Soothie Snuggle: This pacifier features a detachable plush toy, allowing for easy cleaning. You can attach any Philips AVENT pacifier to the plushie, which adds versatility.
- Dr. Brown’s Lovey Pacifier: Featuring a variety of adorable plush animals, this pacifier is both comforting and functional. The detachable design makes sterilization simple.
- Nookums Paci-Plushies: These pacifiers come with a plushie that doubles as a holder. The plush toys are machine washable, ensuring hygiene for your baby.
- Tommee Tippee Pacifier and Teether Set: Besides a soft toy, this set includes a teether, offering dual functionality. The toy keeps your baby entertained while also soothing their gums.
Pacifiers with Soothing Features like Night Glow
Pacifiers with soothing features like night glow are perfect for minimizing disruptions and making nighttime feedings easier.
- MAM Night Glow Pacifier: This pacifier glows in the dark, making it easy for you to locate in the nighttime. Its symmetrical design ensures it remains in the correct position.
- GLOWS IN THE DARK: These night pacifiers for baby glow in the dark, making it easy for you to locate quickly at night without any stumbling and searching, so your baby can sleep better.
- SYMMETRICAL DESIGN: The breastfeed pacifier for babies is fun and functional. The curved shield with wide openings are always right-side up and prevent skin irritation with maximum airflow.
- SILICONE NIPPLE: The BPA-free silicone boy and girl pacifier has the signature MAM design, with silky SkinSoft material and a symmetrical shape that's ideal for jaw and teeth development.
- SELF - STERILIZING CASE: Add water and pop into the microwave to sterilize MAM silicone pacifiers 0-6 months in just 3 minutes and store in case for at home and travel to protect the pacifiers.
- HIGH QUALITY: Approved by 94% of babies*, our 100% BPA & BPS free silicone pacifiers meet or exceed US safety standards and are extremely durable while being soft and flexible for your baby's comfort.
- Chicco PhysioForma Night Glow: With orthodontic design and a night glow feature, this pacifier supports natural oral development. The glow feature provides a gentle light thatโs easy on the eyes.
- Tommee Tippee Night Time Pacifier: This model offers a soothing glow, along with an orthodontic nipple design. Itโs designed to reduce thumb-sucking.
- NUK Orthodontic Night Glow Pacifier: Besides glowing in the dark, it has an asymmetrical shape that promotes healthy jaw development. Itโs also BPA-free.
- RaZbaby Keep-It-Kleen Pacifier: While providing a comforting glow, this pacifier has an innovative closing shield that automatically closes when dropped, keeping it clean.
Remember to check Amazon reviews to ensure you get the best pacifier for your newbornโs needs.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Pacifiers
Proper care and maintenance of your newborn’s pacifier ensure safety and hygiene. Regular cleaning and timely replacement are key aspects to consider.
Sterilization Techniques
Boil pacifiers. Place silicone pacifiers like Philips AVENT Soothie in boiling water for five minutes. Use this method every day to eliminate germs. Ensure the pacifier doesn’t touch the pot’s sides to avoid damage. For quick sterilization, try the Munchkin Portable Sterilizer, which uses UV light to clean pacifiers in 59 seconds.
- Eliminates 99.99% of bacteria & viruses from pacifiers, bottle nipples, teethers, small baby items and more at home or on-the-go! 99.99% efficacy is backed by rigorous testing through multiple independent labs
- Safely eliminates most common household germs. Child safe UV light auto shuts-off when lid is opened.
- Smell the clean! Removes odor causing bacteria and sterilizes without using harmful chemicals. Note: This device has been tested and does not emit ozone
- 4 Long-Lasting Gold LED beads (instead of mercury bulbs)
- Powered via 3 AA batteries (not included) or USB wall socket (USB cable included). The USB cable powers the device, but does not charge the device. For on-the-go, use 3 AA batteries or connect USB cable to a portable power bank, car charger or laptop
Frequency of Replacement to Maintain Safety and Hygiene
Replace pacifiers. Change your newborn’s pacifier every two months to prevent wear and tear. If you notice cracks, tears, or discoloration, replace it immediately. For frequent replacements, consider the budget-friendly NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers available on Amazon. Monitor Amazon product reviews for user feedback on durability and safety to guide your choices.
By following these tips and regularly updating your newborn’s pacifiers, you ensure a safe, clean, and comfortable experience for your baby.
Conclusion: The Best Pacifier for Your Newborn
Choosing the right pacifier for your newborn is crucial for their comfort and development. With options ranging from silicone to latex and features like built-in plush toys and night glow, you’re sure to find the perfect fit. Remember to prioritize proper care and maintenance to ensure your baby’s safety. Regularly check reviews and replace pacifiers every two months to maintain a high standard of hygiene and durability. By considering these factors, you’ll provide your newborn with a soothing and secure pacifier experience.
