Pacifiers, come in all shapes and sizes. One baby prefers one kind, while another needs something else. The world of pacifiers is HUGE! And that’s no surprise, pacifiers replace mom’s nipple. Something very important! To help you navigate the pacifier world, we’ll explain some basics here; after all, a good...
Pacifiers, come in all shapes and sizes. One baby prefers...
Pacifiers
Pacifiers, come in all shapes and sizes. One baby prefers one kind, while another needs something else. The world of pacifiers is HUGE! And that’s no surprise, pacifiers replace mom’s nipple. Something very important! To help you navigate the pacifier world, we’ll explain some basics here; after all, a good start is half the battle ;)
Why does a pacifier calm a baby?
It’s useful and important to know why a baby uses a pacifier. Keeping this in mind helps you understand how vital a pacifier is for a little one. Also, it raises awareness when you think about weaning off it—because eventually, they stop naturally. Babies often have a strong sucking need, and it’s not random. Sucking offers comfort, promotes calm, and reduces stress. This need arises naturally from breastfeeding and sucking on mom. It's a natural phenomenon that deserves consideration. If your baby is often unsettled, breastfeeding is the easiest and best comfort. However, when the mother returns to work—which happens frequently—a pacifier can be an ideal substitute.
It’s an ideal Man to help your little one feel comfortable and fall asleep. Breastfeeding also helps babies fall asleep easily. Breast milk constantly adapts to your baby’s needs – for example, it contains more melatonin in the evening – helping your little one drift off. Sucking during breastfeeding also supports sleep.
That’s why a pacifier can be handy sometimes, well… mostly ;) It’s a natural behaviour we try to mimic with a pacifier :)
How do pacifier sizes work?
Pacifiers are everywhere in many varieties. But how do the sizes actually work? Every brand varies and uses slightly different sizing, yet the basics are often similar. Usually, there are three sizes for pacifiers, sometimes two. Why? Because parents tend to wean off the pacifier around two years. But this isn’t always the case—every child is different, and nature allows breastfeeding up to six or seven years. That’s also where ‘milk teeth’ come from. Of course, times change and things often differ nowadays. This doesn’t mean a five-year-old can’t still use a pacifier, especially at night. That’s more common than you think. Just follow your own child—this is the best advice you can get ;)
We always recommend checking the specific brand’s sizing charts. But now the basics are set, and you understand a bit more ;)
Okay, let’s get specific about sizes. The most common pacifier sizes are:
Size 1 - 0 to 6 months
Size 2 - 6 to 12 months
Size 3 - 12+ months
The pacifier literally replaces mom’s nipple, so it doesn’t need to be much bigger. Of course, there are different mouth sizes, so it’s about what your baby prefers. Usually, these sizes are accurate, but your baby’s mouth might be different and need a size two or three. You can only find out by trying. Size one is a good basic starting point. Then you test, and sometimes test a lot.
How do pacifier shapes work?
Besides sizes, pacifiers come in various shapes. And yes, more than three. Each brand offers something different that might or might not work for your baby. It’s not nonsense—babies have different mouths.
There is a basic categorisation of pacifier shapes:
Round pacifier – often called the cherry or cherry-shaped pacifier.
Dental pacifier – has a flat, sloping shape.
Symmetrical pacifier – a flat but symmetrical pacifier.
Which pacifier shape is best?
This is a very common question but there’s no single answer. Every baby has a different mouth. There isn’t one best pacifier shape, but there is a popular one because it resembles mom’s nipple the most. And that’s what matters—mimicking mom’s nipple. That’s the round, or cherry-shaped pacifier. A benefit is that you’re less likely to get nipple confusion—that’s when babies mix up pacifier and nipple and then might not breastfeed properly. You don’t want breastfeeding to suffer from pacifier use.
Mom’s nipple is of course best, but many mothers return to work. So a good substitute is important, especially given the sucking need. That’s why pacifiers are so useful! Breastfeeding works best but isn’t always possible.
That said, the cherry-shaped pacifier isn’t necessarily the best—just the most sold. There are many other shapes available. It’s an exploration every parent goes through. Some babies thumb-suck instead. It’s an adventure you take with some support from the right information. Ultimately, your baby decides what feels best ♡
How do I know what pacifier size my baby needs?
You might not love this answer, but it’s the truth. It’s really about trial and error. Sizes don’t tell the whole story because every mouth is different. Still, there’s a general guideline: start with size one. It’s common and a good start. But it’s not always perfect—especially if your baby struggles to latch. Then a different pacifier might be needed.
It’s a matter of trying, so if you’re starting somewhere – start with size one ;)
How do I know what pacifier shape my baby needs?
It’s really trial and error. If there are no issues, a standard cherry pacifier is a good choice. There are also try-out sets like those from BIBS—for example, the colour Ivory. There are other colours too, containing the cherry, dental, and symmetrical pacifier shapes offered by BIBS.
If your baby has trouble breastfeeding or has a tongue tie, you likely have help from an expert. You can ask them what’s best, as they have years of experience. Still, it’s trial and error but more targeted :)
How do I clean pacifiers?
Cleaning pacifiers regularly is important, but how do you do it? Some advice says to boil pacifiers thoroughly, but that’s old advice based on silicone pacifiers. Times change, and so do materials. BIBS pacifiers are mostly made from natural rubber, which you shouldn’t boil. Boiling damages natural rubber, and that’s not what you want. So how do you clean natural rubber pacifiers?
It’s simple and doesn’t take much time. Put the natural rubber pacifiers in a colander and pour boiled water over them. This kills most bacteria, so longer isn’t necessary. That’s exactly what you want.
What pacifier materials are there?
Pacifiers come in various kinds, sizes, colours, and materials. Three main types exist: natural rubber, latex, or silicone. Conscious parents usually pick natural rubber, but some babies are allergic to it and need alternatives.
What’s the difference between silicone and natural rubber pacifiers?
The first difference is visible to the naked eye. Natural rubber pacifiers are brown/yellowish. Silicone pacifiers are clear—two very different pacifiers. Natural rubber pacifiers are also called latex pacifiers. The material is natural, flexible, and comes from the Hevea tree. Natural rubber is very soft, elastic, and resilient. Exactly what you want for your baby because it mimics mom’s nipple. Silicone pacifiers are firmer. They can handle more pressure and are less likely to break.
Where can I ask my pacifier questions?
You might have questions after reading this information. You can always contact our Team if you have questions. Whether about pacifiers in general, the BIBS brand, or pacifier materials. Any question is welcome – contact our Team anytime. You can reach us via info@Haarspullen.nl or call us at 038-4582584