Dummies

Parent guild on Dummies for baby.

Is a dummy the same as a pacifier? and what are they?

A dummy, pacifier or soother is a nipple shaped rubber or silicone device that is designed to comfort babies. They can be either attached to a teething ring or have a handle. Dummies are often used as a comforter for young babies and can help them to self-settle. They are designed to stop babies from sucking their thumb or fist.

What are the benefits of using a pacifier?

There are many benefits of using a pacifier, including:

• Comfort – a pacifier can provide comfort for baby, particularly when they are tired or upset.
• Self-settling – a pacifier can help baby to self-settle and fall asleep.
• Pain relief – a pacifier can help to soothe teething pain.
• Protection – pacifiers can help to protect baby’s delicate skin from thumb sucking and drooling.

When can dummy or pacifier be introduced?

There is no evidence that using a dummy or pacifier has any adverse effect on breastfed babies, and so they can be introduced from birth if you wish. If you are bottle feeding, it is best to wait until baby is 3-4 weeks old and settled into a good feeding routine before introducing a dummy or pacifier.

What are the different types of pacifier?

There are many different types of pacifier available, including:

• Silicone – these are soft and flexible with a smooth surface. They are available in a range of sizes and shapes.
• Rubber – these are made from natural rubber and are softer than silicone. They are available in a range of sizes and shapes.
• Orthodontic soother – these have a flat, rather than round, nipple. They are designed to promote healthy development of baby’s teeth and jaw.
• Transitional – these have a larger base and longer nipple than standard pacifiers. They are designed for older babies who are moving from bottle to solid foods.
• Disposable – these are made from a soft, flexible material and are designed to be used for a short period of time. They are often given to babies in hospital.

How long should baby use pacifier for?

It is recommended that pacifier use be limited to the first 6 months. After this time, there is a risk that baby will become attached to the pacifier and find it difficult to give up. If you do decide to continue using a pacifier beyond 6 months, it is important to supervise use and ensure that baby does not use it for long periods of time.

How to keep pacifier clean for my baby?

Before giving baby the pacifier, it is important to clean it. There are several ways to sterilise a pacifier, including:

• Boiling – place the pacifier in a pan of boiling water for 5 minutes.
• Sterilising solution – immerse the pacifier in a sterilising solution for 5 minutes.
• Microwave – place the pacifier in a microwave-safe container with water and microwave on high for 2 minutes.

Furthermore, there are devices that help to sterillise your baby pacifier like this UV LED light Sterilising pod from 59S, come in white and pink

When sterilising a pacifier, it is important to make sure that all the parts are covered in the solution. The pacifier should then be rinsed in clean water before use.

Parent can also using strap to hold the pacifier , so it won’t get lost or dropped on the floor; like these Bibiland Bibistraps, or this cute Sophie La Girafe Star Pacifier Soother Holder