Pacifiers can be a really helpful tool when you have a baby. Not only do they help soothe your baby, but they also have protective purposes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pacifiers while your baby sleeps to help reduce the risk of SIDS. They also provide an analgesic effect (reducing pain) when your baby is uncomfortable or fussy.
In this post, we’ll go over the ten best pacifiers for breastfed babies, why they’re so well loved, and how to choose the right one for your baby! As well as address all the common misconceptions about nipple confusion.
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Best Pacifiers for Breastfed Babies
1. Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
These pacifiers are commonly distributed by hospitals after having your baby. The Philips Avent Soothie pacifier is commonly accepted by breastfed babies, and is one of the most popular pacifier options on the market.
When I polled the community on my Instagram, Philips Avent Soothie was the top recommended pacifier taken by their babies.
- Made of hospital-grade silicone that is BPA-free and latex-free
- One piece orthodontic nipple design for natural oral development
- Adheres to the American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines
- Different sizes: 0-3 months and 3-18 months
2. Nanobebe Flexy Pacifier
This silicone pacifier is another well-loved option for breastfed babies. It was designed specifically for breastfeeding babies as the silicone nipple is meant to mimic mom. It forms to your baby’s face providing a comfortable fit, and does not cover the baby’s nose.
This pacifier is a great option for newborn babies and even preemies. Many moms rave about how the design doesn’t overtake their small baby’s face and remains in their mouth easily.
- Made of medical-grade silicone free from BPA phthalates, latex, lead, and PVC
- One-piece construction that promotes healthy oral development
- Lightweight ergonomic design keeps pacifier in baby’s mouth
- Adheres to the American Academy of Pediatric Guidelines
3. MAM Start Newborn Pacifier
Many new parents rave about these pacifiers for their newborns because they are incredibly lightweight and also commonly accepted by breastfed babies. These were the pacifiers that worked best for my first baby when she was a newborn.
The one con to this pacifier is that it is not a one-piece design. The pacifier consists of two pieces, the shield, and the nipple. If the nipple piece were to come off, it can become a choking hazard. So always check that the silicone nipple is adhered well before giving it to your baby.
- Symmetrical shape to avoid any “right side up” issues
- Ideal for 0-2 months old
- Extra tiny for newborn mouths and lightweight
- Curved shield for better ventilation for baby’s nose
- Comes with self sterilizing case you pop in the microwave
- BPA-free silicone nipple
4. MAM Night Pacifiers
This is another great MAM option for breastfed babies. The cool thing about this pacifier is it offers the same great design as the MAM newborn but comes in different sizes and also glows in the dark! Which makes finding a pacifier in the night much easier for the baby and parents!
Similarly to the MAM Start Newborn pacifier, this pacifier also has a two-piece design. I would typically try a one-piece construction paci first, but if your baby loves MAM pacifiers then you may also love these!
- Glows in the dark
- Comfortable design for baby’s skin
- SkinSoft silicone (BPA-free) that feels like mom
- Symmetrical nipple promotes healthy oral development
- Comes with sterilizing storage case
5. Ryan and Rose Cutie Pat Pacifier Teether
These are my personal favorite and what my first baby used after the MAM newborn paci. They have the coolest combo design which includes a one-piece nipple as well as a teether on the other side that your baby can chew on.
You can also tuck the nipple into the pacifier itself to use it just as a teether so it can be multi-purpose for your little one! The silicone is extremely soft. And it helps that they’re so cute!
Ryan and Rose has a starter kit with all of the different pacifier options, or you can purchase them separately.
- Comes in different nipple shapes (round, flat, bulb, slant) which is perfect for babies that may have a certain preference
- Two stages (Stage 1 – no teeth, soft silicone | Stage 2 – teeth, stronger, thicker silicone)
- Designed for natural palette development
- Made with medical-grade silicone that’s BPA, latex, and phthalate free
6. Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci Newborn Pacifier
Dr. Brown’s bottles are a very common option for breastfed babies due to their narrow nipple shape. Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci has a similar nipple shape to the bottles, which makes it a great option for breastfed babies. The nipple is really soft and lightweight, making it easy for tiny ones to hold on to.
- Familiar nipple shape to the Dr. Brown’s bottles
- One-piece construction
- 100% silicone that is lightweight and soft
- Contoured “butterfly” shape that curves away from baby’s nose and cheeks
- BPA-free and can be used from 0-6 months
7. WubbaNub Infant Pacifier
This pacifier has the same great Philips Avent Soothie but with an adorable little stuffed animal attached. Many babies love to have something to snuggle while sucking on their pacifier to help with soothing. The stuffed animal attached to the paci is a perfect addition for your baby to cuddle.
Parents also love these because the stuffed animal can help the paci to stay in baby’s mouth. And it makes it really easy to find!
- Recommended for use up to 6 months
- One piece orthodontic nipple design for natural oral development
- Adheres to the American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines
- Made of hospital-grade silicone that is BPA-free and latex-free
Honorable mention
The Philips Avent Soothie Snuggle is very similar to the WubbaNub. It also comes with a stuffed animal attached and the same great pacifier. One pro to the Soothie Snuggle is that it allows the paci and stuffed animal to detach for easy cleaning and moving up to a different size in paci nipple.
However, the main con is they don’t have nearly as many cute stuffed animals to choose from!
8. Evenflo Feeding Balance+ Pacifier
The Evenflo Feeding Balance+ pacifier is another well-loved paci by breastfeeding moms and babies. The pacifier is a one-piece construction that is ultra-light with a curved faceplate, making it easier for your baby to suck on for longer periods of time.
This pacifier was created by Pediatric Feeding Specialists with breastfed babies in mind. Many parents do love that these pacifiers really are extremely lightweight.
If you like to attach a pacifier clip to your baby’s pacifier, this paci comes with a handle which makes it really easy to attach to. It also helps prevent skin irritation from the pacifier clip loop rubbing on your baby’s skin.
- Made from 100% food-grade soft silicone, ultra-light and flexible
- Multiple vent holes to keep your baby’s skin dry
- Easy-grip handle
- Free from PVC, phthalates, and polycarbonates
9. The First Years Gumdrop Newborn Pacifiers
I’ve included the First Years Gumdrop Newborn pacifier on this list because it was another highly recommended option for a breastfed baby struggling to accept a pacifier. Some hospitals do provide these pacifiers at birth, so you may see these as an option after delivery!
One con is the pacifier is a bit heavier than others on the market. But many babies accept the nipple shape and love this paci.
- Contoured shape goes underneath baby’s nose
- Includes a tab to attach pacifier clips or stuffed animals
- Suitable for 0-3 months – different size available
- Silicone and latex-free
10. Tommee Tippee Breast-Like Pacifier
If your baby likes the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature bottles, they might love these pacifiers. The nipple is inspired by the bottles and helps with pacifier acceptance.
One con is some parents stated their baby’s fingers got caught in the paci while playing with it. So if your baby likes to soothe by touching something while sucking their pacifier, I recommend attaching a soothie.
- Soft silicone nipple flexes and stretches just like the breast
- Symmetrical orthodontic design
- Unique pacifier shield that curves away from baby’s nose and face to help prevent irritation and promote better ventilation
- BPA-free design
11. Ninni Co. Pacifier
A newer pacifier to the market, the Ninni Co. pacifier was designed by two moms hoping to create a truly breastlike pacifier. It’s designed to draw back into the soft palate of the mouth like the breast and reinforce a proper breastfeeding latch.
It’s cute and functional! The nipple on the pacifier is a little short, but if your baby takes to it well then it may become a new favorite!
I’m really excited to this pacifier out once baby #3 comes. I’m hopeful my baby will take to it since it’s such a great pacifier option for breastfed babies.
- One-piece design
- Several holes to ensure breathing safety
- Made in the USA
- BPA/Phthalate/PVC free
- 100% Medical Grade Silicone
- Dishwasher safe
Things to Consider When Choosing a Pacifier for Your Breastfed Baby
The best pacifier for one breastfed baby may be different from another breastfed baby. Don’t get discouraged if your little one doesn’t take to one pacifier. Try something different or maybe try one similar to the nipple type on the bottle your baby accepts.
When to Introduce
You may have heard all about nipple confusion with breastfed babies and have been told to wait a certain amount of weeks until you give your baby a pacifier. Research actually shows that the use of a pacifier starting from birth or after lactation is established, did not significantly impact the frequency or duration of breastfeeding.
However, with that being said, many breastfeeding moms like to hold off until breastfeeding is established and their baby has learned to latch correctly.
If you do choose to introduce a pacifier at birth while breastfeeding, be sure not to use the pacifier close to feeding times or to delay your baby’s hunger cues.
Material of Pacifier
Pacifiers are usually made from silicone or latex rubber. You want to be sure to use a pacifier that is BPA-free. And be conscious of your baby’s delicate skin with any pacifiers that contain latex.
Size of Pacifier
Starting with a newborn-sized pacifier can be really beneficial for some babies to help keep the paci from falling out of their mouth.
You also want to be sure your pacifier can support your baby’s natural oral development as well as when they grow teeth. Most pacifiers change to a stronger silicone to prevent any tearing from teething babies.
Start with a Variety
It really is quite interesting how babies have their own preference for the pacifier and bottle type they take. Your baby may not like the pacifier you choose. Don’t buy multiple pacifiers until you know your baby likes them.
I recommend buying a few different options and seeing which one your baby takes to the best. Don’t toss it if your baby doesn’t like it the first time. Sometimes it takes multiple encounters for your baby to take the pacifier.
Nipple Confusion vs. Nipple Preference
Many parents worry that giving their baby a pacifier too soon will cause something called “nipple confusion”. This is when the baby becomes confused between the mom’s nipple and the artificial nipple (bottle or pacifier).
Babies don’t actually become confused between what is mom’s nipple and a bottle nipple. Rather, they develop nipple preference. The mechanisms of the way a baby nurses versus the way a baby takes a bottle are very different. There are also differences in the flow of a bottle versus the flow from a breast.
Research shows there is very little evidence to support nipple confusion in regards to pacifier use. And rather, nipple preference is more related to bottle feeding.
I hope after reading this, you can take peace in the decision you make and not stress about a pacifier causing issues at the breast.
The Best Pacifier for Breastfed Babies Shape
The best pacifier shape for your breastfed baby is one with a cylindrical shape. This is because of the way the tongue cups around the nipple, just like it would when breastfeeding.
The cylindrical shapes allows your baby to mimic the tongue shape they make while breastfeeding.
Although the cylindrical shape is the first and best choice for breastfed babies, you might find that your baby doesn’t love the shape. I’ve included the MAM pacifiers on this list because some breastfed babies do love them and take to them well.
Tips for Using a Pacifier When Breastfeeding
Here are a few helpful tips to remember when using a pacifier while breastfeeding:
- Use the pacifiers in between feedings, NOT in place of feedings or to delay feedings.
- Once your baby has chosen their favorite pacifier, keep multiple on hand! Pacifiers get lost very easily and also get dirty quickly.
- If your baby isn’t interested in the pacifier at first, don’t force it! Stay patient and continue offering in between feedings.
- If your little one is fussy and showing a need for sucking, attempt to breastfeed first. If they aren’t interested in taking a feeding, then use the pacifier as a helpful tool to soothe your baby.
- Clean the pacifier often and sterilize it once daily until your baby gets a bit older and their immune system matures a bit more. This can be done by boiling it or putting it in the dishwasher.
- Check the pacifier each time for any signs of deterioration. Frequent pacifier use can cause tears or cracks in the silicone or latex and become a choking hazard.
When to Avoid or Discontinue Pacifier Use
There are a few situations where it would be best to avoid or discontinue pacifier use.
If your baby is having issues with weight gain or you have low milk supply issues, it’s best to focus solely on breastfeeding and consider introducing the pacifier at a later time.
If you or your baby have thrush, you’ll need to discontinue pacifier use until cleared. Continuing pacifier use can keep spreading the thrush and prevent it from being treated.
If your baby starts to refuse to breastfeed, has sudden difficulties, or the latch becomes painful, discontinue pacifier use and get back to working on effective latching and breastfeeding.
What to Consider Before Introducing Pacifier to a Breastfed Baby
It’s important to know the risks and benefits of introducing a pacifier to your baby before giving one.
Risks of pacifier use include:
- May increase the risk of middle ear infections
- Prolonged use (past two years of age) may lead to dental problems
- Can be used to push off feedings and subdue hunger cues which may affect weight gain and breastfeeding milk supply
Benefits of pacifier use include:
- Offers a temporary distraction and soothes a fussy baby
- AAP shows it may help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Preferable over thumb-sucking as they can be disposed of
- May help with sleep
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pacifier is best for breastfed baby?
Truthfully, whatever pacifier your baby will take is just fine! As long as they go back to the breast easily without any issues, there is no rule on what pacifier they can and cannot take.
The pacifiers on this list are commonly accepted by breastfed babies, but are great for any babies.
Is giving a pacifier OK for breastfed babies?
Yes! The research now shows that giving a breastfed baby a pacifier after birth does not disrupt breastfeeding or cause nipple confusion. It is recommended to avoid giving your baby their pacifier to delay hunger or near feeding times.
Why won’t my breastfed baby take a pacifier?
Every baby has their own unique preferences. Some formula fed babies also do not accept pacifiers.
However, sometimes breastfed babies do develop a preference for the breast and like to soothe themselves there rather than with a pacifier.
Do pacifiers prevent SIDS?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that the use of a pacifier significantly reduced the risk of SIDS, especially during sleep. But please, don’t panic if your baby won’t take one. There are other ways to reduce the risk of SIDS!
When should my baby stop using a pacifier?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends children stop non-nutritive sucking habits (pacifier use) by 3 years or younger. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends children should stop using a pacifier by age 2. So anytime between 2-3 years old should be fine!
How often should a pacifier be replaced?
Follow the recommendations of the pacifier manufacturer you use! If you can’t find any, it is typically recommended to replace your baby’s pacifiers every 4-6 weeks.
Watch out for any tears in the silicone, change in size, or signs of mold growth. If you see any, discard the paci immediately.
Should a breastfed baby have a pacifier?
If you choose, you can give your breastfed baby a pacifier from the start. Previous recommendations stated to wait to give pacifiers to breastfed babies until breastfeeding was well established.
Now we’re finding that most breastfed babies can take a pacifier with no issues. If your baby is truly struggling with a latch, tongue or lip tie issues, or having issues with weight gain then you may want to wait to introduce the pacifier. Otherwise, the timing is up to you!
How do I introduce a pacifier to my breastfed baby?
Start with the pacifier you would like your baby to take and offer it to them. If they don’t take it at first, that’s okay. You can continue trying if you’d like for them to take one.
If they continue to refuse the pacifier after multiple tries, try out a different brand. Some babies take right away to one pacifier and other’s are a bit more picky.
Remember, the best pacifier for one breastfed baby may not be the best pacifier for your baby. If you want your baby to take a pacifier, be patient and don’t give up right away!
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