Pacifier Safety
As parents, we are always trying to do the best we can with our children. We want what’s best for them and we want to keep them happy, healthy and safe. Infant pacifiers are a common must have item for parents and babies across the world that help keep parents and babies happy! However, there are a few things to consider when it comes to pacifier safety!
- Choking: Pacifiers that are multiple pieces are choking hazards. Always make sure you get a pacifier that is one piece! Pacifier clips can also be choking hazards. The small beads on the chains could come off and put baby in a very scary situation!
If you are wanting a pacifier accessory to keep your baby’s pacifier close by at all times, but also isn't a safety hazard, I recommend the Ingy Bingy Band. The Ingy Bingy Band is a pacifier wristband that works with any type of newborn pacifier. Infant pacifiers easily attach and detach to the pacifier wristband! This pacifier wristband velcros around baby’s wrist to help them self-soothe from as early as 4 months! This pacifier bracelet saves you time and frustration because you won’t be constantly looking for it and cleaning it when the newborn pacifier keeps falling out!
2. Cleaning/Sanitizing: It’s important to remember that pacifiers need to be replaced every 4-6 weeks. If you notice any wear on them before that time, always throw them away! This can be very dangerous!
Newborn pacifiers fall on the ground all the time so germs are a huge concern with pacifiers. The Ingy Bingy Band is a great way to minimize a pacifier’s exposure to dirt and germs because your newborn pacifiers won’t be constantly falling on the floor. However, you still need to clean those pacifiers regularly! Here’s a list of some of the most highly rated pacifier cleaning accessories!
- Pacifier Wipes: Simply wipe down your pacifier with one of these baby safe sanitizing wipes! Some popular brands include: Dapple Baby , Mam, Munchkin Arm & Hammer
- Pacifier Spray: If you’re not feeling the pacifier wipes you can try using a pacifier spray. Simply spray the infant pacifier to sanitize, rinse under water, and let it air dry!
- Munchkin Portable Electric UV Sterilizer: This mini sterilizer kills germs, bacteria and viruses such as the flu, e. coli, salmonella, and RSV in under a minute! It has a strap so that it can attach to a diaper bag or stroller easily!
3. Age: Keep in mind the age of your baby and the recommended age for use of the pacifier listed on the packaging. You might think that’s silly or something to easily disregard, but as your child grows, pacifiers also change shape and firmness. These age guidelines exist to keep your baby safe and ensure the pacifiers work effectively!
As your baby grows, their face will grow and the pacifier they used as a newborn won’t feel as normal. The nipple on pacifiers will get longer and firmer to accommodate your child’s growing mouth.
Your child’s sucking ability will strengthen as they age. If an older baby is using a 0-3 month pacifier older they can suck the shield into their mouth accidentally and choke. Pacifiers for older children are made with a larger shield to prevent this from happening.