Baby Safety: The Pacifier Safety Checklist Nobody Talks About

When you’re expecting, everyone has advice about bottles, diapers, and cribs. But nobody really talks about how to keep your baby safe with the product they use the most: their pacifier.

It’s in your baby’s mouth every single day, sometimes even when you’re not watching closely. That’s why a little knowledge about pacifier safety goes such a long way. The good news? Keeping pacifier use safe doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are the simple steps every parent can take. Pacifiers are actually be a wonderful tool:

• They help babies settle and calm.

• They can provide comfort during stressful moments or while traveling.

• Studies show pacifier use during sleep can lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

• NICU babies go home sooner with the use of pacifiers.

With benefits like these, it’s no wonder pacifiers are part of so many families’ daily routines. The key is simply knowing how to use them safely.

Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow pacifier baby safety checklist to give you peace of mind.

The Do’s of Pacifier Safety

• Follow the age and usage guidelines. Pacifiers are tested for specific age ranges, so stick with the one that matches your baby’s stage.

• Replace regularly. Even the best pacifiers for newborns should be swapped out every 4–8 weeks, or sooner if you notice wear and tear.

• Check before each use. A quick glance for cracks, tears, or changes in color helps ensure your baby’s pacifier stays safe.

• Clean daily. Whether that’s boiling, steaming, or using the dishwasher (depending on brand), keeping it clean protects your baby from germs.

The Don’ts of Pacifier Safety

• Skip clips, cords, or stuffed animal attachments during sleep. They may be cute or convenient, but they aren’t safe in the crib.

• Don’t attach pacifiers to car seats or crib rails. It can be tempting, but it’s not safe.

• Pacifiers aren’t teethers. Once your baby starts biting or chewing, it’s time to reevaluate.

• Don’t modify or cut a pacifier. Hacks like this can make them unsafe and create choking hazards.

Choosing the Safest Pacifier Materials

Parents often ask: What’s the safest pacifier material?

• Latex (natural rubber): Soft, but it breaks down quickly, holds bacteria more easily, and can trigger allergies.

• Silicone: Hypoallergenic, durable, non-toxic, and easier to sanitize.

If you’re looking for a non-toxic pacifier that’s easy to keep clean, silicone is usually the best choice.

A Few Extra Things to Keep in Mind

• Shield design matters. Open-back shields are easier to clean, but little fingers can get trapped. Closed-back shields avoid that, but may trap moisture if not checked.

• No honey or sweeteners. Pacifiers should never be dipped in anything sweet — especially honey, which isn’t safe for babies under 1 year.

• Know when to stop. Most dentists suggest weaning pacifier use by around age 3 to avoid dental concerns. I'm personally a fan of 6-18 months. 

Peace of Mind for Parents

Pacifiers can be a powerful tool for comfort, soothing, and even safety when used correctly. By keeping this checklist in mind, you’ll feel confident knowing your baby’s pacifier is both helpful and safe.

As you prepare for life with your little one, remember this: you don’t have to know everything right now. Start with the basics, lean on guides like this, and you’ll already be ahead of the game.

Because at the end of the day, safety should always be the convenient choice.

Written by Lindsay deOliveira, Certified Breastfeeding Counselor and founder of Soothe Beginnings. I’m passionate about making pacifier safety approachable and empowering for parents — because what goes in your baby’s mouth matters.