Top 5 Pacifiers for Nursing Newborns: A Review

Is your little one refusing the bottle but needs that soothing comfort? Many new parents face the challenge of finding the perfect pacifier for a breastfed baby. It can feel overwhelming! Stores overflow with shapes, sizes, and materials. You worry about nipple confusion or if the pacifier will mess up their latch. These concerns are real, and choosing the wrong one adds unnecessary stress to those precious early weeks.

You want peace of mind knowing you are choosing something safe and beneficial for your nursing newborn. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what features matter most when selecting a pacifier that works alongside breastfeeding. You will learn the key differences between orthodontic and traditional designs and understand how different materials feel to your baby.

Keep reading to discover our expert tips on choosing the best pacifier to support your breastfeeding journey without causing issues. Let’s explore the simple steps to find that perfect soothing companion for your baby.

Top Pacifier For Nursing Newborn Recommendations

No. 1
MAM Original Start Matte Baby Pacifiers, Binky for 0-3 Months, BPA-Free Silicone Nipple, Easy to Clean, Best for Newborn Babies, Developed with Medical Experts, 2 Count Binkies with Sterilizer Case
  • SYMMETRICAL SHAPE: No “right side up” silicone pacifier for babies are fuss-free and won’t need to be adjusted to sit properly in baby’s mouth and fits perfectly under nose for easy breathing.
  • SILICONE NIPPLE: The BPA-free silicone boy and girl pacifier has the signature MAM design, with silky SkinSoft material and a symmetrical shape that's ideal for jaw and teeth development.
  • SELF - STERILIZING CASE: Add water and pop into the microwave to sterilize MAM silicone pacifiers 0-6 months in just 3 minutes and store in case for at home and travel to protect the pacifiers.
  • VENTILATED & COMFORTABLE SHIELD: These cute pacifiers for babies have a curved sterilizing shield with openings to keep baby comfortable, prevent moisture build-up, and allow baby’s skin to breathe.
  • HIGH QUALITY: Approved by 94% of babies*, our 100% BPA & BPS free silicone pacifiers meet or exceed US safety standards and are extremely durable while being soft and flexible for your baby's comfort.
No. 2
Itzy Ritzy Natural Rubber Newborn Pacifiers (Set of 2) – Baby Pacifiers with Cherry-Shaped Nipple & Large Air Holes for Added Safety; Set of 2 Binkies in Coconut & Toast (Ages 0 – 6 Months)
  • NEWBORN PACIFIERS 0-6 MONTHS: Immerse your little one in comfort with our Natural Rubber Pacifiers. Specifically designed for babies aged 0-6 months, these feature a cherry-shaped nipple that closely mimics breastfeeding for a soothing experience.
  • CHIC STYLE & SAFETY: Each natural rubber pacifier includes a shield with large air holes that is accented with a cable-style handle, adding a touch of fashion while meeting ASTM safety standards. Our pacifiers are also BPA-free and PVC-free.
  • SET OF 2 INFANT PACIFIERS: Each pack includes 2 pacifiers in 2 coordinating shades. At Itzy Ritzy, we offer not just pacifiers but an essential accessory that complements your newborn baby essentials with both style and functionality.
  • BEST PACIFIER FOR BREASTFED BABIES: Mimic the comforting feel of breastfeeding. The natural rubber nipple provides a nurturing touch, making these pacifiers an ideal choice for newborns, for a seamless transition & soothing experience.
  • ITZY RITZY NEWBORN ESSENTIALS: Discover our trusted baby essentials. These chic pacifiers for babies aged 0-6 months meet safety standards while adding a stylish flair to your baby's accessories. Secure and essential for your little one's early stages.
No. 3
Garkoko Baby Pacifiers 0-6 Months Breast Like Shape Pacifiers BPA-Free One-Piece Silicone Newborn Pacifier for Breastfed Babies, 2pcs
  • SILICONE BABY PACIFIER: Lightweight newborn pacifiers BPA free, Food-Grade Silicone and Skin-Like Feel Texture,soft silicone is gentle on gums, but durable enough to withstand biting. Garkoko pacifier antistatic treatment, makes silicone surface less sticky, which won’t attract dust and hair.
  • BREAST LIKE SHAPE PACIFIERS: Our baby pacifier allows your child to self-soothe by exercising their instinctive sucking instinct in the most natural way possible, by mimicking both the shape and soft materials of mothers’ breast. The classic pacifiers appearance, comfortable feel for baby with textured silicone nipple that's designed to mimic the feel of moms breast.
  • ONE-PIECE DESIGN: Garkoko‘s silicone pacifier is a one-piece design without pieces that can come off, posing a possible choking hazard. This one-piece construction makes cleaning and sterilizing easier with no chance of water pooling in the nipple.
  • BREATHABLE DESIGN and KIND TO SKIN: The pacii baby pacifier Holes in the shield provide airflow to help reduce irritation on baby’s sensitive skin, and ensure your baby stays safe. The outward curve keeps the pacifier off their delicate skin,Prevent Drool Rash, providing plenty of room for their nose, chin, and cheeks.
  • SAFETY AND RELIABLE: Uncompromising Protection for Your Little One. At Garkoko, we believe nothing matters more than your baby's safety. Made from unbreakable silicone for lasting use, our pacifiers eliminate the worry of cracks and replacements. Designed for babies 0-6 months, they feature a one-piece construction with no detachable parts, completely eliminating any choking hazard.
No. 4
Medela Baby Pacifier | Newborn 0-2 Months | 2-Count | Includes sterilizing case | Silicone- and BPA-Free | Supports Natural Suckling | Clear
  • GENTLE ON SKIN: Our pacifiers come with SensoPearls features to maximize airflow and comfort for babies' skin
  • SMALL AND LIGHTWEIGHT: Durable, easy to handle and so handy that you'll want them everywhere your baby is
  • SHAPED FOR NEWBORN BABIES' COMFORT: Shaped for Comfort: Ergonomically designed to allow the baby to smell mom’s comforting scent with an extra small teat to fit smaller babies’ mouth
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Comes with self cleaning case. Just add water and put in the microwave for 3 minutes to steam-clean
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: 2-Count BPA-Free 0-2 months Newborn Pacifiers with Sterilizing Pacifier Holder; Made in Switzerland, Clear
No. 5
NUK Newborn Orthodontic Pacifiers
  • Specifically designed for infants aged 0-2 months
  • Breast-like nipple is shaped to soothe baby just like mom
  • Helps promote healthy oral development
  • Pacifier is accepted by 95% of babies and won’t cause nipple confusion*
  • Comes with the NUK reusable storage case
No. 6
Itzy Ritzy Natural Rubber Newborn Pacifiers (Set of 2) – Baby Pacifiers with Cherry-Shaped Nipple & Large Air Holes for Added Safety; Set of 2 Binkies in Blossom & Rosewood (Ages 0 – 6 Months)
  • NEWBORN PACIFIERS 0-6 MONTHS: Immerse your little one in comfort with our Natural Rubber Pacifiers. Specifically designed for babies aged 0-6 months, these feature a cherry-shaped nipple that closely mimics breastfeeding for a soothing experience.
  • CHIC STYLE & SAFETY: Each natural rubber pacifier includes a shield with large air holes that is accented with a cable-style handle, adding a touch of fashion while meeting ASTM safety standards. Our pacifiers are also BPA-free and PVC-free.
  • SET OF 2 INFANT PACIFIERS: Each pack includes 2 pacifiers in 2 coordinating shades. At Itzy Ritzy, we offer not just pacifiers but an essential accessory that complements your newborn baby essentials with both style and functionality.
  • BEST PACIFIER FOR BREASTFED BABIES: Mimic the comforting feel of breastfeeding. The natural rubber nipple provides a nurturing touch, making these pacifiers an ideal choice for newborns, for a seamless transition & soothing experience.
  • ITZY RITZY NEWBORN ESSENTIALS: Discover our trusted baby essentials. These chic pacifiers for babies aged 0-6 months meet safety standards while adding a stylish flair to your baby's accessories. Secure and essential for your little one's early stages.
No. 7
MAM Comfort Baby Pacifiers, Lightweight One-Piece Full Silicone Binky for Newborns 0-3 Months, BPA-Free Nipple, Easy to Clean Pacifier, Best for Breastfed Babies, with Sterilizer Case, 2 Count Binkies
  • EXTRA LIGHTWEIGHT ONE PIECE DESIGN: Made from special flexible medical grade silicone. 32% lighter than other one-piece pacifiers
  • DEVELOPED WITH ORTHODONTISTS and pediatric dentists to be especially soft for newborns and babies, and distrubuted in hospitals nationwide
  • SYMMETRICAL NIPPLE : No right side up supports healthy oral development these specailly-shaped pacifiers adhere to the American Academy of Pediatricians guidelines
  • BREATHABLE CURVED SHIELD : Designed for maximum breathablity for your babies sensitive skin with room for little noses
  • FINGERHOLD DESIGN: Uniquely made so you can place your finger in the nipple helping you bond with your baby.
No. 8
Comfy Cubs Baby Pacifiers, 5 Pack for 0+ Months - Soft Breast-Like Nipple Shape - CPSIA Compliant Silicone Pacifier for Newborns - Girl Pack Baby Essentials - Ideal Newborn Gift Set - Multicolor Girl
  • 100% Food-Grade Pacifiers for Breastfed Babies - Crafted from 100% food-grade silicone, Comfy Cubs newborn pacifier is designed to offer reliable safety and quality for breastfed babies. It is free from BPA, PVC, phthalates, and latex, making it both safe and gentle on delicate skin.
  • Air Holes for Added Safety - Comfy Cubs silicone pacifier feature two strategically placed safety air holes to ensure extra protection for babies from birth and beyond. With a pack of 5 pacifiers, these essentials are a must-have addition to your baby care collection, providing both safety and convenience.
  • Durable Baby Care Products - Crafted from durable soft silicone, Comfy Cubs pacifiers newborn are designed to be gentle on your baby’s tender gums while withstanding everyday use. The soft, resilient texture offers soothing relief and ensures that these pacifiers remain a dependable choice for your baby necessities.
  • Girl Pack Bulk Pacifiers - Specifically designed baby girl pacifiers, featuring a charming selection of colors—Mauve, Lace Pink, White, Sand, and Blush. These lovely hues are perfect for coordinating with your little one's outfits, making our breast like pacifiers not only a functional essential but also a stylish accessory for everyday wear.
  • Thoughtful Gift for New Parents - Our pacifiers for breastfeeding babies are a nice gift for new parents. This toddler pacifier combination of soothing comfort and functionality makes it a great choice for baby showers or welcoming a new arrival.

Choosing the Best Pacifier for Your Nursing Newborn: A Complete Buying Guide

Finding the right pacifier can bring comfort to your newborn and peace to your home. Since you are nursing, you need a pacifier that mimics the natural feel of breastfeeding. This guide helps you pick the best one.

1. Key Features to Look For

The best pacifiers for nursing babies have specific designs. These features help prevent “nipple confusion,” where a baby prefers the bottle or pacifier over the breast.

Shape and Design Matters

  • Orthodontic or Symmetrical Nipple: These shapes fit naturally in the baby’s mouth. They support healthy palate and jaw development. Look for nipples that flatten when the baby sucks.
  • Lightweight Shield: The shield (the hard part outside the mouth) should be light. A heavy shield can cause the baby to tire easily or push the pacifier out.
  • Airflow Holes: Good pacifiers have vents or holes in the shield. These holes let air circulate. This keeps the sensitive skin around the baby’s mouth dry and prevents rashes.

Safety and Size

  • One-Piece Construction: Always choose pacifiers made of one solid piece of silicone or latex. Parts that can break off become choking hazards.
  • Age Appropriateness: Pacifiers come in sizes for 0-3 months, 3-6 months, etc. Using the correct size ensures the nipple fits the baby’s mouth properly.

2. Important Materials

The material directly affects safety, durability, and how your baby accepts the pacifier.

Silicone vs. Natural Rubber (Latex)
  • Silicone: Silicone is very popular. It is odorless and tasteless, which many babies prefer. It is also very durable and easy to clean. Silicone pacifiers usually last longer.
  • Natural Rubber (Latex): Latex feels softer and more flexible, mimicking the feel of the breast tissue more closely. Some parents find this helps with nursing acceptance. However, latex wears out faster and can sometimes cause allergic reactions in sensitive babies.

Important Note: Check the packaging for BPA, PVC, and Phthalate-free labels. These chemicals are harmful to babies.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality is about how well the pacifier performs over time and how safe it remains.

Improving Quality

  • Dishwasher Safe: Easy cleaning improves hygiene. High-quality pacifiers withstand repeated sterilization and dishwasher cycles without warping.
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Feature: While not essential, a handle that glows makes finding the pacifier in the middle of the night much easier for tired parents.
  • Integrated Handle: A solid, easy-to-grip handle allows you or your baby to easily reposition the pacifier.

Reducing Quality (Things to Avoid)

  • Hard Plastic Nipples: These do not allow for natural movement in the mouth and can interfere with latching.
  • Two-Piece Designs: If the shield and nipple are glued or joined, they might separate over time, creating a serious choking risk.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

How parents and babies use the pacifier daily determines its real-world success.

When to Introduce

Many pediatricians suggest waiting until breastfeeding is well-established (usually around 3–4 weeks) before introducing a pacifier. This reduces the chance of nipple confusion. If your baby strongly rejects the first pacifier you try, wait a few days and try a different shape or brand.

Maintenance

Inspect the pacifier daily. Look for cracks, tears, or stickiness on the nipple. If you see any damage, throw it away immediately. Pacifiers should generally be replaced every 4–6 weeks, even if they look fine.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Nursing Pacifiers

Q: How do I know if a pacifier will work with my nursing baby?

A: Look for orthodontic or symmetrical shapes. These are designed to cause less interference with the natural sucking motion used during breastfeeding.

Q: Should I sterilize a new pacifier before giving it to my newborn?

A: Yes. Always sterilize new pacifiers by boiling them for five minutes or using a sterilizing solution, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Q: How often should I clean the pacifier?

A: You should clean it daily with warm, soapy water. If the baby has been sick, or if it drops on the floor, clean it immediately.

Q: Can I attach a pacifier clip to the pacifier?

A: Yes, but only use safety-approved clips. Never tie a pacifier clip around a baby’s neck, as this is a strangulation hazard.

Q: What is nipple confusion?

A: Nipple confusion happens when a baby learns a different sucking technique for the bottle or pacifier than for the breast, making latching difficult.

Q: How long should a pacifier last?

A: Most manufacturers recommend replacing pacifiers every four to six weeks, or sooner if you see any signs of wear and tear.

Q: Is it okay if my baby falls asleep with the pacifier?

A: Yes, pacifier use at naptime and bedtime is linked to a lower risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). If it falls out after they are asleep, you do not need to put it back in.

Q: What if my baby refuses all pacifiers?

A: Do not worry. Not all babies like pacifiers. If your baby is happy and gaining weight well while nursing, you do not need to force it.

Q: Are silicone pacifiers better than latex ones for nursing moms?

A: It depends on the baby. Silicone is firmer and easier to clean. Latex is softer, which some babies prefer because it feels more like the breast.

Q: When should I stop using a pacifier?

A: Most dentists suggest weaning the child off pacifiers between ages two and four. Prolonged use past this time can affect tooth alignment.