What material is best for a baby's pacifier?
Apr 24, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
It is better to choose silicone material for a baby's pacifier. After birth, if there is insufficient breast milk, artificial feeding may be chosen. However, when bottle-feeding, a bottle is needed along with specific requirements for the nipple. This is mainly because nipples are made from various materials, including rubber, silicone, and latex. Most infant pacifiers are typically made of silicone material.
It is better to choose silicone material for a baby's pacifier. The detailed explanation is as follows:
After birth, if there is insufficient breast milk, parents may opt for formula feeding. During formula feeding, a bottle is required, and the choice of nipple becomes important. This is mainly because nipples are made from various materials, including rubber, silicone, and latex. Most infant nipples are made of silicone, primarily because silicone more closely resembles the texture of a mother's nipple and has a moderate softness. Additionally, it is resistant to temperature changes, can be boiled for sterilization, is odorless, and has excellent aging resistance. In contrast, latex and rubber materials may have a noticeable odor.
Once the appropriate nipple material is selected, regular high-temperature disinfection is also necessary. Before disinfecting the baby's nipple, first rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Then sterilize it in boiling water—typically by boiling for two to three minutes after the water reaches a boil. This helps prevent residual pathogens that could harm the baby’s health if ingested. Also, nipples should not be used for too long; generally, they should be replaced every 2–3 months.
