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How to Choose Safe Pacifiers for Your Baby

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Preparing for a new baby is an exciting and overwhelming time, whether you are a first time mom or longstanding veteran of parenthood. Every child is born unique, with his or her own very distinct personality traits and preferences. What worked for one child might not work for another, which can sometimes be a little stressful for parents that have carefully selected their baby gear, or attempted to re-use some products from older siblings.

One of the most overwhelming tasks I often hear parents agonize over is the process of choosing a pacifier. With dozens and dozens to select from in today’s market comprised of various materials, shapes, colors, and sizes, it can make this seemingly simple process very overwhelming. I’m here today to discuss some important aspects of the selection process, along with some fantastic recommendations to help narrow down your search.

First and foremost, safety is essential with any baby products. You want to select a pacifier that is BPA free for the health of your baby. If you’re not familiar with BPA, it stands for bisphenol A. It is a chemical that has been utilized for many years in plastic products and resins, as well as on the inside of metal products such as food cans. Exposure to this chemical is a concern because of the possible health effects on the brain and behavior of fetuses, infants and children. Though most companies in today’s market have taken great measures to eliminate BPA from their products, it is always a good idea to check and ensure that the pacifier is free from this potentially hazardous chemical.

Chemicals aside, if your baby is breastfed, the pacifier selection process might be slightly different. Several pediatric organizations worldwide recommend waiting until the baby’s first month of life to introduce a pacifier, in order to establish breastfeeding. To protect that breastfeeding relationship, it is important to select a pacifier that will make for an easy transition back to the breast, without disrupting the baby’s latch. Many breastfeeding mothers love MAM pacifiers, as well as Hevea Flower Natural Rubber Pacifiers. The unique shape of the Havea Flower mimics the shape of an actual collapsed nipple in the baby’s mouth, similar to the breastfeeding process. The fun colors are sure to be eye catching for your baby, too.

For moms who bottle feed, whether it is pumped milk or formula, I always recommend matching the brand of the pacifier with that of the bottle, if possible. MAM bottles and pacifiers alike are fantastic for moms who switch from breast to bottle, as well as for bottle feeding moms who want a high quality product. MAM pacifiers are BPA free and made of soft, orthodontic silicone with beautiful designs for baby. Their symmetrical nipple shape makes the transition between breast and bottle easier for mom and baby, and the extra soft side rims are ideal for teething. Their designs are also visually appealing to babies and toddlers everywhere. Tommee Tippee pacifiers are another brand that have an identical nipple shape for their bottles, also ensuring an easier transition for your baby.

Other important aspects to look for in a pacifier include ensuring that it is one piece, as two-piece pacifiers pose a safety risk for the baby. Pacifiers should also be easy to clean, preferably dishwasher safe, to ensure proper sanitization. The Avent Soothie is a classic pacifier used by hospitals worldwide. Parents have praised its simplicity for years, and many babies prefer it to other pacifiers, regardless of whether they’re breast or bottle fed. They are beautifully simple, BPA free, and very easy to clean.

Sometimes finding the perfect pacifier is a matter of trial and error on the part of the parent and baby. It is especially important to know your store’s return policy and save all receipts when purchasing a new pacifier so it can easily be returned or exchanged for a different brand, if necessary. Do make sure to allot at least a week’s time when introducing the new pacifier to your child, because it sometimes takes them a little while to become acclimated to it. Be sure to check out www.parentsfavorite.com/pacifiers for an incredible selection of preferred brands from parents everywhere. 




 

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