7 pacifiers that can soothe even the fussiest baby

When it comes to pacifiers, mamas have a lot to think about: How soon (and how late) should I let my child use a pacifier? Which pacifiers are healthiest? There are some great reasons to implement a pacifier into your infant’s day-to-day, like preventing SIDS . And honestly, it’s great in helping both mama and baby sleep , which to many new moms may seem like a pastime.

Whether you’re gearing up for a new kiddo or you’re ready to introduce a pacifier to your little one, searching for the right pacifier can be overwhelming. There are so many styles of pacifiers made from different materials and chemicals that a simple “best pacifiers 2020” search can land you with dozens of options and no closer to a decision than you were before you even opened your laptop.

We’re thrilled to round up our top seven pacifier choices to help you find the right fit for your baby. We took into consideration comfort, shape, ease of cleaning and materials used, and we made sure to include picks for both newborns and older babies.

Here are the best pacifiers that will lull your little one, from teething to traveling and everything in between.

Best for added comfort: Afrique Elephant WubbaNub

Whoever decided to attach a pacifier to a plush stuffed animal must be a comfort pro, because your child is guaranteed to love the dual-action on the WubbaNub Infant Pacifier. This paci is perfect for traveling or riding in the car because it keeps your child soothed and occupied with a cute, comforting toy. Also, how adorable is this elephant?! But if elephants aren’t your baby’s thing, not to worry—the WubbaNub comes in multiple animal options.

One of our favorite things about this paci is how easy it is to find, thanks to the attached plushie. No more searching on your hands and knees in the store to find your baby’s favorite pacifier! However, this paci is not intended for sleep unattended, so keep away at night time. Recommended washing on delicate in a lingerie bag for best results. Made of silicone and BPA- and phthalate-free, this pacifier can be machine washed for convenience.

Age: Newborn-6 months

$18

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Best for newborns: Philips Avent soothie pacifier

Famed brand Philips Avent’s soothie pacifier has been distributed and used in hospitals nationwide, and for that alone we had to add this paci to the list. We love that the soothie is medical professionals’ go-to in soothing and calming newborns from day one. Plus, it’s orthodontic and will not interfere with baby’s natural teeth and gum development.

In terms of cleaning, this paci can’t get easier. It’s BPA-free, latex-free, dishwasher safe, and can be easily sterilized. The medical-grade silicone will stay strong through even the toughest washes and oops moments, and we can’t get over the low price of these tried-and-true pacifiers. Our favorite feature? The pacifier is specifically shaped to fit the baby’s mouth, and the rounded nipple will keep its shape no matter what side your baby favors.

Age: Newborn-3 months

$8.89

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Best for breastfeeding babes: Evenflo Feeding balance pacifier

The Evenflo Feeding Balance Pacifier is our top choice for babies who breastfeed for a number of reasons. We love that this paci is designed to encourage a natural tongue position babies take on when breastfeeding thanks to the cylindrical shape. The Evenflo will give your kiddo the same comfort as you do when feeding them. Bonus: Your baby won’t get confused between the paci nipple and your own, which means you’ll have a smoother breastfeeding-to-paci transition.

We love the soft materials and flexible design that reduces mouth fatigue in your growing baby, and we love that it’s free of BPA, PVC, phthalates, polycarbonates, and all the other chemicals you would rather your baby not spend hours a day ingesting. This paci is made of high-grade silicone and even has an easy-grip handle to give your child a better grasp.

Age: Newborn-6 months

$4.19

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Best for breathability: Chicco PhysioForma soft silicone pacifier

A major concern among mamas everywhere is baby’s breathing while sleeping, eating, pacifying—you name it. The Chicco PhysioForma Soft Silicone Pacifier will put you and baby at ease thanks to the unique breath-support design. The paci positions the tongue forward to encourage an open airway and the narrow base allows baby to close their mouth more naturally. Forget about spit buildup, too—the paci is vented to prevent any saliva pooling, and your kiddo’s nose will be protected by the non-blocking ergonomic shield. The paci was clinically developed, tested and approved with the guidance of an advisory panel, on which neonatologists, pediatricians and orthodontists sit.

We love how easy this paci is to clean—it even comes with its own sterilizing case! It’s as simple as popping the paci in the case and microwaving for a few minutes for a spotless paci that’s totally safe for baby. The Chicco PhysioForma is made of soft silicone and is BPA- and latex-free.

Age: Various

$5.99

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Best orthodontic pacifier: MAM original orthodontic pacifier

If a main priority is your child’s palate and teeth, the MAM Orthodontic Pacifier is one to try. Not only does it keep a symmetrical shape to avoid turning the pacifier over and over, but the specially designed nipple will keep baby’s teeth and jaw totally protected as they grow. The BPA-free, 100% silicone nipple offers a silky texture and shape that mimics the real thing, keeping baby soothed from breastfeeding to pacifier seamlessly.

We love the breathable curved shield that allows baby’s skin to breathe as well as circulates air up to your little one’s nose. The paci won’t make any marks on your baby’s face when they’re sucking on it, either. The paci comes in its own sterilizing case that you can use in the microwave, and your little will love the knob on the back which helps them grab and hold onto the paci.

Age: Newborn-6 months

$5.48

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Best for teething babies: RaZ-Berry silicone teether

While this paci isn’t meant to be used around the clock, the RaZberry teether is a great option for babies who are in the dreaded teething stage. Not only does this paci teether offer soft 100% silicone material, but it has multiple textures that help soothe sore gums, which means less tears for your child!

We love the loop-shaped handle that baby can easily grab onto, and you can even pop this teether into the freezer for more relief. The silicone will remain cold for an extended period of time without hardening, and the berry bumps can help transition your child to eating healthy fruits when they’re ready. Babies can enjoy this paci teether on their toughest teething days, which means more moments of peace for both you and baby.

Age: 3 months+

$5.99

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