Each of the pediatricians we consulted emphasized the importance of choosing, as Dr. Walker put it, “a pacifier that is appropriate for the baby’s age and stage of development, as well as one that’s made of safe materials.”
According to Dr. Sarkar, parents should look for BPA-free pacifiers with no sharp edges.
Dr. Poinsett says to “check the age range of the pacifier on the package—newborn pacifiers are much smaller than pacifiers for older babies.” Getting the wrong size poses a choking or gagging risk.
Dr. Poinsett also recommends choosing a one-piece pacifier, since “two-piece pacifiers are prone to detaching and can pose a choking hazard.”
The Phillips AVENT Soothie and Tommee Tippee are two examples of BPA-free one-piece pacifiers available in different sizes. And they’re both dishwasher safe.