What Dummies Are Best for Newborns?

Bringing a new baby into the world is a time filled with joy, love, and a whole lot of questions. One of the questions many new parents ask is, "What dummies are best for newborns?"

Appropriately named, dummies can be a real soother for your little one (and for you!). But with so many different types on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. This blog post will explore the different types of dummies available and help you choose the best one for your precious newborn.

Do Newborns Need a Dummy?

Dummies, also known as pacifiers, can provide comfort and security to newborns. They help to soothe a fussy baby, support sleep, and satisfy non-nutritive sucking needs. Sucking is a natural reflex for babies, and dummies can fulfil this need when they're not feeding.

Dummies can soothe a fussy baby and aid in sleep. According to the Mayo Clinic, dummies can also reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and can also be helpful during medical procedures, such as when your little one receives a needle or vaccination.

Many babies find comfort in dummies, and they can be a valid choice as a newborn soother. 

What Makes a Dummy Suitable for a Newborn?

At Pigeon, we know that choosing a dummy for your newborn is an important decision. Here’s what we recommend looking for:

BPA-free materials
Your baby’s health is our top priority. That’s why we always suggest choosing a dummy made from BPA-free materials to help protect your little one from harmful chemicals.

One-piece construction
Safety comes first. A one-piece design reduces the risk of small parts coming loose, making it a safer option for newborns.

Designed for newborns (0–6 months)
Make sure the dummy is the right size for your baby's age. Our newborn dummies are specially designed to suit tiny mouths and developing oral muscles.

Soft and flexible teat
Comfort matters. A soft, flexible teat is gentle on delicate gums and helps babies soothe more naturally.

Easy to clean and sterilise
Hygiene is key in those early months. Look for dummies that are easy to clean and can be sterilised thoroughly—we design ours with busy parents in mind.

Pigeon’s skin-friendly dummies are designed with these features in mind. They are made from soft, flexible silicone, are BPA-free, and feature a one-piece construction.They promote comfortable sucking while wider ventilation holes prevent moisture buildup, ensuring greater baby comfort. Developed with the support of Japan's Paediatric Dentists, these dummies also consider healthy teeth alignment.

Cass left us a riveting review on our Skin-friendly dummy (size Small), saying:

“Life saver - The only pacifier my breastfed baby would take. After trying many others, we decided to try the same brand as his bottle (Pigeon soft touch). He has a small palette, and this fits perfectly. It was so light on the outside that it didn’t leave it feeling bulky and heavy.”

Paediatric vs Traditional Dummies

Paediatric and traditional dummies differ primarily in their design and purpose. Traditional dummies have a round teat shape, while paediatric or orthodontic dummies are designed with a flatter teat to support the natural development of the baby's mouth, palate and jaw.

What If My Baby Won’t Take a Dummy?

It's common for some newborns to refuse a dummy. If this happens, don't force it. Try offering it at different times, or try a different type of dummy.

You can also try:

- Gently holding the dummy at the front of their mouth for a few seconds.

- Offering the dummy between feeds to satisfy their sucking urge.

- If breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is established before introducing a dummy.

Safety Tips for Dummy Use in Newborns - Are dummies safe for newborns?

To ensure your baby's safety, follow these dummy safety tips:

- Always sterilise the dummy before first use and regularly thereafter.

- Inspect the dummy regularly for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.

- Never modify the dummy or attach any ribbons or strings to it, as this can be a choking hazard.

- Use a dummy only when your baby is settled, and never force it on a baby who doesn't want it.

- Wean your baby off the dummy by the age of two to prevent potential dental problems.

- They have orthodontic dummies and teats and are available in a range of sizes.

Pigeon Skin-Friendly Pacifier vs Pigeon MiniLight Pacifier?

- The new Pigeon Skin-Friendly Pacifier is best suited for newborns. The Skin-Friendly Pacifier is designed with delicate skin in mind. Its unique design minimises contact with the baby's face, reducing the risk of irritation and rashes. The Size S is specifically tailored for newborns.

- The Pigeon MiniLight Pacifier is an ultra-lightweight dummy, making it easier for babies to hold in their mouths. This can be particularly beneficial for very young babies or those who have difficulty with heavier pacifiers. Its lightweight design also helps to minimise stress on the baby's developing jaw.

Another lovely reviewer, Zee, reviewed our MiniLight Pacifier, saying:

“The only newborn pacifier my baby liked!! I tried 12 different styles, and this one was so light and perfect for my baby. Never gagged using it. Now onto the 6+ months stage!”

With the right dummy, you can provide comfort and security to your little one and make those early months easier. For more information on dummies and breastfeeding, have a read of our blog: Dummies and Breastfeeding: Finding the Right Balance.