I am a big believer in pacifiers. All of my kids have been “binky” babies and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. You see there are so many benefits to your baby having a pacifier. One of the most important reasons, is that it helps them to soothe themselves. Both of my babies had really bad reflux. The pacifier would help relive some of the discomfort by letting them continually suck and swallow. There are hundreds of different kinds of pacifiers on the market but the one that I found works the best, especially in those early months is the Philips Avent pacifiers. In fact you might already recognize the Avent Soothie pacifiers because these are the same ones they give out in hospitals across the US.
Philips Avent Pacifiers
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
The Philips Avent Soothie pacifier is made for babies 0-3 months. They are BPA free and have a slight vanilla scent to help comfort newborn babies. The nipple on the pacifier is specifically designed to help ensure natural development of teeth and gums. The soothie is a great way to help soothe your baby and help comfort them in between feedings. You will probably get a couple of these in the hospital but you can also pick them up in the store before your baby comes.
Philips Avent Nighttime Pacifiers
As your baby gets bigger you will need to make sure that you get a bigger size pacifiers. All of the Philips Avent pacifiers are marked with the recommended age at the top of the package. Once your baby gets to be 6 months I would suggest investing in some of the Philips Avent Nighttime pacifiers. These things are AWESOME! Not only do they help comfort you baby at bedtime but they glow in the dark. This is such a lifesaver because that means you won’t have to turn the light on to find it.
The nipples on the Philips Avent pacifiers are flat drop-shaped symmetrical nipples that respect the natural development of your baby’s palate, teeth and gums, even if the pacifier ends upside-down in the mouth.The Avent nipples are also made with odor and taste free silicone which is smooth and easy to clean. We will definitely be stocking up on these nighttime pacifiers before the baby hits 6 months.
Pacifiers 101
Here are some very helpful tips from Philips Avent to help you sooth your baby.
DO:
- Choose a pacifier that is age-appropriate for baby (e.g., 0-6m, 6-18m); Pacifiers are designed for different stages of oral development
- Replace a pacifier after four weeks of use or if it has any cracks or tears as all pacifiers can wear down over time and with use
- Check your pacifier often for signs of damage or weakness by pulling in all directions
DON’T:
- Add any food or liquid to the pacifier as this can cause tooth decay
- Decorate the shield of the pacifier as this introduces new parts that can present a choking hazard
- Allow baby to chew on the pacifier or use it as a teether as it can weaken the nipple
- Store a pacifier in direct sunlight or near heat and avoid storing it in disinfectant
Before Giving Baby a Pacifier :
- Check that the pacifier is free of any cracks or tears
- Pull the pacifier in all directions to ensure the nipple is secure to the shield
- Sterilize the pacifier by boiling in water for 5 minutes; allow to cool and dry excess water*
- *recommended before first time use
Pacifier Cleaning and Storing Tips
- Wash the pacifier in hot soap and water between uses
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents or anti-bacterial cleansers on the pacifiers
- Store the pacifier with the cap on or in a plastic zip-top bag to keep it clean
Pacifiers are definitely high on my list when it comes to Baby Must Haves. Whether you are planning on breastfeeding or bottle feeding, there are options out there to help you comfort you’re new baby. For more information on Philips Avent products be sure to visit them online.