Are you worried about the hygiene of your baby’s pacifier? We understand your concern. Our babies would only calm down with their favorite germ-ridden pacifier.
As a mother, you want to ensure your baby is safe and healthy. We researched and tested various pacifier sterilization methods to find the most effective ones.
We want to share our findings with you, so you can continue to comfort your little one without any worries about their health.
Ways To Clean A Pacifier
Boiling Water Method
Many parents pour boiling water over their baby’s pacifiers to eliminate bacteria. It’s a good way to make sure the pacifier is clean, but you should also make sure you’re comfortable with it. When you heat up the pacifier, some harmful chemicals might emerge. So, it’s important to be careful and make the best decision for your baby’s health.
Running Water Method
You can remove surface dirt if you hold a pacifier under running water. However, it’s not enough to get rid of all the bacteria and germs that might be lurking on it. This might come as a surprise, but pacifiers can be pretty germy – even the new ones!
Although running water is better than doing nothing, you shouldn’t assume your pacifier is completely clean because it looks clean on the surface. It’s always better to be safe than sorry about your little one’s health.
Dishwasher, Microwave or Machine Methods
There are machines to sterilize pacifiers, but they can be quite pricey. Plus, they take up a lot of counter space in the kitchen – something that’s already in short supply for most moms!
If you don’t want to shell out for a sterilizer, you can also use a microwave sterilizer like the Philips AVENT one to get rid of any bacteria. Alternatively, you can put pacifiers in the dishwasher on the top rack for sterilization. But be warned – this method takes longer than other options, so you’ll need a backup pacifier to use in the meantime. As we all know, babies aren’t exactly known for their patience!
How to Clean and Sterilize Your Baby’s Pacifier
1.Wash Them
To sterilize your baby’s pacifiers, the first step is to wash them. Start by filling up a clean sink with hot, soapy water. A clean bowl is best if your kitchen sink has not been cleaned recently. The last thing you want to do is introduce more germs to the pacifiers.
Use a freshly cleaned dishcloth or a new sponge when washing the pacifiers. Using a dirty kitchen sponge worsens things, as it’s a breeding ground for bacteria. So, using a clean one is important to ensure your baby’s pacifiers are as germ-free as possible.
2. Check Them
After you’ve washed the pacifiers and they’re looking nice and clean, it’s important to give them a quick check-over to ensure they’re still in good condition. If you spot any cracks, tears, or other signs of wear and tear, it’s best to throw them away immediately. You don’t want to take any chances regarding your baby’s safety.
Also, keep an eye out for any stickiness on the pacifier nipple. If it feels sticky even after you’ve washed it, it’s time to toss it out as well. This means the material is no longer in good condition, and you definitely don’t want your baby sucking on something unsafe.
3. Sterilize Them
If you plan on boiling a pacifier to clean it, bring the water to a rolling boil first. Once it’s boiling, add the pacifier and let it boil for about five minutes.
If you’re using an electric sterilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions is important, as the process can differ from unit to unit.
If you’re using a microwave sterilizer, follow the instructions carefully. Over-microwaving the pacifier can be dangerous.
When using the dishwasher as a sterilizing method, make sure to only put the pacifier on the top shelf of the dishwasher. The heat on the bottom rack can be too intense and may damage the pacifier.
However, before using the dishwasher to sterilize pacifiers, check whether your pacifier brand is safe for dishwasher cleaning. Most pacifiers are dishwasher safe, but double-checking is important, especially if you have a latex pacifier.
4. Dry Them
After you’ve cleaned and sterilized the pacifiers, it’s crucial to let them dry thoroughly before storing them away. The pacifiers should dry out on their own quickly. You can shake out any excess water by holding them by their handle to speed up the process. Some sterilizers have a drying function, which might take longer to complete.
Make sure to dry your pacifiers on a clean dish towel so you don’t introduce any new germs by placing them on a dirty kitchen counter.
5. All Done
To ensure your pacifiers stay clean and germ-free in between uses, storing them properly is essential. One easy way to store them is in a plastic Ziploc bag. This way, you can keep them clean and handy in your purse or diaper bag while preventing further contamination.
How To Sterilize A Pacifier FAQS
How often should I sterilize my baby’s pacifiers?
It is recommended to sterilize pacifiers at least once a day, especially during the first few months of your baby’s life.
Are there any pacifiers that cannot be sterilized?
Latex pacifiers may not be as dishwasher-safe as silicone pacifiers. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if your pacifier is dishwasher safe.
How long does it take to sterilize a pacifier in boiling water?
Boiling a pacifier for five minutes is sufficient to sterilize it. Remember to use rolling boiling water and let it cool before handling the pacifier.
Can I store pacifiers in the freezer?
Storing pacifiers in the freezer can help eliminate bacteria and soothe sore gums. Just be sure to store them in a clean, sealed container.
Keeping your baby’s pacifier clean is important to their health and well-being. Make sure to wash the pacifiers thoroughly before sterilizing and inspect them regularly for any damage or wear. Additionally, store them in a clean, sealed bag when not in use. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your baby’s pacifier stays clean and germ-free, providing them with the comfort they need without any unnecessary risks to their health.
Eventually the time comes when you have to start breaking the cycle of giving your baby a pacifier. Here is everything you need to know how to wean your baby off a pacifier.