Best Pacifier for Breastfed Baby Picks: Tried and Tested

One thing that should be on every parent's newborn checklist is the best pacifier for newborns. For mommas who breastfeed, the best pacifier for a breastfed baby is a must-have. Use these once a feeding routine has been established between mother and baby.

The instinctive action of sucking helps to soothe babies and all parents know there’s nothing more wonderful than a calm, content baby. That's why pacifiers for breastfed babies are one of the main essentials along with the best bottles for breastfed babies.

What to look for in the best pacifier for breastfed babies

The decision for parents to introduce a pacifier to their baby is totally personal decision. “Many moms enjoy the nursing experience but also enjoy the use of a pacifier to soothe their baby. This provides nursing mothers the same bonding to their baby for feeds,” explains Dr. Mona Amin, board-certified pediatrician at International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

Dr. Amin recommends introducing a pacifier before a baby is 10 weeks as this is when they have their natural sucking instincts. “I do recommend waiting until the mother feels comfortable with a breastfeeding latch. However, babies offered a pacifier before this can still be successful nursers,” she says.

“It’s important to work with a lactation professional for more guidance if you’re experiencing trouble.”

When it comes it picking out a pacifier, Dr. Amin explains. “The most ideal pacifier is one your baby will take, where their nose isn’t obstructed by the pacifier and it’s BPA-free.”

Other key factors to keep in mind are pacifiers that are breathable and made of a soft, flexible material. These reduce the risk of choking and airway obstruction. Make sure to give your baby a pacifier approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) or other similar body of pediatric medical experts.

“Every baby is different, so it’s nice to try out various styles that may work for your baby.”

The best pacifier for breastfed baby picks 2024

• Best overall: NUK for Nature Simply Natural Pacifier
• Best for newborns: Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
• Best budget: Chicco PhysioForma 100% Soft Silicone One Piece Pacifier
• Best orthodontic: Itzy Ritzy Sweetie Soother Silicone Orthodontic Pacifier
• Best for colic: Dr. Brown's HappyPaci 100% Silicone Pacifier 0-6m
• Best for preemies: Tommee Tippee Breast-Like Pacifier

Best overall

NUK for Nature Simply Natural Pacifier

Made for soothing your little one in mind, this silicone pacifier is designed to feel, fit and flex like mom. The innovative pacifier is modeled after the natural curve of a momma’s breast and made with soft silicone that mimics the smooth feeling of their skin.

The shield curves away from baby's face, allowing for good airflow to your infant’s skin, preventing irritation.

The nipple is also shaped like a breastfeeding nipple, to allow for a natural latch. This pacifier comes in recycled and recyclable packaging, part of our effort to design a better future for our little ones and their planet.

Pros

• Ideal for 0-6 months
• Affordable price
• Innovative, effective design
• Comfortable fit (mimics a mother’s breast)
• Single-piece pacifier
• Packaged in eco-friendly materials

Cons

• Made of silicone, prone to catch hair and dust easily

Best for newborns

Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier

This popular Philips Avent pacifier is often used in hospitals and recommended by doctors. It features one-piece construction from hospital-grade, BPA and latex-free silicone and has a nearly-perfect Amazon rating—and more than 50,000 shoppers have weighed in! A single-piece means this soothie won't pose a choking hazard.

It's also easy to sterilize or throw in the dishwasher—parents can pop their finger into the nipple to help hold it in baby's mouth until they stop screaming and start sucking. We love the overall design, versatility and affordability of this paci. These are the same pacis hospitals use.

Pros

• Ideal for 0-3 months
• Used by doctors & nurses to soothe newborns in the US
• Available in a four-pack
• The orthodontic design respects the natural development of teeth and gums
• BPA-free, latex-free

Cons

• The lip at the back can rub against baby’s face

Best budget

Chicco PhysioForma Soft Silicone One Piece Pacifier

For parents who don’t want to break the bank, there’s finally, a pacifier that soothes both babies and their caretakers! This pacifier is made of silicone, but it’s not just for pacifying—it’s clinically developed for comfort, breathing and orthodontic benefits.

Its exclusive nipple design helps position their tongue forward to maintain an open airway, which improves their quality of sleep and reduces irritability throughout the night.  This pacifier design was developed, tested and approved in partnership with an advisory panel of leading neonatologists, pediatricians, and orthodontists.

Pros

• One-piece pacifier
• Silicone allows for more comfort and less slip
• Easy-to-grab handle for baby and parents
• Easy-to-clean
• BPA-free
• Available in three sizes: 0-6m, 6-16m and 16-24m
• Reusable sterilized carrying case included

Cons

• Made of silicone, prone to catch hair and dust easily

Best orthodontic

Itzy Ritzy Sweetie Soother Silicone Orthodontic Pacifier

Help soothe your sweetie in style with this adorable pacifier! The one-piece design is made of durable and latex-free silicone that meets the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) safety standards.

The soft, orthodontic nipple shape reduces pressure on baby’s gumline and emerging teeth while soothing them. Better yet, Itzy Ritzy pacifiers include two large vent holes for breathability.

Pros

• One-piece design
• Latex-free silicone (more durable than traditional silicone)
• Very breathable
• PVC-free, BPA-free
• Ideal for 0-6 months
• Dishwasher safe
• Available in three colorways

Cons

• Some reviewers note the pacifier is chunky
• Overuse may impact Mom's milk supply

Best for colic

Dr. Brown's HappyPaci Silicone Pacifier 0-6m

Soothe your baby at a moment’s notice with this lightweight, 100% silicone pacifier. Its superstar quality is it features a contoured butterfly-shaped shield that curves away from baby’s face for comfort, providing plenty of room for their little noses and cheeks. With an average of 4.7 stars, parents love this ultra-comfy pacifier for their little ones.

For parents who are familiar with Dr. Brown, the unique paci features the same shape as the baby brand’s bottle nipple— making it familiar to baby! Reviewers note these pacifiers help their breastfed babies fall asleep during the dog days of sleep training.

Pros

• Ideal for 0-6 months
• Easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
• BPA-free
• Comes in a three-pack
• Available in various colorways
• Reduced risk of nipple confusion

Cons

• Contact with super hot water can melt silicone
• Too long for some babies

Best for preemies

Tommee Tippee Breast-Like Pacifier

Behold, the ideal pacifier for preemies. A breast-like pacifier is the next best thing for baby to latch onto in between feeds. Made from super soft silicone, this pacifier feels, moves and stretches just like momma’s skin—meaning there’s less chance of confusion when feeding your baby from breast or bottle.

For extra comfort, the pacifier shield curves away from baby’s face and offers superior ventilation and extra airflow. This prevents the build-up of moisture and protects their delicate skin.

Pros

• Breast-like pacifier for a breastfeeding baby
• Helps with the transition between breast and bottle
• Silicone is taste-free (doesn’t retain any stains or odors)
• BPA-free
• Easy to clean
• Available in a two-pack
• Symmetrical silicone design is fully reversible

Cons

• Easy to knock out of the mouth (no handle)