In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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We tested pacifiers from top brands like MAM, Tommee Tippee, Evenflo, Philips Avent, and others to find the best
Credit: Abriah Wofford
By Molly Bradac ⋅ Senior Review Analyst ⋅ Jan 3, 2025
The Best Pacifiers
We purchased and hands-on tested 9 of the top pacifiers on the market. We scoured the market for promising contenders before purchasing our selections to use with babies to determine the best. Our testing metrics focused on pacifier ease of cleaning, usability, durability, and more. With so many options available touting unique features, knowing more about pacifiers and our test results can help you make an informed buying decision.
Babies in our tests preferred the Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier. This silicone pacifier has an orthodontic shape, is easy to clean and comes with a carry case for easy storage and to keep it clean. The shape and attached loop make it easy for little ones to hold and grasp.
Our second favorite is the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier. This silicone option is slightly more affordable, and some babies in our test group preferred the cylindrical nipple. We like the one-piece construction, but the shape can make it harder for adults to hold.
Easy to hold loop, reusable carry case, easy to clean
Loop easy to hold, low-profile
Adorable, well-loved, easy to hold, plush animal stabilizes pacifier
Soft nipple, easy to clean
Similar to Dr. Brown's standard/narrow nipple, large easy-to-hold loop
Guard offers extra airflow, glow-in-the-dark design, storage case
Multiple ventilation holes for airflow, nipple stretches and flexes
Loop easy to hold, nipple shape promotes tongue cupping
Guard that promotes airflow, fun designs
Cons
Transparent color might be hard to spot
Nipple is more rigid
Pacifier doesn't detach, no next-stage pacifier, costly
Hold tab is minimal
Longer nipple
Multiple parts
Costly
Frosted color easy to overlook
Moisture can enter the nipple
Bottom Line
A clear pacifier featuring a unique orthodontic nipple with an upward flex, plus a larger loop for easy hold
A pacifier most suitable for a newborn with a cylindrical nipple and a loop for easy hold
A well-loved and comforting plush animal attached to a pacifier that offers super valuable features, but you can't change out the pacifier
A pacifier of one-piece construction with a cylindrical nipple that is soft and collapsible to respond to babies' sucking pattern
Best for babies who use bottles from this line; otherwise, the long nipple shape may feel unfamiliar
This pacifier features a glow-in-the-dark button, making it easier to locate in dark spaces, and its minimal guard offers extra airflow to decrease skin irritation potential
A pacifier similar to the Tommee Tippee bottle nipple with a plastic shield that is slightly bulky
A stage 1 soft silicone pacifier with a cylindrical nipple to encourage tongue cupping and an easy-grip handle for baby and parent
A pacifier of multi-piece construction with an adorable button design, which makes it a stylish option
The Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier surpasses the competition with a blend of desirable features. It is 100% silicone (free of BPA and latex) and features an orthodontic nipple that flexes upward. The manufacturer claims the exclusive nipple design supports a baby's breathing by helping encourage a forward tongue position. They claim it evenly distributes tongue pressure across the palate to support oral development, and its narrow base allows optimal lip closure. The shield has four heart-shaped ventilation holes for air circulation. It also offers one of the largest loops, which our tester (6 months old) could easily grasp during testing. In addition, this pacifier is super easy to clean, thanks to its one-piece design. It comes with a carry case that helps keep the pacifier protected from lint and germs. One mom tester states, “I love being able to pop it in the case to keep it clean between uses away from home.”
While the carry case allows for sterilizing, we prefer not to use it this way, given the potential of plastic to leach chemicals. We prefer boiling water to sanitize. The Chicco's clear color can be easily overlooked, but other colors may be available. One tester said, “When I dropped the Chicco on the ground, I couldn't find it because it is clear. I eventually gave up and got another one from the diaper bag.” If you worry about losing the Chicco, given its clear design, the RaZbaby JollyPop Pacifier offers a colored edge that makes it much easier to find. Based on the manufacturer's claims, we think the Chicco is a potential contender for parents concerned with oral development.
The Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier is a one-piece 100% silicone design with an orthodontic nipple.
The Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier tends to be well-loved and an affordable option for soothing little ones. This medical-grade, BPA-free, silicone pacifier features a cylindrical nipple that is soft and collapsible to respond to a baby's sucking pattern. Its one-piece construction, with no nooks or crannies for bacteria or water to hide, makes it super easy to clean and sanitize. Our tester reports, “I like the one-piece design of this pacifier because it is super easy to keep clean.” If you like this pacifier, consider the Philips Avent Super Soothie when your little one hits 3 months. It is similar in design but suitable for older babies.
The silicone guard is flat and offers a small tab for parents to hold, which is more frustrating than larger loops or buttons. We found ourselves holding the pacifier's edge instead of the tab itself. Also, younger users might have trouble keeping this option in their mouths due to the weight. The WubbaNub Pacifier is another cylindrical pacifier, but it has an attached stuffie that is easy to hold to help keep the pacifier in place. The weight issue isn't necessarily unique to this product, and if it does occur, don't force it on your baby. Despite this, we recommend this wallet-friendly pacifier for families with newborns.
The Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier is distributed in hospitals nationwide.
Does your bottle-fed baby use Dr. Brown's bottles? If so, the Dr. Brown's HappyPaci may meet your needs. With a similar nipple shape to Dr. Brown's bottles, your little one may be more likely to accept this option. The HappyPaci is silicone, one-piece construction, butterfly-shaped, and curves away from your baby's face, providing room for the nose and cheeks. The pacifier's loop is one of the largest among the competition, and we believe this makes it easier for older babies to grab. Our tester mom said, “I like that my baby could hold the pacifier herself.”
The HappyPaci's nipple is longer than other contenders in our review, which could cause some younger babies to gag. We noticed that our six-month-old tester's top lip occasionally came over the pacifier's top, which implies the sizing may not be compatible with this child. This observation is specific to our tester, and it does not mean the HappyPaci will not fit your child, as every child is different. If you need a smaller nipple but want to keep a cylindrical shape, we also like the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier, which is shorter than the Dr. Browns pacifier. We recommend Dr. Browns to families using Dr. Brown's bottles and would like a pacifier with a similar shape to make the transition easier.
The Dr. Brown's HappyPaci is easy for little ones to grab, and it has the same shape as the bottle nipple.
The RaZbaby JollyPop Pacifier is 100% medical-grade silicone (free of BPA, latex, phthalate, and DEHP) and one-piece construction. It has a low profile and curved shape, and RaZbaby's website mentions it is likely compatible with CPAP, nasal cannulas, and a side-lying position. One parent tester reports, “I like that it is compatible with nasal cannulas as sick babies might need a soothing pacifier.” It also features two ventilation holes on the upper lip, and the loop handle has small nubs.
The JollyPop is for babies without teeth, and the manufacturer suggests discontinuing use if your baby can fit it in their mouth or teeth emerge. Interestingly, the JollyPop is available in an unscented and lightly scented (vanilla) version. The scent is FDA-approved vanilla essence added to the silicone during the manufacturing process, and it is considered food and safe for babies. We prefer the unscented version we used during hands-on testing, as we strongly believe babies do not need scented pacifiers. The Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier is another cylindrical option to try if you can't find a non-scented version and hope to avoid that feature and whatever creates it. Despite JollyPop's shorter age range, we like this pacifier for families with newborns.
The RaZbaby JollyPop is a single-piece 100% medical grade silicone that meets the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines.
The WubbaNub Pacifier quickly became one of our favorites, and most babies love it. Since younger babies can have difficulty keeping pacifiers in their mouths, the attached adorable animal friend helps stabilize the pacifier. The plush animal also makes it easier for older babies to locate, grab, and bring to their mouths, and it's easier to spot in a diaper bag. Children also find comfort in holding and stroking the soft plush. Our tester parent said, “My little one loves the comfort of the attached plushie, and I noticed they drop it less than a traditional pacifier.” WubbaNubs are handmade, and the manufacturer suggests handwashing or surface cleaning with cold water and air drying. However, it is acceptable to machine wash this product on a gentle cycle before air drying.
The WubbaNub is for babies ages 0-6 months, and no next-stage pacifier is available. It is also costly and perhaps a poor choice if you frequently need to replace pacifiers due to chewing. Indeed, emerging teeth can be pretty sharp and destroy the pacifier. Of course, not all babies will be chewers, but we suggest frequently checking a “Wubbie” for wear and immediately stopping use if cracks or damage appear. If you don't want the Wubbie pet part or worry about frequent replacements, the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier is a similar-shaped option that stands alone and doesn't include a lovie on the back end. However, there is no doubt that the WubbaNub brings fun and comfort to the world of pacifiers, and we highly recommend it to families with babies between 0-6 months of age.
The plush animal at the end of the WubbaNub helps stabilize the pacifier, and it makes it easier for children to pick-up.
The MAM Air Night Pacifier stands out among the competition with its glow-in-the-dark button, making it easier to locate in the middle of the night. Our tester said, “It is so nice to be able to see this pacifier in the dark; I had no trouble finding it quickly in the middle of the night to help my crying son.” Another noteworthy feature we observed during testing is its minimal shield, allowing generous airflow, which is excellent for babies with sensitive skin. The orthodontic nipple is silicone, and the guard is plastic; both are BPA-free. It is available in various colors and patterns, and each set comes with a plastic sanitizer case. Our little tester could grab and hold this pacifier with ease during testing. We also like that the carry case helps keep the pacifier together in the diaper bag and protects it from germs.
With concerns regarding plastic and the potential chemical leaching, we feel that sanitizing the pacifier in its plastic sanitizer case is not the best method. Instead, we think the old-fashioned boiling water on the stove works fine. Also, the pacifier is not one-piece, and there is potential for water to enter the nipple, leaving moisture for germs to grow. If you want a one-piece option that is all silicone, the Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier is a great one to try with an orthodontic-shaped nipple and a place to hold. Nonetheless, we recommend this product to families who will appreciate the glow-in-the-dark feature and minimal shield with extra airflow, reducing the chance of skin irritation for their little one.
The MAM Air Night is easy for children to pick-up, and it illuminates in the dark, making it easier for babies to find in the crib in the middle of the night.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Important
If a pacifier falls out of your baby's mouth and lands on the floor, do not clean it by sticking it in your mouth before inserting it back into the baby's mouth. This cleaning method does not produce a “clean” product because harmful bacteria can transfer from one mouth to another. Instead, wash it with soap and water or sanitize it.
Compare Products
Each pacifier in our review experienced hands-on testing.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How We Test Pacifiers
We considered over 20 different pacifiers in various styles and materials before choosing the top contenders for this review. We assessed the pacifiers for materials, quality, durability, and more. While testing, we enlisted the help of some awesome little testers ranging in age from newborn to 6 months. We purchased each product in our review and completed hands-on testing and side-by-side comparisons.
Why Trust GearLab
BabyGearLab has tested a wide range of baby-related products over the past decade, accumulating extensive experience and knowledge with every review. Leading our review is Senior Review Editor, Molly Bradac, who holds over 15 years of experience as a professional nanny and Newborn Care Specialist.
The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier has a shield that is slightly bulkier in comparison to other products in our review.
The WubbaNub Pacifier is soft and cuddly.
Analysis and Test Results
We tested our lineup with various little testers and evaluated each product for ease of cleaning, quality, usability, and durability. Scores in each metric influence contenders' ranking.
What's the Best Value?
Because pacifiers are not a big expense the best value could arguably be whichever one your little one uses and helps soothe them or increase sleep duration. While you will want more than one, and an option like the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier will be appealing for the lower price, if your little one doesn't like it, then it won't be valuable no matter how low the price. Alternatively, despite the higher price, the WubbaNub Pacifier could be the best value if your little one uses it. This option is larger, and it is unlikely you will lose the stuffed animal as frequently as an opaque, small pacifier like the Dr. Brown's HappyPaci, which won a best value award and comes in a pack of 2.
Every pacifier will differ in size and shape depending on age. This information is found on the packaging, and it is best to follow manufacturer recommendations.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Cleaning
There's no doubt that pacifiers will get dirty, and they can be a lint trap, especially if they fall on the floor. Therefore, an easy-to-clean product is a pacifier must-have, and we prefer a silicone pacifier of single construction with a hollow nipple (providing no chance for saliva or water to enter), especially one that includes a carry case.
Ease of Cleaning Performance Ratings
Product
Case
Parts
Material
Quick Clean
Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier
10.0
10.0
4.0
9.0
MAM Air Night Pacifier
10.0
1.0
8.0
9.0
Dr. Brown\'s HappyPaci
1.0
10.0
4.0
9.0
Evenflo Balance + Cylindrical Pacifier
1.0
10.0
4.0
9.0
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
1.0
10.0
4.0
9.0
RaZbaby JollyPop Pacifier
1.0
10.0
4.0
9.0
Tommee Tippe CLosure to Nature
1.0
5.0
8.0
9.0
MAM Clear Pacifier
1.0
1.0
8.0
9.0
WubbaNub Pacifier
1.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
Among the competition, the Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier scores high. It comes with a carry case, has a one-piece construction design, and silicone, a material that can withstand high temperatures when sterilizing for hygienic reasons. The combination of these qualities helped this product surpass others and rank high.
On the flip side, the WubbaNub Pacifier scores low as the plush animal will collect grime and hair, even spit up or drool (a likely event), so you'll have to wash and dry it. The manufacturer recommends handwashing the product but mentions it is also machine washable before air drying. Nonetheless, the overall cleaning process is more involved than non-fabric contenders ready to jump back into action after a quick wash.
Some contenders that couldn't rise in ranking due to their multi-part construction, even if they included a carry case, are the MAM Air Night Pacifier and MAM Clear Pacifier. These products have silicone nipple that attaches to a plastic guard. This multi-part design can result in trapped moisture or condensation inside the bulb. Since moisture increases bacterial growth potential, this design isn't ideal, especially for a product your baby sucks. The manufacturer suggests squeezing and shaking the nipple to expel moisture if you notice this issue.
Whatever you select, washing and sanitizing a pacifier before first use is essential. If you're using a machine sterilizer, please read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before use, or take the old-fashioned approach and boil water on the stove. For products that include a sanitizing carry case, we believe that sanitizing a pacifier in its plastic sanitizer case is not the best method, given concerns regarding plastic and the potential of chemicals leaching. Instead, we think the old-fashioned boiling water method works fine. On a daily basis, wash your pacifiers with warm, soapy water before allowing them to air dry.
Like the Evenflo Balance Plus Pacifier, one-piece pacifiers bring peace of mind that the design will not trap saliva or water in the nipple or nooks and crannies, making these products much easier to wash and keep clean.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
A top-notch pacifier should combine functional features, such as a design that's easy to grab and hold for parents and babies and a guard with ample airflow. We also gave extra points to products that include a carry case, unique features, or if the manufacturer offers additional sizes to fit your growing baby.
Ease of Use Performance Ratings
Product
Visibility
Sizes
Easy to Hold
Airflow
Tommee Tippe CLosure to Nature
8.0
10.0
5.0
6.0
Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier
4.0
10.0
7.0
5.0
MAM Air Night Pacifier
8.0
1.0
7.0
10.0
Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier
8.0
10.0
3.0
5.0
WubbaNub Pacifier
10.0
1.0
10.0
5.0
Dr. Brown\'s HappyPaci
8.0
1.0
8.0
5.0
MAM Clear Pacifier
8.0
1.0
7.0
6.0
RaZbaby JollyPop Pacifier
8.0
1.0
7.0
5.0
Evenflo Balance + Cylindrical Pacifier
4.0
1.0
7.0
5.0
Although the WubbaNub Pacifier is only available in a 0-6 month size, it has valuable qualities that outshine most of the competition, scoring high in this metric. The plush animal often stabilizes the pacifier, and with a larger product, it's easier for both parents and babies to hold. Plus, it's easier to spot around the home or diaper bag. On the contrary, the Phillips Avent Soothie Pacifier is simple, standard, and offers no exciting perks, like a carry case or unique features.
While testing, we did notice the Dr. Brown's HappyPaci caused some younger babies to gag due to a more extended nipple than other contenders. So, if your baby might struggle with a more extended nipple, we suggest skipping this product. Also, the MAM Air Night offers a couple of unique perks, like a carry case, a glow-in-the-dark button to make it easier to locate, and a minimal shield for generous airflow, which is excellent for babies with sensitive skin.
For any pacifier, select the appropriate size for your baby's age and stage. As babies develop and teeth emerge, pacifier needs can change, so keep an eye on the suggested age on a product's package. We encourage you to discuss the use and transition of pacifiers with your child's pediatrician to ensure proper oral development.
Logically speaking, we consider pacifiers with multiple parts to be less durable than those of single-construction.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Durability
Pacifiers can crack and tear over time. To avoid accidental choking or ingestion hazards, it is essential to regularly inspect them by pulling on the nipple and all parts to look for damage. Also, replace a pacifier following the manufacturer's recommendations.
Although we don't consider it fair to link construction with performance, we recognize that design can affect quality and durability. We believe those of one-piece construction are less likely to break than those with multiple parts, as long as furry friends don't get a hold of it, as they'll easily bite through the silicone.
We consider the Phillips Avent Soothie Pacifier to rank high, thanks to its one-piece construction and handling tab, which feel sturdy and secure. However, the MAM Air Night Pacifier and MAM Clear Pacifier rank low due to their multi-part design. Although we did not experience any durability issues while testing these products, it's a logical assumption that multiple parts increase the potential of breakage or damage.
Each pacifier varies in nipple shape.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
A Note on Nipple Shape
The two most common nipple shapes are cylindrical and orthodontic. Every baby is different, and your child's preference will be the ultimate decision-maker. We suggest discussing pacifier use with your pediatrician and lactation consultant. A cylindrical nipple is bell-shaped, and an orthodontic nipple has an irregular shape with an indent in the center. For instance, the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier has a soft, cylindrical nipple. In contrast, the Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier has an orthodontic nipple with an upward flex, unlike any other option we tested. Finding the right pacifier for your baby may take some trial and error. There is some discrepancy in what style is best for breastfeeding babies or when to introduce a pacifier to breastfed babies, which is why consulting a lactation consultant and pediatrician can help you navigate these waters.
Tip: More is Better
As pacifiers can easily get lost, dirty, or stolen by a pet, we recommend purchasing multiple for your home, car, and diaper bag. Keep more than one in the diaper bag for when one accidentally hits the floor so you'll have a backup.
The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier was one of our little tester's favorites.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
A pacifier can offer comfort for your baby and fill non-eating related sucking and self-soothing needs. Some studies also show that it potentially helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While it might not be the solution for every parent, some will find it invaluable. If you think a pacifier is suitable for your infant, ensure the pacifier's size is age-appropriate and discuss your thoughts with your child's pediatrician. We think purchasing multiple pacifier brands and styles is best, as you never know what your baby will prefer. We are confident that the information and recommendations from our tests will help you find the best option for your little one.
