It can be frustrating when your little one constantly spits out their pacifier. With so many styles and designs available, how do you choose the best one for your spitty baby?
As a parent, it’s not uncommon to encounter the challenge of a spitty baby who seems to have mastered the art of pacifier ejection. You’re not alone in this struggle, and fortunately, there are pacifier features and designs that can make a significant difference in keeping that pacifier where it belongs.
But before you go into changing to a different pacifier, it’s important to ensure that you’ve tried introducing it to your baby the right way.
This means:
- Trying when drowsy – Offer the pacifier when your baby is already in a calm, sleepy state. They may reflexively suck and keep it in as they nod off.
- Drawing the pacifier into mouth – Gently pull down on baby’s chin while inserting the nipple so it draws inward. Don’t just shove it in.
- Pointing the nipple up – Tilt the pacifier so the nipple angles upwards and encourages sucking motion.
- Gently reinserting after spitting out – Don’t force it, but persistently reintroduce after spit outs to teach where it belongs.
- Distracting with motion – Rocking, bouncing, or swaddling can prevent focus on ejecting the pacifier.
- Offering for specific events – Use it strategically like for naps, during car rides, or when fussy but not actively hungry.
- Trying different styles – Experiment with different nipple shapes, sizes, and materials to find one baby likes.
- Using a pacifier clip – Attach pacifier to clothing so it doesn’t fall far when spit out.
More importantly, you should be patient when introducing a pacifier to your newborn. It takes practice. With the right introduction techniques and consistent reinforcement, babies often accept and self-soothe with pacifiers even if they spit them out initially. With time and consistency, your baby will learn to suck and retain the pacifier.
Pacifier Features for Optimal Retention
If you’re still struggling with your baby retaining his or her pacifier, you can try shopping for one with unique features that may make all the difference:
Oval-Shaped Nipple
One key feature to look for is a pacifier with a flatter, more oval-shaped nipple rather than a round one. This shape tends to conform better to a baby’s mouth, making it harder for them to push it out.
Smaller Nipple and Guard
Oversized pacifiers are more easily spit out, so opt for a pacifier with a smaller nipple and guard. This can help keep the pacifier in place.
Optimal Firmness
Consider a pacifier with a nipple that’s soft enough to flex with your baby’s motions. This flexibility can aid in keeping the pacifier in their mouth. However, avoid ultra-soft nipples that collapse easily, as they might not provide enough resistance.
Thin, Tapered Guard
A pacifier with a guard that is thin and tapered or has vents/air holes can prevent saliva from pooling behind it. This can significantly reduce spit-ups, which are often triggered by pooled saliva.
Textured Handles and Unique Shapes
Look for pacifiers with textured handles, whimsical animal shapes, or rings. These design elements make it easier for tiny hands to grip onto the pacifier, making it more challenging for your little Houdini to eject it.
Weighted Base or Attached Stuffed Animal
Some pacifiers come with a weighted base or are attached to a stuffed animal. This added weight provides an anchorage effect, making it more difficult for the pacifier to pop out of your baby’s mouth.
Orthodontic Pacifiers
If your baby has started teething or has emerging teeth and gums, consider pacifiers with flat, angled nipples. These are designed to put less pressure on those sensitive areas while still providing comfort and soothing.
Experiment and Explore with Different Pacifiers
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pacifier styles and features to discover what works best for your active little one. Remember that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Look for pacifiers that strike the right balance between being rigid enough to withstand your baby’s sucking and malleable enough for their comfort.
Here are five highly-rated pacifiers known for their ability to stay put in a baby’s mouth:
1. Philips Avent Soothie Snuggle Pacifier
This pacifier comes with a plush stuffed animal attached, which makes it more difficult for babies to spit out. The stuffed animal helps to keep the pacifier in place and provides comfort to the baby.
The Soothie pacifier itself is made of medical-grade silicone and has an orthodontic shape to promote healthy oral development.
The plush toy is easy to detach for cleaning, and the pacifier can be replaced as needed.
2. WubbaNub Infant Pacifier
The WubbaNub pacifier is another popular choice among parents. It features a small stuffed animal attached to the pacifier, which serves as a weight to keep it from falling out of the baby’s mouth.
The pacifier itself is made from latex-free, medical-grade silicone and has an orthodontic shape.
The plush toy is not only functional but also provides sensory stimulation for the baby.
3. NUK Orthodontic Pacifier with Silicone Nipple
NUK pacifiers are designed to stay in a baby’s mouth comfortably. They come in various shapes and sizes, including orthodontic options.
The NUK silicone nipple is designed to mimic a mother’s breast during breastfeeding, making it more appealing to babies.
The shield shape and size are well-suited for newborns and infants, reducing the likelihood of spitting it out.
4. MAM Glow in the Dark Night Orthodontic Pacifier
MAM pacifiers are known for their innovative designs. The MAM Glow in the Dark Night Pacifier not only stays put but also glows in the dark, making it easier to find in the crib at night.
It has an orthodontic nipple that promotes healthy oral development and is suitable for newborns.
The shield is designed for maximum comfort and to prevent skin irritation.
5. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Soother Pacifier
Tommee Tippee’s Closer to Nature pacifiers have a symmetrical orthodontic shape that makes it easier for babies to accept.
The pacifier’s design ensures it stays in the baby’s mouth without much fuss.
It is available in various sizes to accommodate different age groups.
Final Note
Remember that while these pacifiers are designed to stay put, individual babies have their preferences. It may take some trial and error to find the pacifier that works best for your baby.
In your quest to find the perfect pacifier for your spitty baby, patience and persistence are your allies. With some strategic tweaks and a bit of trial and error, you can uncover the ideal pacifier that satisfies even the spittiest of babies.
Additionally, always ensure that the pacifier is appropriate for your baby’s age and follows safety guidelines. Consult with your pediatrician or a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
