How to Sterilize Pacifiers — and When Sanitizing Is Enough

Safety First: 4 Simple Methods for Sterilizing Pacifiers

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Plus, When a Warm Soapy Wash Will Do

By: Mia Lawson

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: April 26, 2022

Welcoming a new baby into your life brings endless joy as you witness their growth, but it also comes with the challenge of constant cleaning. From diaper changes to washing tiny clothes and baby gear, it can feel overwhelming. One item that often causes concern for new parents is the pacifier, a beloved source of comfort for many infants. However, the hygiene of these soothing tools can be a source of anxiety, especially with the various recommendations regarding sterilization methods.

In the past, when clean water was not always available, doctors advised that all baby bottles and pacifiers should be sterilized regularly to eliminate harmful bacteria. Nowadays, most homes have access to safe drinking water, which means that sterilizing pacifiers after every use isn’t usually necessary—except in certain situations. According to family medicine expert Dr. Noah Reed, “The key is to sterilize bottles, pacifiers, and sippy cups before their first use for infants and toddlers. After that, it’s a matter of personal preference. Regular washing with warm, soapy water is typically sufficient.”

At the end of each day, feel free to toss your baby’s pacifiers into the dishwasher’s basket and run a normal cycle. If you find yourself out and about and the pacifier touches a dirty surface (and you don’t have a spare), washing it with warm, soapy water before giving it back is usually acceptable.

When Is Sterilization Necessary?

Aside from the initial use, Dr. Reed emphasizes that sterilization is particularly important for “children under three months, premature infants, or those with compromised immune systems. In these cases, consult your pediatrician for tailored advice. Generally, sterilizing pacifiers can be done by boiling them in water for five minutes.”

You should also consider sterilizing pacifiers if your baby has been ill, before using one shared with a sibling or friend, or if your baby attends daycare where the pacifier may come into contact with others. Not sterilizing can expose your baby to bacterial infections and viruses that may lead to serious health issues.

If sterilization is required, here are a few straightforward methods:

1. Boiling Water
   Like Dr. Reed suggested, submerging pacifiers in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes effectively eliminates most germs. Be careful when removing them and let them cool on a clean, dry surface.
2. Using the Dishwasher
   A regular hot wash and dry cycle should suffice, but using the dishwasher’s sterilize setting offers extra protection, particularly if you’re washing dishes that have been in contact with raw meat. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. UV Sterilizer Box
   Many baby product brands now offer UV sterilizer boxes that can eliminate 99.9% of harmful germs from pacifiers in under a minute, though it’s recommended to pre-clean them first.
4. Microwave Sterilization
   To quickly sterilize pacifiers, place them in a microwave-safe bowl filled with water. Run the microwave for 2-3 minutes, then allow the bowl to cool before carefully removing the pacifiers to dry on a clean surface.

For newborns, daily sterilization of pacifiers is crucial, but as they enter the exploratory oral phase, you can decrease the frequency. Always make sure pacifiers are completely dry before storage to minimize bacterial growth.

What Not to Do When Caring for Pacifiers

Now that you know how to properly sterilize pacifiers, it’s equally important to be aware of common mistakes. Avoid the five-second rule—if the pacifier touches the floor or dirt, it must be cleaned. You might not need to sterilize it every time, but a warm wash is essential. If you have a non-toxic cleaning wipe on hand, that can work too.

Refrain from using your mouth to clean the pacifier, as this can transfer your germs to your baby. Also, replace pacifiers that appear worn, cracked, or damaged—two months is a good lifespan to consider.

If you’re encouraging pacifier use, don’t sweeten it with food; this can promote bacterial growth and harm your child’s teeth. Instead, try offering frozen fruits or other safe foods for them to suck on.

Additionally, never tie a pacifier around your child’s neck, as it poses a strangulation risk. Instead, use a clip to attach it safely to their clothing.

Ultimately, aim to sterilize pacifiers at least once a month while cleaning them daily. A handy tip? Always keep extra clean pacifiers ready!

For more insights on child care, check out this helpful blog post and visit Intracervical Insemination for expert advice. Another great resource is this fertility insurance guide for those considering pregnancy.

Summary

Sterilizing pacifiers is essential for newborns and infants with specific health concerns, while regular washing often suffices for older children. Various methods for sterilization include boiling, using a dishwasher, employing UV sterilizers, or microwaving. Always ensure pacifiers are cleaned after they’ve been dropped and avoid common mistakes that could compromise hygiene.