How to Choose a Pacifier for Breastfed Babies: Natursutten and Other Safe Options

Quick Answer

For breastfed babies, look for a pacifier with a rounded, symmetrical nipple that mimics the breast—like the Natursutten natural rubber pacifier. Choose natural rubber if your baby prefers a softer, more flexible feel, or silicone if you need durability and easy cleaning. Always prioritize safety: one-piece construction, a shield with ventilation holes, and a size appropriate for your baby's age.

When you're breastfeeding, the right pacifier can feel like a tiny miracle—or a source of frustration. Many parents worry that a pacifier might interfere with nursing or cause nipple confusion. The good news is that with careful selection and timing, pacifiers can soothe your baby without derailing your breastfeeding journey.

This guide will help you sort through the options: natural rubber vs. silicone, orthodontic shapes, and flow considerations. We'll focus on what actually matters for a breastfed baby, and we'll mention specific products, including Natursutten, that are designed with nursing babies in mind.

Natural Rubber vs. Silicone: Which Is Better for Breastfed Babies?

The two main materials for pacifiers are natural rubber and silicone, and each has its strengths. Natural rubber, like the kind used in Natursutten pacifiers, is softer and more flexible than silicone. This mimics the feel of a mother's skin and adapts easily to your baby's mouth, which can be reassuring for a breastfed baby who's used to a soft, pliable nipple.

Silicone, on the other hand, is firmer and more durable. It's also clearer, easier to sterilize, and doesn't absorb odors. The trade-off is that some babies find silicone too firm and reject it. If your baby is teething, silicone may hold up better, but natural rubber is more resistant to biting, according to Natursutten's product details. Ultimately, the best material is the one your baby accepts—it might take some trial and error.

• Try natural rubber if your baby is sensitive to textures or has a strong rooting reflex.
• Consider silicone if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that withstands frequent boiling.

Orthodontic vs. Symmetrical Nipples: What to Look For

Many pacifiers marketed as 'orthodontic' have a flattened or angled shape that's supposed to support proper oral development. However, for breastfed babies, a symmetrical, bulbous nipple that mimics the breast is often a better starting point. This shape allows the tongue to move naturally, similar to breastfeeding, and reduces the risk of nipple confusion.

The Natursutten pacifier features a symmetrical, cherry-shaped nipple that encourages a natural sucking motion. This is why it's a popular choice among breastfeeding mothers. If you see 'orthodontic' on a label, ask yourself: is the shape close to what my baby experiences at the breast? If not, it might not be the best fit.

• Look for a one-piece design to eliminate choking hazards from separate parts.
• Check that the shield is wide enough with ventilation holes to prevent mouth irritation and allow airflow.

Flow and Size: More Important Than You Think

Pacifiers come in different flow speeds, which is often overlooked. For a breastfed baby, a slow, steady flow that mimics the natural milk letdown is ideal. The Natursutten glass bottle and natural rubber nipples, for example, offer Slow Flow and Fast Flow options, so you can match the pace to your baby's needs. This isn't just about bottles—the same principle applies to pacifiers: you want a consistent, controlled suction that won't frustrate your baby.

Size also matters. A pacifier that's too big can cause gagging, while one that's too small can be a choking risk. Most brands offer size guidelines based on age. For newborns, a smaller, lighter pacifier is easier to handle. For older babies, a larger shield and nipple are appropriate. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and replace the pacifier as soon as it shows signs of wear or discoloration.

• Start with a size labeled '0-6 months' for a newborn breastfed baby.
• Replace natural rubber pacifiers every 2 months, and silicone every 1-2 months, or sooner if damaged.

How to Introduce a Pacifier Without Hurting Breastfeeding

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until breastfeeding is well established, usually around 3-4 weeks, before offering a pacifier. This helps avoid nipple confusion and ensures your baby is latching well. When you do introduce it, offer it after a feeding, when your baby is content but not fully asleep. This prevents it from becoming a hunger cue.

If your baby refuses the pacifier, don't force it. Some babies simply prefer breastfeeding for comfort. In that case, you can try a different material or shape. The Natursutten pacifier's natural rubber feel might be more appealing to a baby who's used to the breast. Remember, pacifiers are a tool, not a requirement. Your baby's cues are the best guide.

• Keep the pacifier clean, but don't coat it in sweet substances.
• Pacifiers also offer a potential SIDS reduction benefit when used at sleep times.

Your Pacifier Decision Rules

• Material choice: Choose natural rubber if your baby is sensitive to textures or you prefer a softer, more adaptive feel. Choose silicone if you need durability and ease of cleaning. Test both, but natural rubber is often better for breastfed babies.
• Nipple shape: Pick a symmetrical, cherry-shaped nipple that mimics the breast. Avoid heavily flattened orthodontic shapes unless your baby accepts them without fuss. Symmetrical is your safest bet.
• Flow speed: Start with a slow-flow pacifier and observe your baby's feeding cues. If they work hard or get frustrated, consider faster flow. Slow flow is usually best for nursing babies.
• Size check: Ensure the pacifier is proportional to your baby’s mouth, and replace it when it shows signs of wear or when your baby grows out of the recommended age range. Size is a safety issue, so check regularly.

Products to Consider

• Natursutten Glass Bottle Natural Rubber Nipples: Natursutten® Natural Rubber Nipples are softer than silicone and more resistant to teething and bites. Their natural feel provides comfort, creating a soothing connection for babies who use Natursutten pacifiers. If your baby already uses a Natursutten pacifier, matching bottle nipples in the same material can keep the transition to bottles or pumping seamless and reduce confusion.
• Sleeping Baby Gingerbread Zipadee-Zip Swaddle Transition - Fleece: The Zipadee-Zip’s unique starfish design provides the cozy, secure feeling of a swaddle without limiting baby’s range of motion. This new patter also features a double-zipper for quick and easy diaper changes! While not a pacifier, a swaddle transition product like this can help soothe a baby who associates swaddling with sleep, reducing the need for a pacifier at bedtime.

Who Should Choose What

Best For

• Breastfed babies who need a soft, adaptive feel and have a strong rooting reflex—consider natural rubber like Natursutten.
• Parents seeking a pacifier that supports a natural sucking motion to avoid nipple confusion—choose a symmetrical shape.

Not For

• Babies who are exclusively bottle-fed and might prefer a firmer, more durable silicone nipple.
• Parents who are looking for a pacifier with a decorative shield—always prioritize one-piece safety design.

Choosing the best pacifier for your breastfed baby doesn't have to be stressful. Focus on materials, shape, and size, and always listen to your baby's cues. Natural rubber options like Natursutten are a great starting point, but the right pacifier is the one your baby actually accepts. Take your time, test a few, and you'll find the perfect companion for your little one's comfort.