The 8 Best Pacifiers for Babies in 2020, According to Experts

Parents may have mixed feelings about pacifiers, but the American Academy of Pediatrics says that a pacifier can actually be beneficial if it is used correctly. Although no one is sure the mechanism behind it, there are studies that suggest using a pacifier when putting a baby down to sleep might reduce the risk of SIDS. The AAP suggests offering a pacifier for naps and bedtime until the baby is 6 months old, when the chances of SIDS are much lower.

Of course, there are caveats that go with it: The AAP recommends pacifiers that are all one piece, because pacifiers that come apart might be made of smaller choking hazards. Also a choking hazard? Tying a pacifier to a crib, stroller, or part of a baby's clothing. And pacifiers should be checked regularly to make sure they're not deteriorating into little parts, since the babies really suck hard on them and get them to fall apart.

Best Pacifier for Newborns/Hospital Choice: Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier
Best Stay-Clean Pacifier: Doddle & Co. Pop Pacifier
Best Pacifier With a Toy: WubbaNub Infant Pacifier
Best Pacifier Designs: NUK Orthodontic Pacifier
Best Value Pacifier: Evenflo Feeding Balance Pacifier
Best Contouring Shape Pacifier: Nanobébé Pacifiers
Best Bottle-Like Pacifier: Dr. Brown’s HappyPaci
Also Consider: The First Years Gumdrop Newborn Pacifier

That is, if your baby takes to a pacifier to begin with; some don't, and some find some shapes more pleasing than others. Here are the Good Housekeeping Institute's recommendations for a few to try and see if you can find a fit.