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Now reading: Can a Baby Sleep with a Pacifier?

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Can a Baby Sleep with a Pacifier?

As you try to calm your baby through the night, you may be wondering if the pacifier that brings your little one comfort is a good option for a good night’s sleep. Can babies sleep with a pacifier? Is this safe? We will answer all these questions and more as we review if babies can sleep with a pacifier in their mouth.

Can Babies Sleep with a Pacifier in their Mouth?

Table of Contents

Can a baby sleep with a pacifier all night?
Should I remove pacifier when baby is sleeping?
How many hours can baby use a pacifier?
Can a 4-day old baby sleep with a pacifier?
Can I give my newborn a pacifier after feeding?
Can babies sleep with a pacifier clip?
Benefits of sleeping with a pacifier
Are there disadvantages to using a pacifier?
When should you introduce a pacifier to a newborn?
Tips for safely introducing a pacifier to baby
When to stop giving your baby a pacifier for sleep
Is it OK to use a pacifier while sleep training?
Is it OK to use a pacifier during cry it out?

Can a baby sleep with a pacifier all night?

Safety is likely the first thing that comes to mind when considering giving your little one a pacifier for naps or bedtime. Sleeping with a pacifier can be safe and very comforting for your baby at bedtime. As you read on, we will discuss some of the things to keep in mind for babies who use pacifiers during sleep.

Should I remove pacifier when baby is sleeping?

It’s okay for your baby to keep their pacifier in after they have fallen asleep. Their pacifier will likely even fall out during the night. For younger babies, you will have to decide if you will get up to retrieve it if they become discontent.

How many hours can baby use a pacifier?

It’s best to limit pacifier use only to those times when your baby is fussy, in need of some comfort, or needs help getting to sleep. As babies get older, they will naturally spend less time with a pacifier as they will have much more that will catch their attention.

Can a 4-day old baby sleep with a pacifier?

When to start using a pacifier after birth can depend on a few factors. The most significant consideration to remember when introducing pacifiers is which feeding method you are establishing with your baby. For mothers who choose to breastfeed, it may be best to wait to introduce a pacifier at bedtime until latching has become consistent. If you are bottle-feeding your baby, pacifiers can be introduced sooner, as pacifiers are safe for newborns.

Can I give my newborn a pacifier after feeding?

Pacifier use after feeding is okay, so long as it isn’t a replacement for feeding. Be sure not to offer a pacifier if your baby is, in fact, hungry. After feeding is finished, your little one may be ready to fall into a nap. A pacifier can help keep them relaxed after they have finished feeding, and keeping your pacifier nearby while feeding can make for a smooth transition. If you’re looking for extra support during feeding time, look no further: the Tushbaby Carrier can double as a breastfeeding pillow! Consider using the Tushbaby as a breastfeeding pillow with a secure Paci Pod storage case clipped on to store your baby’s pacifier safely. Whether you’re feeding at home or on the go, this setup is one you can count on.

Can babies sleep with a pacifier clip?

Safety is a priority, so your baby should never sleep with a pacifier clip. Pacifier clips can help your baby’s paci stay readily available during the day but can be dangerous at night. When using a pacifier during sleep time, be sure there are no stuffed animals or clothing pacifier clips on your little one. The pacifier should be the right size, clean, and on its own for sleeping time.

Benefits of sleeping with a pacifier

Sleeping with a pacifier has various benefits for babies and their parents. A pacifier can help keep your baby relaxed and asleep, which in turn means sound sleep for you. A pacifier can also help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Are there disadvantages to using a pacifier?

While pacifiers are handy helpers at times, there are a few disadvantages to consider:

Becoming reliant on pacifiers for comfort. Your baby may become dependent on their paci as a means of comfort, which can, in turn, cause some not-so-fun moments when you are trying to wean.
Prolonged use. If used for too long, future dental development can be hindered by a pacifier.

When should you introduce a pacifier to a newborn?

Breastfed babies

With babies who are breastfed, it’s cautioned not to start the use of a pacifier until you’ve settled into your feeding routines. It can take mothers and babies a little time to get used to latching and regular feeds. To avoid adding more confusion, it’s best to hold off on the pacifier until feedings become more seamless.

Bottle-fed babies

If bottle-feeding is your method of choice, pacifiers can start to be used right from birth. Without the concern of milk supply and latching, a pacifier can be used right away as a means to soothe your little one.

Tips for safely introducing a pacifier to baby

Pacifiers can be a game changer when it comes to soothing your little one. Here are a few things to remember when introducing your baby to a paci:

Find the right pacifier. Pacifiers come in many shapes and sizes to accommodate your baby’s age. Be sure to research and find the right pacifier that won’t be too big for your newborn.
Keep it clean. Before giving your baby a new pacifier, be sure to sanitize it. This can be done in a few ways, including sanitizing machines or boiling water. After the first use, it’s important to keep that pacifier clean between each use, and storing your pacifier in Tushbaby’s Paci Pod will help you do just that. Simply clean and store your little one’s pacifier in this chic pouch to keep it clean and accessible in times of need. The Paci Pod can be attached to your stroller, Totebaby, or Tushbaby's handy toy loops to make sure a clean paci is always on hand. Read more about keeping pacifiers clean in our blog here: How to Clean a Pacifier.
Introducing a paci. When you and your baby are ready, you can safely encourage your baby to suck on their pacifier. This can be done by gently pressing the pacifier onto their bottom lip or tongue. Your baby will likely pick up the sucking motion in no time. If your little one strongly resists at first, there’s no need to force it. You can try again another day or when your baby has settled. Tip: Try at the end of a feed when your baby is nice and relaxed.

When to stop giving your baby a pacifier for sleep

Researchers and parents offer varying opinions on when a baby should stop using a pacifier. While this decision is up to you as a parent, experts suggest that it is best to wean your baby from their paci between the ages of 2 and 4 years old. The older your little one gets, the more impact a pacifier may have on their dental well-being.

Is it OK to use a pacifier while sleep training?

There are many variations of sleep training methods as you navigate adjusting to sleep routines with your baby. Regardless of which sleep training method you use, pacifiers can be a great addition to the sleep time routine when used safely. Offering your little one a constant Paci comfort at sleep time can be a great way to help your baby become relaxed enough to fall right into their sleepy time schedule.

Is it OK to use a pacifier during cry it out?

Ultimately the decision to use a pacifier during cry it out (a common sleep training technique) is up to parents to decide, but it’s absolutely okay to use a pacifier during cry it out. If you allow a pacifier during cry out, just be sure to find what works best with your routine. If you are not doing regular check-ins with your little one throughout the night, one decision to keep in mind is whether or not you will go back and forth if your little one needs help getting their paci back in their mouth.

Keep your baby’s pacifier clean and handy at all times. . . get the mommy must-have Paci Pod today!

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