How to Keep a Pacifier in Baby's Mouth

Pacifiers are a go-to for calming fussy babies—but when they won’t stop slipping out, it can leave you wondering what’s going wrong. Is it something about the fit? The design? Or is your baby just not into it? And is there a way to keep pacis in place without the constant struggle?

We’ve got the answers, plus tips on how to keep pacifiers clean, when to quit pacifiers, and more. Learn everything you need to know below!

Why Does Baby Keep Spitting Out the Pacifier?

Sometimes, the pacifier is simply new and weird to them, so don’t take it personally if your baby keeps spitting it out. Here are a few reasons why they might not be taking to that paci:

Style: Not all pacifiers are created equal, and your baby’s got opinions. Whether it’s the shape of the nipple or the shield, they may prefer a different style that fits their tiny tastes.
Texture: Unfamiliar textures or tastes can catch babies off guard, making them hesitant to keep the pacifier in.
Size: Pacifiers come in different sizes for a reason. A pacifier that’s too big might feel like too much, while one that’s too small could fail to do the job.
Distractions: Babies might spit out their pacifier when they’re preoccupied with other needs, like hunger, discomfort, or just being tired.

How to Keep the Pacifier in the Baby’s Mouth

If you’re wondering how to keep the pacifier in baby’s mouth or how to stop the pacifier from falling out of their mouth, here’s your game plan:

Timing is everything: Don’t give a pacifier to a hangry or fussy baby—it’s doomed to fail. Try offering it when they’re happy, calm, and full, like right after a feeding session when they’re already accustomed to things being in their mouth. You could also try introducing it at naptime when they’re naturally more relaxed.
Find their perfect paci: If your baby’s turning their nose up at the pacifier you chose, consider their preferences. Pacifiers come in all styles, shapes, and materials. Switch it up and try a different one that’s still safe for their age range—sometimes, the right pacifier is all it takes.
Make it taste familiar: A little familiarity goes a long way. Lightly coat the pacifier in breast milk or formula to make it more enticing. It’s like dipping veggies in ranch—suddenly, they’re not so bad.
Encourage the latch: Babies are naturally a bit resistant, so some gentle reverse psychology can go a long way here. When your baby has the pacifier in, lightly tug on it to instinctively trigger them to suck harder to “keep” it.
Consider its size: Pacifiers that are too small can be uncomfortable and a possible choking hazard. Make sure any pacifier you use is the right size for your baby’s age. If the current one isn’t working, a size upgrade might make all the difference.

Getting a baby to take a pacifier may take some time. Let your baby get familiar at their own pace—persistence and patience are key.

However, not every baby loves a pacifier, and that’s okay! You don’t want to force it, and they won’t let you anyway. If your baby keeps saying no to the paci, it’s time to explore other soothing methods.

When to Quit Pacifiers

Baby’s pacifiers are great for soothing, but they’re not meant to last forever. Most kids naturally wean off between 2 and 4 years old, and prolonged use can impact dental development or become a hard habit to break.

When it’s time to quit, start by limiting pacifier use to naps or bedtime, then phase it out gradually. A little patience, positive reinforcement, and distractions can help make the transition easier.

How to Keep Pacifiers Clean

Let’s face it: a baby’s pacifier spends more time on the floor than in their mouth. Whether baby pushes a pacifier out with their tongue or it’s just another casualty of gravity, keeping it clean is key. Here’s how to minimize the dreaded bend-wash-repeat cycle.

Clip it to keep it close

Attaching the pacifier to a clip or cord won’t keep a pacifier in baby’s mouth, but it will save you from constantly hunting it down and rinsing it off for the millionth time.

Use a case like The Pod

It’s the ultimate pacifier storage hack. The Pod keeps pacifiers clean, close, and easy to find—whether you’re on the go or at home. Made with baby-safe materials, The Pod is easy to clean and designed to clip onto your bag, stroller, or Tushbaby carrier, so your baby’s pacifier stays within reach and away from germs.

Bonus? When pacifier duty’s over, it doubles as a chic holder for your essentials—think lip balm, earbuds, or credit cards.

Wash as needed

If the pacifier takes a dive to the floor, always give it a proper wash with hot, soapy water or sterilize it. A clean pacifier means fewer germs and more peace of mind.

With a little prep—and game-changers like The Pod—you’ll keep your baby’s pacifiers clean and ready for action.

FAQs

How to Clean and Store Your Baby’s Pacifier Properly

Wash pacifiers with hot water and mild, unscented soap after each use—or whenever they hit the floor (again). For a deeper clean, boil them for 5 minutes and let them cool.

When it comes to storage, shaded and dry are the way to go. The Pod keeps pacifiers clean, out of direct sunlight, and far from the depths of your diaper bag. Find out more about how to sterilize a pacifier at home and on the go.

Can Pacifiers Help with Teething?

Yes, pacifiers can offer comfort and distraction during teething, but they’re not the MVP of teething relief. For serious soothing of a teething baby, reach for something designed for the job—like The Teether by Tushbaby. It’s built to tackle those tiny gum troubles and give your baby the relief they need.

Can a Baby Sleep with Pacifiers?

Yes, babies can sleep with a pacifier—and research even suggests this might help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). If your baby is breastfed, wait until breastfeeding is well-established before introducing a pacifier at sleep time. For bottle-fed babies, it’s okay to start using one from birth.

How Long Can You Keep Pacifiers?

Replace your baby's pacifier every four weeks to keep it clean and safe. If you notice any damage—cracks, tears, or wear—swap it immediately, even if it hasn't been four weeks yet. Better safe than sorry!

Keeping baby’s pacifier clean and where it belongs isn’t always simple, but the right tips and tools can make a big difference. From understanding why babies spit pacifiers out to knowing when to quit pacifiers, it’s all about figuring out what works for your little one. Keep a clean stash ready with a game-changing solution like The Pod, switch up styles and sizes when needed, and let your baby lead the way.

Ready to make life with your little one simpler? Shop all Tushbaby products now!