Pacifier do's and don'ts

If you choose to offer your baby a pacifier, keep these tips in mind:

• Don't use a pacifier as a first choice for soothing your baby. Sometimes a change of position or a rocking session can calm a crying baby. Offer a pacifier to your baby only after feedings or between feedings.
• Choose a one-piece, dishwasher-safe variety. Pacifiers made of two pieces pose a choking hazard if they break.
• Let your baby set the pace. If your baby shows no interest in the pacifier, don't force it.
• Keep it clean. A baby's immune system isn't fully formed until 6 months of age. So until your baby is 6 months old, boil pacifiers often or wash them in the dishwasher. After age 6 months, simply wash pacifiers with soap and water. It may feel easy at times to "rinse" the pacifier in your own mouth. But doing this only spreads more germs to your baby.
• Don't put sweet substances on the pacifier. Putting sugar on the pacifier raises the risk of cavities.
• Keep it safe. Replace pacifiers often and use the right size for your baby's age. Watch for signs that the pacifier is breaking down. Also use caution with pacifier clips. Never attach a pacifier to a string or strap long enough to get caught around your baby's neck.