When should a natural rubber pacifier be replaced?
A natural rubber pacifier is a natural product and often accompanies babies every day. To keep it hygienic, comfortable and safe, it should be checked regularly and replaced in good time.
Our rule of thumb: A natural rubber pacifier should be replaced approximately every 4 to 8 weeks. If you notice visible changes, bite marks or damage, it should be replaced immediately.
The most important signs at a glance
Cracks or holes
Small cracks, holes or bite marks are a clear sign: the pacifier should no longer be used.
Sticky material
If the natural rubber becomes sticky, brittle, porous or rough, the pacifier should be replaced.
Changed shape
If the nipple looks larger, has become deformed or looks unusual, replacing it makes sense.
The pacifier should be replaced immediately if …
- the nipple has cracks, holes or small signs of damage
- the material feels sticky, brittle or porous
- the nipple has become deformed
- the nipple has visibly become larger
- the surface feels rough or looks unusual
- the pacifier smells unusual
- your baby has chewed on it strongly
- you are unsure whether the pacifier is still in perfect condition
Frequently asked questions about replacing pacifiers
How often should a natural rubber pacifier be replaced?
Depending on use, a natural rubber pacifier should be replaced approximately every 4 to 8 weeks.
If the pacifier is used very often or your baby chews on it strongly, replacing it earlier may make sense.
Important: the 4 to 8 weeks are a guideline. The actual condition of the pacifier is always decisive.
Why does a natural rubber pacifier need to be replaced regularly?
Natural rubber is a natural, soft and elastic material. Sucking, chewing, saliva, cleaning, heat and light can change the material over time.
That is why it is important to check the pacifier regularly. Even if it still looks good at first glance, the material can weaken over time.
How do I check the pacifier properly?
Check the pacifier carefully before each use. Gently pull the nipple in all directions and look for cracks, bite marks or other changes.
- Gently pull the nipple in all directions.
- Check for cracks, holes and bite marks.
- Check the surface, shape and size.
- Replace it if the material is sticky, brittle or changed.
If you notice any change, the pacifier should no longer be used. When in doubt, it is better to replace it.
Why is replacing the pacifier especially important during teething?
When babies are teething, they often chew more strongly on the pacifier. This can put more strain on the material.
Check the pacifier particularly carefully during this time. Even small bite marks or fine cracks can be a sign that the pacifier should be replaced.
Why is timely replacement important?
A damaged or heavily aged pacifier can become a safety risk. If the material becomes porous or tears, small parts could come loose in the worst case.
Regular replacement also makes sense for hygiene reasons, as pacifiers come into daily contact with saliva, skin, clothing, surfaces and cleaning water.
When should I replace the pacifier immediately?
Replace the pacifier immediately if you notice cracks, holes, bite marks, sticky material, a changed shape or a rough surface.
If the pacifier smells unusual or you are unsure whether it is still in perfect condition, it should also be replaced as a precaution.
In short
A natural rubber pacifier should be replaced:
- approximately every 4 to 8 weeks
- immediately if there are cracks, holes or bite marks
- immediately if the material is sticky, brittle or porous
- immediately if the shape, size or surface has changed
- earlier if your baby chews strongly on it or is teething
Our tip
Check the pacifier regularly and replace it in good time. This helps keep it hygienic, comfortable and safe for your baby.
How to clean pacifiers properly