How to clean pacifiers properly
For many parents, pacifiers are essential helpers in everyday life with babies. They soothe, comfort and help the little ones to fall asleep. But because soothers are constantly in contact with your baby’s mouth, hygienic cleaning is crucial.
Why is pacifier cleaning important?
In the first few months of life (up to the end of the 3rd month), your baby’s immune system is not yet fully developed. Therefore, particular attention must be paid to hygiene. If the soother is dropped on the floor or otherwise soiled, it must be boiled before being used again. For babies older than three months, it is sufficient to clean the soother with hot water and mild detergent and boil it once a day.
How do you clean soothers properly?
We’ll show you how to clean soothers quickly and easily. Here are the two most tried and tested methods:
1. Clean the pacifier in a pot
Boiling is a classic and proven method of disinfecting soothers.
- Step 1: Fill a pot with enough water.
- Step 2: Bring the water to a boil.
- Step 3: Place the pacifier in the boiling water for about 5 minutes. Make sure that it is completely covered with water.
- Step 4: Remove the pacifier from the water using clean tongs or a spoon and leave it to air dry on a clean cloth.
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More Information2. Sterilize pacifiers in the microwave
A quick and uncomplicated alternative is to use a sterilization box for the microwave. This method saves time and is particularly practical for everyday use.
- Step 1: Place the soother in the sterilization box and add a small amount of water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Step 2: Close the box securely.
- Step 3: Place the box in the microwave and heat for 2 to 5 minutes at 600 to 800 watts, depending on the instructions.
- Step 4: Let the sterilization box cool down after the process and open it carefully to avoid burns from hot steam.
How often should the pacifier be cleaned?
The frequency of soother cleaning depends on the frequency of use and the circumstances:
- Clean daily: Clean the pacifier thoroughly at least once a day.
- After dropping: If the pacifier has fallen on the floor, it should be cleaned or sterilized.
- After illnesses: If your baby has a cold or is ill, the pacifier should be disinfected after each use.
- New soothers: New soothers should also be thoroughly sterilized before first use.
Further tips for pacifier care
- Regular checks: Check the pacifier regularly for cracks or damage. A defective soother can lose small parts or accumulate bacteria. It should then be replaced immediately.
- Changing soothers: Replace soothers every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how often they are used.
- Cleaning pacifiers on the go: Special pacifier cleaning wipes or portable UVC sterilizers are particularly practical for when you are out and about. These are ideal if there is no possibility of boiling or microwave sterilization.
Thorough and regular cleaning of pacifiers is essential to protect your baby’s health. Whether you boil the soother in a saucepan or sterilize it in the microwave, both methods are simple and effective if used correctly. With these tips, your baby’s soother will always stay hygienically clean and safe.
