When the time comes for choosing the pacifier for your newborn, the issue occurs on which type to buy. Today, we are going to explain the differences between Silicone vs Latex pacifier.
Silicone pacifiers are made of artificial materials, they are quite solid, odorless, and their design is usually milky white or transparent. Silicone pacifiers do not deform at high temperatures, they can be washed often even in the dishwasher, and are pretty easy to clean.
Some hospitals use silicone pacifiers because they can withstand frequent sterilizations and do not change shape. As with any pacifier, care should be taken in case it bursts.
A small and sharp baby’s first teeth can pierce it, which means that you need to buy a new one. The great thing about them is that they do not cause allergies, because they are made of highly pure silicone that does not contain elements that cause allergies.
On the other hand, we have latex which is a natural material obtained from the sap of wood. It is quite soft and yellowish in color. These pacifiers can better withstand a baby’s sharp teeth. However, they are harder to maintain, absorb odors, deform at high temperatures, and lose their shape and property.
They need to be changed often and it’s recommended to always keep one in reserve. In order to remain firm, latex pacifiers have some additives which can cause some allergic reactions in babies.
In any case, every pacifier, whether made of silicone or latex, should be checked frequently. A pacifier nipple check is needed to avoid the baby swallowing pieces of rubber or silicone. And, at the end, no matter how much parents prefer one pacifier or another, the baby is the one that is making the choice.
Remember whether it’s a silicone vs latex pacifier, it is better for a baby to use one of them than to suck its thumb. Overall try not to use the pacifier after the baby’s first birthday and do not give it too often.
Because any longer use of a pacifier can create a habit and even develop dental issues. Afterward, you will find it more difficult to wean your baby from the pacifier.
Are latex or silicone pacifiers safer?
If you are in a dilemma of what type of pacifier to choose, believe that the baby will choose what suits him or her the best. Overall, every pacifier from a well-known manufacturer is safe. A well-known manufacturer will choose pure silicone that is not contaminated and does not cause any allergies.
Latex is also a quality natural material but it can cause allergic reactions. These reactions are immediately visible after an hour of using it. The allergy passes quickly if you immediately change the latex pacifier with silicone, without further medical problems. It should be taken into account that these allergic problems are very rare.
The pacifier is safer if it is poured from one part and of the appropriate size. However, no matter how much you prefer i.g. Silicone pacifier over latex, maybe your baby will prefer latex pacifiers and it will soothe it much better compared to any other. So, it really depends on a baby.
If your baby often cries nervously and finds it difficult to fall asleep, it is safer and healthier to use a pacifier than to suck a thumb. Pacifiers prevent choking syndrome in sleep, sucking pacifiers resembles breastfeeding, and develop jaw and tongue muscles.
Trust us, it will be much easier to wean your baby from the pacifier than from a thumb.
What is the difference between silicone and latex rubbers?
The main difference between silicone and latex is that silicone is an artificial material and latex is natural. Silicone is typically an artificial – synthetic material, which is durable, strong, withstands boiling and cooling. It retains its shape and property even after long use. It is easier to maintain hygienically, withstands sterilization, and purified high-quality silicone is used for pacifiers.
Bacteria are less likely to remain on it, and it is more pleasant for the skin. It does not retain odors, is transparent, and is not sensitive to the sun’s rays – UV rays. If a pacifier that stays in the sun for a long time will not change its shape. And, in the end, silicone products are slightly more expensive than latex.
Latex rubber is obtained from natural wood material that grows in South America and Asia. Liquid rubber or latex is extracted from the wood and some elements that contain proteins are added.
These elements give latex firmness but contain proteins that cause allergies. This is rare, and it is immediately noticeable. Latex is not so durable, it does not tolerate high temperatures and sterilization, it changes its shape and properties after prolonged use. Retains odors, is harder to maintain, often yellowish in color, and slightly softer than silicone.
This means that if you choose to go with latex pacifiers, you will have to buy them much more often than silicone pacifiers. However, they are cheaper in comparison to silicone ones.
How do I choose a pacifier for my Baby?
Choosing a pacifier for your baby is like choosing a wedding anniversary gift. In the end, it will really depend on the baby itself, but here’s what a pacifier should have. The pacifier should be made of silicone to avoid possible allergies to the latex reaction, which are rare but can happen, and made in one piece in order to avoid any possibility of choking hazard.
Silicone is stronger, longer-lasting, easier to tolerate hot water – sterilization. Bacteria do not stick, they retain their shape and quality for a long time. The pacifier should be the right size for your baby’s age.
Consult a pediatrician or read what is written on the pacifier package. The nipple shield and holder should be cast in one piece so that there are no broken parts that could endanger your baby. Use a regular nipple in the first month to get your baby used to breastfeed.
Later, you can switch to an orthodontic pacifier/nipple that protects your baby’s jaw and teeth. Well-known and renowned pacifier manufacturers make pacifiers from the quality and safe materials so that your baby will sleep more peacefully.
Summary
There are many different types of pacifiers in the market. And when it comes to your baby’s health and safeness, each and every parent wants what’s the best for their little one. In our blog, we have explained in detail the differences between silicone vs latex pacifier, and we really hope you understood its pros and cons.
Overall, parents should be aware that sometimes they cannot influence the baby’s decision. Even though the silicone pacifiers are the obvious winner, the baby might feel more comfortable when using the latex pacifiers instead. So, be prepared to experiment, and to throw a couple of pacifiers before you find the perfect one.
