Many new parents wonder if it’s safe for their baby to sleep with a pacifier. The short answer is yes, it's actually RECOMMENDED to do so. A few safety guidelines need to be followed. Pacifiers can actually provide several benefits during sleep, including reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
This guide will cover the benefits of pacifier use during sleep, safety tips, and what to avoid to ensure a safe and restful night for your baby.
The Benefits of Using a Pacifier During Sleep
Pacifiers aren’t just for soothing; they play an important role in sleep safety. Research has shown that using a pacifier at bedtime can:
- Reduce the risk of SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American SIDS Institute, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) all recommend offering a pacifier at naptime and bedtime. While the exact reason is still being studied, the correlation between pacifier use and reduced SIDS risk has been widely acknowledged.
- Encourage self-soothing. Babies often wake briefly during sleep cycles. A pacifier can help them settle back down without needing to be picked up.
- Prevent thumb-sucking. While both pacifiers and thumb-sucking provide comfort, pacifiers are easier to wean from when the time comes.
Safe Pacifier Use for Sleep
To make sure your baby sleeps safely with a pacifier, keep these tips in mind:
- Never let baby sleep with pacifiers attached to clips, strings, or stuffed animals. These pose strangulation and suffocation risks.
- Offer the pacifier after your baby is placed on their back to sleep. If it falls out after they fall asleep, there’s no need to put it back in.
- Keep pacifiers clean and in good condition. Replace them regularly to prevent wear and tear.
When to Avoid Using a Pacifier for Sleep
While pacifiers are generally safe for sleep, there are a few situations where extra caution is needed:
- If your baby refuses the pacifier, don’t force it. Some babies simply don’t like them, and that’s okay.
- If the pacifier is damaged, cracked, or worn out, replace it immediately.
- If your baby is struggling with repeated ear infections, talk to your pediatrician about limiting pacifier use during sleep. Prolonged use may contribute to an increased risk of ear infections.
The Bottom Line
Yes, babies can safely sleep with a pacifier, and it can even provide sleep and safety benefits. Just make sure to follow proper pacifier safety guidelines, replace pacifiers regularly, and keep them clean.
Looking for a safe sleep-approved pacifier? The Soothe Beginnings Pacifier is designed with safety in mind.