Frequently Asked Questions
Isn't this a choking hazard?
As a mom, the first stop in the product design process was with a safety consultant to see if interchangeable nipples could be done safely. It was intentionally designed above the required safety standards so that, assembled or not, each part is AT LEAST 32mm in size.
Is it wood? Will it splinter?
No! The cap and shield piece are made of recycled paper and eco resin called Richlite. It doesn’t splinter like wood does. It is food grade, non-toxic, dishwasher safe, and sustainable!
Richlite is a Forest Stewardship Council, Environmental Protection Declaration, Health Product Declaration, Greenguard, National Food Safety, and Eco Bind certified product.
What are the nipples made of?
The Soothe Beginnings n!pples are food grade silicone and latex free. We test every batch even though the requirement is to only test once per year. Safety is the top priority! Did you know silicone is recyclable?
Where are the products made?
Soothe Beginnings pacifiers (both the Richlite and the nipples) are manufactured, tested, and shipped in the USA.
What makes a pacifier safe for newborns?
A safe pacifier for newborns is designed with your baby’s delicate needs in mind. Here’s what to look for:
- Material Safety: Choose pacifiers made from food-grade silicone, which is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and durable. Avoid latex, which can cause allergies and breaks down faster.
- Size and Shape: The shield should be large enough to prevent choking but lightweight and comfortable. The nipple should support proper oral development, avoiding bulbous or flat designs.
- Sanitization Compatibility: Ensure the pacifier can be sanitized using boiling water, steam bags, or dishwashers.
- No Attachments: Avoid pacifiers with clips, cords, or stuffed animals attached, as these pose choking or strangulation hazards.
For a comprehensive guide on pacifier safety, including testing frequency and material considerations, visit our Pacifier Safety Checklist.
What are the different pacifier shapes for?
Each baby has their own shape preference! The goal was to offer an all-in-one, and cut out the middle of the night pacifier shopping.
Check it out here.
How often to replace the n!pples?
Pacifiers should be replaced every 6-8 weeks, or sooner if you notice signs of wear and tear. Regular replacement ensures your baby’s pacifier remains safe, hygienic, and effective.
Why Regular Replacement Matters:Hygiene: Over time, even the most durable materials like food-grade silicone can accumulate bacteria, especially if not sanitized regularly.
Safety: Worn-out pacifiers are more prone to breaking, creating a choking hazard for your baby.
Durability: Materials like silicone are built to last longer than latex, but regular replacement is essential to maintain safety and functionality.
- Helpful Tip: Consider subscribing to a pacifier replacement program (like the one offered by Soothe Beginnings) to automate the process and ensure your baby always has a safe pacifier on hand.
Why bother giving a pacifier?
Pacifiers have SO many health benefits! In addition to being a great soothing tool, they reduce the risk of SIDS. Pacifiers can help aid in digestion, reflux, and are shown to help NICU babies go home sooner.
How do I clean these?
All components are dishwasher safe! You can also use boiling water or steam bags. Be sure to sanitize your pacifiers daily and take them apart before doing so.
What Makes Soothe Beginnings Pacifiers Eco-Friendly?
If you’re searching for eco-friendly pacifiers that are safe for your baby and sustainable for the planet, here’s why Soothe Beginnings stands out:
Sustainable Materials:
The shield is made to last the duration of your pacifier journey- meaning LESS WASTE! The pacifier shield is made from Richlite, a highly sustainable material with an impressive list of certifications:
- FSC® Certified: Guarantees that the materials are responsibly sourced from well-managed forests.
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified: Ensures low chemical emissions, making it safe for indoor use and environmentally friendly.
- NSF Food Safety Certified: Highlights its safe use in applications involving food, ensuring no harmful chemicals are released.
- Rainforest Alliance Certified™: Supports efforts to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices.
The nipple is crafted from food-grade silicone, a recyclable and hypoallergenic material that’s non-toxic, long-lasting, and easy to sanitize. It is the safest material pacifiers can be made of.
Plastic-Free and Non-Toxic:
- Our pacifiers are completely plastic-free!
Eco-Friendly Packaging:
- All packaging is designed with sustainability in mind. The box is fully recyclable, and the inner pouch is compostable, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
By choosing Soothe Beginnings, you’re not just providing your baby with a safe pacifier; you’re also making an eco-conscious decision that helps protect the planet.
Are Silicone Pacifiers Better Than Latex aka Natural Rubber?
Yes, silicone pacifiers are widely considered better than latex for several reasons. Here’s a breakdown of why silicone is the preferred choice:
- Hypoallergenic and Safer:Silicone is hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergic reactions, unlike latex, which can cause sensitivities or allergies in some babies.
- Durable and Long-Lasting:Silicone pacifiers retain their shape and are resistant to wear and tear, while latex tends to break down more quickly due to UV exposure, heat, or regular use.
- Non-Porous Surface:Silicone has a smooth, non-porous surface that resists bacteria and makes it easier to sanitize thoroughly. In contrast, latex is porous, allowing bacteria and yeast to accumulate faster.
- Sanitization Compatibility:Silicone pacifiers can withstand high heat cleaning methods, such as boiling, steam sterilizing, and dishwashing, without degrading. Latex pacifiers, on the other hand, may break down or warp under similar conditions.
- Non-Toxic: Food-grade silicone is a non-toxic, recyclable material free of harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and latex. This makes it safer for your baby and more sustainable for the planet.
For a full comparison of pacifier materials and their safety features, explore our Pacifier Safety Checklist. It provides in-depth details and sources to help you make informed decisions about the best choice for your baby.
Shipping & Returns
Do you ship internationally?
Not at this time but it is in the plans!
What is the shipping fee?
We offer $6 flat-rate shipping on all orders.
How can I track my order?
We'll keep you informed as we process your order and pass along an official shipment tracking number as soon as your order is queued to leave our warehouse.
What is the return policy?
If your baby doesn’t love our pacifier in the first 2 months, we’ll refund you and cover your next one! T-shirts are nonrefundable.
What is the process for returning an item?
Ship your product with order information to:
Soothe Beginnings Returns, 1 Old Mills Way, Columbus, GA 31907
Once we receive your returned item, we will initiate your refund immediately. Please note that the time it takes for the refund to appear in your account can vary, depending on your bank's processing times. We appreciate your patience as this process is completed.
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