When parents decide to give their baby a pacifier, they need to learn more about how to care for this product. Why do you need to change them regularly, how long can one nipple be used and how to properly sterilize it?
Reasons for replacement
Continuous sterilization of pacifiers leads to their rapid wear. With prolonged use, cracks may appear on them, posing a danger to the health of the baby. They need to be replaced on time.
Material classification and period of use
The frequency of changing the pacifier is primarily influenced by the material from which it is made:
- Latex types differ not very long service life. Using it constantly, you will notice how it loses its shape, and its walls begin to stick together. In addition, over time, microcracks develop in latex, in which microorganisms can easily settle. Because of this, the latex versions of the pacifiers are replaced every 2-4 weeks before the item darkens and becomes deformed.
- Silicone models are more durable, so they last longer. However, such an accessory is easier to bite through, and getting even a small particle of such a nipple into the baby's body can be dangerous. It is recommended to change it every 3-5 weeks, even if the product is intact.
Sterilization
The product should be sterilized before each use of the pacifier, or when dropped by a child.
Boiling
Boiling is one of the easiest processing methods. After pouring some water into a small saucepan and letting it boil, a dummy is immersed in the water (it is important that the water completely covers the product) and kept in a boiling liquid for 2-3 minutes. Do not worry about whether the product will withstand boiling - they are made with the expectation of frequent sterilization.
Steam treatment
A quick sterilization method is to use steam. The product is held for a few seconds over the steam from the kettle spout. Note that with this treatment there is no guarantee that all bacteria from the nipple have been removed, but if there are no other options for treating the pacifier, then this one will do.
A safer alternative would be to use a double boiler. But not all pacifiers can be processed in a microwave oven - be careful!
Special sterilizers are also available in children's stores. It takes approximately 3 minutes to process a pacifier or bottle in this device.
Care Tips
It is recommended to purchase additional tape or chain with a clip for the pacifier. Such an accessory will help to attach the product to baby's clothes.
- Check the integrity daily and dispose of the product immediately if you see sticky walls, deformation or cracks.
- We recommend using special cases for convenient storage.
- It is impossible for an adult to lick the pacifier before use, as there may be microorganisms unsafe for the baby in his mouth.
