Quick Answer
Keeping your baby's pacifier clean is one of those small but mighty parenting tasks that makes a big difference. Pacifiers go everywhere — on the floor, in the nappy bag, in tiny hands — so knowing how to clean and sterilise them properly is essential for your baby's health.
Sanitizing vs. Sterilizing: What's the Difference?
These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing:
- Sanitizing reduces germs to a safe level using hot water and soap. This is suitable for everyday cleaning
- Sterilizing eliminates all microorganisms using heat. This is recommended periodically, or when your baby is a newborn, premature, or has a weakened immune system
For most healthy babies, daily sanitizing is sufficient, with sterilization every 3 to 4 weeks.
How to Sanitize a Baby Pacifier
The easiest way to sanitize a pacifier is to wash it with warm water and mild, baby-safe dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry on a clean towel. For a deeper clean, the Emulait Bottle Cleaning Brush works perfectly — its narrow tip reaches inside the pacifier teat to scrub away residue effectively.
You can also run pacifiers through the dishwasher on a hot cycle. Use the Emulait Dishwasher Basket to keep pacifiers, nipples, and small accessories secure and together during the wash — no more lost parts in the bottom of the machine.
How to Sterilize a Baby Pacifier
There are several effective methods for sterilizing pacifiers:
- Boiling: Submerge the pacifier in boiling water for 5 minutes. Do not do this too frequently as repeated boiling can degrade silicone over time
- Microwave steam: Place the pacifier in a microwave sterilization box with water. Use no more than 60 seconds at 800W maximum
- Electric steam sterilizer: The most reliable method. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific device
- UV sterilizer: Great for on-the-go sterilization, though not recommended for latex pacifiers
How Often Should You Clean a Pacifier?
- Sanitize daily — or after each use if your baby is a newborn or unwell
- Sterilize every 3 to 4 weeks for healthy babies, or more frequently for premature or immunocompromised infants
- Always clean a pacifier before first use
- Inspect the pacifier each time you clean it — replace it every 6 to 8 weeks or sooner if you notice any cracks, stickiness, or discolouration
Tips for Keeping Pacifiers Clean Day-to-Day
- Never "clean" a dropped pacifier by putting it in your own mouth — this transfers adult bacteria to your baby
- Store clean pacifiers in a dedicated pouch or container, not loose in the nappy bag
- Always air dry completely before storing — moisture trapped inside the teat can lead to mould
- Keep an Emulait Pacifier Clip attached to your baby's outfit to reduce how often the pacifier hits the floor in the first place
Our Recommendation
For everyday cleaning, the Emulait Bottle Cleaning Brush is a must-have — its narrow tip makes it ideal for pacifiers and bottle nipples alike. Pair it with the Emulait Dishwasher Basket for a complete cleaning routine that keeps all your baby's feeding and soothing accessories safe and organised.
When it comes to the pacifier itself, the Emulait Pacifier 2-Pack is designed to mimic the natural shape and softness of the breast, making it easier for breastfed babies to accept. Available in five colours — Blu, Rose, Chestnut, Lilac, and Sage — it is as beautiful as it is functional. For a ready-to-gift option, the Emulait Pacifier 3-Pack and Clip Gift Set has everything a new parent needs in one box.
Parents Also Ask
Pacifier vs. Thumb Sucking: What's Better for Babies?
When Should I Introduce a Pacifier to My Breastfed Baby?
How to Sterilize Baby Bottles at Home
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your baby's health.