When your baby is sick there are many ways to make them feel better. One of the most important ways to make your baby feel better is to give them time with a pacifier. Pacifiers are a great way to distract your little one and help them get to sleep. Some parents even consider a pacifier to be a “half-day job”.
However, pacifiers can cause a lot of problems and you sometimes have to sterilize them. Here is a blog that discusses the critical methods on how to sterilize pacifiers easily and safely. In this blog, we will discuss how to sterilize pacifiers with the most effective and safe sterilization methods. By using these methods, you can keep your pacifiers clean and safe from germs.
How to sterilize pacifiers at home?
As the holiday season approaches, there is a big concern for the parents – what to do with the pacifier when the children come back from their cousins. Some parents worry that their children might become sick from the pacifier, if sterilization is not done properly.
Various aspects go into the successful sterilization of pacifiers. Unless you observe each detail, there is a chance that you will end up disappointed in the long run. Usually, you will need to wash them, sterilize, and then let them dry. Some of the things you will need in this process will often include the following.
What You Need To Sterilize Pacifiers?
Sterilizing the pacifier requires you to have appropriate equipment and tools to ensure the process is effective. You will need the following:-.
- Dish soap
- Microwave or Electric sterilizer
- A pan
- A fresh sponge or a dishrag
- Plastic baggies
- Enough water, preferably running water
The Critical Methods on How to Sterilize Pacifiers Easily
Pacifiers are a must-have for infants because they provide the much-needed soothing comfort that enriches their sleep and development. However, we have a lot of parents who are worried that they might leave their babies with harmful bacteria if they are not sterilized properly. This blog will show you the critical methods you need to know on how to sterilize pacifiers easily.
Method 1: Use Pacifier Sterilizer
A pacifier sterilizer is a device that relies on UV light to eliminate any potential pathogens, including bacteria and germs on the pacifier. It will suffice to mention that this could be a handheld device, which assures you of not only flexibility but also convenience.
As mentioned, it will rely on UV-C light to kill up to 99.9% of the bacteria on the surfaces. Besides this, you will be sure of the instant elimination of the odor-causing bacteria. What is more, there will be no reason for you to worry about the use of chemicals, assuring you of the safety of your baby.
Did you know that most of these pacifier sterilizers are relatively portably? It will be much easier for you to strap them around your purse and move with them around. That means that you will comfortably assure your child of their safety at all times. Further to this, it is BPA-free, making it safe for the baby.
These are our choices for the Best Pacifier Sterilizers
1. Papablic Portable UV-C Sanitizer Box for Pacifier (click here to view) 2. GROWNSY SPortable UV Light Sanitizer Box (click here to view) 3. SPapablic Portable UV Light Sterilizer, Mini UV-C Sanitizer Box for Pacifier (click here to view) 4. TAISHAN Portable UV Sterilizer and Lighter Pacifier Case with UVC LED (click here to view) 5. Dr. Brown’s™ Microwave Steam Sterilizer Set (click here to view)
Method 2: Use Running Water
You can hardly overlook the essence of using running water in this process. As long as the pacifier is placed under running water, the chances of getting sterilized remain relatively high. The method tends to focus on loosely attached bacteria and germs. That means that it will not be ideal for stubborn or attached pathogens.
The goal is to ensure that you minimize the chances of your child being vulnerable. For this reason, ensure that the water used is clean. Further, you might want to use hot, soapy water, as this will assure you of impressive results in the long run.
While at it, you could consider immersing the pacifier in hot, boiling water. After five minutes, the chances are that most of the bacteria will be no more. If you were to do this after every use, there would barely be a reason to worry about the baby’s health.
You may also read: How To Sanitize Pacifier Clips?
Method 3: Use Microwave or Dishwasher
That the use of dishwashers and microwaves in sterilization is widespread comes as no secret. These machines will often be in the kitchen, and they will cost you a little more than the other options at hand. Despite this relatively higher cost, you will be confident of getting the ultimate satisfaction. The heat in these machines will effortlessly zap the bacteria within no time, killing up to 99% of bacteria on the surfaces. However, the process could take a little longer.
Whichever method you pick from those mentioned above, ensure that it suits your needs. The goal is to ensure that you know how to sanitize pacifiers accordingly, and adequately so.
Method 4: Putting It In Your Mouth
There is no denying that most people might view this method as subtly gross. It is a misguided fear, as various studies have proven the contra. It is not only sanitary but also a sure way of cushioning the baby from conditions like eczema and asthma. Thanks to the microorganisms in the parent’s mouth, the child is most likely going to get the protection they so deserve.
In most cases, this approach will suit those who are in dire desperation. Usually, all you will need to do is to give the pacifier a tongue bath.
You may also read: How To Sterilize Teething Toys Safely?
Tips To Keep Pacifiers Clean For Longer Time
Longevity is an inevitable goal among many households, and your chosen pacifier needs to last for a relatively long time. Usually, you will only achieve this by taking the necessary care they need right from the onset. Here are a few tips you will need to keep in mind.
- Clean it regularly
Take the time to clean the pacifier any time it gets dirty. Doing it regularly will ensure that it remains not only healthy but also durable. Ensure that you use the right sterilizer and sterilization method. - Rinse the pinch every time the pacifier drops
This move ensures that there is hardly any accumulation of dirt on the tip. Without dirt, there will not be any compromise on the integrity of the pacifier.
• No Sugar, No Honey: One of the things you should always avoid is dipping the pacifier in sugar or even honey. That is because these two items could readily hurt the baby's teeth or even expose them to botulism.
• No Chemicals: Further, ensure that you do not use any harsh chemicals when sterilizing this pacifier. UV-C light and dish soap will be enough for you. Harsh chemicals could compromise the health of your baby.
Final Verdict
We hope you have enjoyed our blog about the simple methods for how to sterilize pacifiers. Many people are unaware of the proper way to sterilize pacifiers and many more never actually sterilize their pacifiers. The methods mentioned above will come in handy in ensuring that this pacifier remains as sanitized and clean as possible.
With them, you will no longer need to worry about how to sterilize pacifiers. We hope our article has given you a good idea of how to sterilize pacifiers as well as the simple methods that make this process easy. Take the time to identify which approach suits you, and which one offers the best results.
People also ask – FAQs
Sterilizing pacifiers helps eliminate harmful bacteria and germs that can pose a risk to a baby’s health. By sterilizing pacifiers, you can reduce the chances of infections or illnesses caused by bacterial or viral contamination.
The frequency of pacifier sterilization depends on various factors, including the age of the child, their overall health, and personal preference. It is generally recommended to sterilize pacifiers before their initial use. For infants under the age of 6 months or those with a weakened immune system, it is advisable to sterilize pacifiers regularly, approximately once a day.
However, as the child grows older and their immune system develops, sterilizing pacifiers may be done less frequently, such as once a week or as needed. Regularly cleaning pacifiers with soap and water and ensuring they are stored in a clean and hygienic manner also contributes to maintaining their cleanliness and safety. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice based on your child’s specific needs and circumstances.
Washing pacifiers with soap and water is an essential part of regular cleaning. However, sterilization provides an additional level of cleanliness by eliminating potentially harmful bacteria and germs. Regularly cleaning pacifiers with soap and water and combining it with sterilization helps maintain proper hygiene.
To sterilize pacifiers by boiling, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the pacifiers into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged. Boil the pacifiers for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. After boiling, allow the pacifiers to cool down before use.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure the pacifiers are made of materials suitable for boiling. Regularly inspect pacifiers for signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed to maintain safety and hygiene.
The duration for sterilizing pacifiers in a bottle warmer can vary depending on the specific model and settings of the warmer. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the bottle warmer you are using to determine the appropriate sterilization time. Typically, sterilizing pacifiers in a bottle warmer may take approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
However, please note that bottle warmers may not provide the same level of sterilization as other dedicated sterilization methods. It’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and regularly clean and inspect pacifiers to ensure proper hygiene and safety.
After sterilization, ensure pacifiers are stored in a clean and dry container or resealable bag. Avoid touching the part of the pacifier that goes into the baby’s mouth. Regularly check pacifiers for signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed to maintain safety and hygiene.
