Dummies for babies – an overview of popular types and materials
Dummies for babies – an overview of popular types and materials
For many babies, dummies are an important part of everyday life – they provide comfort, calm, and can help the child settle at bedtime. But the market for dummies is large, and the differences between types, shapes, and materials can be difficult to understand. In this article, you’ll get an overview of the most common types of dummies, what materials they are made from, and what you should consider when choosing a dummy for your child.
The article presents a selection of dummies from different manufacturers and in various materials. The aim is to provide a broad insight into the many options available, so you as a parent can get an overview of what’s on the market. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide an informative and neutral overview.
Factors to consider when buying a dummy
When choosing a dummy for your child, there are several practical and health-related factors to consider. Here are some of the most important considerations.
1. Material
Dummies are typically made of either silicone or natural rubber (latex). Silicone is transparent, odourless, and keeps its shape well, while natural rubber is softer and more flexible but can become darker and stickier over time. Some children prefer one material over the other, so it may be necessary to try different options.
2. Dummy shield and ventilation
The shape and size of the dummy shield affect how the dummy sits in the child’s mouth and against the skin. A good shield has ventilation holes so the skin can breathe and irritation is avoided. There are round, butterfly-shaped, and anatomically designed shields – the choice depends on the child’s age and preference.
3. Shape of the teat
The teat can be round, symmetrical, or anatomical (orthodontic). The round shape resembles the mother’s breast and can be good for breastfed babies, while the anatomical shape supports healthy jaw and palate development. Some children have a clear preference, so it can be beneficial to try different shapes.
4. Size and age group
Dummies come in different sizes, typically divided by age (0–6 months, 6–18 months, etc.). It’s important to choose a size that fits the child’s mouth so the dummy is neither too big nor too small.
5. Maintenance and hygiene
Dummies should be cleaned and sterilised regularly. Silicone dummies often tolerate boiling and dishwashing, while natural rubber dummies require gentler cleaning. Replace the dummy if it shows signs of wear, discolouration, or cracks.
Products in focus
Philips Avent Ultra Air Night 0-6 months 2-pack is designed to give the baby a comfortable sucking experience while keeping the skin dry. The extra-large ventilation holes in the shield ensure good airflow around the mouth, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
The dummy has a glow-in-the-dark button, making it easier for parents to find it at night without turning on the light. The symmetrical silicone teat is orthodontically shaped to follow the natural development of the baby's palate, teeth, and gums.
The set includes two dummies and a practical steriliser box that can be used in the microwave. The material is BPA-free, and the dummy has been tested for high acceptance among babies in consumer tests.
- Extra airflow: Large ventilation holes keep the skin around the mouth dry.
- Glow-in-the-dark button: Makes it easy to find the dummy at night.
- Orthodontic design: Symmetrical teat supports the natural development of mouth and teeth.
- BPA-free silicone: Safe and hygienic for the baby.
- Steriliser box included: Enables easy and quick sterilisation in the microwave.
Pros and cons
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
Cons
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Pros
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
Cons
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Specifications
- Brand: Philips Avent
- Series: Ultra Air
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes
- Orthodontic: Yes
- BPA-free: Yes
- Number in pack: 2 pcs.
- Included accessories: Microwave steriliser box
- Item number: 361539
NUK Space Night Silicon S3 - Sheep is a dummy developed with a focus on the child's comfort and oral hygiene. The orthodontic shape is adapted to the child's anatomy so that the teat rests gently against the palate and allows space for the tongue's natural movements.
The dummy is made of silicone and has a design that reduces strain on teeth, jaw, and palate. It is equipped with the NUK Air System, which allows air to pass through the teat so that it retains its shape during use.
The model is particularly suitable for children with sensitive skin, as it has large ventilation openings that reduce contact with the skin. The included storage box can be used for quick sterilisation in the microwave.
The Space Night edition has a glow-in-the-dark feature that makes it easier to find the dummy in the dark. The product is BPA-free and tested to ensure minimal impact on teeth and palate.
- Orthodontic design: Adapted to the child's anatomy to support healthy oral development.
- Silicone material: Soft, durable, and easy to clean.
- NUK Air System: Provides airflow so the dummy retains its shape.
- Glow-in-the-dark feature: Makes the dummy easy to find at night.
- Skin-friendly design: Large openings reduce contact with the skin.
- BPA-free: Free from harmful substances.
Pros and cons
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Specifications
- Brand: NUK
- Series: Space
- Model: Space Night Silicon S3 - Sheep
- Age: 18–36 months
- Teat shape: Orthodontic
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes (glows in the dark)
- BPA-free: Yes
- Item number: 363673
MAM Start 0-2m Silicone Pink is an extra small and lightweight dummy developed for newborns and infants. It is made of silky soft silicone, called MAM SkinSoft, which feels natural and comfortable for the baby.
The dummy has a symmetrical teat that makes it easy to use regardless of which way it is turned, and large air holes in the shield ensure good ventilation around the baby's mouth. The textured inner surface helps the dummy feel comfortable against the skin.
The product comes in a storage and sterilisation box, which allows the dummy to be sterilised quickly in the microwave. The shield, knob and box are made of biocircular materials based on polypropylene, certified according to the ISCC PLUS standard.
The dummy is developed by MAM Baby AG in Switzerland and produced in Hungary. It is intended for babies from 0 to 6 months and is part of MAM's Original series.
- Extra small design: Fits newborns and the smallest babies.
- Skin-friendly construction: Large air holes and textured inner surface reduce skin irritation.
- Silky soft silicone: MAM SkinSoft material provides a natural feel.
- Symmetrical shape: Can be used in both directions for easy use.
- Sterilisation box included: Makes it easy to store and sterilise the dummy.
Pros and cons
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Pros and cons
Pros
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
Cons
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Pros
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
Cons
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Specifications
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone (MAM SkinSoft)
- Night dummy: No
- Manufacturer: MAM Baby AG, Sihleggstrasse 15, 8832 Wollerau, Switzerland
- Country of manufacture: Hungary
- Series: Original
- Item number: 371720
NUK Space Night Silicon S2 - Sheep is a dummy developed for children with sensitive skin. The orthodontic shape is adapted to the child's anatomy so that the teat rests softly against the palate and allows space for the tongue's natural movements.
The dummy is made of silicone and has a narrow and flat teat, which reduces the strain on teeth, jaw, and palate. This helps to reduce the risk of unwanted bite defects.
Thanks to the NUK Air System, air can pass freely through the teat, which helps the dummy maintain its shape during use. The included storage box allows the dummy to be sterilised quickly in the microwave.
The model also has a glow-in-the-dark feature, making it easier to find the dummy in the dark – a practical detail for nighttime use.
- Orthodontic design: Adapted to the child's mouth to support healthy development of teeth and jaw.
- Silicone material: Soft, durable, and easy to clean.
- NUK Air System: Provides flexibility and maintains the teat shape during use.
- Glow-in-the-dark feature: Makes the dummy visible in the dark.
- BPA-free: Made without harmful substances.
Pros and cons
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Specifications
- Brand: NUK
- Series: Space
- Model: Space Night Silicon S2 - Sheep
- Age: 6–18 months
- Teat shape: Orthodontic
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes (glows in the dark)
- BPA-free: Yes
- Item number: 363671
Product descriptions
Philips Avent Ultra Air Night 0-6 months 2-pack is designed to give the baby a comfortable sucking experience while keeping the skin dry. The extra-large ventilation holes in the shield ensure good airflow around the mouth, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
The dummy has a glow-in-the-dark button, making it easier for parents to find it at night without turning on the light. The symmetrical silicone teat is orthodontically shaped to follow the natural development of the baby's palate, teeth, and gums.
The set includes two dummies and a practical steriliser box that can be used in the microwave. The material is BPA-free, and the dummy has been tested for high acceptance among babies in consumer tests.
- Extra airflow: Large ventilation holes keep the skin around the mouth dry.
- Glow-in-the-dark button: Makes it easy to find the dummy at night.
- Orthodontic design: Symmetrical teat supports the natural development of mouth and teeth.
- BPA-free silicone: Safe and hygienic for the baby.
- Steriliser box included: Enables easy and quick sterilisation in the microwave.
Pros and cons
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
Cons
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Pros
- Ventilated design reduces moisture around the mouth
- Light function makes it practical at night
- Orthodontic and BPA-free silicone
- Comes with steriliser box
Cons
- Can still get lost despite the light function if it falls out of the bed
- Only fits the age group 0-6 months
Specifications
- Brand: Philips Avent
- Series: Ultra Air
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes
- Orthodontic: Yes
- BPA-free: Yes
- Number in pack: 2 pcs.
- Included accessories: Microwave steriliser box
- Item number: 361539
NUK Space Night Silicon S3 - Sheep is a dummy developed with a focus on the child's comfort and oral hygiene. The orthodontic shape is adapted to the child's anatomy so that the teat rests gently against the palate and allows space for the tongue's natural movements.
The dummy is made of silicone and has a design that reduces strain on teeth, jaw, and palate. It is equipped with the NUK Air System, which allows air to pass through the teat so that it retains its shape during use.
The model is particularly suitable for children with sensitive skin, as it has large ventilation openings that reduce contact with the skin. The included storage box can be used for quick sterilisation in the microwave.
The Space Night edition has a glow-in-the-dark feature that makes it easier to find the dummy in the dark. The product is BPA-free and tested to ensure minimal impact on teeth and palate.
- Orthodontic design: Adapted to the child's anatomy to support healthy oral development.
- Silicone material: Soft, durable, and easy to clean.
- NUK Air System: Provides airflow so the dummy retains its shape.
- Glow-in-the-dark feature: Makes the dummy easy to find at night.
- Skin-friendly design: Large openings reduce contact with the skin.
- BPA-free: Free from harmful substances.
Pros and cons
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic shape that supports tooth and jaw development
- Glow-in-the-dark details make it practical at night
- Skin-friendly design with good ventilation
- Can be quickly sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Made of BPA-free silicone
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Specifications
- Brand: NUK
- Series: Space
- Model: Space Night Silicon S3 - Sheep
- Age: 18–36 months
- Teat shape: Orthodontic
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes (glows in the dark)
- BPA-free: Yes
- Item number: 363673
MAM Start 0-2m Silicone Pink is an extra small and lightweight dummy developed for newborns and infants. It is made of silky soft silicone, called MAM SkinSoft, which feels natural and comfortable for the baby.
The dummy has a symmetrical teat that makes it easy to use regardless of which way it is turned, and large air holes in the shield ensure good ventilation around the baby's mouth. The textured inner surface helps the dummy feel comfortable against the skin.
The product comes in a storage and sterilisation box, which allows the dummy to be sterilised quickly in the microwave. The shield, knob and box are made of biocircular materials based on polypropylene, certified according to the ISCC PLUS standard.
The dummy is developed by MAM Baby AG in Switzerland and produced in Hungary. It is intended for babies from 0 to 6 months and is part of MAM's Original series.
- Extra small design: Fits newborns and the smallest babies.
- Skin-friendly construction: Large air holes and textured inner surface reduce skin irritation.
- Silky soft silicone: MAM SkinSoft material provides a natural feel.
- Symmetrical shape: Can be used in both directions for easy use.
- Sterilisation box included: Makes it easy to store and sterilise the dummy.
Pros and cons
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Pros and cons
Pros
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
Cons
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Pros
- Small and lightweight – suitable for newborns
- Soft silicone that feels natural for the baby
- Ventilated shield for better skin comfort
- Comes with a practical sterilisation box
- Made from biocircular materials
Cons
- Not intended as a night dummy
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Specifications
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone (MAM SkinSoft)
- Night dummy: No
- Manufacturer: MAM Baby AG, Sihleggstrasse 15, 8832 Wollerau, Switzerland
- Country of manufacture: Hungary
- Series: Original
- Item number: 371720
NUK Space Night Silicon S2 - Sheep is a dummy developed for children with sensitive skin. The orthodontic shape is adapted to the child's anatomy so that the teat rests softly against the palate and allows space for the tongue's natural movements.
The dummy is made of silicone and has a narrow and flat teat, which reduces the strain on teeth, jaw, and palate. This helps to reduce the risk of unwanted bite defects.
Thanks to the NUK Air System, air can pass freely through the teat, which helps the dummy maintain its shape during use. The included storage box allows the dummy to be sterilised quickly in the microwave.
The model also has a glow-in-the-dark feature, making it easier to find the dummy in the dark – a practical detail for nighttime use.
- Orthodontic design: Adapted to the child's mouth to support healthy development of teeth and jaw.
- Silicone material: Soft, durable, and easy to clean.
- NUK Air System: Provides flexibility and maintains the teat shape during use.
- Glow-in-the-dark feature: Makes the dummy visible in the dark.
- BPA-free: Made without harmful substances.
Pros and cons
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Pros
- Ergonomic and tooth-friendly design
- Suitable for children with sensitive skin
- Can be sterilised in the microwave with the included box
- Glows in the dark for easier nighttime finding
- Free from BPA
Cons
- Silicone can wear out over time and requires replacement
- The glow-in-the-dark effect may fade after prolonged use
Specifications
- Brand: NUK
- Series: Space
- Model: Space Night Silicon S2 - Sheep
- Age: 6–18 months
- Teat shape: Orthodontic
- Material: Silicone
- Night dummy: Yes (glows in the dark)
- BPA-free: Yes
- Item number: 363671
Other products
FRIGG Fairytale 2-Pack The Snow Queen/The Princess and the Pea consists of two round latex dummies inspired by H.C. Andersen's fairy tales. The design combines functionality with a poetic expression, where wavy edges and small hearts on the shield draw threads to Andersen's paper cuttings and the symbolism in his stories.
The set includes two colours: 'The Snow Queen' in a light, cool shade and 'The Princess and the Pea' in a warm peach tone. Each colour is linked to a fairy tale and reflects the mood of the story through its expression.
The dummies have a round shape that resembles a mother's breast, making them suitable for breastfed babies. The round shape supports a natural sucking motion and can help reduce the risk of nipple confusion.
The shield is made of polypropylene plastic (PP), while the dummy is made of natural rubber. Both materials are chosen to ensure comfort and safety. The product is designed, produced, and assembled in Denmark.
To maintain hygiene, it is recommended to scald the dummies before use and replace them regularly after 1–2 months of use. They should not be boiled or cleaned in a microwave or dishwasher.
- Inspired by H.C. Andersen: The design draws on classic fairy tales and Danish design tradition.
- Round shape: Mimics the shape of the breast and feels natural for the baby.
- Materials: Shield made of polypropylene and dummy made of natural rubber.
- Produced in Denmark: Danish design and production with a focus on quality.
- Recommended age: 6–18 months.
Pros and cons
- Classic round shape that many babies accept quickly
- Made of natural rubber and free from unnecessary additives
- Danish design with aesthetic and cultural inspiration
- Comes as a 2-pack with two different colours
- Latex can wear out faster than silicone and should be replaced regularly
- Requires proper cleaning – must not be boiled or sterilised in the microwave
Pros and cons
Pros
- Classic round shape that many babies accept quickly
- Made of natural rubber and free from unnecessary additives
- Danish design with aesthetic and cultural inspiration
- Comes as a 2-pack with two different colours
Cons
- Latex can wear out faster than silicone and should be replaced regularly
- Requires proper cleaning – must not be boiled or sterilised in the microwave
Pros
- Classic round shape that many babies accept quickly
- Made of natural rubber and free from unnecessary additives
- Danish design with aesthetic and cultural inspiration
- Comes as a 2-pack with two different colours
Cons
- Latex can wear out faster than silicone and should be replaced regularly
- Requires proper cleaning – must not be boiled or sterilised in the microwave
Specifications
- Brand: FRIGG
- Series: Fairytale
- Product name (international): FRIGG Fairytale - Round Latex 2-Pack - The Snow Queen/The Princess and the Pea - Size 2
- Item number: 368785
- Shield material: Polypropylene plastic (PP)
- Dummy material: Natural rubber (latex)
- Dummy shape: Round
- Dummy length: 30 mm
- Recommended age: 6–18 months
- Produced in: Denmark
- Quantity in pack: 2 pcs
NUK Star Silicon S2 - Winnie The Pooh 2 pcs is a set of orthodontically shaped dummies made of soft silicone. They are designed to adapt to the child's mouth and support the natural development of teeth, jaw, and palate.
The dummy has a flat and narrow teat that reduces pressure on the teeth and palate, while the upper side rests comfortably against the palate. The lower part allows space for the tongue's natural movements, contributing to a more relaxed sucking experience.
Thanks to the NUK Air System, air can pass freely through the teat, so the dummy retains its shape during use. The included storage box can be used for quick sterilisation in the microwave, making cleaning simple and hygienic.
Designed with the well-known Winnie the Pooh motif, the dummy has a recognisable and child-friendly look while meeting functional requirements for comfort and safety.
- Orthodontic shape: Adapted to the child's anatomy to support healthy oral development.
- Soft silicone: Provides a comfortable and flexible sucking experience.
- NUK Air System: Ensures air circulation so the dummy retains its shape.
- Easy sterilisation: Can be quickly cleaned in the microwave with the included box.
- Disney design: Decorated with classic Winnie the Pooh motifs.
Pros and cons
- Ergonomic and orthodontic design
- Made of soft and durable silicone
- Can be sterilised in the microwave
- Comes in a practical 2-pack
- Decorative design with a well-known character
- Silicone may feel less flexible than latex for some children
- Size 2 only fits the age group 6–18 months
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic design
- Made of soft and durable silicone
- Can be sterilised in the microwave
- Comes in a practical 2-pack
- Decorative design with a well-known character
Cons
- Silicone may feel less flexible than latex for some children
- Size 2 only fits the age group 6–18 months
Pros
- Ergonomic and orthodontic design
- Made of soft and durable silicone
- Can be sterilised in the microwave
- Comes in a practical 2-pack
- Decorative design with a well-known character
Cons
- Silicone may feel less flexible than latex for some children
- Size 2 only fits the age group 6–18 months
Specifications
- Brand: NUK
- Series: Star Silicon
- Motif: Winnie the Pooh
- Quantity: 2 pcs
- Age: 6–18 months
- Shape of teat: Orthodontic
- Material: Silicone
- Item number: 364196
Different types of dummies
There are many types of dummies, each with its own advantages and special features. Here’s an overview of some of the most common ones.
1. Classic dummies
The traditional dummy with a round teat and shield is still popular. It resembles the nipple and can be a good choice for infants who are both breastfed and use a dummy.
2. Anatomical dummies
These dummies have a flat underside and a slightly curved top that follows the child’s palate. They are designed to support natural mouth and jaw development and are often recommended by dentists.
3. Symmetrical dummies
Symmetrical dummies have the same shape on both sides, so they always sit correctly in the mouth. They are practical for children who put the dummy in themselves and reduce the risk of incorrect use.
4. Natural dummies
Natural dummies are made from 100% natural rubber and are free from synthetic additives. They appeal to parents who want a more natural and sustainable choice but require a bit more maintenance.
5. Night dummies
Night dummies often have glow-in-the-dark parts, making them easy to find in the dark. They are practical for both parents and children when the dummy needs to be found at night.
Different brands of dummies
The market for dummies includes many well-known brands, each with its own focus and design philosophy.
Philips Avent
Philips Avent offers a wide range of dummies in both silicone and natural rubber. They are known for ergonomic designs and a focus on tooth- and jaw-friendly shapes.
MAM
MAM dummies combine functionality with modern design. They often have ventilated shields and orthodontically shaped teats that support healthy oral development.
BIBS
BIBS is a Danish brand best known for its classic round natural rubber dummies. They come in many colours and have a retro-inspired design that many parents love.
NUK
For decades, NUK has been among the best-known manufacturers of anatomical dummies. The brand focuses on tooth-friendly designs and high-quality materials and production.
Suavinex
Suavinex offers dummies with a focus on aesthetics and comfort. They are known for their stylish design and use of soft, skin-friendly materials.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a dummy be replaced?
A dummy should be replaced approximately every 4–6 weeks or sooner if it shows signs of wear, discolouration, or cracks. Worn dummies can pose a safety risk and should be discarded.
How do you clean a dummy properly?
Boil the dummy for a few minutes before first use and then regularly to keep it hygienic. Silicone dummies often tolerate dishwashing, while natural rubber dummies should be cleaned more gently in warm water.
Can dummies affect tooth alignment?
Prolonged and frequent use of a dummy can affect tooth alignment, especially after the age of three. Choose an orthodontic dummy and limit use as the child gets older.
What should you do if the child refuses the dummy?
Some children reject dummies. Try different shapes and materials, and offer the dummy when the child is calm. Never force the dummy on the child – it should be a safe and natural experience.
When should you wean the child off the dummy?
Most experts recommend starting weaning around the age of 2–3 years. A gradual phase-out, where the dummy is only used at bedtime, makes the transition easier for the child.
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