Dummies in different designs and sizes – an overview
Dummies in different designs and sizes – an overview
For many families with small children, dummies are an indispensable part of everyday life. They can provide comfort, help the child to calm down, and support the sucking need in the first years of life. But with a wide range of shapes, materials, and sizes, it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, you’ll get an overview of what you should know when finding the dummy that best suits your child.
The article presents a wide selection of dummies in different designs, materials, and sizes. The purpose is to provide an overview of the most common types and their characteristics, so you can more easily assess which one suits your child best. 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, it’s important to consider the child’s age, mouth shape, and personal preferences. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind.
1. Material
Dummies are typically made from two materials: silicone and natural rubber (latex). Silicone dummies are transparent, odourless, and hold their shape well, while natural rubber dummies are softer and more flexible but may darken over time. Some children prefer one type over the other, so it may be necessary to try different ones.
2. Shield shape and ventilation
The dummy shield should be designed so that it doesn’t irritate the child’s skin. Many models have ventilation holes that reduce the risk of skin irritation. The shape can be round, butterfly-shaped, or symmetrical – the most important thing is that it fits well to the child’s face.
3. Teat shape
The teat can be round, anatomical, or symmetrical. The round shape most closely resembles the nipple, while the anatomical one is flatter and designed to support natural tongue and jaw movement. Some children have a clear preference, so it may take some experimentation.
4. Size and age group
Dummies come in different sizes, typically divided by age (e.g. 0–6 months, 6–18 months, and 18+ months). A dummy of the correct size ensures that the child sucks comfortably and safely. A dummy that’s too large can be uncomfortable, while one that’s too small doesn’t provide enough support.
5. Cleaning and maintenance
Dummies should be cleaned regularly to avoid bacterial growth. Most can be boiled or sterilised, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Replace dummies regularly – especially if they show signs of wear, cracks, or discolouration.
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 the mouth and teeth.
- BPA-free silicone: Safe and hygienic for the baby.
- Steriliser box included: Allows 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
- Quantity 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 pacifier developed for newborns and infants. It is made of silky soft silicone, called MAM SkinSoft, which feels natural and comfortable for the baby.
The pacifier 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 pacifier feel comfortable against the skin.
The product comes in a storage and sterilisation box, which makes it possible to sterilise the pacifier 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 pacifier 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 pacifier.
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 pacifier
- 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 pacifier
- 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 pacifier
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Specifications
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone (MAM SkinSoft)
- Night pacifier: 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 that makes it easier to find the dummy in the dark – a practical detail for night-time 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 finding at night
- 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 finding at night
- 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 finding at night
- 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
- Shape of teat: 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 the mouth and teeth.
- BPA-free silicone: Safe and hygienic for the baby.
- Steriliser box included: Allows 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
- Quantity 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 pacifier developed for newborns and infants. It is made of silky soft silicone, called MAM SkinSoft, which feels natural and comfortable for the baby.
The pacifier 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 pacifier feel comfortable against the skin.
The product comes in a storage and sterilisation box, which makes it possible to sterilise the pacifier 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 pacifier 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 pacifier.
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 pacifier
- 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 pacifier
- 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 pacifier
- Must be sterilised before first use and cleaned regularly
Specifications
- Age: 0-6 months
- Teat shape: Symmetrical
- Material: Silicone (MAM SkinSoft)
- Night pacifier: 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 that makes it easier to find the dummy in the dark – a practical detail for night-time 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 finding at night
- 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 finding at night
- 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 finding at night
- 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
- Shape of teat: 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 inspiration from 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 teat 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 teat 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)
- Teat material: Natural rubber (latex)
- Teat shape: Round
- Teat 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 that differ in shape, material, and function. The choice depends on the child’s age, preferences, and any specific needs.
1. Classic dummies
The classic models have a round teat and a shield that partially covers the mouth. They most closely resemble the nipple and are often used for infants who are both breastfed and bottle-fed.
2. Anatomical dummies
Anatomical dummies have a flat and slightly curved shape that follows the child’s palate and tongue. They are designed to support healthy oral development and can be a good choice for children who use a dummy frequently.
3. Symmetrical dummies
Symmetrical dummies can be turned either way, making them practical when the child puts the dummy in their mouth themselves. They are often popular with slightly older children who are becoming more independent.
4. Night and glow-in-the-dark dummies
Night dummies have a glow-in-the-dark shield, making them easy to find in the dark. This can be a great help for both parents and children at night.
5. Orthodontic dummies
Orthodontic dummies are developed in collaboration with dentists and have a special shape that reduces pressure on teeth and jaw. They are often recommended for children who use a dummy for longer periods.
Different brands of dummies
The dummy market is broad, and several well-known brands offer products with different areas of focus.
Philips Avent
Philips Avent is known for its ergonomic designs and dummies that support natural oral development. They offer both silicone and latex dummies in many sizes and shapes.
BIBS
BIBS is a Danish brand that has gained great popularity for its classic round natural rubber dummies. They come in a wide range of colours and sizes and are produced in Denmark.
MAM
MAM combines functional design with a focus on dental and jaw development. Their dummies often have ventilated shields and symmetrical teats, making them easy for the child to use.
NUK
NUK has specialised for many years in orthodontic dummies that support healthy jaw and tooth development. They are known for their flat and anatomical shape.
Tommee Tippee
Tommee Tippee offers dummies focused on comfort and natural sucking movement. Many of their models are designed to mimic the feeling of breastfeeding, making the transition between breast and dummy easier.
Frequently asked questions
When can a baby start using a dummy?
Most babies can use a dummy from birth, but it’s often recommended to wait until breastfeeding is well established – typically after a couple of weeks. This can help avoid confusion between breast and dummy.
How often should dummies be replaced?
Dummies should be replaced every 4–6 weeks or earlier if they show signs of wear, discolouration, or cracks. A worn dummy can pose a safety risk and should be discarded immediately.
How do you clean dummies properly?
Before first use, the dummy should be boiled for a few minutes. After that, it can be cleaned daily by pouring boiling water over it or using a sterilising unit. Avoid the dishwasher, as it can damage the material.
Can dummy use affect teeth alignment?
Prolonged and frequent dummy use can in some cases affect teeth alignment. Orthodontic dummies and gradual weaning as the child gets older can help minimise the risk.
How do you wean a child off the dummy?
Weaning should happen gradually, typically around 2–3 years of age. Start by limiting use to sleep time and praise the child for managing without the dummy during the day.
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