Quick answer

Choose a pacifier that matches your baby's age stage, uses a one-piece silicone design for safety, and has a shape that stays in place without blocking the nose.

Stage matters more than color or pattern

Pacifiers are not one-size-fits-all. Most brands offer stage 1 for newborns and stage 2 for older babies whose mouths and sucking needs have grown. Using the wrong stage can reduce comfort or make the pacifier harder to keep in place.

The Sage, Sunrise, and Pearl pacifiers all come in two stages, so you can switch as your baby grows. The Bloom Pacifier Bundle lets you buy three pacifiers in the same stage at a 20% discount, which is practical if you want backups without mixing stages.

Shape and breathing safety

A pacifier's shape affects how well it stays in baby's mouth and whether it interferes with breathing. Look for a sleek, contoured shield that follows the curve of the face without pressing into the nose or chin.

All four pacifiers from Infant Sleep Products use a design that stays in place without covering the nose or obstructing airflow. This is especially important for newborns who cannot yet push a pacifier back into position.

Material and teething versatility

Most modern pacifiers are made from silicone — it is durable, easy to clean, and does not contain latex. Silicone also holds up well when your baby starts teething and wants to chew on the nipple.

The Calm 'n Cuddle pacifiers double as teethers, meaning the same piece can soothe a fussy newborn and later provide relief for sore gums. This reduces the number of products you need to buy in the first year.

How to choose the right pacifier: decision rules

  • Match the stage to your baby's age: Use stage 1 for newborns (0–6 months) and stage 2 for older babies (6+ months). A stage 1 nipple is smaller and softer; stage 2 is larger to accommodate a growing mouth.
  • Check the shield design: Look for a contoured shield that follows the face shape and has ventilation holes. Avoid shields that press into the nose or chin, as they can cause skin irritation or breathing concerns.
  • Prefer one-piece silicone construction: Silicone is latex-free, dishwasher-safe, and does not absorb odors. A one-piece design means no separate parts that can trap moisture or break loose.
  • Consider a pacifier that doubles as a teether: A 2-in-1 pacifier saves money and reduces clutter. The same product can soothe a newborn and later provide gum relief during teething.
  • Buy multiples in the same stage: Pacifiers get dropped, lost, or need cleaning. Having several identical pacifiers in the right stage means you always have a clean one ready.

Pacifier options at a glance

  • SAGE PACIFIER: The Sage Calm 'n Cuddle Pacifier and Teether in ONE is available in 2 stages and features a soft, soothing sage green color. You can buy one pacifier that works for both soothing and teething, and choose the right size as your baby grows.

    SAGE PACIFIER

    SAGE PACIFIER

  • SUNRISE PACIFIER: The Sunrise Calm 'n Cuddle Pacifier and Teether in ONE is available in 2 stages and features a stunning red/orange hue. The bright color makes it easy to spot in a diaper bag or crib, and the two-stage sizing keeps it useful for months.

    SUNRISE PACIFIER

    SUNRISE PACIFIER

  • PEARL PACIFIER: The Pearl Calm 'n Cuddle Pacifier and Teether in ONE has a beautiful shimmer and is available in 2 stages. If you want a pacifier that stands out visually, the Pearl offers a unique look without sacrificing the safety and stage options.

  • BLOOM PACIFIER BUNDLE: The Bloom Pacifier Bundle includes three Calm 'n Cuddle pacifiers (Ballet Slipper, Frost, Berry) in either stage 1 or stage 2 at a 20% savings. Buying the bundle gives you multiple pacifiers in the same stage for less, which is helpful when you need backups or want to keep one in each bag.

Who each option suits best

Best for

  • Parents who want a single pacifier that works from newborn through teething
  • Caregivers who need multiple pacifiers in the same stage for convenience and backup

Not ideal for

  • Families who prefer latex pacifiers (all options here are silicone)
  • Parents looking for a glow-in-the-dark or orthodontic-specific pacifier shape