Are rubber or silicone pacifiers better?
The good news is both can be created into a safe single piece dummy without parts that can separate and potentially become choking hazards.
Why chose a rubber dummy?
Rubber dummies are naturally softer than silicone which means many babies often prefer them. Dummies made from only soft rubber (no plastic shield) are so soft that they won’t leave red marks on your baby’s delicate skin.
They are a great choice for parents who want to avoid harmful toxins. Most dummies on the market now are BPA free but natural rubber dummies are also free from chemicals such as PVC, phthalates, parabens and chemical softeners.
Rubber pacifiers are also better for the environment as they are biodegradable.
Why choose a silicone dummy?
If your baby has a latex allergy, silicone will be the option for you because rubber is latex although allergens are removed during production. They are more durable and also easier to clean because manmade silicone is tough and can be sterilised in microwave sterilisers. They also don’t retain odours like some rubber dummies can. Whilst they will still need to be replaced it may not be as frequently as a natural rubber option. Since rubber is natural and doesn’t contain any stabilising chemicals, it is biodegradable. This is great for the environment but will mean it won’t last as long as silicone. Silicone can be a little cheaper than rubber dummies but are not biodegradable nor recyclable.
Whatever material you think it best, ensuring it’s a single piece is key to finding the best dummy on the market.
If natural rubber is your choice but you don’t love the look of the plain natural dummy check out our sage green natural rubber dummy or our blush pink natural rubber dummy