Whether you’ve got a baby who won’t stop crying, or a baby who always wants to be held, pacifiers can be extremely soothing for children and are therefore a life-saver for many parents. But what can you do when your baby keeps dropping their pacifier? Pacifier clips are a great way to keep your baby from losing their pacifier, but you may have heard stories about the risks involved in using a clip.
Pacifier clips are generally safe but care should be taken to ensure that they aren’t choking or strangulation risks. Pacifier clips should not be long enough to wrap completely around your baby’s neck – usually about 7 or 8 inches long. They should never include removable parts or beads that could be swallowed by a baby accidentally.
Pacifier clips are a common product for parents to buy nowadays, and they can be extremely helpful when used correctly. Keep reading to hear our best tips for keeping your baby safe while using a pacifier clip.
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Staying safe with pacifier clips
We’ve all been there- your baby has dropped their pacifier for the hundredth time today and you’re tired of picking it up.
Pacifier clips are great for when you want to keep your baby’s pacifier close to them, but it’s important to find the right type. According to the AAFP, roughly 75 to 80 percent of babies in Western countries use a pacifier. Since a baby typically won’t have the motor skills to pick up their own pacifier until they’re around 6 months old, pacifier clips definitely come in handy those first few months of baby’s life.
A pacifier clip is usually a product that allows you to clip your baby’s pacifier to their clothing. It not only keeps your baby’s pacifier from getting lost, but it also keeps the pacifier clean by preventing it from falling on the ground. There are many different types of pacifier clips, and it can be overwhelming trying to find the right one.
The important thing to know is that these clips have safety standards just like pacifiers do, and they can be dangerous for babies if not used properly. The CPSC has made it clear that although pacifier clips don’t fall under the same category as pacifiers, they have to follow the same safety standards as pacifiers, as well as a length standard that is unique to pacifier clips.
Pacifier clip safety standards and length in the USA
According to the safety standards for pacifiers in general, pacifiers cannot be sold with any type of ribbon, string, cord or other similar material attachment because it presents a choking hazard. Pacifier clips are sold as a separate entity, and in order to present the least amount of risk, the clips should always be less than 7-8 inches long.
The standards for pacifier clips are set in place to prevent strangulation and choking in young children. A pacifier should never be tied to a child’s crib, around their neck, or to their hand.
How long should pacifier clips be?
In order to avoid strangulation, pacifier clips should be no more than 7 or 8 inches long. The longer a pacifier clip is, the greater the risk of injury to your baby, so it’s important that the product is just long enough to be effective. Pacifier clips are not meant to be worn as a necklace, and should only be used to clip a pacifier to your child’s clothing.
Are pacifier clips with beads safe?
Although they are a popular product, pacifier clips with beads do present a potential choking hazard. Some brands have been recalled for this very reason, such as this pacifier clip by Chewbeads. The safety of the product really depends on the brand and how durable the clip is. With beaded pacifier clips especially, it’s important to only allow your child to use them under adult supervision.
The positive side of these types of clips is they usually double as teething beads, so they not only hold your baby’s pacifier in place, they also give your baby something to chew on during the teething phase. If you do choose this type of product, just remember that babies and toddlers should never be left alone with beaded products. It’s always helpful to check reviews from other parents and check for recalls before buying a product as well.
As an alternative to beads, many braided rope-style pacifier clips will also work well for teething. This particular one comes in a 4-pack, is super affordable, and should last through a lot of nibbles!
Are pacifier clips safe to sleep with?
Pacifier clips should always be removed when your baby is not in view, including naptime or bedtime. Most sleep standards will tell you the fewer items your baby has in their crib with them the better, and pacifier clips are no exception. Pacifier clips should always be used under adult supervision and putting your child to bed with a pacifier clip increases their chances of choking or strangulation.
What are the safest and best pacifier clips?
Pacifier clips come in many different styles, patterns, and sizes. You can often choose between plastic clips or metal clips, and the beaded style of clips is always an option as well. Choosing the right product is never easy so we’ve simplified the process by telling you what to look for and choosing a few recommendations for you. Safety comes first no matter what baby product you’re buying, so here are some things you should keep in mind while looking for the best and safest pacifier clip:
- When choosing between metal and plastic clips, remember that metal clips may rust over time. Be sure to check the clip for rust after the first few times you wash it.
- Always make sure the clip you choose is the appropriate length (no more than 7-8 inches).
- Simple is often better when it comes to baby products. Keep in mind that your baby will likely put any small parts on the clip in their mouth.
- As a precaution, check for recalls of the product you are buying or similar products so you know what risks are involved.
Here are some recommendations for a few parent-approved pacifier clips:
Baby Goal
This pacifier clip by Babygoal is highly rated and extremely affordable.
There are options available for either metal or plastic clips and both packs of 3 run under $5. The fabric is soft, durable, and machine-washable. The material is BPA, phthalate, lead, and latex-free, and the product comes with a CPSIA certification.
Liname
Liname also makes an affordable pacifier clip that comes in a four-pack and comes with a bonus teething toy. Liname’s pacifier clip adheres to CPSC safety standards and is lead and phthalate-free. The included teething toy is made out of a food/medical grade silicone and is FDA approved.
Little Sprouts
If you do decide to look for a beaded pacifier clip, Little Sprouts makes a great product with colorful beads that will massage and soothe your baby’s gums. The product is both CPSC and CPSIA certified and the beads can be easily cleaned and sanitized with a pacifier wipe. These certifications mean that it should be safe despite the use of beads, but always supervise your baby while using it!
