When it comes to soothing your little one, pacifiers are a beautiful support tool. But when researching pacifiers, you may have noticed a few different materials available. We love the FRIGG pacifiers which offers two types of nipples, natural rubber (latex) and medical grade silicone. Each material has its own unique properties.
You may not know which is right for your baby? If this is you, let’s break it down.
Medical Grade Silicone: Clean, Durable, and Hypoallergenic
Silicone pacifiers are made from a synthetic, medical-grade material known for its purity and strength. This type of silicone is commonly used in both food and healthcare industries due to its safety and resistance to harmful substances. The FRIGG silicone nipples are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and PVC-free, offering parents peace of mind. The material is crystal-clear.
Natural Rubber: A Gentle, Earth-Derived Option
Sourced from the sap of the rubber tree, natural rubber (also known as latex) is a completely natural material. It has a soft, flexible feel and is often recognized by its warm, amber colour. Because of its elasticity, natural rubber closely mimics the softness and movement of a mother’s breast, making it a popular first choice. More recently the medical grade silicone nipple has been enhanced with a new SilkySoft™ finish. This ultra-smooth surface feels even gentler in your baby’s mouth, helping to reduce tension in the jaw and support healthy oral development.
Six things to consider when choosing your pacifier.
When choosing between natural rubber and medical-grade silicone pacifiers, there are several factors to consider. Natural rubber is softer and more flexible, which can create a more natural feel for newborns transitioning from breastfeeding. However, for families with latex sensitivities, silicone is the safest option; it's hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin.
In terms of taste and smell, silicone is completely neutral, while natural rubber has a faint, distinctive scent that some babies may prefer. Silicone also tends to retain its shape over time and withstands frequent sterilization, whereas rubber is more elastic but can swell or change shape with regular use and tends to age more quickly.
Storage is another consideration: rubber pacifiers are more sensitive to light and heat and should be kept in a cool, dark place, while silicone is more resilient to environmental exposure. From a hygiene perspective, silicone’s non-porous surface makes it easier to clean and sterilize, especially important during the early months.
Ultimately, every baby is different. Some little ones love the cozy, natural feel of rubber, while others respond better to the smooth texture of silicone. If you’re unsure, try both; your baby will show you what they prefer.
Check out our range of FRIGG pacifiers here.