Not a single baby can do without a dummy today. Which nipple is better - latex or silicone? This question is of interest to most young parents. The material of the dummy, of course, matters, but there are other selection criteria that cannot be ignored.
Why do you need a dummy?
Before moving on to the question of which nipple is better - latex or silicone, you should understand why it is needed.
The dummy is an object that mimics the nipple of the female breast. It is necessary to satisfy the sucking reflex in children. Babies who are breastfed usually do not need such an item. The fact is that frequent attachments to the mother's breast completely satisfy this reflex.
But if the baby is on mixed or artificial feeding, then it tends to fall asleep uneasily. In this case, the baby just needs a nipple. Often, a dummy helps babies suffering from colic and gas in the tummy, as active sucking helps to remove them.
Latex
The production of baby nipples was divided into two types - from silicone and latex. Both are commercially available. And therefore the question is natural, which nipple is better - latex or silicone.
Their main difference is that latex products have a yellowish tint and a specific smell.
But the lack of artificial materials in the composition of the nipples will save the baby from harmful effects. Moreover, it has an anatomical shape in combination with softness, which brings it as close as possible to the features of the female breast. It is necessary to change latex nipples at least once a month.
Disadvantages of latex nipples
So which nipple is better?
Latex pacifier consists of natural materials, but has a number of disadvantages:
- The material does not tolerate high temperatures, so boiling is contraindicated.
- With prolonged use, the nipple begins to stick together and increase in volume.
- Latex contains protein molecules, which can sometimes be a source of an allergic reaction.
- Under the influence of UV (sunlight), the nipple begins to darken.
Silicone
When thinking about which nipples are best for newborns, it is better to give preference to latex, since the material is absolutely harmless. But silicone consists of a more durable material, and it can be boiled without fear for damage. It is also odorless transparent material. Therefore, there is a controversial moment.
Despite the artificial composition, silicone remains resistant to disinfection. Yes, and you can change such a pacifier once every three months.
The only disadvantage of silicone is its instability to gnawing. So, crumbs with erupted teeth will not be difficult to gnaw a dummy.
When parents find it difficult to choose, they most often buy 2 types of nipples and watch the baby. Which one he chooses is the best option for him.
Selection tips
But even knowing which nipple is better, you need to choose a quality product. As mentioned above, most often the baby himself determines whether to use silicone and latex dummy. It is important to understand that material selection is a small part. When buying, attention should also be paid to the shape and size of the dummy.
Experienced parents advise giving preference to well-known brands:
- NUK. The manufacturer produces soft latex nipples, which practically does not exert pressure on the lips and tongue. There is also an air valve to prevent malocclusion.
- PHILIPS AVENT. Nipples are made of silicone. They have 6 holes for full breath of crumbs. Protective caps are included with the nipples. Due to the ventilation openings, moisture may enter the pacifier cavity and linger inside.
- CHICCO. The latex nipples of this brand, despite their softness, have high strength and elasticity. The pacifier is easy to wash. But it is important to understand that latex refers to short-lived materials, so you will need to change the dummy once a month.
- CANPOL BABIES. Nipples are of high quality, anatomical shape and very convenient to use. Made from both latex and silicone.
- TOMMEE TIPPEE. Dummies of this manufacturer are in great demand among most parents. The nipple has an orthodontic shape and is designed for babies of all age categories. This is a quality nipple, but it has a high cost.
- PIGEON. Nipples from this brand are ideal for babies up to 4 months old. The dummy has an orthodontic shape, that is, it is flattened in the middle part. A plus are beautiful design, attractive design and relatively low cost.
- BIBI. Nipples made of soft silicone. Differ in durability and beautiful drawings. A case and stand are attached to the dummy. Among the shortcomings, one can distinguish an irregular shape in the form of a cherry, as well as a small number of holes necessary for ventilation.
The opinion of pediatricians
Before deciding which nipple is best for a child, consult a doctor. The fact is that most pediatricians assure young mothers that sucking a dummy adversely affects breastfeeding. The nipple partially becomes an artificial substitute for the mother’s breast, therefore, the number of applications is reduced, and then the production of milk.
With regards to babies who are breast-fed, sometimes doctors themselves insist on the use of nipples. The fact is that a correctly selected dummy will help protect the baby from possible problems with a bite.
Dr. Komarovsky treats nipples loyally. He believes that giving up such an item is pointless, since the child falls asleep better during sucking. In addition, the dummy is an excellent substitute for children who are used to sucking their own finger.
Parent Tips
We examined the answer to the question regarding which nipples are better - silicone or latex. And they came to the conclusion that the choice depends on the parents and their child. It is important to understand that giving preference follows a quality product.
- Choose a dummy made from a single piece of material. Low-priced nipples are most often made by casting. On such dummies there are sutures that can have a negative effect on the development of the organs of the oral cavity.
- Do not purchase pacifiers that are torn apart. During operation, they are very dirty, and also have hard-to-reach places for disinfection.
- Pay attention to which nipple your baby prefers. Do not negatively relate to products that are not global brands. There are many pacifiers of excellent quality at a low price.
Therefore, it is not enough to pay attention only to information about which nipple is better - latex or silicone. Other product criteria must be considered.