What should you choose – silicone teat or natural rubber teat?
Pacifiers are manufactured with pacifier parts in two material types: silicone and natural rubber (latex). Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and many parents ask which is best for their child. Here you get an overview of the differences, so you can make the choice that suits you best.
Natural rubber – made from latex from the rubber tree
Natural rubber, also called latex, is a natural material extracted from the sap of the rubber tree. Pacifiers in natural rubber are soft, elastic and have a characteristic golden brown colour.
ATTENTION: Since latex is a natural material, the pacifier part can sometimes be a little crooked when you receive it. This is completely normal - the teats just need to be scalded and pulled in gently, then they will find their shape.
Silicone pacifiers – free of harmful substances
Silicone is an industrially produced, very clean material used in both the food and pharmaceutical industries. It is 100% free of harmful and hormone-disrupting substances.
Pacifiers are available in both food grade and medical grade silicone, with the latter being the cleanest type. Silicone is transparent and has a smooth, uniform surface.
Different materials – different strengths
Natural rubber and silicone have very different properties and qualities. Here is a quick overview of the most important differences:
- Security: The most important purpose of the pacifier is to give the child security. Natural rubber feels softer and more elastic than silicone and is therefore more like skin and breasts. This makes it easier for the baby to switch between breast and pacifier.
- Allergy: Silicone is the most hypoallergenic material. If there is a latex allergy in the family, you should choose silicone.
- Smell and taste: Silicone is completely neutral in taste and smell, while natural rubber has a mild, natural smell. What the child prefers varies from child to child.
- Durability: Natural rubber is elastic and resilient, but has a limited shelf life and will expand and change shape over time. Silicone keeps its shape and does not get old.
- Storage: Natural rubber is damaged by light and heat. Therefore, store the pacifiers in a dark and dry place at room temperature - not in sunlight or on the windowsill. Silicone is more resistant to environmental influences.
- Cleaning: The younger the child, the more important good pacifier hygiene is. Silicone is easier to clean and withstands frequent sterilization. The surface is smooth and does not attract dirt or dust.
All children are unique
Both natural rubber and silicone have advantages and disadvantages, and there are many opinions about which material is best. In the end, it is your child who decides which pacifier feels most comfortable and natural. Try them out - and let the child choose his favourite.
