Best Dummy for Breastfed Baby Australia: Our Top 10 Picks [Updated 2026]

When babies are born, they have a natural instinct to suck, and the mother’s breast provides a source of nutrition and comfort. Many breastfeeding mums find a dummy is a convenient way to soothe a restless baby in between feeds.

When choosing a dummy, it should be a similar shape to the nipple to avoid confusing your child. The wrong pacifier could make breastfeeding more difficult, so it is important to do your research before purchasing.

(Breastfeeding mothers who want to express may also like to check out our list of the best breast pumps available in Australia.)

If you are considering giving your baby a soother, we are here to make the decision-making process an easier one. Our top pick is the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Everyday Baby Pacifier, and you can read about this product, as well as our other favourites below.

If you’re looking for a buying guide to help you make an educated decision, scroll down to read about things you need to consider!

Our Top Picks for Best Dummy for Breastfed Babies

1. Best Overall — Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Night Time Soothers

This Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Everyday Baby Pacifier didn’t stray too much from the traditional shield style that newborns have enjoyed, making it ideal for use daily. It is soft, and its curved shape makes it comfortable for your baby’s chin and nose.

It has large holes that prevent the build-up of moisture that causes skin irritation because of the extra airflow going on. Its design is ideal for oral development due to its symmetrical orthodontic shape.

Another great feature of Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Everyday Baby Pacifier is that there’s no wrong or right side up. Any side is correct, which makes giving the dummy trouble and fuzz-free.

The shape of its nipple mimics that of a feeding bottle, which is very good for babies who are already bottle-fed. In terms of safety, you’ll be glad to know that this is BPA and phthalate-free for your peace of mind.

You can choose from several choices for your baby’s age: 0-6 months, 6-18 months, and 18-36 months.

Cons: Once the baby starts teething and chewing, it may become prone to tear, so it may not last long since comfort seems to be the priority over durability.

2. Best for Transitioning/Weaning — Nanobébé Flexy Pacifiers

First is the assurance that Nanobébé Flexy Pacifiers‘ silicone material does not have any harmful chemicals like Phthalate and BPA, so you won’t have to worry about your baby sucking in chemicals. It also strictly followed the guidelines for newborns set by The American Academy of Paediatrics.

It is soft and very light with a nipple that definitely encourages healthy oral development. Overall, this is very flexible, with no hard plastic part whatsoever.

If your baby is weaning, this is exactly what they need. The shape is a lovely fit in that it stays on the infant’s mouth very securely and makes it very easy for them to grab and put back when accidentally pulled.

Rather than just being a pacifier, it feels like a teething toy. If your baby is around this stage, it’s like hitting two birds with one stone.

While it has nothing to do with the pacifier’s functionality, its case is so nice that it is very diaper bag-friendly when you go out often with the baby.

Cons: The backside of this dummy is hollow without cover, so your child’s thumb might get stuck in it and cause discomfort. You may also find that the nipple may be a bit narrow or thin compared to other pacifiers on the market.

3. Best Budget Option — Tommee Tippee Night Time Soothers

Tommee Tippee’s Closer to Nature range has long been a favourite of Aussie Mums and Dads, and they are known for their quality products.

We think the best dummy for your breastfed baby in Australia is the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Night Time Soothers. There are two in the pack, and they are suitable for both day and night time use. For extra cuteness and to help you locate them when the lights are out, they glow gently in the dark.

These dummies have an orthodontic shape which is better for your little one’s developing gums, teeth, and jaw. Plus, the teats are designed to feel natural in your baby’s mouth. Because they are a similar shape and feel to Mama, there is less likely to be any nipple confusion.

They are made from BPA silicone and polyurethane, which means they will be durable and resistant to stains. When not being used by your bub, these dummies can be stored in hygienic containers.

There are three different sizes available, so as your baby grows, their favourite dummy doesn’t have to change. Despite being one of the best dummies for newborns, you will be pleased to know the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature range is also affordable.

Also available for 6-18 months and 18-36 months.

Cons: Some may find that the size of the teats is a bit larger compared to other brands. Some water can also get trapped inside the teat when cleaning.

4. Bestseller / Most Popular — Philips Avent Baby Soother

This product is a favourite for many breastfeeding mothers and is a bestseller. For good reasons, if I may say!

While most dummies are inexpensive, if you are looking for a budget pick, the Philips Avent Baby Animals Soother could be the right choice. This can be used every day, and the BPA-free silicone nipple is odour and stain-resistant. The animal designs are appealing to parents and children, and the ergonomic, soft soother is a close fit to Mum.

This nipple-shaped dummy is symmetrical, so there won’t be any oral damage if it is inserted upside down. The Philips Avent Baby Animals Soothers are made in the UK, and they are easily available if a replacement is ever required.

If you prefer a neutral design, there is a transparent dummy available, as well as a glow-in-the-dark version for nighttime use. Philips is a trusted brand, and you won’t have any regrets with this purchase.

Also available for 6-18 months.

Cons: When cleaning this with hot water, the liquid gets trapped, so you have to squeeze it out thoroughly, which some may find a bit annoying.

5. Best Classic Design — Avent Bear Soothie

The design and appearance of Avent Bear Soothie are similar to others featured on this list in the sense that it has an open and hollow bottom that you can even insert a finger into it.

Perhaps the only significant difference is that it largely resembles that of the feeding bottle’s nipple, except for the bear design. It is so soft and collapsible that it respects the shape of your baby’s palate.

The overall materials of this symmetrical-shaped pacifier are medical-grade silicone that is free from BPA.

Each pack contains two dummies, not four, which is basically why some buyers rated this low. This could have rated higher if not only for the misleading photo, which led them to believe they’ll be receiving four pacifiers in one pack.

Cleaning is also simple as it only takes submerging in boiling water or even in a steriliser. It comes in 4 assorted colours. Sizes to choose from are 0-3 months and 3-18 months.

Cons: Some reviewers have complained about the size being too big for newborns as the shield tends to almost cover the baby’s nose. It also doesn’t have a handle and a cap to protect it when not in use. You also can’t choose specific colours when ordering.

6. Best Silicone Dummy — Chicco Physio SOFT Soother

The materials of Chicco Physio SOFT Soother are 100% silicone. The nipple is somewhat flat-shaped but grooved and angled, asymmetrical on top and bottom of the teat that considers the baby’s growing teeth and developing palate and gums.

The top part is concave that points upwards which encourages the natural tongue position. The curves on the bottom evenly allot tongue pressure which allows it to develop naturally. The surface also has tiny ridges similar to those of the baby’s palate to make up for a more natural feel.

It has a ring handle if you are looking for something that can be attached to a dummy chain that doesn’t come off because it’s a single-piece pacifier. Many parents prefer this over the detachable ones over concerns of germs getting into spots and corners of the connecting parts. It also makes it easier to clean because you just have to pop it in a steriliser, and you’re good to go.

Each pack comes in two pieces in different colours. You can also choose from three different age brackets: 0-6 months, 6-16 months, and 16-36 months. 

Cons: It doesn’t come with a cover. Understandable that it’s a deal-breaker for some parents!

7. Best Ergonomically-Designed — Haakaa Silicone Dummy

This ergonomically shaped Haakaa Silicone Dummy ensures that it will leave no rashes on the baby’s skin. The medical-grade 100% silicone it is made of is odour and taste-free, and absolutely BPA-free, so you don’t have to worry about these factors being the deal-breaker for your baby.

The lightweight shield is similar to the mom’s breast, with the bottom part of the teat touching the tongue angled upward to follow the natural placement. The shield is U-shaped which promotes proper breathing.

It is a one-piece design which means it has no joints or edges where bacteria could possibly form or collect. It has an attached ring handle for easier grabbing the baby’s tiny little hands.

If your baby starts teething, this is freezer-safe, so you can chuck it in there for a moment to aid in their aching gums.

The cleaning is also one of its selling points because it is dishwasher-safe, and you can even put it in a microwave steriliser.

This model is suited for babies 3 months and up and comes only in apricot colour. 

Cons: It has no cover. 

8. Best in Hygiene and Safety — Natural Rubber Soothers

This Natural Rubber Soothers claim to be the most hygienic and safest pacifier that you could ever buy. And why not? It is made from natural rubber that is very soft, BPA-free, and has no chemical softeners.

Some people may be a bit apprehensive when it comes to rubber, especially for babies. However, This soother is made from non-toxic rubber, specifically hevea brasiliensi, that grows in Malaysia.

This vintage-looking soother has a round shape and is large but very soft, making it ideal for breastfed babies.

Add to these is the fact that it is in one piece, which makes it safer against bacteria and germs that may hide like in other dummies that have detachable parts due to the presence of cracks and joints.

The shield is large that it touches the infant’s nose, which mimics actual breastfeeding. However, since it is flat, you don’t have to worry about it affecting your child’s breathing in any way.

It comes with a reusable case which allows you to store it conveniently while keeping it clean and safe.

You can choose from different sizes that are suitable for 0-3 months (small), 3-6 months (medium), 6 months and older (large).

Cons: There are no other colour choices. Some parents find that it has a strong smell when new.

9. Best Orthodontic Dummies — NUK Genius Silicone Soother

This NUK Genius Silicone Soother 0-2M was specially designed with orthodontics in mind to adapt to your baby’s mouth easily.

When you have a newborn, you might worry about the size of the dummy getting in the way of the baby’s breathing. But with the heart-shaped shield, it fits under their nose without any chance of obstruction.

It has an advanced airflow on both sides for ventilation. This feature will also reduce the risk of skin irritation.

The nipples are a natural shape and designed to mimic a mom’s breast. It is made from odourless, high-quality silicone, with a very smooth surface, unlike some of the products featured here. The dummies come with a reusable, hygienic storage case.

The NUK Genius Silicone Soother is easy to clean as it is heat-resistant, so boiling is one option. What’s good is that it doesn’t accumulate water when cleaned, unlike some of the products we featured here.

The brand also has a range of similar bottles to make the transition process smoother!

The pack comes as a set of two dummies, and there are four sizes to choose from. For newborns aged 0-2 months, 0-6 months, 6-18 months, and 18-36 months.

Cons: The handle is hard and might get stuck in the baby’s mouth accidentally if left unattended.

10. Best Novelty Dummy — Fred Chill, Baby Novelty Moustache Pacifier

Sometimes, it doesn’t always have to be all seriousness when it comes to matters that involve your baby. If you’re up for some fun and you feel that your kiddo wouldn’t mind, this Fred Chill, Baby Novelty Moustache Pacifier would be a good starting point. 

However, this is more than just a funny prop for your entertainment but a legitimate soother as well. It comprises of non-toxic plastic and rubber, and baby-grade silicone.

It has a specialised orthodontic nipple with a rounded design at the top and flat at the bottom, which resembles how the mum’s nipple flattens during breastfeeding. This design reduces pressure on the baby’s developing teeth and gums as well as the development of the jaw and palate.

With this funny design, it is perfect if you’re having a special occasion like a baby shower or birthday party.

Cons: While the soother itself is durable, some find that the moustache design detaches faster than the pacifier’s useful life.

What to Consider When Buying a Dummy for Breastfed Baby Australia

Age

When shopping for a dummy, be aware they come in different sizes. Babies develop quickly, and it is important to be aware of the age range listed on the packet to ensure a safe fit.

Size 1 is for 0-6 months, size 2 is for 6-12 months, and size 3 is for 18+ months. This might vary between some brands. For example, you can find soothers for 0-3 months. It is recommended you try to wean your baby off the dummy by the age of 2.

Quality / Durability

It is essential that the soother you choose is something that doesn’t break easily, whether through constant use or due to poor construction. One mistake could pose a significant threat to your baby’s safety, either through injury or worse, choking. Fortunately, we have strict safety standards in Australia, and most of the well-known brands will be well made and safe for use.

Dummies come in a range of materials, and your choice depends on preferred features and benefits, durability, safety, and even allergy risk. Each of these materials has its pros and cons.

The most common is silicone. This is generally strong and durable, but you should still always check the soother for any cracks or holes before use. Another alternative is rubber, which is a natural and sustainable material. The downside is that they can be harder to find and may come with a higher price tag.

Chemical Content

Besides durability, you need to understand how important your choice of materials is because each and every part of the pacifier — the teat, the shield, and the handle, will be in contact with your young one’s skin one way or another. As much as possible, you will avoid any form of chemicals in the pacifier like a plague.

You should always look for soothers that are free from BPA or Bisphenol A, an old chemical used in creating plastics and resins. This is notorious for its adverse effects on fetuses and infants’ brains and prostate glands when exposed to it. Another chemical to avoid is Phthalate used to make durable plastics. Exposure to this can damage the infant’s kidneys, liver, lungs, and even reproductive system.

Shape of the Pacifier’s Teat

The choice of the shape will really depend on the purpose you have in mind. However, most of the time, your baby won’t always agree with what you decide on. In the end, it will all boil down to trial and error and what the boss baby accepts in the end. You’re in serious luck if what you want, what the kiddo needs, and what they like are all the same.

The choices include the following:

• Orthodontic Shape

Traditionally dummies were a large, round shape, but this can lead to problems with oral development. Sucking on these dummies can change the positioning of the teeth, and affect the formation of the jaw, tongue, and speech.

While the design does vary significantly between brands, newer models are thinner and support your baby’s changing smile. This style of the dummy is called an orthodontic shape, and this should be clearly labeled on the packet. Despite the newer designs, you should still maintain proper oral hygiene once teeth start to appear.

• Cherry-Shaped or Round

This shape is the closest to the feeding bottle’s teat because it is somewhat round at the tip. The difference will only lie in how big they can be that the infant can tolerate without much fuzz.

Under normal circumstances, you wouldn’t have much issue transitioning your baby to a pacifier of this shape since it will feel familiar. However, some babies might prefer something else.

• Symmetrical Shape

If you breastfeed your baby, this will be what they will like for a dummy. This is because the shape mimics that of the mum’s nipples, or at least the closest one out of all the shapes available on the market.

Shield Design

After deciding as to what particular materials and shape of the dummy you want to buy for your baby, you also need to consider the style or design of the shield. This basically has a lot to do with comfort in terms of breathing and its effect on the baby’s skin.

It is important to look out for whether the shield partly covers the infant’s nose or if there are holes or ventilation for proper airflow. This helps a lot in terms of preventing the trapping moisture on the baby’s cheeks that causes rashes and irritation.

Handle and Cover

Though it may not be that crucial in the soother’s functionality, opting for something that comes with a handle and/or cover can sometimes be deal breakers for some. Handles make these dummies more manageable for the baby if they are already able to grasp. On the other hand, a lid or cover can make a huge difference in terms of hygiene and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dummies Safe?

As long as the dummy is well made, in good condition, and the right size for your baby, it will usually be safe to use. Dummies can cause problems with the developing jaw and teeth, but this risk can be reduced by choosing an orthodontic design and weaning your child as soon as possible.

Evidence suggests dummy usage can help to lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). When used for a short period of time, a dummy can help to settle your baby, and let Mum and Dad get some well deserved sleep!

Breastfeeding and dummy usage can go hand in hand when you choose the right design. All of the suggestions on our list are recommended for breastfed bubs, and we hope you found what you were looking for. Take the time to enjoy your new baby, and make sure you look after yourself too!

What Type of Pacifier Is Best for Breastfed Baby?

Strictly speaking, the best type of dummy for a breastfed baby is the one that resembles what the mother’s nipples do during feeding. A soother with a cylindrical shape should be at the top of your list since this teat changes its shape the same way as a mother’s nipple during breastfeeding. Just shift to anything else when your baby prefers something else.

Should I Sterilise the Dummy?

You should be mindful to always sterilise your baby’s dummy, particularly if they are under 6 months old. You can do this by placing it in boiling water before removing to cool. 

There are other sterilising solutions available, and these include brands such as Milton. These products can be found in your local supermarket or chemist. If you are unsure or need to be shown how to correctly sterilise the dummy, don’t be afraid to ask your midwife or doctor for help!

How Often Should a Dummy Be Replaced?

The general rule is to change the pacifier every two to three months. However, be more on the lookout for signs of damage, especially if your baby starts to grow teeth. But early signs of wear and tear are the ultimate indicator for replacement regardless of whether the soother has already reached its useful life or not.

What Is Nipple Confusion?

Breastfeeding can be difficult for some women, and the wrong dummy could be counterproductive. A dummy that is a different shape, size, and texture to the breast could see the baby reject the real thing. This can also occur when alternating between breast and bottle. When your baby is little, nutrition should be the first priority, and it can be stressful if your baby says “no.”

Try to find a dummy that is designed to mimic a mother’s nipple to reduce the chance of nipple confusion. If your baby doesn’t want the dummy, don’t force it. This is an individual thing, and some babies love to suck a dummy, while others will spit it out!

Last update on 2026-06-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API