Are soothers bad for babies? An IBCLC’s honest answer
If you’ve Googled “are soothers bad for babies”, chances are you’re tired, your baby is crying, and you’re just trying to give your body a break from the constant demands of breastfeeding.
And as an IBCLC lactation consultant, you might expect me to say:
“No soothers. Ever. Just breast for everything.”
But here’s the truth: real life with a baby is messier than that.
For many of the families I support across Guelph, Kitchener, Cambridge, and Brantford, breastfeeding is still a work in progress. Latch pain is real. Cluster feeding is exhausting. And sometimes, you need a tool that gives everyone a break.
That’s why I’m pro-soother … when it’s used intentionally.
Full transparency: I used a soother with my son until 2 years old. It was so necessary with the very fussy and low sleep needs baby. My giving in to letting him have it in his crib with him overnight is the only way I got him to sleep all night long.
My daughter does not and has not taken one. But y’all, I TRIED!
So there is no judgement coming from me, I just want to make sure you are using one that benefits both you and baby so you can offer it guilt free.
When soothers can actually help
Soothers can be a powerful mental health support for parents, especially in the early weeks.
They can help:
During car rides, when a screaming baby makes safe driving nearly impossible
Give the non-breastfeeding partner confidence to soothe baby
Reduce stress when feeding is painful or still being figured out
Used thoughtfully, a soother doesn’t “ruin breastfeeding.” In many cases, it helps families get through the hardest part.
My two rules for soother use (as an IBCLC)
1️⃣ Use it to soothe, not to silence
A soother is meant to calm an upset baby, not replace feeding or connection.
If your baby is crawling, playing, laughing, or casually chewing on the soother, they don’t need it. That’s when it’s time to take it out to reduce the risk of long-term issues with jaw or dental development.
2️⃣ Shape matters more than the brand
Despite marketing claims, “orthodontic” doesn’t always mean breastfeeding friendly.
A good soother should allow:
A wide open mouth
The tongue to cup around it (a rounded, tubular shape)
Active suction to keep it in place
Soothers that encourage gum biting or tongue thrusting can interfere with feeding and latch development, especially for babies who are still learning how to breastfeed.
Yes, it’s annoying when the soother falls out.
But that usually means your baby is using the right muscles.
Unsure what’s best for your baby?
If you’re navigating feeding challenges, soother use, or latch pain and want personalized support, I offer IBCLC lactation support in Guelph, Cambridge, Brantford, and Kitchener (Ontario).
✦ Book a free call and we’ll talk through your baby’s feeding goals without judgment, pressure, or one size fits all advice.
