DIY Cleaning Methods for Pacifiers

 

How to Clean Pacifiers with a Vinegar and Water Solution

 

What You’ll Need:

• White distilled vinegar (the plain, cheap kind is perfect)
 
• Clean water (tap is fine, filtered if you prefer)
 
• A clean bowl or container large enough to submerge the pacifiers
 
• A clean towel or drying rack

 

Mixing Your Solution

• Combine one part white vinegar with two parts water in your bowl or container. For example, use 1 cup vinegar and 2 cups water. This ratio is strong enough for cleaning, but not so strong that it’ll leave a lingering smell.
 
• Give the solution a quick stir to mix it up.

 

Cleaning Process

• Drop the pacifiers into the vinegar and water solution, making sure they’re fully submerged. If they float, gently press them down with a clean spoon.
 
• Let them soak for about 5-10 minutes. This gives the solution time to work on any buildup or residue.
 
• After soaking, remove the pacifiers and rinse them thoroughly under running water. This step is important—vinegar has a strong taste and smell, and you don’t want that lingering on something that goes in a baby’s mouth.
 
• Place the rinsed pacifiers on a clean towel or drying rack and let them air dry completely before use. Make sure they’re totally dry to avoid any musty smells or moisture buildup.

 

Extra Tips from the Field

• If you notice any stubborn spots or cloudy residue, you can gently scrub the pacifier with a clean brush or your fingers while it’s in the solution.
 
• Always check pacifiers for cracks or damage before and after cleaning. If you spot any, it’s time to toss them—no cleaning method can fix a broken pacifier.
 
• For silicone pacifiers, this method works well. If you’re dealing with latex or specialty materials, double-check the manufacturer’s care instructions first.

 

What “Cleaning” Means Here

• This method is for cleaning—removing visible dirt, milk residue, or gunk. It’s not the same as sanitizing or disinfecting, which are different processes and require different products or methods.

 

 

Hydrogen Peroxide and Water Soak for Pacifiers: A Practical Guide

 

• Gather your supplies: You’ll need 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind you find in most drugstores), clean water, a clean bowl or container, and your pacifiers. Make sure the container is large enough for the pacifiers to be fully submerged.

 

• Mix your solution: Combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in your container. For example, if you use one cup of hydrogen peroxide, add one cup of water. This dilution helps reduce the strength of the hydrogen peroxide while still providing a thorough clean.

 

• Soak the pacifiers: Place the pacifiers in the solution, making sure they’re completely covered. Let them soak for about 15–20 minutes. This gives the solution time to work on any visible residue or buildup.

 

• Rinse thoroughly: After soaking, remove the pacifiers and rinse them under running water for at least 30 seconds. This step is important to help remove any remaining hydrogen peroxide from the surface.

 

• Air dry: Place the pacifiers on a clean towel or drying rack and let them air dry completely before use. Avoid using a cloth to dry them, as lint can stick to the silicone or rubber.

 

• Inspect before use: Always check pacifiers for any cracks, tears, or changes in texture after cleaning. If you notice any damage, it’s best to replace the pacifier.

 

What is hydrogen peroxide? It’s a common household liquid that looks like water but has an extra oxygen molecule. It’s often used for cleaning and stain removal. When diluted, it can help break down residue on surfaces.

 

Why dilute it? Full-strength hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on some materials. Diluting it with water helps make it more suitable for items like pacifiers, which are made from silicone or rubber.

 

Important note: This method is for routine cleaning. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific pacifier brand, as some materials may react differently to hydrogen peroxide. If in doubt, check the packaging or the company’s website for guidance.