Finding the Right Fit: A Guide to BIBS Soothers for Newborns

Welcoming a newborn into your home is a time of immense joy, but it also comes with its challenges. One of the most common hurdles for new parents is learning how to soothe a fussy baby. A soother, or dummy, can be an invaluable tool for calming your little one, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate these choices with clear, practical information. This guide focuses on BIBS soothers for newborns, a popular choice among UK parents for their classic Danish design baby dummies and commitment to safety. We will explore the key features to consider, from materials to nipple shapes, to help you find a soother that both you and your baby will love.

A Practical Guide to Choosing a Newborn Soother

Before you decide, it helps to understand the main differences between soother types. This knowledge will empower you to select an option that aligns with your baby’s needs and your own preferences.

Material Matters: Latex vs Silicone Soothers

The material of the soother's nipple is one of the most important factors. BIBS offers two main types:

• Natural Rubber Latex: This is a natural, plant-based material that is very soft, flexible and elastic. Its texture is often compared to the feel of a mother's skin, which some babies, particularly breastfed ones, may prefer. However, latex is a natural material that can change shape over time and requires more frequent replacement.
• Silicone: This is a synthetic, medical-grade material that is firm, smooth and highly durable. It is odourless, taste-neutral and holds its shape well. Silicone is also hypoallergenic, making it a suitable choice if there are concerns about latex allergies.

The choice between latex vs silicone soothers often comes down to your baby's personal preference.

Nipple Shape and Oral Development

BIBS soothers come in several nipple shapes, each designed with a specific purpose in mind. For newborns, you will commonly encounter:

• Round (Cherry) Nipple: This shape is designed to mimic the soft nipple of a mother's breast, promoting a similar tongue placement and sucking technique used during breastfeeding.
• Symmetrical (Orthodontic) Nipple: This flat, drop-shaped nipple is designed to accommodate the tongue and reduce pressure on the jaw and teeth. It is often recommended for supporting natural oral development. As it is symmetrical, there is no "wrong" way for it to be positioned in the baby's mouth.

Finding the best soother for a breastfed baby in the UK can be a process of trial and error, as each infant has their own unique preference.

Safety First: What to Look For

When selecting any soother, safety is paramount. Always look for products that comply with the European safety standard EN 1400. This ensures the soother has been rigorously checked for safety, materials and durability. Additionally, look for safe soothers for babies that are BPA, PVC and phthalate-free. A well-designed shield with ventilation holes is also crucial, as it allows air to circulate and helps prevent skin irritation around your baby's delicate mouth.

Top BIBS Soother Recommendations

Based on their design, materials and features that parents often look for, here are a few standout options from the BIBS range.

BIBS Soother Colour Latex Size 1 0+Months 2 Pack

• Why It Stands Out: This is the iconic BIBS soother, recognised for its signature round shield and cherry-shaped nipple. The natural rubber latex nipple is soft and flexible, designed to mimic the feel of breastfeeding, which can make it a good starting point for newborns.
• Pros:
  • Soft, natural rubber latex nipple feels familiar to many babies.
  • The classic round shape supports a natural sucking technique.
  • Lightweight design with a ventilated shield to protect sensitive skin.
  • Comes in a wide range of stylish, modern colours.
• Who is it for: Parents looking for a classic, stylish soother with a soft, natural-feeling nipple, especially if their baby is breastfed. This is a great example of a BIBS dummy size 1.

View the BIBS Colour Latex Soother

BIBS Soother Supreme Silicone Size 1 0+ Months 2 Pack

• Why It Stands Out: The Supreme model offers a more modern aesthetic with its elegant shield and durable silicone nipple. It features a symmetrical, flat drop-shaped nipple, making it one of the brand's key orthodontic soothers for 0-6 months. This shape is designed to reduce pressure on the palate and jaw.
• Pros:
  • Durable, hypoallergenic and easy-to-clean food-grade silicone nipple.
  • Symmetrical orthodontic shape supports healthy oral development.
  • The shield has large air holes for excellent ventilation.
  • Stylish matte finish and elegant design.
• Who is it for: Parents who prefer a durable, hypoallergenic silicone soother with an orthodontic design aimed at supporting jaw and tooth alignment.

Explore the BIBS Supreme Silicone Soother

BIBS Soothers Try-It Collection Size 1 0-6 Months 4 Pack

• Why It Stands Out: If you are unsure which soother your baby will prefer, the BIBS Try-It Collection is the ideal solution. This newborn dummy starter kit contains four different soothers, featuring various nipple shapes (round, symmetrical and anatomical) and materials (both natural rubber latex and silicone). It takes the guesswork out of the process.
• Pros:
  • Includes four different soothers to help you find the perfect match.
  • A cost-effective way to test different nipple shapes and materials.
  • Lets your baby decide which style they find most comforting.
  • All soothers are BIBS dummy size 1, suitable for newborns.
• Who is it for: New parents who want to explore different options without committing to a full pack of one style or for those whose baby has been fussy with other soothers.

Discover the BIBS Try-It Collection

Exploring More for Your Growing Child

While finding the perfect soother is a priority for your newborn, time flies, and soon you'll be exploring a whole new world of products for your curious toddler. From first steps to imaginative play, we have a wide range of items to support their development. For a glimpse into the fun ahead, you might be interested in our collection of playful toddlers makeup.

Frequently Asked Questions about BIBS Soothers

How often should I replace a BIBS soother?

For both hygiene and safety, it is recommended to replace any soother every 4-6 weeks. You should also inspect the soother before each use by pulling the nipple in all directions. If you notice any signs of damage, weakness or changes in the material, discard it immediately.

Are BIBS soothers suitable for breastfed babies?

Many parents find that BIBS soothers work well alongside breastfeeding. The classic Colour soother with its soft, round latex nipple is designed to feel similar to a mother's breast, which may help avoid confusion. However, as every baby is different, the BIBS soother variety pack can be a practical way to see which type your baby accepts most readily.

How do I clean and sterilise BIBS soothers?

Before the very first use, place the soother in a clean bowl, pour boiling water over it, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Once it has cooled, gently squeeze any trapped water out of the nipple. For daily cleaning, wash with warm water and mild soap. It is generally advised not to use a microwave, dishwasher or electric steriliser, as intense heat can degrade the natural rubber latex. Always refer to the specific instructions included with your product.