How to clean a dummy when out and about

Dummies (or pacifiers) are one of the go-to tools of any parent, providing immediate comfort to babies. They can help soothe tears, fussiness, and restlessness, but they’re often dropped, as any parent can attest.  

Keeping them clean at all times is vital, since they go directly in your baby’s mouth, but that isn’t always as easy – especially when you’re out and about. 

Let’s take a look at the importance of keeping your baby’s dummy clean, how you can care for it when you’re out and about, and ensure its safety in the long term. With tools like the Milton Solo Travel Steriliser and Antibacterial Surface Wipes, we’ll also look at how you can make it a lot easier to keep a dummy safe. 

The importance of a clean dummy 

Babies do not yet have fully developed immune systems which means they are more prone to infections. Given their often wet and sticky surface, dummies can easily pick up bacteria, especially if dropped on the floor, handled with unwashed hands, or stored loosely in a bag or pocket. This could lead to oral or gastrointestinal infections. 

For that reason, good hygiene is key. According to the NHS, proper sterilisation of feeding equipment, including dummies, should continue for at least the first 12 months of a baby’s life. This includes sterilising them routinely and immediately if they fall on the ground. 

How long do babies use dummies? 

Every baby is different, but many will use them from the first 6 months to 2 years of life. Many begin to phase out dummy use around their child’s first birthday, which dentists often recommend to ensure good speech and teeth development. 

For as long as your baby uses it, however, dummy hygiene is vital. 

Dummy hygiene at home 

With easy access to running water, cleaning your baby’s dummy is easy. You should, however, still sterilise it daily using a cold water method or steam steriliser for extra safety. 

When it’s not in use, the dummy should be kept in a clean, closed container and, in general, you should replace it roughly every 4 to 6 weeks, or sooner if it gets damaged. 

Cleaning dummies when you’re out and about 

When you’re outside and don’t have easy access to running water, hygiene can be more of a challenge. If your baby drops their dummy in a cafe or park, taking it away from them can lead to some dramatic waterworks. As such, here are some tips to help you keep your baby’s dummy clean and safe: 

Use a dummy case or cover 

Clean, closed containers and sterilised dummy pods can be a lifesaver for storing the dummy when it’s not in use. Keeping them loose in your changing bag can cause them to pick up dirt or lint. 

Avoid quick fixes 

Many parents will use a wipe or even their own mouth to clean a dummy that’s been dropped, but this can easily transmit viruses to your baby. If you can’t sterilise it, you need to look for a safe alternative. 

Have a spare ready 

One option is to always keep at least one spare dummy on you in case of any unexpected drops or spills. If they drop that one as well, however, then you could be in trouble. 

Use a portable steriliser 

The best way to keep your baby’s dummy safe is with portable tools like the Milton Solo Travel Steriliser. These are designed to be used on-the-go, with either cold water sterilising tablets or a mini microwave steriliser. 

Milton’s cold water method can help you sterilise dummies in just 15 minutes, which is perfect for travelling with your baby. You can easily keep a portable steriliser on your pram, in changing bags, or in the car. 

Use Milton’s antibacterial surface wipes 

Did you know that you can also use our antibacterial surface wipes to clean soothers? With no need to rinse and small enough to fit in your bag, they are another ideal option for sterilising on-the-go! 

Whether you’re trying to soothe a teething baby or simply keeping them happy while you’re out and about, Milton’s 70 years of experience in baby hygiene is here to help. Our sterilising products are clinically proven, fast, and fuss-free, perfect for modern parenting.  

Shop our sterilising products today and keep your baby’s dummy (and everything else) as clean as possible, wherever you are.