Hot Take: Baby’s Having a Binky Isn’t a Bad Thing
Can we talk about how something as small as a binky seems to spark so many strong opinions?
Before I became a mom, I told myself I probably wouldn’t use one. I’d heard it all — it’ll ruin their teeth, make them too dependent, mess up feeding, or become impossible to take away later. The list goes on.
Then I actually became a mom.
And suddenly, that tiny piece of silicone wasn’t just a “bad habit.” It was comfort. It was calm. It was one of the few things that could soothe my baby when nothing else worked — and in those moments, I realized how much peace it brought both of us.
Now that she’s older, she actually uses it more — and honestly, I still don’t feel bad about it. It helps her settle when she’s tired, it gives her comfort when the world feels big, and it gives me a little breathing room to regroup.
We don’t talk enough about how motherhood looks different for everyone. Some babies never take a binky, and some absolutely love it. Neither is wrong. What matters is what works for your baby, your rhythm, and your sanity.
There’s this pressure to do everything “perfectly,” but the truth is… there’s no one-size-fits-all in motherhood.
If a binky helps your baby feel safe and helps you breathe a little easier, that’s not failure — that’s balance.
So yes, I’m that mom who gives her baby a binky. And I’m not ashamed of it.
Because sometimes the right choice isn’t the one everyone agrees with — it’s the one that brings peace to your home. 🩷
Do you use a binky, or skip it completely? I’d love to hear your take below — no judgment, just real mom talk.
Many parents face conflicting advice when it comes to using a binky, also known as a pacifier. Despite some common concerns—such as potential dental issues, dependency, or feeding problems—many experts and parents find that binkies, when used appropriately, can be a helpful tool in soothing babies. Pacifiers satisfy an infant's natural sucking reflex, which is comforting and calming for them. This can help reduce crying and fussiness, which often eases stress for both the baby and the parent. For some babies, a binky can provide a sense of security, especially in unfamiliar or overwhelming situations, giving them something familiar to hold onto. It is important to note that while prolonged pacifier use beyond infancy can contribute to dental issues, such as misaligned teeth, this risk is generally minimal if the binky is stopped at an appropriate age. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests weaning off pacifiers between 6 months and 1 year to reduce risks related to ear infections and dental problems. Moreover, pacifiers have been linked to a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when used during sleep, adding to their practical benefits. Every family and baby is unique, so what works well for one may not for another. Some children never take to a pacifier, and that is perfectly okay. For parents feeling the pressures of perfect parenting, it’s important to remember that comforting your baby—and preserving your own peace—is what truly matters. Choosing to use a binky does not mean a parent is failing. Rather, it is acknowledging and meeting your baby’s needs realistically and compassionately. Many parents find that a pacifier offers precious moments of calm, allowing them to recharge and care for their child with greater patience. Ultimately, the decision to use a pacifier should be based on what helps your baby feel safe and what supports your family's well-being. Open discussions among moms and dads can help reduce judgment around feeding and soothing choices, empowering parents to make confident, informed decisions that work best for their unique situation.
Pacifiers are known to reduce the risk of SIDS. Neither of my boys took to them though. As long as they are weaned from it at a healthy point, theirs nothing wrong with them