By: Esmée Becker 8 Sep. 2020

How to clean a soother and how often

On the floor, behind the playpen or under the table: your little one’s soother ends up in the most unexpected places. Cleaning it is part of everyday life. But how do you do it, and when should you boil a soother? Here are some practical tips to help you.

How often should you clean a soother?

Clean the soother regularly and whenever it gets dirty, for example after it falls on the floor. Before each use, check that it is clean and undamaged.

Using a new soother? Clean it before first use and follow the instructions on the packaging for boiling or sterilising. How often you need to sterilise it after that depends on your baby’s age and health, as well as the soother’s instructions for use.

What is the difference between cleaning and sterilising?

Cleaning removes dirt and residue using water and, if needed, a mild washing-up liquid. Sterilising is an additional step to reduce microorganisms. Always clean the soother before sterilising it.

Not every soother can be cleaned in the same way. Always check the instructions for your Difrax or Difrax LOVI soother.

How do you clean a soother?

Here is how to clean a soother by hand:

Wash your hands.
Clean the soother with warm water and, if needed, a mild washing-up liquid suitable for baby products.
Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Leave the soother to dry on a clean surface.

How do you boil a soother?

Is your soother suitable for boiling? Follow the boiling time and method stated on the packaging. Boiling it for longer is not necessarily better and may damage the material.

Use enough water to prevent the pan from boiling dry. Afterwards, carefully remove the soother using clean kitchen utensils and let it cool completely before giving it to your baby.

Is there water inside the teat? Let the soother cool first, then remove the water according to the instructions for use.

Can you sterilise a soother in the microwave?

Yes, provided both the soother and the sterilising container are suitable for microwave use. Use a suitable sterilising container or microwave steriliser. Explore our products for sterilising and cleaning.

Always follow the instructions for the amount of water, microwave wattage and sterilising time. Let the container cool afterwards and open it carefully, as hot steam may escape.

Never place a soother directly in the microwave without a suitable sterilising container.

Can a soother go in the dishwasher?

This varies between soothers, so check the packaging or instructions for use first. A dishwasher is also no substitute for sterilising.

If your soother is not dishwasher-safe, clean it by hand and follow its instructions for boiling or sterilising.

How should you store a clean soother?

Let the soother dry thoroughly before storing it. Keep it in a clean, dry place, such as a clean soother storage box. Clean the box regularly too.

Explore our soother accessories for handy ways to store your little one’s soother.

When should you replace a soother?

Check the soother before each use. Gently pull the teat and look for cracks or other damage. Replace the soother immediately if it is damaged or shows signs of wear.

Also follow the replacement interval stated on the packaging, even if the soother still looks fine.