There are so many baby products on the market these days that it can be confusing knowing what’s necessary and what isn’t. Some you’ll never use, some will become your everyday lifesaver. And then there are the little things like a soother clip, that seem simple but have a few sneaky safety rules no one tells you about.
As a midwife and a mum of four, I’ve seen it all. Soother clips are one of those items that can be incredibly helpful for keeping dummies clean, accessible, and off the floor (because why do babies love to spit them straight onto the ground?!). But when used incorrectly, they can pose real safety risks.
So, let’s break down the most common mistakes I see parents making with soother clips and how to fix them. No judgement, just practical, expert-backed advice to keep your little one safe and soothed.
mistake #1: using a soother clip that is too long
You know that feeling when you're tempted to buy the extra-cute handmade soother from Etsy that hangs halfway to baby’s knees? Please don’t. A soother clip that’s too long can easily become tangled around your baby’s neck or arms, posing a serious risk of strangulation or injury.
mistake #2: letting baby sleep with the soother clip on
Soother clips should never go to bed with your baby. I know it's tempting, especially if the dummy keeps falling out at night and wakes them up, but clips should always be removed for naps and overnight sleep. The risk of entanglement, especially in those tiny early months, is just too high.
Dummies themselves can be safely used during sleep (and some studies even show a reduced SIDS risk when used consistently for sleep), but the clip? That’s a daytime-only accessory.
mistake #3: choosing unsafe materials
Not all soother clips are created equal. I’ve seen clips with beads, wooden bits, metal fasteners, and even leather cords. While they might look cute on Instagram, they can pose serious choking hazards, especially once your baby hits that ‘put everything in their mouth’ stage.
Look for clips made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone or other baby-safe materials. They should feel flexible, smooth, and safe for mouthing (because, let’s be honest, it’s going to end up in there at some point).
Bonus points if the product meets Australian or international safety standards.
mistake #4: clipping it in unsafe places
Where you attach the soother clip matters just as much as the clip itself. I’ve seen clips hooked to pram straps, bib strings, or even dummy chains looped around a baby’s neck (cue internal scream).
Always attach clips to the front of baby’s clothing—ideally on a onesie, singlet, or shirt that sits snug against their chest. Avoid attaching it near the neck, under the armpits, or anywhere it can get tangled as they move.
mistake #5: not cleaning it enough
You wouldn’t believe how grimy baby accessories can get after a day out, especially the ones that are constantly near their mouths. Soother clips are no exception.
From dribbles and milk spills to grubby fingers and accidental drops, these clips need to be washed regularly.
The b.box soother clip has a clever little antimicrobial twist: the flexible strap is designed with built-in antimicrobial tech that keeps it fresher between washes. A tiny detail that makes a big difference for busy parents.
why I love the b.box soother clip
I’m not one to recommend things unless I’ve used them and loved them, especially when it comes to products near the baby’s face.
The b.box soother clip ticks all the boxes for me as both a midwife and a mum:
â–º One-piece, flexible design with no small parts
â–º Easy to clean and dry
â–º Secure (but gentle) attachment
â–º Antimicrobial strap to stay fresher between washes
â–º Thoughtfully designed with safety in mind
reminder
You don’t need to know everything about baby products. You’re already doing an amazing job showing up, asking questions, and learning as you go.
Soother clips can be super helpful little tools—but only when used safely. Stick to the safety basics, clean them regularly, and most importantly, trust your gut.
You’ve got this, mama.