How to Keep a Dummy Clean When You’re Out and About

A dummy has a habit of landing on the floor at the least convenient moment — in a café, at the park or halfway through a family day out.

When you are away from home, you may not have immediate access to your usual cleaning and sterilising equipment. A little preparation can make these moments much easier to handle.

Here is a practical guide to keeping your baby’s dummy clean while you are out and about.

What Should You Do if a Dummy Falls on the Floor?

If a dummy lands on the floor or another unclean surface, avoid putting it straight back into your baby’s mouth.

Place the dropped dummy in a separate pouch or container so that it does not come into contact with clean dummies. If you have packed a clean spare, use that until you can properly clean and sterilise the dropped dummy.

It can be tempting to clean a dummy by putting it in your own mouth, particularly when there is no sink nearby. However, Healthier Together guidance advises against this because germs can be transferred from an adult’s mouth to the baby.

Cleaning and Sterilising Are Not Quite the Same

Cleaning removes visible dirt, food and other residue from a dummy. Sterilising is an additional step intended to reduce the germs remaining on it.

If a dummy is visibly dirty, remove the debris and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions before using a suitable sterilising method. A sterilising device should not be expected to remove mud, food or other visible dirt.

Always check the instructions supplied with the dummy. Materials and designs vary, so not every cleaning or sterilising method will be suitable for every product.

Pack More Than One Clean Dummy

One of the easiest ways to prepare for a day out is to take at least one clean spare.

Keep clean dummies inside a closed case or compartment rather than loose in the changing bag. Use a separate small pouch or container for any dummies that become dirty during the day.

A spare dummy takes up very little room and can save a considerable amount of stress. You can add one to the checklist whenever you prepare your baby changing bag before leaving home.

Ways to Sterilise a Dummy Away From Home

The most suitable option will depend on where you are going, how long you will be away and the instructions provided with your baby’s dummy.

Use a Clean Spare

For short trips, carrying clean spares may be the simplest answer. Once a dummy becomes dirty, keep it separate and clean it properly when you return home.

Use an Appropriate Travel Sterilising System

Some parents use a portable cold-water sterilising container or another travel system. Follow the instructions supplied with both the sterilising product and the dummy carefully.

Do not assume that an ordinary wipe will sterilise a dummy unless it is specifically approved for that purpose and suitable for something that will go into a baby’s mouth.

Use a Portable UV Dummy Steriliser

A portable UV steriliser can offer a compact, water-free option when you are travelling or spending the day away from home.

F&M’s Portable Dummy Steriliser is designed to use UV light during a three-minute cycle. Its small size makes it easy to keep in a changing bag, ready for situations where your usual equipment is not available.

Before starting the cycle, make sure the dummy is free from visible debris. Place it inside as instructed, close the steriliser and allow the full cycle to finish. Always follow the instructions supplied with both the steriliser and the dummy.

What Should You Avoid Doing?

When handling dummies away from home, try to avoid:

• Putting a dropped or visibly dirty dummy straight back into your baby’s mouth.

• Cleaning the dummy in your own mouth.

• Mixing used dummies with clean ones.

• Using a damaged, split, sticky or badly worn dummy.

• Assuming that a quick wipe removes every germ.

• Using a sterilising method that is not suitable for the dummy’s material.

Inspect the dummy regularly and replace it if you notice damage or signs of deterioration.

A Simple Dummy Kit for Your Changing Bag

You do not need to carry a large amount of equipment. A small on-the-go dummy kit could contain:

• One or two clean spare dummies.

• A clean, closed dummy case.

• A separate pouch for dirty dummies.

• Hand sanitiser for the parent or carer.

• A portable steriliser where appropriate.

Keep everything together in an accessible changing-bag compartment so you can find it quickly when it is needed.

For more useful items designed for family days out, browse F&M’s Everyday Outings collection or the Changing & Travel collection.

A Little Preparation Makes Days Out Easier

Dropped dummies are difficult to avoid completely, but they do not have to disrupt your day.

Packing a clean spare, keeping clean and dirty dummies separate and choosing a suitable travel sterilising option will help you feel prepared. When you get home, clean your travel equipment, replace anything you have used and repack the bag for your next outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if a dummy falls on the floor?

Keep the dropped dummy away from clean items and use a clean spare if you have one. Clean and sterilise the dropped dummy properly before it is used again.

Can I clean my baby’s dummy in my mouth?

No. This can transfer germs from your mouth to your baby. Use a clean spare or a suitable cleaning and sterilising method instead.

Can every dummy be sterilised in the same way?

Not necessarily. Different materials may require different treatment. Always follow the instructions provided by the dummy’s manufacturer.

Does a UV steriliser remove visible dirt?

No. Visible dirt and debris should be removed first, following the dummy manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. A UV cycle does not physically wash the dummy.

When should I replace a dummy?

Check it regularly and replace it if you find splits, tears, stickiness, weakness or other damage. Also follow any replacement schedule recommended by the manufacturer.