Choosing the right pacifier or bottle nipple can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, how do you know which ones actually support your baby’s development? That’s where the pacifier triangle test comes in. Created by RN and IBCLC Kaylee Rabaja, this simple at-home method helps parents quickly assess whether a pacifier or nipple encourages proper oral mechanics and supports breastfeeding goals.

what is the pacifier triangle test?

The pacifier triangle test is designed to give parents a visual and practical way to evaluate nipple shapes. It helps determine if a pacifier or bottle nipple is likely to encourage a deep latch similar to breastfeeding.

Here’s how it works:

• Take the pacifier or bottle nipple you want to test.
  
• Place your index fingers across the tip of the nipple, forming a triangle.
  
• Look at the space between your fingers and the nipple.
  

If there is little to no space, the nipple passes the triangle test. This suggests the shape supports a wide, deep latch, encouraging proper tongue and jaw movement. If there is a noticeable gap, the nipple may promote a shallow latch that could interfere with breastfeeding or oral development.

why the nipple triangle test matters

Pacifiers and nipples are not just about soothing or feeding. Their shape can influence how your baby develops oral motor skills, how easily they transition between breast and bottle, and even how comfortable feeding is for both baby and parent.

Choosing products that pass the triangle test may help:

• Support healthy oral muscle development.
  
• Reduce shallow latching habits.
  
• Lower the risk of nipple confusion between breast, bottle, and pacifier.
  
• Preserve breastfeeding goals for families who are combo-feeding.
• Encourage better use of the baby’s tongue and jaw.

These benefits are especially important during the newborn stage, when feeding patterns are still being established.

how to spot a pacifier or nipple that passes

Not all products are created equal. Nipples that often pass the triangle test usually share some common features:

• A gradual slope or cylindrical shape.
  
• A base that allows for a deep latch.
  
• A design that encourages the natural suck-swallow-breathe rhythm used in breastfeeding.

Nipples that fail tend to be flat, wide without slope, or asymetrical in design. These shapes can make it harder for babies to achieve an effective latch and may lead to frustration or poor feeding habits.

putting it into practice

If you’re shopping for new pacifiers or bottle nipples, try the triangle test before committing to a product. Consider keeping these tips in mind:

• Test more than one option. Different brands have different designs.
  
• Watch your baby’s response. A product that passes the triangle test but doesn’t soothe your baby won’t be helpful.
  
• Consult a lactation consultant if you’re struggling with feeding challenges.
  
• Look for products made from safe, medical-grade materials.

balancing science and real life

It’s important to remember that no test replaces your baby’s actual experience. The triangle test is a quick tool, but every baby is unique. Some may thrive with pacifiers that technically fail the test. Others may need more specialized solutions if they struggle with latching or oral coordination.

Your role as a parent is to observe, adjust, and choose what works best for your family. Combining expert-backed tools like the triangle test with real-world observation gives you the best chance of success.

ready to find the right nipple for your baby?

Looking for products that pass the triangle test? Shop mōmi’s breast-like pacifiers and bottles today and discover why thousands of parents trust our products for healthy feeding and soothing.