Pacifier Gag — Get Closer Glossary

Type of

Used in

WHY PEOPLE USE IT

Pacifier gags are primarily used in age play and ABDL (Adult Baby/Diaper Lover) scenes, where the wearer takes on an infantilised role. The pacifier reinforces the dynamic visually and physically, providing the oral sensation and the visual cue of infancy. They are also used in Daddy Dom/Little and caregiver dynamics more broadly. Outside of age play, some people use them simply for the oral comfort of having something to suck.

HOW POPULAR IS IT

Specific to age play and ABDL communities, where they are a defining accessory. Outside those communities they are uncommon. ABDL is a sizable kink community and the pacifier gag is one of its most recognisable items.

HISTORY

Adult pacifiers began appearing in ABDL communities in the 1980s as the community formed through print zines and early online spaces. Early versions were modified infant pacifiers or custom-made pieces. Commercial adult pacifiers became available through ABDL specialty retailers from the 1990s onward. The strapped version, which keeps the pacifier in place without the wearer holding it, developed from BDSM gag harness conventions applied to the ABDL aesthetic.

The 1990s also saw pacifiers become a fixture of rave culture, where MDMA use caused jaw clenching and teeth grinding, and ravers wore regular dummies as a practical counter to that. These were unstrapped and had no gag function, but the timing overlapped with the kink market developing adult pacifier products. Whether the rave adoption influenced the wider cultural visibility of adult pacifiers, or whether both drew independently on the same infantilism aesthetic, is not well documented.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

The nipple should be food-grade silicone rather than latex if there is any latex sensitivity. The shield should be large enough to prevent the nipple being swallowed. Strapped designs should have a comfortable harness that does not create sore spots on prolonged wear. Some designs allow the nipple to be replaced when it shows wear.

TRUSTED BRANDS

Rearz and ABU (ABUniverse) are the main specialist ABDL brands producing quality adult pacifiers and pacifier gags.

WHERE TO BUY IT

Show prices in

ABDL specialist retailers including Rearz, ABUniverse, and Tykables. Also available from specialist sellers on Etsy.

Pacifier gags range from about $15 to about $45 depending on harness complexity and nipple material.

Rough prices as of July 2026.

HOW TO LOOK AFTER IT

Clean the nipple and shield separately from the straps. Silicone nipples can be boiled, run through a dishwasher on the top rack, or wiped with isopropyl alcohol between users. Do not boil if the nipple is attached to plastic housing that cannot tolerate heat. Inspect the nipple before each use for cracks, tears, or discolouration. A cracked nipple can harbour bacteria and should be replaced. Silicone nipples naturally degrade with repeated boiling over time; replace them regularly even if no visible damage is present.

Wipe the shield and straps with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry the metal hardware thoroughly to prevent rust. If the nipple is replaceable, check that the attachment point is secure before each use. Store in a dry bag away from direct sunlight, which degrades silicone over time.