Dummy chains – wooden, silicone, personalised
When the dummy falls under the pram yet again, a well-made dummy chain
comes to the rescue – it holds securely, looks gorgeous and becomes
your baby’s first beloved keepsake almost by accident. Here you’ll
discover everything about materials, safety to EN 71,
personalisation with a name and how to make your own dummy chain
quickly and easily.
- ✓ EN 71 certified
- ✓ Made in Germany
- ✓ Saliva-resistant & tested for safety
- ✓ Personalise with a name
What is a dummy chain – and why do parents love them?
A dummy chain is a short, securely made connection between
your baby’s clothing and their dummy. It typically consists of wooden beads or
silicone beads, a sturdy cord or ribbon and a wooden clip for fastening.
Instead of constantly chasing after dropped dummies, it stays right where
it should be: within your baby’s reach.
But a dummy chain is far more than just a practical helper. The smooth
beads invite exploration with fingers and mouth, boost motor skills
and – when teething starts – become a gentle teething ring. A beautiful dummy
chain often accompanies your child through the first two or three years.
for harmful substances to EN 71-3 – that applies to every single
bead, every clip and every cord.
Safety first: EN 71 and the most important DIN standards
With a dummy chain, it’s not just about beautiful design – it must be
absolutely safe. In Europe, three main standards govern this,
which we’ve explained here for you:
EN 71-1
Mechanical and physical properties – tensile strength, sharp edges,
chain length (max. 22 cm when stretched) and shape of parts.
EN 71-3
Migration of certain elements: no lead, no cadmium, no nickel leaching –
each wooden bead individually tested.
DIN EN 12586
Dummy chain holder standard: regulates correct fastening, clip stability
and maximum loop length to protect against strangulation.
to a dummy that your baby sleeps with. Always remove it before bedtime.
Wooden or silicone – which material suits your baby?
Both materials have their fans – and both have good reasons. Here’s the
honest comparison, so you can find the right wooden dummy chain
or silicone dummy chain for your family.
Wooden dummy chain
- ✓ Renewable resource, plastic-free
- ✓ Warm, lightweight, rich sensory experience
- ✓ Classic, timeless look
- ✓ Saliva-resistant beeswax finish
- ✕ Not dishwasher safe
Ideal for: nature lovers, birth gifts,
classic nurseries.
Silicone dummy chain
- ✓ Waterproof & boilable
- ✓ Soft, ideal for teething
- ✓ Bright pastel colour palette
- ✓ Food-grade silicone
- ✕ Heavier per bead
Ideal for: on the go, beach days, teething phases,
modern designs.
Dummy chain with a name – the ultimate birth gift
A dummy chain with a name is a classic baby gift – and for
good reason. It’s one of a kind, won’t be given twice, and
can’t be mixed up with another dummy chain if your little one likes sharing
everything in the parent-and-baby group.
How we personalise with a name:
- Letters from character beads with
clear, easy-to-read lettering - Up to 10 letters per chain – nicknames fit too
- Black and white print, food-safe colours
- Saliva-resistant beeswax finish, tested to EN 71-3
- Usually 3–4 working days production time
Tip: Pair the personalised chain with a matching
teething ring – the ultimate wow factor for a birth gift.
Make your own dummy chain or buy ready-made?
Making your own dummy chain – around 3,600 parents search
for this every month. We completely understand: homemade has charm, it’s
unniquely personal and just plain fun. But there are times when the
ready-made option is the better choice. Here’s our honest take:
Make it yourself
- ✓ Cheaper per piece (from around €5)
- ✓ 100% individual
- ✓ Fun DIY experience
- ✕ You need to watch the standards
- ✕ Time investment 20–30 mins
Buy ready-made
- ✓ Ready to use straight away
- ✓ Quality-checked finished product
- ✓ Beautifully wrapped as a gift
- ✕ Less DIY satisfaction
- ✕ Higher unit price (€12–19)
craft kit – all the beads,
clips and cords are already tested. That way you get the fun without the
safety worries.
Step-by-step guide: making your own dummy chain
You’ll need about 25 minutes, a quiet space and the following materials:
- 1 wooden clip (heart, round or oval)
- 5–7 wooden beads 10–15 mm
- 2–3 character or letter beads
- 1 dummy ribbon (satin or cotton), approx. 25 cm
- Scissors, lighter (for sealing) or cord cutters
-
Step 1 · Plan
Lay out your beads in the order you’d like them. Alternate colours
and shapes so it looks lively. -
Step 2 · Prepare the ribbon
Cut the ribbon to 25 cm and briefly seal the ends with a flame
– this makes threading easier. -
Step 3 · Attach the clip
Thread the ribbon through the wooden clip and secure with a firm
double knot right at the holder. -
Step 4 · Thread the beads
Thread your beads in the order you’ve planned. Hold the chain up
regularly – so you can see how it looks straight away. -
Step 5 · Dummy loop
Leave about 5 cm of ribbon free at the end and form a small
loop for the dummy ring. Secure with a double knot. -
Step 6 · Safety check
Pull firmly on each section of the chain. Nothing must
come loose. Measure the length when stretched: maximum
22 cm. -
Step 7 · Give or enjoy
Done! Wrapped beautifully in tissue paper and twine, it makes a
wonderful birth gift.
for cracks or loose knots. Replace at the first sign of wear.
Our recommendations for you
Straight from our range – every chain made in Germany and
tested to EN 71:
Frequently asked questions about dummy chains
From what age can my baby wear a dummy chain?
A dummy chain can be used from birth – as long as it meets the
EN 71 standard and is removed during sleep. Most parents start
around weeks 4–6 of life.
What’s the maximum length for a dummy chain?
When stretched, a maximum of 22 cm – as specified
in EN 12586. Every chain we make is factory-optimised to this length.
Wooden or silicone – which is better?
Both are safe. Wood wins on looks, sensory play and
sustainability. Silicone shines for teething, beach days
and washing. Many parents end up with one of each.
Can I put the dummy chain in the dishwasher?
Not wooden ones. Wipe with a damp cloth and a bit of vinegar water.
Silicone dummy chains can be briefly boiled.
How long does a personalised chain take to make?
Usually 3–4 working days from order. During Christmas
and baby booms, it can stretch to 5 working days.
How do I attach the chain correctly?
Clip to a babygrow, bib or jumper – never directly to the
neck or to a sleeping bag. Remove before sleep.
Are your dummy chains compatible with MAM, NUK and Avent?
Yes. Our loop fits all standard dummy rings from MAM, NUK, Avent,
Dentistar and Difrax.
What does a dummy chain cost at Kiki-Ena?
Finished dummy chains range from €12 to €19,
personalised with a name from around €15 to €24.
Craft kits start at about €9.
Ready for your dummy chain?
Browse our finished designs – or get creative yourself.