How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold 🤧🍼
A common cold is a viral infection – rarely serious, but often upsetting for both baby and parent. These colds can last from one to two weeks and are caused by a variety of viruses. While babies are born with some immunity, their immune systems take time to mature, making them more vulnerable in the early months. The best thing you can do is ease their symptoms and keep them as comfortable as possible while their body does the hard work. And remember – catching a cold helps strengthen their immunity over time.
Common Cold Symptoms in Babies: What to Look For
Symptoms of a cold usually appear about three days after exposure to the virus. You might notice:
- A stuffy or runny nose (often clear at first, then yellow or green)
- Sneezing
- A cough
- Fussiness or irritability
- Reduced appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Mild fever
- General fatigue
It’s always a good idea to check in with your GP, especially if your baby is under three months old or if you’re unsure about any symptoms.
When your baby is unwell, offer plenty of extra love and cuddles 🤱🏼 Let them sleep when they need to, even if it's outside of their usual routine – rest is just as important as remedies when it comes to helping them heal.
Natural Remedies to Help Relieve Baby’s Cold
Because a cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help – but there are plenty of gentle remedies that can.
If baby has a blocked or stuffy nose, saline drops can loosen mucus and make breathing easier. You should be able to get this at a good chemist. Pair this with a nasal aspirator to help clear their nose. At Dimples, we stock two great options:
- Oricom Rechargeable Nasal Aspirator – gentle, quiet, and super easy to use. It’s a popular choice for parents wanting something fuss-free and hygienic.
- NUK Nasal Decongester – simple and effective, designed to gently suction mucus without irritation.
Best Humidifier for Babies with Congestion
The Crane 3-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier with Aroma Diffuser & Sleep Support Light can be such a help when your little one isn't feeling their best. The cool mist adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe stuffy noses, dry coughs, and delicate skin - making it a little easier for baby to rest and breathe. You can also add a few drops of baby-safe essential oils to the aroma diffuser for a comforting, calming atmosphere. And during those quiet overnight cuddles or feeds, the soft glow of the sleep light offers just the right amount of warmth and reassurance💛
The Best Chest Rub for Babies with a Cold 🌿
For natural relief, The Nude Alchemist Baby Chest Rub is a gentle balm made in New Zealand with certified organic ingredients. It can be applied to baby’s chest, back, or feet to help clear airways and promote a more restful sleep. A comforting must-have for cold season.
When to See a Doctor About Your Baby’s Cold
If your baby is under three months old and showing signs of a cold, always check in with your doctor. For older babies, trust your instincts – if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned, a quick visit can help rule out anything more serious and give you peace of mind.
