A blocked nose makes feeding and sleeping hard, and your normally happy baby is grumpy and miserable. Babies can catch 6 to 8 colds a year, so you will face this often. There is no cure for a cold, but these safe baby cold remedies can make your baby much more comfortable while their body fights the virus.
Quick answer: baby cold remedies
- Saline drops and gentle suction to clear a blocked nose.
- Extra feeds to keep your baby hydrated.
- Rest and comfort, with safe back sleeping.
- Avoid cough and cold medicines for babies and young children.
Clearing a blocked nose
- Put 1 to 2 saline drops in each nostril to loosen mucus.
- Wait a minute, then gently use a nasal aspirator or bulb syringe.
- Do this before feeds and sleep, not too many times a day, to avoid irritation.
- Wipe the nose with a soft, damp cloth, and use a little barrier cream if the skin is sore.
Other comfort measures
- Feeds: offer smaller, more frequent feeds; your baby may need to pause to breathe.
- Humidity: a cool-mist humidifier, cleaned daily, may help.
- Steam: sit with your baby in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes; never use bowls of hot water.
- Fever or discomfort: paracetamol (acetaminophen), or ibuprofen from 6 months, at the right dose. See acetaminophen vs ibuprofen.
- Sleep: always on the back on a flat mattress; do not raise the cot. See caring for a sick baby at night.
What to avoid
- cough and cold medicines, decongestants and antihistamines unless prescribed
- vapour rubs on babies under 2, or on the face of any child
- essential oils
- honey before 12 months
- antibiotics, which do not work on cold viruses
How long colds last
Most colds last 7 to 10 days, with the cough sometimes lingering longer. Mucus often turns thick and yellow or green, which is normal. See allergy vs cold vs flu in babies.
When to talk to your doctor
- fever of 38°C or higher in a baby under 3 months
- fast or difficult breathing, grunting or ribs pulling in: seek urgent help
- fewer wet nappies or refusing feeds
- ear pulling with fever, or ear discharge. See ear infections in babies
- symptoms lasting more than 10 days, or getting worse after improving
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my baby out with a cold?
Yes, fresh air is fine if your baby is well enough. Keep them away from very young babies and vulnerable people.
Does breastfeeding help with colds?
Breast milk provides antibodies and fluids, so keep feeding as normal.
Why does my baby get so many colds?
Babies’ immune systems are still learning. Frequent colds are normal, especially at nursery.
Sources
- NHS: Common cold
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Colds in Babies; Cough and Cold Medicines
- U.S. FDA: Should you give kids medicine for coughs and colds?
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you are worried about your baby, contact your doctor.