We know life can be stressful when little ones are uncomfortable. During baby’s first year, dust and other irritants are new to their developing immune systems and coughing and sneezing are the best tools they have. That often means sleepless nights for baby and for you. We’re here to help with the Hive Five! Time-tested home remedies for baby cough and chest congestion to support the health and wellbeing of your little one.
Home Remedies for Baby Coughs
These time-tested, natural remedies pass from generation to generation for good reason and can also help ease cough associated with hoarseness, dry throat, or irritants in toddlers:
1. Sleep baby, sleep
Sleep is a main building block in a healthy immune system and can help support baby’s overall wellbeing. If coughing is keeping baby up, try clearing out mucus with infant nasal saline drops and a bulb syringe or baby snot sucker before naps and at bedtime to ease breathing. Then cuddle with her. Your hugs and sweet strokes may ease her discomfort and help her relax. Check out ZARBEE’S® Baby Bedtime Routine and Sleep Schedule Tips for more ways to help soothe your little one before bed.
2. Give plenty of fluids
Keep baby hydrated so her secretions don’t dry up and become difficult to clear when she coughs. Breastfeed or formula feed younger babies often and give plenty of water or unsweetened juice to older ones to help keep throat and nasal passages moisturized and clear. Try using a gentle nasal mist to help with breathing.
3. Try a humidifier for baby’s room
Use a cool-mist humidifier in the nursery to increase the moisture content in the air - it’s safe for babies - and change the water daily to keep bacteria at bay. You can also turn your bathroom into a steam room. Run a hot shower until the air is steamy and sit with your baby for 10 to 15 minutes - breathing in the warm moist air can help clear nasal pathways. Do this before bedtime to help them fall asleep.
4. Feed them well
Little ones 0 to 6 months need energy to stay healthy and certain nutrients can strengthen their developing immune system. If you’re breastfeeding - keep it up. The antibodies in breast milk can help.
Older babies need solids from all food groups with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Old fashioned chicken soup: it not only tastes great, but the nutrient-rich ingredients can ease discomfort, and warm broth can help to clear up the upper respiratory tract in baby.
A teaspoon of honey: for babies 1 year and up, honey can help ease baby’s coughing so she can sleep better. Take it from the Hive!
5. Keep germs at bay
Keep Clean. Germs are everywhere and can land on surfaces like toys and tabletops. Use soap and water or hot steam to ensure the area is clean. Keep porous surfaces like clothes, blankies and stuffed animals clean, too. And we know you know, but a friendly reminder to practice good hygiene and wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds.
When to Call the Pediatrician
If conditions persist or worsen or if your baby has trouble breathing, always consult your doctor.
