Baby’s first cold

You know it’s only a matter of time … your little one’s first set of sniffles is bound to happen sooner or later. Though a common cold seems like no big deal, what we do to help ourselves doesn’t fly for the small set. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend giving over-the-counter medication to your baby unless prescribed by a doctor, as it offers little benefit to young children. But that doesn’t mean he has to suffer or that you can’t be prepared; here’s what to know when sicknesses arise …

1| Know what temps are OK and what’s too hot. Any fever in babies under 1 month old should be seen by a medical practitioner immediately—otherwise call your practitioner if it soars above 100.4 degrees or if his temperature falls below 97.5 Fahrenheit.

2| Help clear congestion. Children have a harder time clearing their sinuses than adults do. Boogie Wipes® saline nose wipes and Boogie Mist® saline nose mist are natural saline products for tiny noses and are the perfect way to gently dissolve boogies while maintaining moisture and avoiding further irritation. The Boogie Wipes® saline nose wipes are soft to the touch and effective on even the harshest of colds. We know excessive wiping and messing with baby’s nose is no fun (for you or for him), so best to use fast-acting products that comfort while making the process as seamless as possible.

3| Make sure baby stays hydrated. Even if your wee one seems more interested in sleeping off his sickness than anything else, make sure he gets plenty of liquid throughout the day. If you’re breastfeeding, continue to offer the breast and nurse as often as he wants; formula fed babes should consume 24 to 32 ounces in a 24-hour period while on the mend. When in doubt about anything regarding baby, call your pediatrician. No matter the question or how many times you’ve already discussed symptoms, don’t be afraid to reach out—it’s what doctors are there for!

This post was made in partnership with Boogie Wipes® brand products, a line of natural saline aids we use on our own littles when feeling under the weather.