Gentle remedies for a newborn’s cold: What parents can safely try at home

A little sneeze, a tiny sniffle and suddenly your peaceful baby isn’t so peaceful anymore. One minute they’re smiling in their sleep, the next a stuffy nose reminds you that newborn colds are all part of the learning curve.

Take a slow breath. You are doing great. In this guide, we gather gentle, baby-safe ways to bring comfort at home, from small soothing rituals to simple tools that help a stuffy nose feel less bossy. 

We have clear notes on what is normal, what to skip, and when it is time to call the pediatrician. 

Throughout the guide, guidance from Debbie Gerken, Certified Pediatric Sleep Coach at Sleep Like a Baby Consulting, and Laura Hunter, LPN, Co-Founder of Moms on Call, helps you feel calm and confident as they care for their little one through each sneeze or sniffle.

What are the common symptoms of baby cold?

Newborn colds can look worrying at first – red noses, watery eyes, or frequent sniffles. But most colds are mild and manageable. Common signs include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing and little coughs
• Trouble feeding because of congestion
• Restlessness or shorter naps

What causes a cold in newborns?

Colds are usually caused by common viruses picked up from siblings, parents, or the environment. Since babies’ immune systems are still learning, they’re more likely to catch colds than older children.

 Newborn baby cold home remedies that really work

Wondering how to help a congested baby breathe easier? These gentle, pediatrician-approved remedies can bring comfort:

• Use saline drops and gentle suction

A few saline drops followed by a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator can help clear mucus so your baby can breathe and feed more comfortably. Debbie Gerken, Certified Pediatric Sleep Coach, suggests using them before feeds and sleep for best results.

• Wipe away sticky mucus

Dampen a soft cotton swab with warm water and gently clean around the nose. This helps remove buildup and keeps your baby comfortable.

• Practice safe sleep

Always place your baby on their back on a flat, firm surface with nothing else in the crib. Safe sleep helps reduce risks and supports better breathing.

• Run a cool-mist humidifier

Moist air can ease congestion and make sneezes feel gentler. Keep the humidifier out of reach and clean it regularly to maintain a healthy environment.

• Hold your baby upright during feeds or naps

A slightly elevated position can help relieve stuffiness and make feeding more comfortable for your newborn.

• Keep your baby hydrated

Offer breast milk or formula frequently to support your baby’s body while it fights off the cold. Hydration also helps thin mucus naturally.

• Avoid unsafe remedies

Skip honey, herbal teas, or essential oils – they aren’t safe for newborns. Stick to gentle basics and extra cuddles for comfort.

• Maintain a comfortable room temperature

Laura Hunter, Pediatric Nurse recommends, “Keep the nursery between 68–72°F, not too warm or too cool to support your baby’s breathing and overall comfort.”

Why infant cold medicine isn’t safe for babies?

Parents often ask if baby cold medicine can help. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against giving infants cold medicine under age 6 and strictly prohibited for infants. 

Debbie Gerkin highlights that, “even small amounts of medication can slow breathing, cause drowsiness, or affect heart rate.” She further explains, “These medications also do not treat the virus, but rather they mask symptoms, making it harder to notice if the baby’s condition worsens. Parents should always consult their pediatrician before giving any medication.”

In addition,Laura Hunter notes, “Over-the-counter cold medicines can create more problems than they solve for little ones. Gentle care like saline drops, suction, and extra comfort, is far safer and more effective.” They soothe symptoms without risk.

How to prevent your newborn from catching a cold?

While you can’t shield your newborn from every germ, there are simple steps that lower their risk of catching a cold. Prevention is mostly about good hygiene and limiting exposure during those early months.

• Start with clean hands

Wash your hands before holding your baby; small habits make a big difference.

• Limit exposure from sick visitors

If someone at home is under the weather, save the close cuddles for when they are better and keep visits short. Also, Debbie recommends, “Parents should also discourage kissing on the baby’s face or lips, which can transmit colds, RSV, or cold sores.”

• Keep the environment safe

Provide a clean, smoke-free space so your baby can breathe comfortably.

• Support immunity with feeding

Breastfeeding passes helpful antibodies; if not breastfeeding, comfort and calm still count.

• Avoid crowded spaces and stay on top of checkups

Debbie Gerken suggests, “Parents should limit exposure to crowded areas during the first months, as well as keep vaccinations and checkups current for the baby.”

When to call the doctor?

Most colds are mild, but call your pediatrician if your newborn has:

• Trouble breathing, fast breathing, or wheezing
• Poor feeding or fewer wet diapers
• Fever in a baby under 2 months
• Extreme sleepiness or irritability

It’s always better to check in if you’re unsure – doctors are there to reassure and guide you.

Conclusion

The first sneeze or sniffle can feel scary, but you may start simple: clear little noses with saline and gentle suction, keep the room comfy with a humidifier, and offer extra feeds and cuddles. Most colds are mild and will pass on their own. And if breathing looks hard, feeding drops off, or you just feel uneasy, call your pediatrician. Trust your instincts, and remember: you’ve got this.

Sources:

1. What causes the common cold?. AAP. “Children & Colds (Upper Respiratory Infections)”
2. Breastfeeding to build immunity. AAP. “Breastfeeding benefits your baby’s immune system” 
3. Gentle home remedies for a newborn’s cold. AAP. “Coughs and Colds: Medicines or Home Remedies?”
4. Over the counter medicines for infants. AAP. “How to Care for Your Child’s Cold”

You may also like:

• How to prevent your newborn from flu, cold, and congestion
• The ultimate guide to your baby’s vaccine and immunization schedule
• Why can’t babies have honey (even in baked goods)