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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 61 (from laksa084)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa061.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261","crawl_time":1776225867,"first_indexed_time":1502141171,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,today!www,\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261 s443","src_root_hash":"14344358153203253461","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"15 Home Cough Remedies for Kids","meta_descriptions":["If your child's coughing is keeping them (and you) up at night, try one of these home remedies."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Cold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the\nAmerican Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology\n. In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria.\nIf your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and\ntummy\nare probably sore from all the exertion.\nThankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses).\n15 home cough remedies for kids\nIf you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try:\n1. Keep their head elevated\nIf your little one is over 1 year old, arrange\na few pillows\nunder their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing.\nFor a baby, place a\npillow\nunderneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation.\n2. Get steamy!\nWilliam Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of \"\nThe Baby Book\n\" and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out.\nDr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts.\n3. Use a humidifier\nAltmann also recommends running a\ncool-mist humidifier\nall night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow.\nCrane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier\nAltmann recommends\nCrane humidifiers\n. \"They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive,\" she said.\n4. Get a NoseFrida\nOnce the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the\nNoseFrida\nis best in class.\nNoseFrida\nYes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth.\nOne TODAY editor loved her\nNoseFrida\nwhen her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device.\n5. Clear the nose\nIn addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a\nsaline solution\nin each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work.\nLittle Remedies Sterile Saline Mist\nThis saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones.\nSimply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer\nAltmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. \"It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils,\" she said.\n6. Try honey\nBecause of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are\nno longer recommended for children under age 6\n. What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The\ntype of honey used in the studies was buckwheat\n, a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats.\nA spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really.\nFeaturepics stock\nGive a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren.\n7. Say yes to candy\nWible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work!\nAltmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5.\nWerther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy\nLife Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy\n8. Use a chest rub\nFor children older than 2, massage some\nVicks VapoRub\non their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night.\nVicks VapoRub Ointment\nThe product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers.\n9. Try an internet rumor\nSpeaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough.\n“Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying.\n10. Encourage them to drink\nWe all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing.\n11. Don’t be afraid of milk\nIn your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many\nstudies have proven that association to be a complete myth\n. What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it\nwill\nkeep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system.\nNever miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here\n12. Serve chicken soup\nThough no one is sure why,\nstudies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs\nand soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s\nhomemade\nor comes from a\ncan\n.\nJanette Fuschi \/ Culinary Ginger\n13. Get them to gargle\nIs chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another\ntime-tested, expert-approved cough remedy\n. Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender.\nWhat to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling.\n14. Clean up\nIf your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child.\n15. Step outside\nIf your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is\na time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough\n. And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too.\nKnow when to call the doctor\nAt-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s\nwhen to ring your pediatrician\n:\nYour child has a barking cough (croup)\nThey have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in\nThey make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old)\nThey are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor)\nThey have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old)\nThey are coughing up blood\nTheir cough lasts for longer than two weeks\nIf your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color,\ncall 911\n.\nThis story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.","attrs_markdown":"[Top Editor-Curated Beauty Picks for Spring — Plus, Exclusive Deals](https:\/\/marketplace.today.com\/boxes?cid=web_td_cb&utm_source_uc=web&utm_medium_uc=curatedbox&utm_campaign_uc=TODAYmarquee&utm_content_uc=boxhomepage&utm_program_uc=TODAY&utm_source=web&utm_medium=CB&utm_campaign=TODAYmarquee)\n\nIE 11 is not supported. 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When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. [Learn more](https:\/\/www.today.com\/shop\/everything-you-need-know-about-shop-today-t161374).\n\nParents\n\n# 15 home remedies to soothe your child's cough\nIf your child's coughing is keeping them (and you) up at night, try one of these home remedies.\n\nUpdated March 4, 2024, 8:01 PM UTC\n\n\/ Source: [TODAY](https:\/\/today.com\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_focal-100x100,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2024_02\/2045935\/rosie_colosi_headshot_720.jpg) Rosie Colosi Lifestyle Reporter, Parents](https:\/\/www.today.com\/author\/rosie-colosi-tdpn294346)\n\nSkip to table of contents\n\n![Sometimes it seems like little kids are coughing and sniffling all winter. Here are some tried and true home remedies.](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2020_02\/1527268\/cough-home-remedies-toady-main-20110.jpg)\n\nSometimes it seems like little kids are coughing and sniffling all winter. Here are some tried and true home remedies.Getty Images\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMjAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMCAyMCIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTkuMjgyNzEgMTEuMTkxOEwzLjAwMDAzIDE3LjQ5ODVWMUgxN1YxNy41NjU4TDEwLjcwMjQgMTEuMTk0NUw5Ljk5MzkzIDEwLjQ3NzhMOS4yODI3MSAxMS4xOTE4WiIgZmlsbD0iIzdDNEU5RiIgZmlsbC1vcGFjaXR5PSIwLjMiIHN0cm9rZT0iIzdDNEU5RiIgc3Ryb2tlLXdpZHRoPSIyIi8+Cjwvc3ZnPgogICAg)\n\nCreate your free account or log in to save this article\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)Add TODAY to Google](https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=today.com)\n\nCold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the [American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/allergies\/cough-in-children). In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria.\n\nIf your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and [tummy](https:\/\/www.today.com\/health\/10-tummy-troubles-you-should-never-ignore-t74171) are probably sore from all the exertion.\n\nThankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses).\n\n[15 home cough remedies for kids](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15homecoughremediesforkids)\n\nIf you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try:\n\n[1\\. Keep their head elevated](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-1Keeptheirheadelevated)\n\nIf your little one is over 1 year old, arrange [a few pillows](https:\/\/www.today.com\/health\/best-pillows-every-type-sleeper-t126358) under their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing.\n\nFor a baby, place a [pillow](https:\/\/www.today.com\/home\/best-pillows-sleeping-our-review-popular-gel-pillow-amazon-t134011) underneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation.\n\n[2\\. Get steamy\\!](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-2Getsteamy)\n\nWilliam Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of \"[The Baby Book](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Baby-Book-Revised-Everything-Parenting\/dp\/0316198269\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\" and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out.\n\nDr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts.\n\n[3\\. Use a humidifier](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-3Useahumidifier)\n\nAltmann also recommends running a [cool-mist humidifier](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Pure-Enrichment-MistAire-Ultrasonic-Humidifier\/dp\/B013IJPTFK\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) all night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow.\n\n### [Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527246\/51xmvbmvthl-5e1895f39695a.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n[\\$39.98 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n[\\$59.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.bedbathandbeyond.com\/store\/product\/crane-ultrasonic-cool-mist-drop-shape-humidifier\/120105)\n\nAltmann recommends [Crane humidifiers](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). \"They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive,\" she said.\n\n[4\\. Get a NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-4GetaNoseFrida)\n\nOnce the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) is best in class.\n\n### [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![NoseFrida the Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray Kit with 10 Hygiene filters by Fridababy - Sinus Congestion Relief for newborns up to toddlers (Amazon)](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1467395\/9a1934c5-4edf-4e6e-a691-d573ca9e6da4-1-806ca39d3dc7e9fdbd2359abf3037e7d-5d434cf48febf.jpeg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n[\\$16.99 \\$19.99 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n[\\$10.49 \\$15.99 at Walmart](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FNoseFrida-the-SnotSucker-Nasal-Aspirator%2F15126393)\n\n[\\$10.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.bedbathandbeyond.com\/store\/product\/fridababy-nosefrida-reg-snotsucker-nasal-aspirator\/134043)\n\nYes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth.\n\nOne TODAY editor loved her [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/nosafrida-ultimate-nasal-aspirator-your-baby-s-stuffy-nose-t136062) when her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device.\n\n[5\\. Clear the nose](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-5Clearthenose)\n\nIn addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a [saline solution](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Little-Remedies-Sterile-Breathe-Newborn\/dp\/B01AGKU56W?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&th=1&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) in each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work.\n\n### [Little Remedies Sterile Saline Mist](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n[![Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1536402\/screen_shot_2020-02-06_at_4-28-39_pm.png)](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n\n[\\$4.79 at Target](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n\n[\\$5.99 at Walgreens](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/little-remedies-sterile-saline-nasal-mist\/ID=300408253-product)\n\nThis saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones.\n\n### [Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm \\&amp; Hammer](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527249\/41gqrtyttgl-5e189771c6746.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\n[\\$7.29 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\nAltmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. \"It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils,\" she said.\n\n[6\\. Try honey](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-6Tryhoney)\n\nBecause of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are [no longer recommended for children under age 6](http:\/\/practice.aap.org\/content.aspx?aid=2254). What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The [type of honey used in the studies was buckwheat](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2010\/12\/16\/remedies-honey-for-coughing\/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=883DB75F153836C02598346BA296598B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL), a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats.\n\n![Jar of honey](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2016_04\/945706\/honey-jar-stock-today-tease-160125.jpg)\n\nA spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really.Featurepics stock\n\nGive a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren.\n\n[7\\. Say yes to candy](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-7Sayyestocandy)\n\nWible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work\\!\n\nAltmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5.\n\n### [Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n[![WERTHER\\&\\#039;S ORIGINAL Sugar Free Caramel Hard Candy, 1.46 Ounce Bag (Pack of 12), Hard Candy, Bulk Candy, Individually Wrapped Candy Caramels, Caramel Candy Sweets, Bag of Candy, Hard Candy Bulk](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1467399\/515j92jptil-5d434e9ee9a76.jpg)](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n\n[\\$6.99 at Target](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n### [Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n[![Life Savers 5 Flavors Sugarfree Hard Candy Bag](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527218\/51kvwbuvyil-5e188e030b44a.jpg)](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n\n[\\$2.99 at Walgreens](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n\n[8\\. Use a chest rub](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-8Useachestrub)\n\nFor children older than 2, massage some [Vicks VapoRub](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Vicks-VapoRub-Ointment-1-76-Ounces\/dp\/B000GCHOEM\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) on their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night.\n\n### [Vicks VapoRub Ointment](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n[![Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2020_02\/1527222\/00e5bc56-df94-4256-86a4-ad4607e783ff-1-04ac294cbc0def208cd5e866fd8831d1-5e189029602b1.jpeg)](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n\n![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\n\n[Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n\n[\\$5.25 \\$6.02 at Walmart](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n\nThe product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers.\n\n[9\\. Try an internet rumor](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-9Tryaninternetrumor)\n\nSpeaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough.\n\n“Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying.\n\n[10\\. Encourage them to drink](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-10Encouragethemtodrink)\n\nWe all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing.\n\n[11\\. Don’t be afraid of milk](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-11Dontbeafraidofmilk)\n\nIn your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many [studies have proven that association to be a complete myth](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/common-cold\/expert-answers\/phlegm\/faq-20058015). What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it *will* keep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system.\n\n[***Never miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here***](http:\/\/www.today.com\/newsletters)\n\n[12\\. Serve chicken soup](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-12Servechickensoup)\n\nThough no one is sure why, [studies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2007\/10\/12\/the-science-of-chicken-soup\/) and soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s [homemade](https:\/\/www.today.com\/recipes\/classic-chicken-noodle-soup-t50301) or comes from a [can](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Campbells-Homestyle-Chicken-Noodle-Ounce\/dp\/B0029TJTLG\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop).\n\n![Chicken soup recipe by TODAY Food Club member Janette Fuschi](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2016_01\/923041\/today-food-club-chicken-soup-today-150105-inline.jpg)\n\nJanette Fuschi \/ Culinary Ginger\n\n[13\\. Get them to gargle](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-13Getthemtogargle)\n\nIs chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another [time-tested, expert-approved cough remedy](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2010\/09\/27\/gargling-with-salt-water-for-colds\/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=4EE2E8A9B26212E20FFF2AA9B2790B5B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL). Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender.\n\nWhat to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling.\n\n[14\\. Clean up](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-14Cleanup)\n\nIf your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child.\n\n[15\\. Step outside](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15Stepoutside)\n\nIf your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is [a time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough](https:\/\/www.healthlinkbc.ca\/health-topics\/hw31906). And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too.\n\n[Know when to call the doctor](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-Knowwhentocallthedoctor)\n\nAt-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s [when to ring your pediatrician](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/dangerous-kid-symptoms-you-should-never-ignore-I533578):\n\n- Your child has a barking cough (croup)\n- They have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in\n- They make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old)\n- They are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor)\n- They have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old)\n- They are coughing up blood\n- Their cough lasts for longer than two weeks\n- If your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color, [call 911](http:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/when-should-you-take-your-child-emergency-room-what-parents-t76401).\n\n*This story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.*\n\n- ![Save hover state](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMjAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMCAyMCIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTkuMjgyNzEgMTEuMTkxOEwzLjAwMDAzIDE3LjQ5ODVWMUgxN1YxNy41NjU4TDEwLjcwMjQgMTEuMTk0NUw5Ljk5MzkzIDEwLjQ3NzhMOS4yODI3MSAxMS4xOTE4WiIgZmlsbD0iIzdDNEU5RiIgZmlsbC1vcGFjaXR5PSIwLjMiIHN0cm9rZT0iIzdDNEU5RiIgc3Ryb2tlLXdpZHRoPSIyIi8+Cjwvc3ZnPgogICAg)\n- [![](data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjIiIGhlaWdodD0iMjEiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMiAyMSIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxyZWN0IHg9IjAuODQ0ODYxIiB5PSI0LjM2MjY5IiB3aWR0aD0iMTUuNzU0NyIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxNS43NTQ3IiB0cmFuc2Zvcm09InJvdGF0ZSgtNy44MDExOSAwLjg0NDg2MSA0LjM2MjY5KSIgc3Ryb2tlPSIjMkEyQTJBIiBzdHJva2Utd2lkdGg9IjEuNSIvPgogICAgPHJlY3QgeD0iNC41ODY0MyIgeT0iMC43NSIgd2lkdGg9IjE1Ljc1NDciIGhlaWdodD0iMTUuNzU0NyIgZmlsbD0id2hpdGUiIHN0cm9rZT0iIzJBMkEyQSIgc3Ryb2tlLXdpZHRoPSIxLjUiLz4KICAgIDxtYXNrIGlkPSJwYXRoLTMtaW5zaWRlLTFfMzIzXzQzODYiIGZpbGw9IndoaXRlIj4KICAgICAgICA8cGF0aCBkPSJNMTMuMjQ4MyA3Ljg0MjUzSDE2LjM4NVY5LjQxMTg3SDEzLjI0ODNWMTIuNTQ4NkgxMS42NzlWOS40MTE4N0g4LjU0MjI0VjcuODQyNTNIMTEuNjc5VjQuNzA1ODFIMTMuMjQ4M1Y3Ljg0MjUzWiIvPgogICAgPC9tYXNrPgogICAgPHBhdGggZD0iTTEzLjI0ODMgNy44NDI1M0gxNi4zODVWOS40MTE4N0gxMy4yNDgzVjEyLjU0ODZIMTEuNjc5VjkuNDExODdIOC41NDIyNFY3Ljg0MjUzSDExLjY3OVY0LjcwNTgxSDEzLjI0ODNWNy44NDI1M1oiIGZpbGw9IiMyQTJBMkEiLz4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMy4yNDgzIDcuODQyNTNIMTIuMDcxOFY5LjAxODk5SDEzLjI0ODNWNy44NDI1M1pNMTYuMzg1IDcuODQyNTNIMTcuNTYxNVY2LjY2NjA3SDE2LjM4NVY3Ljg0MjUzWk0xNi4zODUgOS40MTE4N1YxMC41ODgzSDE3LjU2MTVWOS40MTE4N0gxNi4zODVaTTEzLjI0ODMgOS40MTE4N1Y4LjIzNTQxSDEyLjA3MThWOS40MTE4N0gxMy4yNDgzWk0xMy4yNDgzIDEyLjU0ODZWMTMuNzI1SDE0LjQyNDhWMTIuNTQ4NkgxMy4yNDgzWk0xMS42NzkgMTIuNTQ4NkgxMC41MDI1VjEzLjcyNUgxMS42NzlWMTIuNTQ4NlpNMTEuNjc5IDkuNDExODdIMTIuODU1NFY4LjIzNTQxSDExLjY3OVY5LjQxMTg3Wk04LjU0MjI0IDkuNDExODdINy4zNjU3OFYxMC41ODgzSDguNTQyMjRWOS40MTE4N1pNOC41NDIyNCA3Ljg0MjUzVjYuNjY2MDdINy4zNjU3OFY3Ljg0MjUzSDguNTQyMjRaTTExLjY3OSA3Ljg0MjUzVjkuMDE4OTlIMTIuODU1NFY3Ljg0MjUzSDExLjY3OVpNMTEuNjc5IDQuNzA1ODFWMy41MjkzNUgxMC41MDI1VjQuNzA1ODFIMTEuNjc5Wk0xMy4yNDgzIDQuNzA1ODFIMTQuNDI0OFYzLjUyOTM1SDEzLjI0ODNWNC43MDU4MVpNMTMuMjQ4MyA3Ljg0MjUzVjkuMDE4OTlIMTYuMzg1VjcuODQyNTNWNi42NjYwN0gxMy4yNDgzVjcuODQyNTNaTTE2LjM4NSA3Ljg0MjUzSDE1LjIwODZWOS40MTE4N0gxNi4zODVIMTcuNTYxNVY3Ljg0MjUzSDE2LjM4NVpNMTYuMzg1IDkuNDExODdWOC4yMzU0MUgxMy4yNDgzVjkuNDExODdWMTAuNTg4M0gxNi4zODVWOS40MTE4N1pNMTMuMjQ4MyA5LjQxMTg3SDEyLjA3MThWMTIuNTQ4NkgxMy4yNDgzSDE0LjQyNDhWOS40MTE4N0gxMy4yNDgzWk0xMy4yNDgzIDEyLjU0ODZWMTEuMzcyMUgxMS42NzlWMTIuNTQ4NlYxMy43MjVIMTMuMjQ4M1YxMi41NDg2Wk0xMS42NzkgMTIuNTQ4NkgxMi44NTU0VjkuNDExODdIMTEuNjc5SDEwLjUwMjVWMTIuNTQ4NkgxMS42NzlaTTExLjY3OSA5LjQxMTg3VjguMjM1NDFIOC41NDIyNFY5LjQxMTg3VjEwLjU4ODNIMTEuNjc5VjkuNDExODdaTTguNTQyMjQgOS40MTE4N0g5LjcxODdWNy44NDI1M0g4LjU0MjI0SDcuMzY1NzhWOS40MTE4N0g4LjU0MjI0Wk04LjU0MjI0IDcuODQyNTNWOS4wMTg5OUgxMS42NzlWNy44NDI1M1Y2LjY2NjA3SDguNTQyMjRWNy44NDI1M1pNMTEuNjc5IDcuODQyNTNIMTIuODU1NFY0LjcwNTgxSDExLjY3OUgxMC41MDI1VjcuODQyNTNIMTEuNjc5Wk0xMS42NzkgNC43MDU4MVY1Ljg4MjI3SDEzLjI0ODNWNC43MDU4MVYzLjUyOTM1SDExLjY3OVY0LjcwNTgxWk0xMy4yNDgzIDQuNzA1ODFIMTIuMDcxOFY3Ljg0MjUzSDEzLjI0ODNIMTQuNDI0OFY0LjcwNTgxSDEzLjI0ODNaIiBmaWxsPSIjMkEyQTJBIiBtYXNrPSJ1cmwoI3BhdGgtMy1pbnNpZGUtMV8zMjNfNDM4NikiLz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==)Add 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[Closed Captioning](https:\/\/www.today.com\/information\/closed-captioning-t215383)\n- [TODAY Sitemap](https:\/\/www.today.com\/archive\/)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/together.nbcuni.com\/advertise\/?utm_source=today&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=property_ad_pages)\n- [TODAY Store](https:\/\/www.nbcstore.com\/pages\/today-show)\n- [Shop TODAY](https:\/\/www.today.com\/shop)\n\n© 2026 NBCUniversal Media, LLCApple®, Apple logo® and App Store® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.\n\n[search by queryly](https:\/\/www.queryly.com\/)\n\n[Advanced Search]()\n\n![close](https:\/\/www.queryly.com\/images\/whitecloseicon.png)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Cold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the [American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology](https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/tools-for-the-public\/conditions-library\/allergies\/cough-in-children). In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria.\n\nIf your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and [tummy](https:\/\/www.today.com\/health\/10-tummy-troubles-you-should-never-ignore-t74171) are probably sore from all the exertion.\n\nThankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses).\n\n[15 home cough remedies for kids](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15homecoughremediesforkids)\n\nIf you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try:\n\n[1\\. Keep their head elevated](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-1Keeptheirheadelevated)\n\nIf your little one is over 1 year old, arrange [a few pillows](https:\/\/www.today.com\/health\/best-pillows-every-type-sleeper-t126358) under their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing.\n\nFor a baby, place a [pillow](https:\/\/www.today.com\/home\/best-pillows-sleeping-our-review-popular-gel-pillow-amazon-t134011) underneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation.\n\n[2\\. Get steamy\\!](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-2Getsteamy)\n\nWilliam Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of \"[The Baby Book](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Baby-Book-Revised-Everything-Parenting\/dp\/0316198269\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\" and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out.\n\nDr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts.\n\n[3\\. Use a humidifier](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-3Useahumidifier)\n\nAltmann also recommends running a [cool-mist humidifier](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Pure-Enrichment-MistAire-Ultrasonic-Humidifier\/dp\/B013IJPTFK\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) all night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow.\n\n### [Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527246\/51xmvbmvthl-5e1895f39695a.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\nAltmann recommends [Crane humidifiers](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free\/dp\/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). \"They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive,\" she said.\n\n[4\\. Get a NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-4GetaNoseFrida)\n\nOnce the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) is best in class.\n\n### [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![NoseFrida the Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray Kit with 10 Hygiene filters by Fridababy - Sinus Congestion Relief for newborns up to toddlers (Amazon)](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1467395\/9a1934c5-4edf-4e6e-a691-d573ca9e6da4-1-806ca39d3dc7e9fdbd2359abf3037e7d-5d434cf48febf.jpeg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\nYes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth.\n\nOne TODAY editor loved her [NoseFrida](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/nosafrida-ultimate-nasal-aspirator-your-baby-s-stuffy-nose-t136062) when her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device.\n\n[5\\. Clear the nose](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-5Clearthenose)\n\nIn addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a [saline solution](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Little-Remedies-Sterile-Breathe-Newborn\/dp\/B01AGKU56W?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&th=1&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) in each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work.\n\n### [Little Remedies Sterile Saline Mist](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n[![Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1536402\/screen_shot_2020-02-06_at_4-28-39_pm.png)](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183)\n\nThis saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones.\n\n### [Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n[![Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm \\&amp; Hammer](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527249\/41gqrtyttgl-5e189771c6746.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original\/dp\/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)\n\nAltmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. \"It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils,\" she said.\n\n[6\\. Try honey](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-6Tryhoney)\n\nBecause of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are [no longer recommended for children under age 6](http:\/\/practice.aap.org\/content.aspx?aid=2254). What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The [type of honey used in the studies was buckwheat](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2010\/12\/16\/remedies-honey-for-coughing\/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=883DB75F153836C02598346BA296598B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL), a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats.\n\n![Jar of honey](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2016_04\/945706\/honey-jar-stock-today-tease-160125.jpg)\n\nA spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really.Featurepics stock\n\nGive a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren.\n\n[7\\. Say yes to candy](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-7Sayyestocandy)\n\nWible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work\\!\n\nAltmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5.\n\n### [Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n[![WERTHER\\&\\#039;S ORIGINAL Sugar Free Caramel Hard Candy, 1.46 Ounce Bag (Pack of 12), Hard Candy, Bulk Candy, Individually Wrapped Candy Caramels, Caramel Candy Sweets, Bag of Candy, Hard Candy Bulk](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1467399\/515j92jptil-5d434e9ee9a76.jpg)](https:\/\/goto.target.com\/c\/2465030\/81938\/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257)\n\n### [Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n[![Life Savers 5 Flavors Sugarfree Hard Candy Bag](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2023_18\/1527218\/51kvwbuvyil-5e188e030b44a.jpg)](https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/links\/9260995\/type\/dlg\/sid\/73261homecoughremedies\/https:\/\/www.walgreens.com\/store\/c\/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors\/ID=prod274-product)\n\n[8\\. Use a chest rub](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-8Useachestrub)\n\nFor children older than 2, massage some [Vicks VapoRub](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Vicks-VapoRub-Ointment-1-76-Ounces\/dp\/B000GCHOEM\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) on their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night.\n\n### [Vicks VapoRub Ointment](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n[![Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2020_02\/1527222\/00e5bc56-df94-4256-86a4-ad4607e783ff-1-04ac294cbc0def208cd5e866fd8831d1-5e189029602b1.jpeg)](https:\/\/goto.walmart.com\/c\/2465030\/565706\/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196)\n\nThe product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers.\n\n[9\\. Try an internet rumor](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-9Tryaninternetrumor)\n\nSpeaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough.\n\n“Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying.\n\n[10\\. Encourage them to drink](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-10Encouragethemtodrink)\n\nWe all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing.\n\n[11\\. Don’t be afraid of milk](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-11Dontbeafraidofmilk)\n\nIn your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many [studies have proven that association to be a complete myth](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/common-cold\/expert-answers\/phlegm\/faq-20058015). What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it *will* keep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system.\n\n[***Never miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here***](http:\/\/www.today.com\/newsletters)\n\n[12\\. Serve chicken soup](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-12Servechickensoup)\n\nThough no one is sure why, [studies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2007\/10\/12\/the-science-of-chicken-soup\/) and soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s [homemade](https:\/\/www.today.com\/recipes\/classic-chicken-noodle-soup-t50301) or comes from a [can](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Campbells-Homestyle-Chicken-Noodle-Ounce\/dp\/B0029TJTLG\/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop).\n\n![Chicken soup recipe by TODAY Food Club member Janette Fuschi](https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/newscms\/2016_01\/923041\/today-food-club-chicken-soup-today-150105-inline.jpg)\n\nJanette Fuschi \/ Culinary Ginger\n\n[13\\. Get them to gargle](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-13Getthemtogargle)\n\nIs chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another [time-tested, expert-approved cough remedy](https:\/\/well.blogs.nytimes.com\/2010\/09\/27\/gargling-with-salt-water-for-colds\/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=4EE2E8A9B26212E20FFF2AA9B2790B5B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL). Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender.\n\nWhat to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling.\n\n[14\\. Clean up](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-14Cleanup)\n\nIf your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child.\n\n[15\\. Step outside](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15Stepoutside)\n\nIf your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is [a time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough](https:\/\/www.healthlinkbc.ca\/health-topics\/hw31906). And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too.\n\n[Know when to call the doctor](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-Knowwhentocallthedoctor)\n\nAt-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s [when to ring your pediatrician](https:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/dangerous-kid-symptoms-you-should-never-ignore-I533578):\n\n- Your child has a barking cough (croup)\n- They have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in\n- They make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old)\n- They are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor)\n- They have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old)\n- They are coughing up blood\n- Their cough lasts for longer than two weeks\n- If your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color, [call 911](http:\/\/www.today.com\/parents\/when-should-you-take-your-child-emergency-room-what-parents-t76401).\n\n*This story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.*","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	15 Home Cough Remedies for Kids
Meta Description	If your child's coughing is keeping them (and you) up at night, try one of these home remedies.
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Boilerpipe Text	Cold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology . In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria. If your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and tummy are probably sore from all the exertion. Thankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses). 15 home cough remedies for kids If you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try: 1. Keep their head elevated If your little one is over 1 year old, arrange a few pillows under their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing. For a baby, place a pillow underneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation. 2. Get steamy! William Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of " The Baby Book " and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out. Dr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts. 3. Use a humidifier Altmann also recommends running a cool-mist humidifier all night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow. Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier Altmann recommends Crane humidifiers . "They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive," she said. 4. Get a NoseFrida Once the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the NoseFrida is best in class. NoseFrida Yes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth. One TODAY editor loved her NoseFrida when her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device. 5. Clear the nose In addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a saline solution in each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work. Little Remedies Sterile Saline Mist This saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones. Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer Altmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. "It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils," she said. 6. Try honey Because of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under age 6 . What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The type of honey used in the studies was buckwheat , a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats. A spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really. Featurepics stock Give a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren. 7. Say yes to candy Wible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work! Altmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5. Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy 8. Use a chest rub For children older than 2, massage some Vicks VapoRub on their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night. Vicks VapoRub Ointment The product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers. 9. Try an internet rumor Speaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough. “Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying. 10. Encourage them to drink We all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing. 11. Don’t be afraid of milk In your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many studies have proven that association to be a complete myth . What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it will keep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system. Never miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here 12. Serve chicken soup Though no one is sure why, studies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs and soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s homemade or comes from a can . Janette Fuschi / Culinary Ginger 13. Get them to gargle Is chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another time-tested, expert-approved cough remedy . Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender. What to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling. 14. Clean up If your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child. 15. Step outside If your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is a time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough . And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too. Know when to call the doctor At-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s when to ring your pediatrician : Your child has a barking cough (croup) They have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in They make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old) They are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor) They have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old) They are coughing up blood Their cough lasts for longer than two weeks If your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color, call 911 . This story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.
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When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. [Learn more](https://www.today.com/shop/everything-you-need-know-about-shop-today-t161374). Parents # 15 home remedies to soothe your child's cough If your child's coughing is keeping them (and you) up at night, try one of these home remedies. Updated March 4, 2024, 8:01 PM UTC / Source: [TODAY](https://today.com/) [![](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_focal-100x100,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2024_02/2045935/rosie_colosi_headshot_720.jpg) Rosie Colosi Lifestyle Reporter, Parents](https://www.today.com/author/rosie-colosi-tdpn294346) Skip to table of contents ![Sometimes it seems like little kids are coughing and sniffling all winter. Here are some tried and true home remedies.](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2020_02/1527268/cough-home-remedies-toady-main-20110.jpg) Sometimes it seems like little kids are coughing and sniffling all winter. Here are some tried and true home remedies.Getty Images ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMjAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMCAyMCIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTkuMjgyNzEgMTEuMTkxOEwzLjAwMDAzIDE3LjQ5ODVWMUgxN1YxNy41NjU4TDEwLjcwMjQgMTEuMTk0NUw5Ljk5MzkzIDEwLjQ3NzhMOS4yODI3MSAxMS4xOTE4WiIgZmlsbD0iIzdDNEU5RiIgZmlsbC1vcGFjaXR5PSIwLjMiIHN0cm9rZT0iIzdDNEU5RiIgc3Ryb2tlLXdpZHRoPSIyIi8+Cjwvc3ZnPgogICAg) Create your free account or log in to save this article [![](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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)Add TODAY to Google](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=today.com) Cold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the [American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/cough-in-children). In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria. If your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and [tummy](https://www.today.com/health/10-tummy-troubles-you-should-never-ignore-t74171) are probably sore from all the exertion. Thankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses). [15 home cough remedies for kids](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15homecoughremediesforkids) If you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try: [1\. Keep their head elevated](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-1Keeptheirheadelevated) If your little one is over 1 year old, arrange [a few pillows](https://www.today.com/health/best-pillows-every-type-sleeper-t126358) under their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing. For a baby, place a [pillow](https://www.today.com/home/best-pillows-sleeping-our-review-popular-gel-pillow-amazon-t134011) underneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation. [2\. Get steamy\!](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-2Getsteamy) William Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of "[The Baby Book](https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Book-Revised-Everything-Parenting/dp/0316198269/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)" and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out. Dr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts. [3\. Use a humidifier](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-3Useahumidifier) Altmann also recommends running a [cool-mist humidifier](https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Enrichment-MistAire-Ultrasonic-Humidifier/dp/B013IJPTFK/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) all night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow. ### [Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527246/51xmvbmvthl-5e1895f39695a.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [\$39.98 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [\$59.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/crane-ultrasonic-cool-mist-drop-shape-humidifier/120105) Altmann recommends [Crane humidifiers](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). "They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive," she said. [4\. Get a NoseFrida](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-4GetaNoseFrida) Once the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the [NoseFrida](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) is best in class. ### [NoseFrida](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![NoseFrida the Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray Kit with 10 Hygiene filters by Fridababy - Sinus Congestion Relief for newborns up to toddlers (Amazon)](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1467395/9a1934c5-4edf-4e6e-a691-d573ca9e6da4-1-806ca39d3dc7e9fdbd2359abf3037e7d-5d434cf48febf.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [NoseFrida](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [\$16.99 \$19.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [\$10.49 \$15.99 at Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FNoseFrida-the-SnotSucker-Nasal-Aspirator%2F15126393) [\$10.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/fridababy-nosefrida-reg-snotsucker-nasal-aspirator/134043) Yes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth. One TODAY editor loved her [NoseFrida](https://www.today.com/parents/nosafrida-ultimate-nasal-aspirator-your-baby-s-stuffy-nose-t136062) when her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device. [5\. Clear the nose](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-5Clearthenose) In addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a [saline solution](https://www.amazon.com/Little-Remedies-Sterile-Breathe-Newborn/dp/B01AGKU56W?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&th=1&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) in each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work. ### [Little Remedies Sterile Saline Mist](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) [![Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1536402/screen_shot_2020-02-06_at_4-28-39_pm.png)](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMjAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMCAyMCIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTAgNi43NTA1NEMwIDExLjE1OSAzLjU5NTE3IDE1LjQ5NTEgOS4yNzQ5NCAxOS4yMjA2QzkuNDg2NDIgMTkuMzU1MSA5Ljc4ODU0IDE5LjUgMTAgMTkuNUMxMC4yMTE1IDE5LjUgMTAuNTEzNiAxOS4zNTUxIDEwLjczNTIgMTkuMjIwNkMxNi40MDQ5IDE1LjQ5NTEgMjAgMTEuMTU5IDIwIDYuNzUwNTRDMjAgMy4wODcxNSAxNy41NTI5IDAuNSAxNC4yOSAwLjVDMTIuNDI3IDAuNSAxMC45MTY0IDEuNDEwNjggMTAgMi44MDc3NEM5LjEwMzc0IDEuNDIxMDIgNy41NzMwMiAwLjUgNS43MDk5OCAwLjVDMi40NDcxNCAwLjUgMCAzLjA4NzE1IDAgNi43NTA1NFoiIGZpbGw9IiM3QzRFOUYiLz4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTIuMjA0NjUgNy4wMTUyN0MyLjIwNDY1IDQuNDU0MTggMy44MTYxOSAyLjc1IDUuOTg5OSAyLjc1QzcuNzUxMzUgMi43NSA4Ljc2MzI0IDMuODc2NSA5LjM2Mjg5IDQuODM5MzFDOS42MTU4NyA1LjIyNDQzIDkuNzc1MTQgNS4zMzAzNCA5Ljk5OTk5IDUuMzMwMzRDMTAuMjI0OSA1LjMzMDM0IDEwLjM2NTQgNS4yMTQ4MSAxMC42MzcxIDQuODM5MzFDMTEuMjgzNiAzLjg5NTc1IDEyLjI1OCAyLjc1IDE0LjAxMDEgMi43NUMxNi4xODM5IDIuNzUgMTcuNzk1NCA0LjQ1NDE4IDE3Ljc5NTQgNy4wMTUyN0MxNy43OTU0IDEwLjU5NyAxNC4xMTMyIDE0LjQ1NzggMTAuMTk2OCAxNy4xMzQ0QzEwLjEwMzEgMTcuMjAxOSAxMC4wMzc1IDE3LjI1IDkuOTk5OTkgMTcuMjVDOS45NjI1MyAxNy4yNSA5Ljg5Njk1IDE3LjIwMTkgOS44MTI2MiAxNy4xMzQ0QzUuODg2ODQgMTQuNDU3OCAyLjIwNDY1IDEwLjU5NyAyLjIwNDY1IDcuMDE1MjdaIiBmaWxsPSIjRDhDQUUyIi8+Cjwvc3ZnPgo=) [Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) [\$4.79 at Target](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) [\$5.99 at Walgreens](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/little-remedies-sterile-saline-nasal-mist/ID=300408253-product) This saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones. ### [Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm \& Hammer](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527249/41gqrtyttgl-5e189771c6746.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [\$7.29 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) Altmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. "It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils," she said. [6\. Try honey](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-6Tryhoney) Because of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are [no longer recommended for children under age 6](http://practice.aap.org/content.aspx?aid=2254). What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The [type of honey used in the studies was buckwheat](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/16/remedies-honey-for-coughing/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=883DB75F153836C02598346BA296598B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL), a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats. ![Jar of honey](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2016_04/945706/honey-jar-stock-today-tease-160125.jpg) A spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really.Featurepics stock Give a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren. [7\. Say yes to candy](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-7Sayyestocandy) Wible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work\! Altmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5. ### [Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) [![WERTHER\&\#039;S ORIGINAL Sugar Free Caramel Hard Candy, 1.46 Ounce Bag (Pack of 12), Hard Candy, Bulk Candy, Individually Wrapped Candy Caramels, Caramel Candy Sweets, Bag of Candy, Hard Candy Bulk](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1467399/515j92jptil-5d434e9ee9a76.jpg)](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) [\$6.99 at Target](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) ### [Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) [![Life Savers 5 Flavors Sugarfree Hard Candy Bag](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527218/51kvwbuvyil-5e188e030b44a.jpg)](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) [\$2.99 at Walgreens](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) [8\. Use a chest rub](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-8Useachestrub) For children older than 2, massage some [Vicks VapoRub](https://www.amazon.com/Vicks-VapoRub-Ointment-1-76-Ounces/dp/B000GCHOEM/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) on their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night. ### [Vicks VapoRub Ointment](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) [![Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2020_02/1527222/00e5bc56-df94-4256-86a4-ad4607e783ff-1-04ac294cbc0def208cd5e866fd8831d1-5e189029602b1.jpeg)](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) [Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) [\$5.25 \$6.02 at Walmart](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) The product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers. [9\. Try an internet rumor](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-9Tryaninternetrumor) Speaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough. “Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying. [10\. Encourage them to drink](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-10Encouragethemtodrink) We all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing. [11\. Don’t be afraid of milk](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-11Dontbeafraidofmilk) In your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many [studies have proven that association to be a complete myth](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/phlegm/faq-20058015). What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it will keep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system. [*Never miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here](http://www.today.com/newsletters) [12\. Serve chicken soup](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-12Servechickensoup) Though no one is sure why, [studies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/12/the-science-of-chicken-soup/) and soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s [homemade](https://www.today.com/recipes/classic-chicken-noodle-soup-t50301) or comes from a [can](https://www.amazon.com/Campbells-Homestyle-Chicken-Noodle-Ounce/dp/B0029TJTLG/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). ![Chicken soup recipe by TODAY Food Club member Janette Fuschi](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2016_01/923041/today-food-club-chicken-soup-today-150105-inline.jpg) Janette Fuschi / Culinary Ginger [13\. Get them to gargle](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-13Getthemtogargle) Is chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another [time-tested, expert-approved cough remedy](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/09/27/gargling-with-salt-water-for-colds/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=4EE2E8A9B26212E20FFF2AA9B2790B5B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL). Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender. What to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling. [14\. Clean up](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-14Cleanup) If your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child. [15\. Step outside](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15Stepoutside) If your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is [a time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough](https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw31906). And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too. [Know when to call the doctor](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-Knowwhentocallthedoctor) At-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s [when to ring your pediatrician](https://www.today.com/parents/dangerous-kid-symptoms-you-should-never-ignore-I533578): - Your child has a barking cough (croup) - They have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in - They make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old) - They are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor) - They have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old) - They are coughing up blood - Their cough lasts for longer than two weeks - If your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color, [call 911](http://www.today.com/parents/when-should-you-take-your-child-emergency-room-what-parents-t76401). This story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.* - ![Save hover state](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMjAiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAyMCAyMCIgZmlsbD0ibm9uZSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KPHBhdGggZD0iTTkuMjgyNzEgMTEuMTkxOEwzLjAwMDAzIDE3LjQ5ODVWMUgxN1YxNy41NjU4TDEwLjcwMjQgMTEuMTk0NUw5Ljk5MzkzIDEwLjQ3NzhMOS4yODI3MSAxMS4xOTE4WiIgZmlsbD0iIzdDNEU5RiIgZmlsbC1vcGFjaXR5PSIwLjMiIHN0cm9rZT0iIzdDNEU5RiIgc3Ryb2tlLXdpZHRoPSIyIi8+Cjwvc3ZnPgogICAg) - [![](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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)Add TODAY to Google](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=today.com) - [About](https://www.today.com/about) - [Contact](https://www.today.com/information/contact-us-send-today-your-questions-comments-t215381) - [Help](https://nbcnews.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/45174508085651-TODAY) - [Visit](https://www.today.com/information/join-today-live-plaza-t250868) - [TODAY Apps](https://apps.today.com/mobile/) - [AD Choices](https://www.nbcuniversal.com/privacy/cookies#accordionheader2) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.nbcuniversal.com/privacy?intake=NBC_News) - [Your Privacy Choices](https://www.nbcuniversal.com/privacy/notrtoo/?intake=NBC_News) - [CA Notice](https://www.nbcuniversal.com/privacy/california-consumer-privacy-act?intake=NBC_News) - [TERMS OF SERVICE](https://www.nbcuniversal.com/terms) - [TERMS OF SERVICE](http://www.today.com/start-today/app/supplemental-terms) - [Careers](https://www.nbcunicareers.com/) - [Closed Captioning](https://www.today.com/information/closed-captioning-t215383) - [TODAY Sitemap](https://www.today.com/archive/) - [Advertise](https://together.nbcuni.com/advertise/?utm_source=today&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=property_ad_pages) - [TODAY Store](https://www.nbcstore.com/pages/today-show) - [Shop TODAY](https://www.today.com/shop) © 2026 NBCUniversal Media, LLCApple®, Apple logo® and App Store® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. 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Readable Markdown	Cold and flu season can feel endless, especially when you have little kids. A cough can linger long after the virus that caused it is over, according to the [American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology](https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/cough-in-children). In fact, coughing helps protect the body by eliminating mucus and bacteria. If your child’s coughing is keeping them (and the entire family) up at night, their little chest and [tummy](https://www.today.com/health/10-tummy-troubles-you-should-never-ignore-t74171) are probably sore from all the exertion. Thankfully there are cough remedies for kids that range from easy solutions (like trying to keep their head elevated) to products (like a nasal aspirator that manually sucks the mucus from their sinuses). [15 home cough remedies for kids](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15homecoughremediesforkids) If you have ruled out a serious cough, there are plenty of home remedies that may help take the edge off. Here are 15 home cough remedies for kids to try: [1\. Keep their head elevated](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-1Keeptheirheadelevated) If your little one is over 1 year old, arrange [a few pillows](https://www.today.com/health/best-pillows-every-type-sleeper-t126358) under their back, shoulders and head so that they can sleep in a slightly upright position, allowing for easier breathing. For a baby, place a [pillow](https://www.today.com/home/best-pillows-sleeping-our-review-popular-gel-pillow-amazon-t134011) underneath their crib mattress to elevate the area where they rest their head. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to speak with a doctor beforehand to discuss the risk of SIDS and suffocation. [2\. Get steamy\!](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-2Getsteamy) William Sears, M.D., pediatrician, and author of "[The Baby Book](https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Book-Revised-Everything-Parenting/dp/0316198269/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop)" and dozens of other childcare books, recommends turning your bathroom into a steam room. Simply run a hot shower, close the door, and sit inside with your child for 15 minutes before bed and again for 15 minutes in the morning. The steam helps loosen chest and nasal congestion, making it easier for kids to cough or blow it out. Dr. Tanya Altmann, mother of three and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, recommends reading books or playing with toys so kids can breathe in the steam and stay distracted. While you’re in the steam room — if your child will let you — drum on their back and chest (where the lungs are) to help break up congestion there. Use your open palms and clap harder than you would if you were burping them, but not so hard that it hurts. [3\. Use a humidifier](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-3Useahumidifier) Altmann also recommends running a [cool-mist humidifier](https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Enrichment-MistAire-Ultrasonic-Humidifier/dp/B013IJPTFK/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) all night to keep your child’s airways clear and moist. In the morning, open the windows and air out the room for a bit; the humidity overnight may cause mold to grow. ### [Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527246/51xmvbmvthl-5e1895f39695a.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) Altmann recommends [Crane humidifiers](https://www.amazon.com/Crane-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-Filter-Free/dp/B0046A6WJI?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). "They are cute, easy to direct the cool mist, easy to clean and not very expensive," she said. [4\. Get a NoseFrida](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-4GetaNoseFrida) Once the steam has done its job of loosening up mucus in your little hacker, encourage them to cough it out. For their nose, use a nasal aspirator to clear out the sinuses (most kids don’t master the art of blowing their nose until 4 or 5). A bulb syringe will do an OK job, but if you really want the Cadillac of snot suckers, the [NoseFrida](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) is best in class. ### [NoseFrida](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![NoseFrida the Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray Kit with 10 Hygiene filters by Fridababy - Sinus Congestion Relief for newborns up to toddlers (Amazon)](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1467395/9a1934c5-4edf-4e6e-a691-d573ca9e6da4-1-806ca39d3dc7e9fdbd2359abf3037e7d-5d434cf48febf.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N093BYV?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) Yes, you do literally suck mucus out of your tyke’s nose through a tube, but don’t be intimidated; the device’s ingenious design ensures that the nasty stuff will never touch your mouth. One TODAY editor loved her [NoseFrida](https://www.today.com/parents/nosafrida-ultimate-nasal-aspirator-your-baby-s-stuffy-nose-t136062) when her son was younger, and Altmann is also a fan of the device. [5\. Clear the nose](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-5Clearthenose) In addition to using a nasal aspirator, spray a [saline solution](https://www.amazon.com/Little-Remedies-Sterile-Breathe-Newborn/dp/B01AGKU56W?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&th=1&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) in each of your child’s nostrils to loosen mucus a few times a day. Since post-nasal drip tickles the throat and mouth-breathing dries it out, keeping the nose un-stuffed is key for treating coughs. According to Altmann, a few drops of breast milk in each nostril for nursing babies would also work. ### [Little Remedies Sterile Saline Mist](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) [![Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1536402/screen_shot_2020-02-06_at_4-28-39_pm.png)](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flittle-remedies-saline-nasal-mist-for-babies-stuffy-noses-3-fl-oz%2F-%2FA-11199183) This saline spray is described as being safe for newborns, so you don't have to worry about using it for your little ones. ### [Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm & Hammer](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) [![Simply Saline Nasal Mist by Arm \& Hammer](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527249/41gqrtyttgl-5e189771c6746.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Saline-Adult-Nasal-Original/dp/B0013UU9WK?tag=73261homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) Altmann also recommends this Simple Saline Nasal Mist. "It's easy to use and gentle on babies' and kids' nostrils," she said. [6\. Try honey](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-6Tryhoney) Because of significant safety concerns, cough and cold medicines are [no longer recommended for children under age 6](http://practice.aap.org/content.aspx?aid=2254). What's more, honey treats nighttime coughing better than that over-the-counter stuff, according to research. The [type of honey used in the studies was buckwheat](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/16/remedies-honey-for-coughing/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=883DB75F153836C02598346BA296598B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL), a darker, stronger-tasting variety, but all types should do the trick of soothing and coating scratchy throats. ![Jar of honey](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2016_04/945706/honey-jar-stock-today-tease-160125.jpg) A spoonful of honey makes the coughing get better ... really.Featurepics stock Give a spoonful to your child before bed and as needed in a mug of warm water or warm decaf tea. Since babies under 1 shouldn’t consume honey, you may need to be resourceful with your littlest ones. Kenneth Wible, medical director of the Pediatric Care Center at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics in Kansas City, has had success giving maple syrup to his youngest grandchildren. [7\. Say yes to candy](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-7Sayyestocandy) Wible also says that sucking on sugar-free hard candy (for kids over 5 only) may offer “some kids some benefit” when it comes to quiet coughs. Don’t count on a ton of relief, but sweets make everyone feel a little better, right? While you’re in the candy aisle, pick up some Crunch bars for yourself— taking care of a sick kid is hard work\! Altmann recommends not giving hard candy to kids under 5. ### [Werther's Original Sugar-Free Caramel Hard Candy](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) [![WERTHER\&\#039;S ORIGINAL Sugar Free Caramel Hard Candy, 1.46 Ounce Bag (Pack of 12), Hard Candy, Bulk Candy, Individually Wrapped Candy Caramels, Caramel Candy Sweets, Bag of Candy, Hard Candy Bulk](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1467399/515j92jptil-5d434e9ee9a76.jpg)](https://goto.target.com/c/2465030/81938/2092?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwerther-39-s-original-sugar-free-assorted-flavors-7-7oz%2F-%2FA-50302257) ### [Life Savers Sugar-Free Hard Candy](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) [![Life Savers 5 Flavors Sugarfree Hard Candy Bag](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2023_18/1527218/51kvwbuvyil-5e188e030b44a.jpg)](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/9260995/type/dlg/sid/73261homecoughremedies/https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/lifesavers-hard-candy-5-flavors-5-flavors/ID=prod274-product) [8\. Use a chest rub](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-8Useachestrub) For children older than 2, massage some [Vicks VapoRub](https://www.amazon.com/Vicks-VapoRub-Ointment-1-76-Ounces/dp/B000GCHOEM/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop) on their chest, recommends Wible. A recent study found that while the medicated rub only lessened coughing slightly, it made coughing, congested kids feel much more comfortable at night. ### [Vicks VapoRub Ointment](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) [![Vicks VapoRub Original Cough Suppressant](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2020_02/1527222/00e5bc56-df94-4256-86a4-ad4607e783ff-1-04ac294cbc0def208cd5e866fd8831d1-5e189029602b1.jpeg)](https://goto.walmart.com/c/2465030/565706/9383?subId1=73261homecoughremedies&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVicks-VapoRub-Original-Cough-Suppressant-Topical-Analgesic-Ointment-1-76-oz-Best-used-for-relief-from-cold-symptoms-aches-and-pains%2F10316196) The product isn't recommended for children younger than 2, however, since it can irritate the airways and increase mucus production, causing breathing difficulties in babies and toddlers. [9\. Try an internet rumor](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-9Tryaninternetrumor) Speaking of Vicks VapoRub, you may have been forwarded an email sometime in 2007 touting an unusual and “amazing” use for the ointment: The author claims that rubbing copious amounts of the stuff on the soles of your feet and then covering them up with socks will cure a cough. “Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief,” the email read. While the “research” cited in the email turned out to be bogus, many people — including several we know first-hand — still swear by the trick. It's best to consult a doctor before trying. [10\. Encourage them to drink](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-10Encouragethemtodrink) We all know we’re supposed to “drink extra fluids” when we’re sick, but why? Does it really do anything? Yes, says Sears: Staying hydrated can thin mucus secretions, which allows them to be expelled from your body more efficiently. Keep a drink by your child’s bed at night. Avoid orange juice, though, as it can irritate a throat that’s sore from coughing. [11\. Don’t be afraid of milk](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-11Dontbeafraidofmilk) In your efforts to get your child to drink more, you may think you have to stick to water and juice. But milk, if your kiddo likes it, can do their body good. And it doesn’t, contrary to popular belief, increase mucus production; many [studies have proven that association to be a complete myth](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/phlegm/faq-20058015). What it means: A few glasses of the white stuff won’t make your kid’s cough worse, but it will keep them hydrated. And vitamin D is a boost to a wounded immune system. [*Never miss a parenting story with TODAY’s newsletters! Sign up here](http://www.today.com/newsletters) [12\. Serve chicken soup](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-12Servechickensoup) Though no one is sure why, [studies have proven that chicken soup really does ease coughs](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/12/the-science-of-chicken-soup/) and soothe sore throats. The best part: It doesn’t matter whether it’s [homemade](https://www.today.com/recipes/classic-chicken-noodle-soup-t50301) or comes from a [can](https://www.amazon.com/Campbells-Homestyle-Chicken-Noodle-Ounce/dp/B0029TJTLG/?tag=73261-homecoughremedies-20&asc_campaign=&asc_refurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.today.com%2Fparents%2Fyour-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261&asc_source=direct_desktop). ![Chicken soup recipe by TODAY Food Club member Janette Fuschi](https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/newscms/2016_01/923041/today-food-club-chicken-soup-today-150105-inline.jpg) Janette Fuschi / Culinary Ginger [13\. Get them to gargle](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-13Getthemtogargle) Is chicken soup too much work? Take away the chicken, the noodles, and the veggies, and what do you have? Warm, salty water — which is another [time-tested, expert-approved cough remedy](https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/09/27/gargling-with-salt-water-for-colds/?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=4EE2E8A9B26212E20FFF2AA9B2790B5B&gwt=pay&assetType=REGIWALL). Again, no one’s really sure why this works, though it could be that the salt absorbs excess fluid from swollen throat tissues, temporarily reducing their size and making them less tender. What to do: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and have your child gargle as many swigs as they can. That being said, be sure to monitor your child closely while gargling. [14\. Clean up](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-14Cleanup) If your kiddo’s cough is dry and raspy, it could be caused by asthma or allergies. Try to remove as many irritants as you can from your home. Don’t wear perfume or use room fresheners, ban your dog or cat from your child’s room, remove stuffed animals (dust collectors) from the bed and do not smoke in your home or anywhere near your child. [15\. Step outside](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-15Stepoutside) If your child has croup, an infection characterized by a loud, barking cough, you may want to take them outside (after you’ve taken them to the pediatrician, of course!). Cool night air is [a time-tested remedy for the “barking seal” cough](https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw31906). And while some studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of an outdoor stroll, try telling that to the millions of moms who’ve been quieting their children's coughs by doing just that. A drive in the car with the windows cracked — even if it’s cold (just bundle up) — may do the trick, too. [Know when to call the doctor](https://www.today.com/parents/your-little-one-sick-these-home-remedies-will-quiet-your-t73261#anchor-Knowwhentocallthedoctor) At-home remedies are great, but sometimes you need reinforcements, especially if you or your child have been exposed to COVID-19. Here’s [when to ring your pediatrician](https://www.today.com/parents/dangerous-kid-symptoms-you-should-never-ignore-I533578): - Your child has a barking cough (croup) - They have stridor (a noisy or musical sound) when breathing in - They make a “whooping” sound when breathing in after coughing (pertussis; call 911 if you hear this sound in a baby less than 3 months old) - They are wheezing when breathing out (unless you already have an asthma care plan from your doctor) - They have a fever of 102 degrees or higher (or has any fever and is less than 3 months old) - They are coughing up blood - Their cough lasts for longer than two weeks - If your child is having great difficulty breathing, their breathing is getting worse, or their lips, face, or tongue have a blue or dusky color, [call 911](http://www.today.com/parents/when-should-you-take-your-child-emergency-room-what-parents-t76401). This story was originally published on Feb. 16, 2016, on TODAY.com, and has been updated.*
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