Every parent dreads the moment their child comes down with a cold—runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and sleepless nights.
While there’s no instant cure, there are effective ways to ease symptoms and speed up recovery. The key is acting fast and using a combination of natural remedies and care strategies.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of a cold in 24 hours for kids, you’re in the right place! Below are the top 10 ways to help your little one feel better quickly.
How to Get Rid of a Cold in 24 Hours for Kids [Top 10 Ways]
1. Increase Fluid Intake
One of the most important things you can do when your child has a cold is to keep them hydrated. Fluids help thin mucus, soothe a sore throat, and prevent dehydration.
Best Fluids for a Sick Child:
✔ Warm water with honey and lemon (for kids over 1 year old).
✔ Herbal teas like chamomile (mild and safe for children).
✔ Chicken or vegetable broth (nourishing and hydrating).
✔ Diluted fruit juices (preferably citrus-based for vitamin C).
Fluids to Avoid:
❌ Sugary sodas and artificial fruit juices.
❌ Caffeinated drinks like tea or coffee.
❌ Ice-cold beverages that may irritate the throat.
Encourage small sips throughout the day, and make hydration fun by using colorful cups or straws!
2. Ensure Plenty of Rest
Rest is crucial for recovery. The body fights infections best when it’s well-rested.
Tips to Help Your Child Sleep Better:
✔ Elevate their head slightly to reduce congestion.
✔ Use a cool-mist humidifier to keep the air moist.
✔ Keep the room dark and quiet for uninterrupted sleep.
✔ Offer a warm bath before bed to relax their body.
If your child has trouble sleeping due to a stuffy nose, a saline spray (covered in the next section) can help clear their airways.
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3. Use a Humidifier or Steam Therapy
Dry air can make congestion worse, so adding moisture to the air is a great way to help your child breathe easier.
How to Use a Humidifier Safely:
✔ Use a cool-mist humidifier, not a warm one, to avoid burns.
✔ Clean it daily to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
✔ Place it near the child’s bed but out of reach.
DIY Steam Therapy:
✔ Run a hot shower and let the bathroom fill with steam.
✔ Sit with your child in the bathroom for 10–15 minutes.
✔ Add eucalyptus oil to the shower for extra relief (for kids over 2 years old).
Steam therapy helps loosen mucus and clears nasal passages naturally.
4. Offer Warm Soups and Nutritious Foods
What your child eats plays a huge role in their recovery. Nutritious foods strengthen the immune system and help fight off infections.
Best Foods for a Cold:
✔ Chicken soup – A natural decongestant and immune booster.
✔ Honey and lemon – Soothes sore throats and coughs.
✔ Citrus fruits – Rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
✔ Garlic and ginger – Have natural antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Foods to Avoid:
❌ Dairy (can thicken mucus in some children).
❌ Processed foods and junk food (lack nutrients needed for recovery).
❌ Sugary treats (can suppress immune function).
Serve warm, nourishing meals to help your child recover faster.
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5. Try Saline Nasal Spray or Drops
A blocked nose is one of the most annoying symptoms of a cold. Saline sprays or drops are a safe and effective way to clear nasal congestion in children.
How to Use Saline Drops:
✔ Lay your child down and tilt their head slightly back.
✔ Put 1-2 drops of saline solution in each nostril.
✔ Wait a minute, then use a bulb syringe to remove loosened mucus (for babies).
✔ Encourage older kids to blow their nose gently.
Saline helps flush out irritants and makes breathing easier.
6. Give Natural Remedies Like Honey and Ginger
Natural remedies can be incredibly effective in soothing symptoms and helping kids recover faster from a cold. Two of the best natural treatments are honey and ginger.
Benefits of Honey for a Cold:
✔ Acts as a natural cough suppressant.
✔ Soothes a sore throat and reduces irritation.
✔ Has antibacterial properties to help fight infection.
👉 How to Use: Give 1 teaspoon of raw honey to children over 1 year old before bed or mix it with warm water and lemon for a soothing drink.
Benefits of Ginger for a Cold:
✔ Has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
✔ Helps clear congestion and relieve cough.
✔ Soothes an upset stomach.
👉 How to Use: Make a mild ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger slices in water, then adding a bit of honey (for kids over 1 year old).
⚠ Note: Do not give honey to babies under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.
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7. Keep the Air Clean and Fresh
The environment your child is in plays a huge role in how quickly they recover. A clean, fresh, and allergen-free space helps prevent further irritation and speeds up healing.
Tips for Keeping the Air Clean:
✔ Open windows for fresh air circulation.
✔ Keep the house dust-free and vacuum regularly.
✔ Avoid strong scents (air fresheners, perfumes) that may irritate the nose.
Using Essential Oils Safely:
Some essential oils can help ease congestion, but they must be used carefully.
✔ Eucalyptus oil: Helps clear nasal passages (safe for kids over 2 years old).
✔ Lavender oil: Promotes relaxation and better sleep.
✔ Peppermint oil: Eases breathing but should only be used for older kids.
👉 How to Use: Add a few drops to a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil for a chest rub.
8. Use Over-the-Counter Medication (Only If Necessary)
While natural remedies work well, sometimes over-the-counter (OTC) medicines may be needed for symptom relief.
When to Consider OTC Medication:
✔ If your child has a high fever (above 102°F/39°C).
✔ If the cold is causing severe discomfort.
✔ If they are unable to sleep due to congestion or coughing.
Safe Medications for Kids:
✔ Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – For fever and aches (safe for kids over 3 months).
✔ Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) – For fever and inflammation (safe for kids over 6 months).
✔ Children’s cough syrup – Only if recommended by a doctor (many are not safe for kids under 6).
⚠ What to Avoid:
❌ Aspirin (can cause Reye’s syndrome in children).
❌ Adult cold medicine (not safe for young kids).
❌ Overuse of decongestants (can worsen congestion if used too much).
Always check with a pediatrician before giving any medication!
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9. Encourage Gentle Physical Activity
While rest is key, some light movement can actually help your child feel better by improving circulation and loosening mucus.
Best Indoor Activities for a Sick Child:
✔ Gentle stretching – Helps with body aches.
✔ Walking around the house – Prevents stiffness and helps drain sinuses.
✔ Simple breathing exercises – Can help open up the lungs.
When to Avoid Activity:
❌ If your child has a fever.
❌ If they feel weak or dizzy.
❌ If they have shortness of breath.
Encourage your child to listen to their body and rest when needed.
10. Monitor Symptoms and Know When to See a Doctor
Most colds go away on their own, but sometimes, a visit to the doctor is necessary.
Signs You Should See a Doctor:
🚨 Fever above 102°F (39°C) for more than 3 days.
🚨 Trouble breathing or wheezing.
🚨 Severe ear pain (may indicate an ear infection).
🚨 Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
🚨 Symptoms lasting more than 10 days.
If your child shows any of these signs, seek medical help immediately.
Preventive Measures for Future Colds:
✔ Encourage handwashing to prevent infections.
✔ Ensure a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins.
✔ Make sure your child gets enough sleep for a strong immune system.
✔ Keep your home clean and free from germs.
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FAQs
1. Can I use Vicks Vaporub for my child’s cold?
Vicks Vaporub is not recommended for children under 2 years old. For older kids, apply a small amount on their chest or feet to help with congestion.
2. How often should I give my child honey for a cold?
For kids over 1 year old, you can give 1 teaspoon of honey every 3-4 hours as needed for cough relief.
3. Are there any foods that make a cold worse?
Yes, dairy products can thicken mucus in some children, and sugary or processed foods can weaken the immune system.
4. Can a cold really go away in 24 hours?
While a cold typically lasts 3-7 days, following these remedies can significantly reduce symptoms and make your child feel much better within 24 hours.
5. What is the best way to prevent colds in kids?
The best ways to prevent colds include frequent handwashing, a healthy diet, good sleep habits, and avoiding sick people.
Conclusion
Getting rid of a cold in 24 hours may not always be possible, but by using these 10 effective remedies, you can significantly reduce symptoms and help your child feel better faster.
The best approach is to combine multiple remedies—hydrate, rest, use steam therapy, offer nutritious foods, and try natural treatments like honey and ginger. If symptoms persist or worsen, always consult a doctor.
With the right care, your little one will be back to their energetic self in no time!
