How to Use Baby Vapour Rub for Cough Relief

When your baby has a cough, it can be distressing for both you and your little one. Babies, especially newborns, have delicate immune systems, which means even the smallest cold or cough can leave them feeling uncomfortable. As parents, we're always looking for safe and effective ways to bring relief to our babies, and one popular remedy is using baby vapour rub.  

Vapour rubs are known to help ease congestion, clear stuffy noses, and provide relief from coughing. However, knowing how to use them correctly and safely is essential, especially for young infants. In this blog, we'll walk you through the benefits of using vapour rub for babies and share tips on how to use it effectively to provide relief from coughs and colds.  

What is a Baby Vapour Rub?  

Vapour rub is a soothing ointment that works by releasing comforting vapours from natural oils like eucalyptus and rosemary to help relieve congestion. When your baby is dealing with a stuffy nose or cough, these vapours open up the nasal passages, making it easier for them to breathe. This is especially helpful at bedtime when coughing can get worse, and sleep becomes difficult. Plus, many baby vapour rubs contain calming oils like lavender and thyme, which can help your little one relax and sleep better.   

However, it's important to choose a vapour rub that's specifically made for babies. Regular vapour rubs, designed for adults, often have stronger ingredients that might be too harsh for your baby's sensitive skin and respiratory system. Baby vapour rubs are made with gentler, natural ingredients that are safe for your little one, giving them relief without any risks. So, always check the label to ensure it is baby-friendly!  

How Does Vapour Rub Work?  

When you apply vapour rub to your baby's chest, back, or feet, the warmth from their body helps release the soothing vapours into the air. These vapours are then inhaled, which helps to reduce nasal congestion and ease coughing. Some vapour rubs also contain essential oils that are absorbed through the skin, providing a calming and relaxing effect.  

It's a popular remedy because it's non-invasive and doesn't require your baby to ingest anything, making it ideal for babies who are too young for over-the-counter medications. Vapour rub provides an effective way to support your baby's breathing while they're fighting off a cold or cough.  

Tips for Using Baby Vapour Rub Safely  

While vapour rub is generally safe for babies, it's important to follow a few precautions to make sure your baby gets the most benefit without any risks.  

• Check the age recommendations:

  Always check the label to see to it that the vapour rub is suitable for your baby's age. Some products are designed specifically for babies over 3 months, while others may be safe from birth.  
  
  

• Do a patch test:

  Babies have sensitive skin, so it's a good idea to do a patch test before applying vapour rub all over. Apply a small amount on your baby's forearm and wait for 24 hours to check for any allergic reactions or skin irritation. 
   

• Avoid applying near the nose or eyes:

  Never apply vapour rub directly under your baby's nose or near their eyes, as the strong vapours can irritate these sensitive areas. Instead, focus on the chest, back, and bottoms of their feet.  
  
  

• Apply before bedtime:

  Vapour rub works best when applied just before bedtime, as it helps to open up airways and provide comfort throughout the night.  

How to Use Baby Vapour Rub for Cough Relief  

Now that you know how vapour rub works, here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively for your baby's cough relief:  

• Step 1:

  Take a small, adequate amount of vapour rub on your fingertips.  

• Step 2:

  Gently massage it onto your baby's chest, back, and bottom of their feet. You can also apply a small amount on their forehead.  

• Step 3:

  Make sure the area is covered with light clothing to keep your baby warm and allow the vapours to work their magic.  

• Step 4:

  For older babies (over 6 months), you can use a warm towel to cover the chest after applying the vapour rub for added comfort.  

• Step 5:

  Reapply the vapour rub whenever necessary, especially before naps or bedtime.  

Choosing the Right Vapour Rub 

When choosing a vapour rub for your baby, it's important to go for a product made with natural, safe ingredients. One such option is the Baby Forest Komal Shwaas Vapour Rub, which is specifically designed for babies. It contains a blend of natural oils, such as eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, and rosemary oil, which are known for their soothing and congestion-relieving properties.  

To use Baby Forest Komal Shwaas Vapour Rub, simply take an adequate amount on your fingers and apply it gently to your baby's chest, nose, forehead, and the bottom of their feet. Its gentle, natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and sesame oil make it perfect for your baby's sensitive skin, while the combination of essential oils helps calm the cough and open up the airways.  

What's more, this vapour rub is free from parabens and is Ayush-certified, ensuring it's safe for your little one. The derma-safe formula means it's unlikely to cause irritation, and it provides a natural, non-invasive way to ease cough symptoms in your baby.  

Additional Ways to Ease Your Baby's Cough  

While vapour rub can be very effective, there are a few additional things you can do to make your baby more comfortable when they have a cough:  

• Use a humidifier:

  Adding moisture to the air can help soothe your baby's irritated throat and loosen mucus, making it easier for them to breathe.  

• Elevate your baby's head:

  If your baby has a stuffy nose or cough, gently elevate their head with a pillow (for older babies) or place a towel under the mattress for younger infants to help reduce congestion.  

• Offer plenty of fluids:

  Keeping your baby hydrated is essential when they're not feeling well. If your baby is breastfeeding or formula-feeding, offer feeds more frequently.  

• Give them a warm bath:

  A warm bath can help ease congestion and soothe your baby. The steam from the water helps open up their nasal passages, providing relief.  

Conclusion  

Using vapour rub is just one of the many ways to comfort your baby during a cough. However, it's important to remember that every baby is different. Some may respond quickly to vapour rub, while others might need additional care such as a humidifier or warm baths. The key is to create a comforting and soothing environment that helps your baby feel relaxed and secure.