If you’ve got one spare brain cell left, use it to prep now. Future you will thank you. After going through a stomach bug three times in our baby’s first year (yes, the whole household caught it each time), I learned what helps, what doesn’t, and how fast things can spiral if you’re not ready. This guide covers what to prepare, how to rehydrate your baby or toddler, what foods to offer after vomiting, and when to go to the ER.
Always check with your pediatrician, especially for hydration and symptom-specific advice for babies under 6 months.
How to Prepare for a Stomach Virus in Babies and Toddlers
Before the first signs of vomiting or diarrhea, a few simple preparations can make a world of difference. Here’s what to have on hand for when your baby gets a stomach bug.
- Throwaway or bleachable clothing
Old joggers and loose tees are ideal, especially if you’ll be catching diaper blowouts or holding a vomiting child. Set aside a set or two you won’t mind tossing. - Burp cloths—lots of them
You’ll go through them faster than you think. Keep a clean stack in every room where your child might be. - At least 3 mattress protectors
This is for wherever your baby sleeps. You’ll want one on the bed, one in the wash, and one dry and ready to go. - Old towels you don’t mind ruining
That stack from college finally has a purpose. These are great for quick cleanups or emergency bedding changes. - Reusable shop towels
More absorbent and durable than paper towels. They’re also far less soul-crushing when you’re on your fifth cleanup before noon. - Freezer meals for yourself
When your baby or toddler has a stomach virus, you won’t feel like cooking. Soups, brothy stews, and simple pastas are lifesavers when you’re running on fumes.
What to Do When Your Baby Starts Vomiting or Has Diarrhea
Once your child starts throwing up or has diarrhea, your priority becomes hydration, comfort, and containment. Here’s how to manage symptoms and help your baby or toddler feel better.
- Breastmilk or formula
For babies under 6 months, offer frequent nursing or small bottle feeds even if they spit up. Their body will absorb some hydration each time. Try feeding every 10 to 15 minutes in small amounts. - Coconut water
Freeze into cubes and drop into sippy cups or bottles of water. It’s a natural electrolyte boost toddlers often tolerate well. - Toddler rehydration powders (like Cure)
These offer a balance of electrolytes without as much sugar as sports drinks. Always check with your pediatrician before using with babies or young toddlers. - Try to isolate, but know it might be impossible
If you have multiple kids, do your best to separate cups, towels, and sleeping spaces. But also… brace yourself. - Wash your hands constantly
Before meals, after diapers, after cuddles. You already know this, but it’s easy to forget when things get chaotic. - Hydrate yourself, too
Keep water, electrolytes, or herbal tea nearby. And yes, lukewarm coffee counts if that’s all you’ve managed.
Signs of Dehydration in Babies and When to Go to the ER
Wondering if your baby is dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea? If you’re even considering the ER, trust your instincts and go. Dehydration can escalate quickly in infants and toddlers.
Look for these signs of dehydration:
- Sunken soft spot (in babies under 18 months)
- No wet diapers for 6 to 8 hours
If your baby sleeps through that time, check the diaper when they wake. If the urine is dark yellow, they’re likely dehydrated. - Sunken or dark eyes
- Fever over 103°F
Fever doesn’t always come with a stomach bug, but when it does, it worsens dehydration.
How to Help Your Baby Recover After a Stomach Bug
Once the vomiting slows down, your baby’s recovery begins. Focus on restoring fluids, easing back into feeding, and giving their little body time to rest and heal.
- Probiotics
We’ve used Wellements, but check with your pediatrician. A daily probiotic can support gut healing after illness. - Extra rest
Your child may sleep more than usual. Let them. This is when healing happens. - Keep feeding on demand
Whether it’s breastmilk, formula, or a mix of both, expect irregular feeding patterns and possible cluster feeding. Especially if you’re sick too. - Zinc and probiotics for you
Your body took a hit too. Prioritize recovery for yourself with hydration and immune support.
What to Feed a Baby After Vomiting or Diarrhea
If your baby or toddler is on solids, reintroduce food slowly. Stick with simple, gentle foods that are easy to digest and freezer-friendly.
- Applesauce
Easy on the stomach and toddler-approved. Serve chilled or warmed slightly. - Sourdough bread (crustless)
A mix of whole wheat and white flour works well. Keep some sliced and frozen. Toast lightly or serve plain. - Banana bread muffins
Soft, mild, and calorie-dense. Ideal for snacking once appetites start to return. - Cooked rice
Keep it simple. Reheat with a splash of broth or water for a soothing, low-risk food.
How to Disinfect After a Stomach Virus in Your Home
Once everyone is on the mend, it’s time to clean up. A thorough sanitizing routine can help prevent reinfection.
- Oxy-boost or enzyme cleaner
Breaks down lingering germs and bio messes on laundry, sheets, and soft surfaces. - Hydrogen peroxide
A safe go-to for disinfecting hard surfaces without the harshness of bleach. - Diluted bleach spray
Use on high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and bathroom fixtures. Don’t skip the toilet handle.
In the End, Remember:
- Hydration comes first
- Prep when you’re able
- Trust your instincts
- You’ve got this
Final Thoughts
Every round of the stomach bug looked a little different for us. One time the recovery dragged on for days. Another time, dehydration set in fast. I even solo-parented through one of them, stripping vomit-covered sheets and crying on the floor from sheer exhaustion. None of it was easy, but the same truths always held: trust your gut, take it hour by hour, and know you will get through it.
If you’re in the thick of it now, take a deep breath. You’re doing enough. You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed. And if you think your child needs emergency care, go. Don’t second-guess it. You know your baby better than anyone.
You’ve got this.