Casual Family Finds

If you’re a mom, you know what time it is — we are officially back to school and daycare! But let’s be real… with that, back-to-school also means the start of cold and flu season.

Between shared toys, sticky fingers, and playground adventures, the first few months of school can be a revolving door of germs. After a few rough weeks my first year as a “school mom,” I learned to keep our sick day kit stocked and ready. Here are some of my favorite go-to items that make a world of difference when those inevitable colds hit. Having our Sick Day Kit at the ready saves so much stress (and sleep!) when the runny noses and coughs start rolling in.

Here are my tried-and-true must-have items for toddler sick days — the ones that actually make a difference.

1. Lysol Free and Clear Sanitizing Detergent / 2. Frida Baby Saline Nasal Mist / 3. Throat Soothing Pops / 4. Zarbees Daily Immune Support Gummies / 5. Air Purifier / 6. Frida Baby Sick Day Prep Kit / 7. Cool Mist Humidifier

Lysol Sanitizing Detergent

Let’s be real — when one person gets sick, it spreads fast. I love using Lysol Sanitizing Detergent on sheets, pajamas, and stuffed animals. It kills lingering germs and keeps laundry smelling fresh (even after sick days). I have used the sport and free and clear versions, specifically preferring the free and clear version for kids.

Shop it here.

Nasal Saline Mist

A gentle saline mist (drops and spray work well too) is the first thing I reach for when my toddler’s congested. It helps loosen mucus and clear out stuffy noses naturally — no medicine, no fuss. Use it before naps and bedtime so they can breathe (and sleep!) better.

Mom tip: We like to keep one in each kids bedroom so that it’s specific to them and it’s always right there to help with congestion, whenever it strikes.

I like this Fridababy one.

Throat-Soothing Lollipops

These are a mom hack for sore throats or that lingering cough tickle. They feel like a treat but actually help soothe irritation — and they make comfort care a little more fun for toddlers who are old enough.

Shop the lollies here.

Zarbee’s Immunity Gummies

My toddler typically takes a multivitamin everyday, but these are an ‘add-in’ that we start during the winter time to give a gentle immune boost. Just check with your pediatrician before adding new supplements.

We have ordered these three times!

Air Purifier

In general, we have found an air purifier to be one of the best things you can invest in. Between dirty diapers, pet dander, dust and germs, air purifiers help to reduce these airborne allergens. They help keep the air in your home cleaner and fresher (especially in bedrooms where little ones sleep).

We have four of these air purifiers.

FridaBaby Sick Kit

This kit truly has it all. From the famous NoseFrida snot sucker (yes, it’s amazing) to vapor wipes and chest rub, the FridaBaby Sick Kit keeps you ready for anything. It’s basically your all-in-one toddler sick day toolkit. I have repurchased this over and over again for each kid.

Mom tip: It also makes a great baby shower gift!

Shop the Baby Frida Sick Kit on Amazon.

Cool Mist Humidifier

A cool mist humidifier is a total game-changer during cold season. It adds moisture to the air, helping soothe dry throats and reduce nighttime coughing. One of my kids gets croup at least once a year, so this can be extra helpful in those instances. It’s also great for skin as the air gets drier in fall and winter if you have kiddos with eczema.

Bonus: Many models now have night lights or whisper-quiet modes perfect for kids’ rooms.

Shop the cool mist humidifier here.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Sick days are never easy, but having these essentials on hand makes things so much smoother. You can skip the 10 p.m. drugstore run or frantic overnight ordering and focus on what matters most — cuddling up and helping your little one feel better.

So as you get ready for the new school year, don’t forget to stock your Toddler Sick Day Kit. You’ll thank yourself later when the first round of sniffles hits!