Surviving Cold and Flu Season with a New Baby (Without Losing Your Mind)

Cold and flu season can feel downright brutal when you’re caring for a new baby. I remember my first winter with a kiddo in daycare. I felt like I was running on fumes, constantly wiping noses, holding a tiny human, and wondering how I could possibly survive without losing my sanity. Over the years, I’ve learned a few strategies that make this season a little more manageable and I want to share them with you.

One of the biggest struggles is when your infant pacifier keeps falling out. A stuffy nose can make it impossible to keep a newborn pacifier in place, leaving you bending over every few seconds. The ingy bingy band, a pacifier wristband, solves this problem. This pacifier bracelet velcros around your baby’s wrist and attaches to any infant pacifier. That means it is always right where your newborn pacifier needs to be. There is no need to worry about the strangulation hazards that come with traditional pacifier clips. The ingy bingy band was a game-changer for me during those rough winter months. No more chasing pacifiers across the floor and a lot less stress for this tired mama.

Of course, surviving cold and flu season is not just about keeping pacifiers in place. Here are some tips that have helped me and many moms I know:

1. Dress your baby in layers. Babies get cold quickly, but overheating is not safe either. A comfortable onesie paired with a swaddle or sleep sack is usually enough to keep your newborn pacifier and baby cozy at night.

2. Sanitize high-touch items, but don't over stress. Pacifiers, bottles, and toys are a priority. Some germs are inevitable, and that is okay. Focus on what you can control and let go of perfection.

3. Stock up on comfort essentials. Saline drops, a bulb syringe, and a humidifier make a big difference when noses are stuffy. Even a few drops of relief can help both baby and mom get much needed rest.

4. Ask for help. It can be hard to reach out, but friends, family, or your partner can step in for even a short break. A little support goes a long way.

5. Prioritize your mental health. I spent years putting myself last during winter and driving myself into exhaustion and anxiety. Small acts of self-care matter. A warm bath, a cup of tea, a short nap, or a few minutes outside can help you recharge. You cannot pour from an empty cup, mama.

Remember, it is okay if this season feels hard. It is okay to ask for help. Tools like the Ingy Bingy Band and a little planning can make a huge difference in keeping both you and your baby happier and healthier. By taking care of yourself and using smart strategies, cold and flu season does not have to be a source of constant stress.

You have got this, mama, and your baby is lucky to have you.

 

 

The Ingy Bingy Band is not your everyday pacifier clip! This game-changing pacifier wristband helps babies self-soothe at a younger age than ever before! Instinctively, babies gnaw on their hands in an attempt to soothe. The Ingy Bingy pacifier wristband keeps their pacifier right where they’ll find it, allowing your baby to comfort and calm themselves while you do whatever it is you need to do!

Our buttery soft wristband comes in two styles to accommodate every pacifier.

Our Pacific style should be used when your baby’s pacifier holes are near their nose and chin when in use. It is most commonly used with Avent, BIBS, Dr. Brown’s, MAM, Nuby, NUK, Medela, FRIGG, Nanobébé, Tommee Tippee, and Chicco pacifiers. 

Our Sequoia style should be used when your baby’s pacifier holes are near their nose and chin when in use. It is most commonly used with Itzy Ritzy, Ryan & Rose, and The Dearest Grey pacifiers.  

If you are still unsure which pacifier wristband style is right for you, check out our style guide or text the name and/or picture of your preferred paci & we’ll let you know which style is right for you!