Stomach bugs can throw even the most organized families into chaos. The sudden onset of unpleasant symptoms, accumulating laundry piles, and sleep-interrupted nights can leave parents feeling overwhelmed. And with good reason. But with a little preparation and a few smart strategies, managing stomach bugs doesn’t have to be so stressful. Whether it’s protecting your couch from stains or keeping yourself calm, these five tips to manage stomach bugs at home will help prepare you for sick days and restore a sense of control. Or as much control as you usually have 
.
1. Prep a “Sick Day Kit” Ahead of Time
One of the best ways to reduce stress is to stay ahead of the game. A sick day kit is a lifesaver when illness strikes. Gather the items and store them somewhere out of the way but accessible. Stock it with essentials like a thermometer, electrolyte drinks, disposable sheets, a few books or a low effort activity, disinfecting wipes, and a cozy blanket. Having everything in one place saves time and you’ll appreciate your own foresight and good planning. Way to go, you!
2. Use Eco-Friendly Disposable Sheets to Protect Furniture
Vomiting is the messiest and most brutal part of a stomach bug, but it doesn’t have to mean ruined furniture. Kids can be unpredictable pukers, and it can be hard to teach them what to do when they’re dealing with new and unpleasant sensations. Eco-friendly disposable sheets, like Vommat, offer a quick and easy way to protect your couches and beds. Simply place the sheet wherever your child is resting and have them lay on top—it’s absorbent, watertight, and disposable, making cleanup a breeze. There’s a large coverage area so they can throw up without much effort to get to a specific place and with less worry about where someone throws up, you can focus more on comfort and care.
3. Hydration Hacks for Kids Who Aren’t Feeling Well
Dehydration is a common concern when vomiting is present, but getting kids to drink can be tricky. Try offering small sips of clear fluids like water or diluted juice every few minutes instead of full glasses. You can also try electrolyte-enhanced options like sports drinks and coconut water. Popsicles are also a fun way to keep hydration up without overwhelming sensitive stomachs – and a much easier sell to kids. Here are some additional tips on avoiding dehydration from WebMD.
4. Quick Cleaning Tips to Prevent the Spread of Germs
When one family member gets sick, it can feel like the whole household is next. Limit the spread of germs by focusing on high-touch areas like doorknobs, remote controls, and bathroom fixtures. Using disinfecting wipes is a quick and easy way to clean these surfaces and you already have some ready in your Sick Day Kit. Also of course remember to wash hands frequently and try to get any soiled items immediately into the trash or washing machine.
5. Self-Care for Parents to Stay Calm and Rested
It’s easy to push through without taking care of yourself, but staying calm and rested is an important way to help bring down the stress levels of the stomach bug. Even five minutes of deep breathing, a warm cup of tea, or a quick shower can reset your mood. If possible, tag-team with another adult to ensure you’re both getting breaks. Here’s a great post from The Mom Kind with more information about Prioritizing Mental Wellbeing.
5 Ways to Manage Stomach Bugs at Home With Less Stress
No one wants to have a family member come down with a stomach bug, but with a little preparation and these simple strategies, you can make weathering these unpleasant facts of life easier for everyone. Being prepared and minimizing the amount of cleanup will allow you to focus on what matters most: comforting your littles when they need you the most.
The post Discover 5 Ways to Manage Stomach Bugs at Home first appeared on The Mom Kind.
