Norovirus and other stomach bugs are most common during the colder months of the year. Plus, respiratory virus season is underway, with a new strain of the flu causing medical experts some concern. Along with RSV and COVID, this “tripledemic” of respiratory illnesses could sweep through schools and communities at an alarming rate.
All of these viruses, along with many other illnesses that can circulate through a classroom or daycare, can cause vomiting, especially in children. Any parent who has had to change their child’s sheets in the middle of the night due to a surprise bout of vomiting knows it can be an ordeal.
When a child is sick, whether they feel nauseous or not, it’s a good idea to be prepared for vomiting to reduce the stress and time spent cleaning up. Aside from more obvious preparations like keeping hair ties and wipes on hand, here are five hacks to help you prepare for a vomiting child—
- Make bed sheet lasagna: Layer a waterproof mattress cover over the sheets, then add another waterproof cover, another layer of sheets, and repeat.
- Choose the right bucket: Use a wide pot that can be sanitized in the dishwasher, or a double-lined trashcan.
- Help them aim: Put a cheap glowstick in the bucket so they know where to aim in the middle of the night.
- Line the hallway: Use puppy pads or old blankets or towels to help catch messes between the bed and the bathroom.
- Ditch the comforter: Make a quick switch to washable blankets or large beach towels to make cleanup easier.
Having a sick kid is no fun, but these hacks should keep the cleanup to a minimum and create more time for comfort, cuddles, and treatment. If your child is showing symptoms of respiratory illness or sudden vomiting, contact your pediatrician.
