Because sometimes parenting is just about getting through the night...
Gastro: the illness that loves to spread the love — quickly, violently, and usually in the middle of the night. It’s a horrible, and let’s be honest, really shite (pun intended) time for everyone involved.
As mums who’ve weathered the storm — panic, piles of laundry, and endless handwashing — we’ve pulled together a practical list to help you feel somewhat in control the next time (hopefully never) gastro makes an unwelcome visit to your household. Introducing: your Gastro Survival Toolbox.
- Hand soap & hand sanitiser: Hand soap is your first line of defence. Wash often! Sprinkle sanitiser around the home for quick access.
- Buckets: Plural. Keep them in every room. Trust us.
- Diluted bleach solution: Gastro viruses are tough little things. Regular spray-and-wipe won't cut it — bleach is your best friend when it comes to disinfecting surfaces, bathrooms, and any place hands have been.
- Fluids, fluids, fluids: Preventing dehydration is critical, especially for little ones. Hello hydra helpa — it’s packed with electrolytes, prebiotics, and probiotics to help replenish fluids, and best of all, kids will actually drink it (a small miracle when nothing else goes down).
- Bonus points: If your little one won’t drink hydra helpa, use ice block moulds and turn it into icy poles. This is often a winner and a gentle way to sneak in hydration.
- Screens: Look, the bar is low and you’re in survival mode. If watching endless cartoons keeps the sick child still and sipping fluids, we call that a win.
- Waterproof bed mats: To avoid changing sheets at 2am (and again at 3am), we swear by them. Waterproof, washable, and a total game-changer.
No one ever feels truly ready for gastro — but with this survival toolbox on hand, you’ll at least be one step ahead of the next wave.
