Your Baby's First Cold: What To Expect, Day By Day

The first cold is frightening largely because you have no baseline. Here is roughly how a typical one runs. Every baby differs, and this is a guide, not a diagnosis.

Days 1–2: the beginning

Often a clear runny nose, more sneezing than usual, and a baby who's slightly off — fussier, feeding a little less enthusiastically. Congestion is usually mild at this point.

Days 3–5: the worst of it

This is typically the peak. Mucus thickens and may turn yellow or green — which is normal and does not by itself indicate a bacterial infection or a need for antibiotics. Nights are hardest, feeds are broken up, and everyone is tired. A low-grade temperature can appear.

This is the stage where saline and gentle suction before feeds and sleep make the most practical difference.

Days 6–10: turning the corner

Congestion starts easing. A cough often appears or worsens around now as mucus drains — counterintuitively, this frequently signals improvement rather than deterioration. Feeding and sleeping gradually normalise.

Up to two weeks: the tail

A lingering snuffle or occasional cough can persist well after your baby is otherwise back to themselves. That's normal and doesn't require treatment.

Call your doctor straight away if

• Your baby is under 3 months and has any fever
• Breathing is fast, laboured, grunting, or you can see pulling in at the ribs or neck
• There's any bluish tinge to the lips or face
• They're refusing feeds or have significantly fewer wet nappies
• They're unusually floppy, or difficult to wake
• Symptoms are worsening after day 7, or a fever appears late in the illness

Trust your instinct. Nobody has ever been told off for bringing in a baby that turned out to be fine.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your paediatrician or healthcare provider.