A Complete Guide to Keeping Babies and Toddlers Hydrated
Hydration plays a vital role in your child’s growth, health, and overall wellbeing. Many parents wonder: How much should my baby drink? Can my toddler have juice? When can babies drink water? This guide will help you understand how much fluid your child really needs at every age and how to make healthy drink choices for them.
Why Is Hydration So Important for Babies and Toddlers?
Babies and young children have a higher proportion of water in their bodies than adults do, which means they can lose fluids more quickly. Playing outside, warm weather, illness, and even active play indoors can all lead to fluid loss.
Dehydration in babies and toddlers can become serious quite fast because their bodies are less able to regulate fluid balance. That’s why it’s important to recognise how much fluid your child needs and which drinks are safe.
How Much Should My Baby Drink? (0–6 Months)
In the first six months of life, your baby’s only source of hydration should be breast milk or infant formula. No extra water is needed. In fact, giving water to a young baby can be dangerous because their tiny kidneys aren’t mature enough to handle it.
How do you know your baby is drinking enough?
✔ They feed frequently and seem satisfied after feeds.
✔ You can hear them swallowing during feeding.
✔ They have at least six wet nappies a day.
✔ They gain weight steadily and have healthy, elastic skin.
Important: When to Give Extra Fluids
If your baby has a fever, diarrhoea or is vomiting, they can lose fluids more rapidly. If you notice fewer wet nappies, dry lips, or unusual sleepiness, speak with your GP or health visitor immediately. They can advise whether you need to offer extra fluids or oral rehydration solutions.
When Can Babies Start Drinking Water?
A common question for new parents is: When can babies drink water?
✔ Under 6 months: Not recommended - breast milk or formula only.
✔ From 6 months: Small sips of cooled, boiled tap water can be introduced alongside solid foods. In the UK, tap water is generally safe, but always run the tap for a few seconds to flush out any sitting water.
✔ 1 year and older: Tap water (unboiled) is fine for toddlers.
How Much Should My Toddler Drink Each Day?
As your baby grows into a toddler, you might wonder: How much water does my toddler need daily?
In general:
✅ 1–3 years: About 1–1.3 litres of fluids per day (6–8 small cups).
✅ More may be needed in hot weather or if your child is very active.
This includes all fluids - water, milk, and soups count too.
Which Drinks Are Best for Toddlers?
Choosing the right drinks helps build healthy habits and protects teeth. Here’s what’s best:
✔ Water: The best everyday drink. Plain tap water keeps your child hydrated without adding sugar or calories.
✔ Milk: Full-fat cow’s milk is fine from age one. Limit to around 350–400ml daily.
✔ Herbal tea: Very mild herbal or fruit teas without added sugar can be given occasionally, but they shouldn’t replace water. If using herbal teas like fennel or chamomile, check they’re suitable for children and offer them in moderation. Some herbs contain essential oils that can be too strong for daily drinking.
✔ Juice: Fruit juice should be the exception, not the rule. It’s high in natural sugars and fruit acids, which can damage tooth enamel and lead to unhealthy habits. If you offer juice, always dilute it heavily (one part juice to at least 10 parts water) and serve in an open cup, not a bottle or sippy cup, to help prevent tooth decay.
Drinks to Avoid for Babies and Toddlers
🚫 Fizzy drinks and squash: too much sugar and acid for young teeth.
🚫 Tea and coffee with caffeine: these can be harmful to babies and toddlers.
🚫 Flavoured milk drinks and milkshakes: often high in added sugar.
🚫 ‘Energy’ or sports drinks: not suitable for children.
Signs Your Child Might Be Dehydrated
Keep an eye out for early signs of dehydration:
✔ Fewer wet nappies or less frequent toilet trips.
✔ Dark yellow urine.
✔ Dry mouth or lips.
✔ Unusual tiredness or irritability.
✔ Cold or blotchy hands and feet.
If you’re ever unsure, always consult your GP, health visitor or paediatrician.
Tips for Encouraging Healthy Drinking Habits
💧 Offer water with every meal and snack.
💧 Give your toddler their own fun, easy-to-hold cup.
💧 Be a role model - drink water yourself throughout the day.
💧 Make water easily accessible at home and when you’re out.
💧 Keep sugary drinks out of sight and treat them as occasional treats only.
Take Care of Yourself, Too!
Parents often focus so much on keeping little ones hydrated that they forget about their own needs. Staying hydrated boosts your energy, mood, and focus so grab yourself a glass of water too!
Key Takeaways
✔ Babies under 6 months do not need extra water - breast milk or formula is enough.
✔ After 6 months, offer small amounts of cooled tap water.
✔ Toddlers need about 6–8 small cups of fluids daily - water should be the main drink.
✔ Avoid sugary drinks to protect tiny teeth.
✔ Always check with your doctor if you’re worried about dehydration.
FAQ: How Much Water Should My Child Drink?
✅ How much water should my 1-year-old drink per day?
Around 350–400ml of milk plus water to make up a total fluid intake of about 1 litre daily.
✅ Can I give herbal tea to my baby?
Only very mild herbal teas and only in small amounts. Always check with your health visitor first.
✅ What’s the best drink for toddlers?
Plain tap water - it’s free, healthy, and great for teeth!
