Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Kiersten James, BS, RN
Try these gentle, natural ways to relieve constipation in babies and toddlers without using medication or harsh laxatives.
Constipation in babies can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for everyone involved. Watching your little one struggle with hard poops, bloating, or belly discomfort can leave you feeling helpless – especially when they’re too young to tell you exactly what’s wrong.
While occasional constipation is extremely common in babies and toddlers, it’s a good idea to get a sense of which natural ways work best to help regulate digestion when doody calls (sorry, I had to lol).
Although I’m a nurse, I’m also one of those parents that avoid conventional medications – specifically harsh laxatives which can lead to dependency or painful cramping – when ever there are trustworthy home remedies available.
Signs of Constipation in Babies & Toddlers
Every kid’s digestive system is obviously different, so what’s “normal” can vary. However, constipation in babies and toddlers usually looks something like this:
- Hard, dry poop that is difficult to pass
- Infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 times per week for older toddlers)
- Straining or discomfort while trying to poop
- Bloated belly or gas
- Low appetite or fussiness
For babies under 6 months who are exclusively breastfed, constipation is very rare since breast milk is easily digested. Formula-fed babies and those starting solids may experience constipation more frequently.
If constipation is accompanied by severe bloating, vomiting, blood in the poop, or extreme discomfort, contact your child’s healthcare provider right away.
Home Remedies for Constipation in Babies and Toddlers
Increase Fluids to Soften Stools
Dehydration is one of the most common causes of constipation in babies and toddlers. If their body isn’t getting enough fluids, their poop will become dry and harder to pass.
For babies under 6 months, breast milk or formula should be the only source of hydration. Do not give water or juice at this stage unless directed by a doctor.
For babies over 6 months, small sips of water throughout the day can help soften stools naturally. If your baby is over 1 year old, coconut water can be an excellent but mild natural laxative that helps regulate their digestion.
Increase High Fiber Foods
Once your baby starts solids, their digestive system needs a little bit of time to adjust to new textures and nutrients. Some foods bind poop together, while others help keep things moving along the digestive tract.
If your baby or toddler is constipated, you can try adding foods with higher fiber content to their diet. Some baby-friendly ideas that they tend to like are below:
- Pears – A great natural laxative, rich in fiber
- Prunes – One of the best remedies for softening stools
- Peaches & Plums – Gentle on digestion and help relieve constipation
- Avocados – Full of healthy fats and fiber
- Oatmeal – A great alternative to rice cereal, which can be constipating
- Sweet Potatoes – Packed with fiber to keep things moving
The easiest way to use prunes is to make a prune purée is to soak 3 to 4 prunes in warm water for half an hour. Blend with a little breast milk, formula, or water until it’s smooth like baby food.
Mix 1 teaspoon into their regular food once or twice a day until they’re able to go to the bathroom again normally.
Belly Massage & Bicycle Legs
A belly massage can help stimulate digestion and relieve gas in babies. Using your fingers, massage your baby’s belly in a clockwise direction while applying gentle pressure in circular motions.
You can also try bicycle legs which mimics natural movement to help encourage a bowel movement. Lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion for a few minutes.
Coconut Oil for a Natural Lubricant
Coconut oil is a natural laxative that can help soften stools by providing internal lubrication.
For babies over 6 months, you can add ¼ teaspoon of coconut oil to their food once per day. It can be mixed into oatmeal, mashed bananas, or purées.
For toddlers, you can increase the amount to ½ teaspoon daily to help regulate digestion.
I feel like this is obvious but if they’re allergic to coconuts, don’t do this.
Draw Up a Warm Bath
A warm bath can help relax the abdominal muscles making it easier for your baby to poop. Adding a cup of weak chamomile tea to the bath can help ease any tension and discomfort in their muscles.
After the bath, follow up with the gentle belly massage above to encourage movement within the bowels.
Add a Daily Baby Probiotic
If it’s becoming a thing that your baby or toddler is frequently constipated, probiotics can help balance gut bacteria and promote regular digestion.
Good sources of baby safe probiotics include:
- Plain yogurt with active cultures (for babies over 6 months)
- Probiotic drops (available over the counter in most stores)
- Fermented foods like kefir and real sourdough (for older toddlers)
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera is known for its mild laxative effect and ability to soothe the digestive tract. For older toddlers, a tiny amount of aloe vera juice is often enough to give relief.
For children over 1 year old, mix ½ teaspoon of pure aloe vera juice into their water or fruit purée.
Always use 100% pure, food-grade aloe vera juice. Don’t use a house plant for this.
Eliminate Constipating Foods
Just like how some foods can speed up digestion, others slow it down and can make constipation worse. This is especially the case for babies who are new to eating solids.
If they seem to be struggling to adjust, try eliminating some of these until their body gets the hang of it.
- Rice cereal – switch to oatmeal instead
- Bananas – especially underripe ones
- Dairy (too much cheese or milk)
- White bread or refined grains like crackers
When to Call a Doctor
Most cases of constipation in babies and toddlers resolve on their own with a little help from mom or dad. There are times, though, when medical attention is needed. Visit your healthcare provider if you notice the following:
- Your baby is under 6 months old and hasn’t had a bowel movement in 3 days.
- There’s blood in the stool or signs of extreme discomfort.
- Your baby cries excessively while trying to poop.
- Constipation lasts longer than 7 days despite home remedies.
If your child is diagnosed with chronic constipation, your doctor may recommend additional dietary changes or probiotics to support their gut health.
More Natural Baby & Toddler Health:
How to Break a Fever in Babies Without Medication
Amish Cough Syrup with Flaxseed, Lemon, and Honey (not for babies under 1 year)
Natural Cough Remedies for Babies
Save It For Later!
Always monitor your child’s symptoms and trust your instincts—if something doesn’t seem right, or if you simply feel that something isn’t right, do not hesitate to bring them into the doctor or ER for medical evaluation. Nurses and doctors are always the happiest when we can send home a healthy child within a few hours.
This information is intended for educational purposes only. The content created for www.naturalhomeapothecary.com has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider for personal healthcare decision-making guidance.
