Finding Relief: The Best Gripe Water and Gas Drops for Your Fussy Baby
Seeing your baby in discomfort from gas or colic is heartbreaking, and finding a safe, effective solution is every parent's top priority.
The “gripe water” category can be confusing, as it includes traditional herbal remedies, FDA-approved simethicone drops, and even comfort items. The best choice depends on the active ingredients you’re comfortable with and whether you need a targeted solution or an all-in-one kit. We’ll break down the differences to help you soothe your little one.
- Gripe Water vs. Gas Drops “Gripe water” is often an herbal supplement, while “gas drops” typically contain simethicone, an FDA-approved ingredient that breaks up gas bubbles. Many products marketed for gas relief are actually simethicone drops.
- Check the Ingredients Always read the label. Look for dye-free, alcohol-free, and sugar-free formulas. Key active ingredients to know are simethicone (for gas) and herbal components like ginger and fennel (in traditional gripe water).
- Consult Your Pediatrician Before giving your baby any new supplement or medication, including gripe water or gas drops, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician to ensure it’s appropriate for your child.
- Comfort Is Also a Remedy Sometimes, relief isn’t just about medicine. A warm bath, gentle tummy massage, or a cozy swaddle can work wonders alongside or instead of a liquid remedy.
Best Premium: Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit with Saline Nasal Spray, Diaper Rash Cream, Gas Relief Drops, Gripe Water & More, Safe for Newborns
The ultimate newborn symptom-relief kit
This comprehensive kit includes gripe water and gas relief drops, providing everything a new parent needs to tackle common tummy upsets. It’s a perfec
- Includes both herbal gripe water and simethicone gas drops
- Covers multiple common baby ailments in one package
- Excellent value compared to buying items separately
- Trusted brand for baby care essentials
- Higher upfront cost than a single item
- You may not use every item in the kit
- Gripe water is herbal, which not all parents prefer
Best Overall: MYLICON Infants Gas Relief Drops for Infants and Babies, Dye Free Formula, 1 Fluid Ounce
Pediatrician-recommended gas relief
The #1 pediatrician-recommended brand, these dye-free drops work gently to relieve gas discomfort. Safe for even the newest newborns and can be used a
- From the #1 pediatrician-recommended brand for gas relief
- Free of dyes, alcohol, and artificial flavors
- Works quickly to break up gas bubbles
- Can be mixed with formula or administered directly
- Only treats gas, not other potential tummy issues
- Dropper can be tricky to use with a fussy baby
- Some parents may prefer an herbal remedy
Best Budget: Little Remedies Newborn Gas Relief Drops, Relieves Discomfort From Gas, Baby Medicine with No Artificial Flavors or Dyes, Natural Berry Flavor, 1 Fl Oz
Fast, affordable gas relief
Get fast-acting gas relief in minutes with this affordable, simethicone-based formula. Its natural berry flavor makes it easy for babies to take.
- Great value for an effective gas relief product
- Works quickly to relieve gas pain
- Free from artificial dyes and parabens
- Pleasant flavor can make it easier to administer
- Contains ‘natural flavor’ which some parents prefer to avoid
- Single bottle can be used up quickly
- Not as widely pediatrician-recommended as Mylicon
Best Value: Little Remedies Baby Gas Drops, 1 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
Stock up and save on gas drops
Stock up and save with this three-pack of fast-acting gas relief drops. The simethicone formula works in minutes to soothe your baby’s tummy discomfor
- Excellent value when buying in bulk
- Ensures you always have gas drops on hand for emergencies
- Same effective formula as the single pack
- Reduces frequency of shopping trips
- Larger upfront cost
- Babies can outgrow gas issues, potentially leaving unused product
- Requires more storage space than a single bottle
Runner Up: MYLICON Gas Relief Drops for Infants and Babies, Original Formula, 1 Fluid Ounce
The original trusted gas relief
From the top pediatrician-recommended brand, this original formula safely and effectively breaks up gas bubbles to relieve pressure and discomfort for
- Trusted by parents and pediatricians for generations
- From the #1 pediatrician-recommended brand
- Effectively breaks down gas bubbles for quick relief
- Works quickly and is non-staining
- Contains dyes, unlike our top pick
- Same price as the dye-free version
- Most parents today opt for dye-free formulas when available
Best for Comfort: Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Cotton Animal Face Hooded Towel, Mr Crab, One Size
A cozy towel for post-bath comfort
Soothe a fussy baby with this ultra-soft hooded towel. It’s a great way to provide comfort after a warm bath, which can also help ease tummy troubles.
- Provides comfort and calm without medication
- Ultra-soft and gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin
- Great for a calming post-bath or pre-bedtime routine
- Adorable design makes bath time more fun
- Does not medically treat gas or colic
- Not a replacement for gripe water or gas drops
- It is simply a towel, not a health product
Side-by-side comparison
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Best Premium
Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit with Salin
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Best Overall
MYLICON Infants Gas Relief Drops for Infants and B
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Best Budget
Little Remedies Newborn Gas Relief Drops, Relieves
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Best Value
Little Remedies Baby Gas Drops, 1 Fl Oz (Pack of 3
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Runner Up
MYLICON Gas Relief Drops for Infants and Babies, O
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Best for Comfort
Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Cotton Animal Face Hooded
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| Active Ingredient | Gripe Water & Simethicone | Simethicone | Simethicone | Simethicone | Simethicone | N/A |
| Type | Kit | Gas Drops | Gas Drops | Gas Drops (3-Pack) | Gas Drops | Comfort Item |
| Dye-Free | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | – |
| Price | $20.99 | $9.86 | $7.66 | $22.98 | $9.86 | $14.99 |
| BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW |
What to look for in Gripe Water for Babies
What's the difference between gripe water and gas drops?
Gas drops almost always contain simethicone, an FDA-approved medicine that works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach. Gripe water is typically an herbal supplement containing ingredients like ginger, fennel, and chamomile, which are thought to soothe digestion. Always check the active ingredients on the label to know what you’re buying.
Are gripe water and gas drops safe for newborns?
Most simethicone-based gas drops are considered safe for newborns from birth, but it is crucial to consult your pediatrician before giving your baby any new medication or supplement. Some herbal gripe waters may have age restrictions or ingredients not recommended for very young infants, so read the packaging carefully and speak with your doctor.
How often can I give my baby gas drops?
Dosing instructions vary by brand, but many simethicone-based drops can be given at every feeding, up to a specific daily limit (e.g., 12 times per 24 hours). Always follow the exact instructions on the product packaging and the advice of your pediatrician. Never exceed the recommended dose.
When should I be concerned about my baby's gas?
While fussiness and gas are normal for many babies, you should contact your pediatrician if the gas is accompanied by a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stool, or if the baby seems to be in severe pain or is inconsolable for long periods. These could be signs of a more serious issue.
The Bottom Line
- Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit: The ultimate starter pack with both gripe water and gas drops.
- MYLICON Infants Gas Relief Drops: The best overall for its trusted, dye-free simethicone formula.
- Little Remedies Newborn Gas Relief Drops: The most affordable option for fast, effective gas relief.
- Little Remedies Baby Gas Drops (3-Pack): The best value for parents who want to stock up on a proven remedy.
- MYLICON Gas Relief Drops (Original): A reliable, time-tested choice from the top recommended brand.
- Hudson Baby Hooded Towel: A great non-medical tool for soothing a fussy baby with warmth and comfort.
For proven, pediatrician-recommended gas relief, the MYLICON Infants Gas Relief Drops (Dye Free) is our top choice due to its simple and effective formula. If you’re a new parent wanting to be prepared for anything, the Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit offers fantastic premium value by including gripe water, gas drops, and other necessities in one box.
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