The Surprising History of Whiskey in Baby Bottles: What Past Parenting Practices Reveal
Parenting has evolved dramatically over the centuries, shaped by the cultural values, societal norms, and scientific knowledge of each era. Some historic childcare methods may seem shocking or even alarming today—like the practice of giving whiskey to babies in their bottles. While it’s hard to imagine now, many parents once believed this was a helpful way to soothe their infants. Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating cultural and medical context behind this unusual practice, and what it tells us about how parenting has changed over time.
Whiskey as Medicine: Deep Cultural Roots
For centuries, whiskey and other alcoholic beverages were widely considered medicinal remedies. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, whiskey was a household staple—not just as a drink but as a cure-all for ailments ranging from colds to digestive troubles. In communities where access to modern medicine was scarce, whiskey was one of the few available “treatments” parents could turn to. Back then, alcohol was often viewed as a near-miracle solution for many health issues, making its use in childcare a natural extension of prevailing beliefs.
Why Parents Thought Whiskey Helped Babies
Parents who gave whiskey to their babies believed it offered real benefits. It was thought to calm fussy infants, ease colic pain, and even help babies sleep soundly. Some also used small amounts of whiskey to soothe teething discomfort, believing the alcohol could numb sore gums. For exhausted parents desperate for relief and quick fixes, whiskey seemed like a practical and effective choice—a home remedy passed down through generations.
Medical Advice of the Time: Less Science, More Tradition
Unlike today’s evidence-based medicine, the medical advice of the past was often based on tradition, anecdote, and limited scientific understanding. Many doctors of that era even recommended whiskey for children, reflecting how widespread and accepted the practice was. The lack of rigorous research and incomplete knowledge about child development and the dangers of alcohol consumption made these treatments seem reasonable at the time.
Whiskey’s Role in Soothing and Teething
Teething remains a challenging phase for infants and parents alike. In the absence of modern pain-relief options, parents frequently turned to whiskey as a natural anesthetic. Gently rubbing whiskey on a baby’s gums or adding a tiny amount to their bottle was thought to ease pain and promote sleep. Though these methods carried risks we now understand well, they were a common part of childcare traditions passed down through families.
Society’s Acceptance of Alcohol in Childcare
The use of whiskey in infant care was also shaped by broader societal attitudes toward alcohol. In many communities, alcohol was an accepted part of daily life, and concerns about its dangers—especially for children—were minimal or nonexistent. The easy availability of whiskey and its social normalization contributed to its inclusion in childcare routines without widespread alarm.
The Shift: Science Changes the Story
As medical science advanced through the 20th century, research increasingly revealed the harmful effects of alcohol, particularly on infants and young children. This growing awareness led to a major shift in both medical guidance and parenting practices. Public health campaigns and the development of safer, scientifically supported remedies helped phase out whiskey use in baby bottles, marking a crucial step forward in child health and safety.
Modern Reflections on Historical Childcare
Today, the idea of putting whiskey in a baby’s bottle is met with disbelief and serious concern. Modern parents benefit from vast knowledge, clear guidelines, and safe alternatives for infant care. Looking back at such historical practices underscores just how far we’ve come—and highlights the importance of continually questioning tradition and embracing evidence-based care.
Conclusion: Learning from the Past to Protect the Future
The story of whiskey in baby bottles offers powerful lessons for today’s parents and caregivers. It reminds us to critically evaluate all childcare practices, prioritize scientific evidence, and stay open to new information. By learning from the past, we can ensure the safest, healthiest upbringing for future generations—always putting children’s well-being first.
