Oral rehydration solution (ORS) replaces water and important salts lost through diarrhea or vomiting. Commercial ORS packets are the safest option when available because they contain carefully measured amounts of glucose and electrolytes.
Homemade oral rehydration solution
If commercial ORS is not available, a basic homemade solution can be prepared using:
- 1 liter (about 4¼ cups) of safe drinking water
- 6 level teaspoons of sugar
- ½ level teaspoon of table salt
Mix until completely dissolved. Measure carefully: too much salt can be dangerous, especially for children. The solution should not be made stronger than the recipe.
How to use it
Offer small, frequent sips. If vomiting occurs, wait briefly and then try again more slowly. Continue age-appropriate food and breastfeeding when tolerated. ORS replaces fluid and electrolytes; it does not treat the underlying cause of diarrhea or vomiting.
Discard homemade ORS after 24 hours and prepare a fresh batch if it is still needed.
Children and infants
Babies and young children can become dehydrated quickly. Commercial pediatric ORS is preferable when available. Do not use sports drinks, soda, undiluted juice or homemade mixtures with extra salt as substitutes for pediatric ORS. Seek professional advice promptly if an infant or young child is having difficulty drinking, repeatedly vomiting or showing signs of dehydration.
Signs of dehydration
Possible signs include unusual thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, dark urine, dizziness, weakness or increasing tiredness. In babies and young children, fewer wet diapers, no tears when crying, unusual sleepiness or irritability can be warning signs.
When to get urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical care for severe dehydration, confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, very little or no urine, or rapidly worsening illness. Young infants, frail older adults and people with serious medical conditions may need assessment sooner.
This page provides general health information and does not replace individual medical assessment or treatment.
Sources and further reading
- World Health Organization: Cholera outbreaks (homemade sugar-salt recipe)
- World Health Organization: Oral rehydration salts
- UNICEF: Heat wave safety tips (homemade recipe)
Last reviewed: 28 September 2026.