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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Vaseline

vaseline
Vaseline is Minimally toxic .

If your child ate Vaseline, give them a few sips of water and watch for coughing, vomiting and diarrhea.

What to know: Vaseline

  • Vaseline is also known as petroleum jelly or petrolatum.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate Vaseline. Is Vaseline toxic?

Vaseline is a mixture of natural waxes and mineral oils and is considered minimally toxic when ingested.

Symptoms of Poisoning

If your child ate Vaseline, give them a few sips of water and watch for soft or loose stools.

If your child begins coughing, vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

Eye Exposure

  • Vaseline may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.

  • If your child got Vaseline in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

Poison Center HelplineCalls are free and confidential.

  1. In Case of Emergency

    Call 911 if someone is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

  2. Remain Calm

    Most poison emergencies can be resolved quickly over the phone.

  3. Call the Helpline

    Call 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned that you or someone else has been exposed to a potentially harmful substance.