Fact Checkup

FC-0044 · Fever & cold26 Oct 2026

Claim

Gargling with warm salt water can soothe a sore throat during a cold.

VerdictTrue

Checked against NHS, CDC

Yes, gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and may shorten how long it lasts. Children should not gargle salt water.

What experts say

Sore throat is common and usually gets better on its own within a week.1 2
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, such as cold or flu viruses.2
Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and shorten how long it lasts.1
Children should not gargle salt water.1
Antibiotics usually do not help a sore throat caused by a cold virus.1 2

What to do

Adults can gargle with warm salt water to ease a sore throat.1 2
Drink plenty of water and take rest.1 2
Children should not gargle salt water.1

See a doctor if

Trouble breathing.2
Trouble swallowing.2
Signs of dehydration, like peeing less or dark, strong-smelling pee.1 2
Very high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery.1
Sore throat is not better after a week, or symptoms get worse.1 2

Sources

Updated 26 Oct 2026

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