Thrush may be difficult to prevent completely because the fungus is so common. However, some measures may help prevent the condition in infants. Soaking bottle nipples and pacifiers daily in hot tap water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Celsius) is one method. Other tips for reducing the spread of thrush to infants include:

• Treat vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy, particularly during the last trimester.
  
  
• Do not reuse a bottle that has been left out for more than an hour after the baby has drunk from it.
  
  
• Boil all objects for 20 minutes after they have been in a baby’s mouth, or put them in the dishwasher.
  
  
• Change the baby’s diaper soon after it is wet to prevent yeast from growing.
  
  
• Breastfeed babies to help build their natural defense systems.
  
  
• Mothers can switch to a diet that is low in sugars, highly processed foods and yeast-containing foods (e.g., mushrooms) to minimize yeast growth.

Babies who take antibiotics for conditions such as ear infections may be at increased risk for thrush, because the medication can kill bacteria in the mouth needed to prevent thrush. Parents are urged to have their children rinse their mouths out after taking an antibiotic.