Calpol is one of those must have products if you have children, and as a result I stocked up before I had my now 21-month old daughter. I'm really glad I did as I have relied on it several times and it has always worked well.

This particulalr variety is sugar free, meaning it is better for little teeth than the original version. As an adult I reluctantly admit that I love Calpol and always take it when I'm ill myself as it tastes so nice! Therefore I can notice the taste difference between the sugar free version and the original, although I doubt my daughter is bothered!

The suspension contains paracetamal and is therefore perfect for treating a whole range of conditions from teething, colds, fevers and viruses. It is an all round good product and since my daughter is rarely ill I have used it mainly to bring down her temperature and soothe cold symptoms.

Babies under three-months need to take a 2.5ml dose, and older babies can have 5mls. This medicine comes with a measuring spoon, although my daughter will not take it like that so I resorted to a syringe. In fact when my daughter was younger she hated Calpol and would hold it in her mouth, before letting it all dribble out again and beware it can stain! The syringe has really helped and sometimes she is very eager for Calpol now.

The solution costs around £2.99 and is widely available in supermarkets and chemists. It is a bright pink colour and has a sugary, crystalised type texture and a thick consistency. Even the sugar free version is sweet and very palatable, compared to other medicines. It can be bought in various varieties including in sachets which are more portable for holidays and outings.

I can't fault this product and have found it to be invaluable.