How to Decongest Your Baby's Nose Naturally

Winter brings with it the sniffles, sneezes and stuffy baby noses that cause parents many a sleepless night. Unfortunately, with a baby's immune system still so immature, there is not much you can do to keep your little one from getting the sniffles. And your little baby does not know yet how to blow its nose. You can, however, make the experience less traumatic for both of you by helping ease his or her congested nose.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Place a cool mist vaporizer or a humidifier in your baby's room. Be sure to change the water everyday so as to prevent any mold. Dry air makes congestion even worse, because it tends to thicken mucus; humid air, on the other hand, thin the mucus and gets it moving.

2. Carry your baby with you into the bathroom. Place her in her infant seat, swing or chair. Close the bathroom door and run a hot, steaming shower. Sit in the steamy air with your baby for 5-10 minutes. Do this twice a day. The steam works as a natural decongestant.

3. Purchase a baby bath product that contains eucalyptus and menthol. Use this to give your baby a warm bath, especially before bedtime. The bath vapor will work to open your baby's airways, while helping sooth aching muscles. NOTE: These baby bath products are typically formulated for babies three months and older

4. A saline solution helps thin out the mucus. You may buy some from the store or make your own. Stir 1/4 teaspoon salt into 1 cup of water. Pour and store the solution in a plastic bottle. To use the saline drops:
   *Slightly tip back your baby's head.
   *Put 1-2 drops of the saline solution into each nostril.
   *Make sure not to get any in your baby's eyes.
   *Wait for 5 seconds or so, and then suction out each nostril.(See Step 5.)
   *Repeat this every four hours or so.

5. Suction out the mucus in your baby's nose using a bulb syringe. Do this just before feeding, to help your baby nurse easier.
   *Squeeze the end of the bulb syringe to get the air out.
   *Gently insert it into your baby's nose.
   *Release the end of the bulb and remove it slowly.
   *Repeat if necessary.

6. Prop up your baby's crib mattress a few inches to elevate his/her head. This will help prevent post-nasal drip and help your baby sleep better. Use a rolled towel or phone book to do this.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the bulb syringe thoroughly with warm water after each use.

[BreezyBri]

on 10/14/2008 Great info! We have our first baby coming in February and I like to read as much as I can.