How to Clear a Baby's Stuffy Nose

If your baby has a stuffy or runny nose you can feel helpless. But there are ways to relieve the little guy until he learns to blow his nose (which isn't until about 4 years old).

Things You'll Need

• Bulb Syringe
• Tissues
• Warm Wash rag
• Baby Saline Drops

Instructions

1. Use a warm wash cloth to moisten your baby's nose. This will help to break up any dry boogies that are near the opening of the nostril.

2. While sitting down with your knees together, lay your baby on your legs (head toward your knees) with his/her head slightly tilted back. Using a bottle of baby saline drops drip 3 or 4 drops into each nostril. Your baby probably won't like this very much, but it's important to wait about 10 or 15 seconds until you do the next step.

3. Use a bulb syringe to clear the nostril. To do this squeeze the bulb in one hand to get all the air out. You can use your other hand to gently hold your baby's head still. Gently place the syringe in the baby's nostril (not too far up) and slowly release. Pull the syringe out of the nose and squeeze the bulb into a towel or tissue to get the snot out. Repeat on the other nostril.

4. If your baby has mucus in his mouth from post-nasal drip you can use the syringe in his mouth too. Squeeze the bulb, place the syringe in the mouth toward the cheek, and release the bulb slowly. Remove the syringe, empty it and repeat on the other side of the mouth.

5. Make sure you clean the syringe with hot, soapy water in between uses. Squeeze the bulb to get soap and water inside too.

Tips & Warnings

• It's not a good idea to use the bulb syringe more than 4 or 5 times a day because it can irritate the mucus membranes in the nose.

• Always check with a medical professional when your baby is sick. Colds can turn into bronchitis or pneumonia and may require medication.