Overview

• Signs Your Baby Needs Nasal Cleaning
• Noisy breathing or sniffling
• Difficulty feeding due to congestion
• Restlessness or frequent waking at night
• Visible mucus in the nostrils

Safe Techniques to Clean a Newborn’s Nose

1. Use a Bulb Syringe:
   • Squeeze the bulb before inserting the tip gently into the nostril.
   • Release slowly to suction mucus, then clean the bulb with warm soapy water.
2. Saline Drops or Spray:
   • Use a few drops of sterile saline solution to loosen mucus.
   • Wait 30–60 seconds, then gently suction with a bulb syringe.
3. Soft Nasal Aspirators:
   • Silicone or manual aspirators are gentle alternatives to bulbs.
   • Always clean after each use to avoid bacterial growth.
4. Gentle Wiping:
   • Use a soft tissue or cotton ball moistened with saline for visible mucus outside the nostrils.
   • Avoid inserting cotton deeply into the nasal passage.

Tips for Parents

• Clean the nose only when necessary to avoid irritation.
• Keep the baby upright during cleaning to improve comfort.
• Maintain hand hygiene before and after nasal care.
• Monitor for persistent congestion or signs of infection.
  
  

When to See a Doctor

• Has persistent nasal congestion for more than a few days
• Shows fever, difficulty breathing, or bluish lips
• Exhibits poor feeding or lethargy