How to Clear a Baby's Blocked Nose

A blocked nose is often due to congestion from allergies, a cold, or other illness. It can be the source of discomfort and eating difficulty for a baby. Without a clear passageway for air a baby may not be able to nurse or drink from a bottle without pausing often and possibly choking. If symptoms of a congested nose last longer than 10 days for your baby, the Mayo Clinic recommends visiting your doctor. There are a few effective ways to clear a baby's blocked nose at home.

Things You'll Need

• Cool mist humidifier
• Saline nasal spray for infants
• Bulb Syringe

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Instructions

• 1

  Run a cool mist humidifier while your baby sleeps to help keep things moisturized in her nasal passages. Dry air, especially in winter when the heat is running, can irritate the nose and make it more difficult for your baby to breathe. Be sure to wash the humidifier out each day with hot water and mild soap to prevent mold growth. The humidifier does not need to be placed very close to the baby's crib.

• 2

  Use saline nasal spray made for infants. For very young infants it may be easier to apply the saline solution as drops instead of a mist. To do this just hold baby on her back and allow two to three drops to go up each nostril. If your infant will sit up during application you can squeeze the saline spray firmly and allow a fine mist to penetrate each nostril. Either method is just as effective in delivering the saline solution to the nasal passages.

• 3

  Wait two to three seconds after application before using a bulb syringe to suction as much mucus and debris as you can. You may need a partner to help you hold the infant steady while you do this. Try to smile and encourage your child for allowing you to suction her nose. Over time your infant may not mind nose suctioning if she sees you smiling and praising her for cooperating.

• 4

  Wash the bulb syringe with warm water and soap after every use. This can be done by plugging the sink and allowing a inch of water to compile. Add a drop of soap and swish it around. Suck the soapy water up the syringe and push it back out. Repeat this several times until you only see soap and water come out of the syringe.

• 5

  Encourage your baby to drink fluids during her illness.