How to Dry Up a Runny Nose in Children

A child with a runny nose can be miserable, and can make you miserable, too. There are some ways to bring relief to your child, and you, by drying up that runny nose.

Things You'll Need

• Humidifier
• Saline
• Bulb syringe
• Tissues

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Instructions

• 1

  Put a humidifier in your child's room. The moisture that the humidifier adds to the air will loosen some of the nasal discharge so that it is easier to remove with a tissue or syringe.

• 2

  Several times a day, use a nasal saline spray in your child's nose. This will loosen the mucus as well.

• 3

  Squeeze the bulb part of the syringe and insert it carefully into one of your child's nostrils. Holding the other nostril shut, slowly release the bulb. This will remove some of the loosened mucus.

• 4

  Encourage your child to gently blow her nose as necessary.

• 5

  Remove any possible allergens or irritants that might be causing your child's runny nose. These include dust, pet fur, cigarette smoke and strong cleaning products.