How do baby nasal aspirators work?
Most nasal aspirators work by using suction to remove mucus from your child’s nasal passages. They are particularly useful when your child is still too young to blow their nose, which is a skill they usually acquire at around three or four years old.
There are several different types of aspirator on the market. Each requires a tip to be placed in or around the entrance to your child’s nostril. The suction then draws the mucus out.
Some nasal aspirators use the suction from your own mouth, some use a hand pump, some are electric and some attach to your vacuum cleaner. There are merits and disadvantages to each type of nasal aspirator. For hygiene purposes, they usually come with removable parts or filters so that you can dispose of any mucus after use.
Are nasal aspirators good for babies?
Nasal aspirators are good for babies, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s directions and don’t overuse them. Nasal aspirators help to clear the airways and nasal passages, allowing stuffy babies to sleep and feed more comfortably.
Are nasal aspirators safe for babies?
Nasal aspirators are considered a safe and effective method of easing congestion in a baby’s nose, when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Most manufacturers recommend that their nasal aspirators should only be used up to three times a day, as excessive use may lead to further nasal irritation.
A nasal aspirator should be cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of bacteria which could lead to infection.
What age can you use a nasal aspirator on a baby?
You can usually use a paediatrician-recommended baby nasal aspirator on your baby from birth, however some are more comfortable for newborns than others. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for age and safety guidance.
Can a nasal aspirator hurt my baby?
When used correctly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, a nasal aspirator should not be able to hurt a baby. Certain types of nasal aspirator, such as a bulb suction device, have been known to harm baby’s nostrils when not used carefully.
How often should you suction a baby’s nose?
Most manufacturers recommend that their nasal aspirators should only be used up to three times a day, as excessive use could lead to further nasal irritation and even nose bleeds.
How can I unblock my baby's nose naturally?
If you are unsure about using a nasal aspirator, then you could always try saline solution to thin out the mucus and wipe it away. Some parents find that particularly stubborn snot can be shifted by using saline solution and a nasal aspirator together.
What should I look for when buying a baby nasal aspirator?
Manual vs electric: There are two types of baby nasal aspirator you can use. Electric baby nasal aspirators can be quicker and more effective, and usually come with multiple tip sizes. Some even feature lights and music. Manual baby nasal aspirators are cheaper to buy and most are a bulb style, however you'll also find snot suckers with a tube which enable you to, quite literally, suck the snot out of your baby's nose.
Baby's age: Most baby nasal aspirators are suitable from birth as you're most likely to use one in the first six months, but always check the manufacturer's age guidance before you buy.
Ease of cleaning: You'll need to clean and dry your baby nasal aspirator properly after each use. Look for models with removable parts and as few parts as possible to minimise the risk of bacteria building up. Some baby nasal aspirators are handwash-only while others can be put in the dishwasher or even a baby bottle steriliser for cleaning.
Portability: Most nasal aspirators are small in size, but consider whether your chosen device will fit easily into your changing bag for use on the go.
How to clean your baby’s noise with a baby nasal aspirator: step-by-step guide
Start by cuddling your baby to make sure they feel relaxed and settled
Use a saline solution or saline drops if required to help thin out and loosen hard dried snot
Choose a manual, bulb or battery-operated nasal aspirator and hold it by the affected nostril
Suck out the snot
Repeat the process on the other nostril
As you can see from our list, all nasal aspirators are slightly different. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully.
What is the best baby nasal aspirator?
We recommend the Nosefrida Baby Nasal Aspirator as the best nasal aspirator on the market right now. It comes recommended by thousands of parents who rate it as the most effective nasal aspirator for both babies and toddlers.
About the author
Laura Westerman is an editor, writer and Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet. With over nine years' experience as a full-time editor, seven of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for what parents love and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier.
In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel. She is mum to a three-year-old.