How to Clean a Baby’s Nose Safely

Due to the peculiarities of the structure of the nose, nasal breathing is often difficult in babies. As a result, the child’s health worsens, he eats and sleeps poorly, and becomes capricious. Parents need to clean the nose and maintain normal breathing. Let’s consider the basic rules of nasal hygiene in infants. In this article we guide you How to clean a baby’s nose

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Features of children’s noses

In young children, the nasal passages are short and narrower than in adults. The nasal cavity is small in size. Because of this, mucus cannot be removed naturally and accumulates.

The mucous membrane is loose and well supplied with blood vessels. As a result, in response to inflammation, changes in air temperature and indoor microclimate, swelling develops quickly, and the nasal passages become narrower. The mucous membrane dries out and crusts form.

When the nasal passages are blocked by crusts, when breathing is difficult, the child cannot suckle, is anxious, becomes capricious, irritable. He often sneezes, and there is lacrimation. The movement of the air stream in the paranasal sinuses is also disrupted, which can lead to inflammation.

The reasons for such violations are:

dry air when the indoor microclimate is not maintained;
accumulation of mucus in the nasal passages – the mother does not clean the nose well enough, mucus “clogs” the nasal passages;
contamination of inhaled air with dust and allergens.

How to help with difficulty breathing through the nose?

How to clean a baby's nose — How to clean a baby’s nose

First of all, it is necessary to maintain an optimal microclimate: the air temperature should be no more than 20 degrees, humidity during the day – 50%, at night – 70%. If necessary, use a humidifier.

Since babies cannot blow their noses on their own, mothers should monitor the hygiene of the baby’s nasal cavity. After all, free breathing is the key to sound sleep and a good appetite. For this, you can use improvised means in the form of gauze or cotton swabs or nasal aspirators.

Before the procedure, it is best to use saline or seawater solution to make the crusts softer and the mucus thinner, and to cleanse the nose comfortably.

Important: Medicines (nasal drops) can only be used as prescribed by a doctor.

Mucus can be removed using a bulb aspirator. Negative pressure is created inside the bulb, and the device sucks out the discharge from the nose. Manipulations must be performed slowly and carefully so as not to damage the mucous membranes. The disadvantage of these devices is the opaque walls of the bulb: it is unclear how effective and high-quality the procedure was.

Mechanical aspirators are more convenient to use. The NoseFrida® children’s nasal aspirator was developed in Sweden in collaboration with pediatricians and ENT doctors. It ensures normal nasal breathing for the baby and can be used from the first days of life.

The aspirator consists of a tube with a lid that collects mucus, and a suction catheter with a red mouthpiece at the end. The aspirator contains a filter that 100% protects the adult performing the procedure from infection and mucus. The filter must be changed after each use. The tip of the aspirator is rounded, which prevents injury to the inflamed mucous membrane of the child’s nose and makes the procedure painless.

Precaution in How to clean a baby’s nose

Cleaning a baby’s nose requires extra care to ensure safety and comfort. Before starting, always wash your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing germs. Use a soft, sterilized nasal aspirator or bulb syringe specifically designed for infants. Avoid inserting any object deep into the nostrils, as babies have delicate nasal passages that can easily become irritated or injured.

Saline nasal drops are a safe, doctor-recommended way to loosen mucus. Gently tilt the baby’s head back and place one or two drops in each nostril. Wait a few seconds before suctioning, allowing the saline to soften any blockage naturally. Never use adult nasal sprays or medications, as they may be too strong for a baby’s system.

Make sure the baby is calm and secure during the process. Wrapping them in a soft blanket can help prevent sudden movements. Perform nose cleaning only when necessary—overdoing it may dry out or inflame the nasal lining.

Create a clean, distraction-free space with good lighting to ensure precision and ease. Always sterilize nasal tools after each use to maintain hygiene and avoid cross-contamination.

These simple precautions keep your baby safe and breathing easier. Use keywords like “how to clean a newborn’s nose safely” to boost SEO visibility for parenting and baby care topics.

Conclusion (How to clean a baby’s nose)

To ensure free nasal breathing, carefully follow the rules of daily nasal hygiene. Monitor the quality of breathing: if mucus accumulates or if you have a runny nose, use an aspirator.

Ensuring your baby’s nasal passages are clean plays a vital role in their overall comfort and health. Nasal congestion can make feeding, sleeping, and breathing more difficult, so knowing how to clean a newborn’s nose safely is essential for new parents. By using saline drops and a gentle aspirator, you can clear mucus without causing discomfort or harm. Always prioritize hygiene—sterilizing tools after every use and working in a clean, well-lit area minimizes risks of infection or irritation.

Consistency and gentleness are key. Avoid frequent cleaning unless absolutely necessary to prevent drying out the nasal lining. If congestion persists or your baby seems distressed, consult a pediatrician. With these mindful precautions, you can confidently support your baby’s breathing and comfort.