How to Safely Clean Baby’s Nose

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• Use saline and a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to safely clear mucus; just be sure not to suction too often or go too deep.

• Clean your device thoroughly after each use and replace it as recommended to prevent bacteria and mold build-up.

• Baths, humidifiers, upright play, and routine feedings can also help Baby feel better when they’re stuffy.

Baby can’t blow their own nose when they’re sick or have a stuck booger, so they need your help! Keeping Baby’s nose clear makes it easier for them to breathe, sleep, and feed. But because those tiny nostrils are delicate, it’s important to be gentle and follow safe steps.

Whether you’ve got a snotty baby, a congested baby, or just a baby with a lot of boogies, this step-by-step guide can help you clean that little schnoz safely!

What You’ll Need:

• Rubber bulb syringe or nasal aspirator

• Damp washcloth and/or cotton pad

• Saline nasal drops or spray (unmedicated, optional)

• Tissue (optional for bulb syringe)

1. Pick a Time When Baby is Calm and Comfortable

A squirmy or fussy baby will make your job even harder, so wait until Baby is calm before tackling those green guys. Right before feedings or naps can be a great time, as a clear nose helps Baby suck better during feeding and breathe easier during sleep.

Tip: Swaddling Baby can help keep them relaxed (and still!) while you clean.

2. Wipe the Outside of Baby’s Nose

Use a clean, damp washcloth or cotton pad to gently wipe any snot around Baby’s nostrils. Don’t wipe inside; just clean the outer edges to remove visible mucus.

3. Soften Stuck Boogers with Saline (Optional Step)

If Baby has stubborn, hard mucus (or “crusties”!) inside their nose, saline drops or spray* can help loosen it before suctioning.

How to use:

1. Lay Baby on their back and add a couple of drops or sprays to each nostril.

2. Wait about 30 seconds for the saline to do its job.

3. Clean the dropper or nozzle after each use!

*Check with Baby’s healthcare provider before using. Never use medicated nose drops or spray (they can cause harmful side effects in babies) unless instructed by their healthcare provider.

4. Suction with a Bulb Syringe or Nasal Aspirator

Time to clear the nose! Whether you choose a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator, be sure to read all package instructions before using it on Baby. Avoid suctioning too deeply and limit cleanings to 3-4 times a day so Baby’s nose doesn’t get irritated.

Bulb Syringe

This rubber bulb-shaped tool creates suction when you squeeze it. You can dispense mucus from the bulb onto a tissue as you go. Bulb syringes should be replaced every few months, as mold can grow on the inside without you noticing it.

Nasal Aspirator

These come in manual and electric versions. A manual aspirator has a tube and mouthpiece you suck on to pull mucus out (don’t worry—a filter keeps it from reaching you!). An electric aspirator uses power to create suction. Both types should be replaced every 6-12 months.

5. Clean Your Tool Thoroughly

When you’re done, wash your bulb syringe or nasal aspirator with warm soapy water to prevent bacteria build-up.

• To clean a bulb syringe: Squeeze warm soapy water into the bulb and shake it around to release stuck mucus. Squeeze the dirty water out and repeat a few times. Let it air dry tip-down in a clean cup.

• To clean a nasal aspirator: Follow the device instructions to remove all washable parts. Dry all parts completely and replace the disposable filter (if using a manual aspirator) before reassembling.

Extra Tips to Help a Stuffy Baby

While cleaning Baby’s nose can help reduce congestion, it won’t make it magically disappear. Here are here are a few other safe, stuffy-nose solutions you can try at home:

• Give Baby a bath: The humid air can help reduce their congestion.

• Try a humidifier: Run one in Baby’s room while they sleep. No humidifier? Sit in a steamy bathroom together for a few minutes.

• Help them stay upright: When Baby is awake, keep them upright to let their mucus drain naturally. Try Tummy Time on your chest, babywearing, or playtime with Baby in your lap. Just make sure Baby never sleeps upright, such as in swings or bouncers. Baby should always sleep on their back in their crib.

• Keep Baby hydrated: Before Baby can drink water (the AAP recommends waiting until 6 months), maintaining Baby’s regular breast or bottle feedings can help them stay hydrated and clear up mucus.

With a little patience and the right tools, you can help Baby breathe easier and feel better, one tiny nostril at a time!