Baby stuffy nose — how to use saline drops correctly + home remedies

Saline Solution — the most important "medicine" for baby congestion

In short: Saline drops (NaCl 0.9%) are the #1 treatment for baby congestion. Safe from birth, no side effects, use as often as needed. Combined with a nasal aspirator, it's the most effective combo.

How to use saline solution correctly

Step by step:

1. Lay baby on their back (or slightly to the side)
2. Instill 2-3 drops per nostril
3. Wait 30 seconds — mucus becomes thinner
4. Use the nasal aspirator to suction out the mucus
5. Repeat before breastfeeding/bottle feeding (baby breathes through their nose while eating!)

When to use?

• Before every feeding (most important use!)
• Before sleep (clear nose = better sleep)
• As needed — use as often as necessary, overdose is not possible
• Preventatively in dry rooms (heated air)

Nasal aspirator — which one?

Home remedies that ADDITIONALLY help

1. Elevate upper body — wedge pillow under mattress (NOT under the head!)
2. Humid air — wet towel over radiator, humidifier
3. Onion sachets next to the bed — essential oils loosen mucus (from 6 months)
4. Breast milk in the nose — 1-2 drops, naturally antibacterial
5. Steam bath — run hot water in the bathroom, sit with baby in the steamy room (NOT over hot water!)

What you should NOT use

• ❌ Adult nasal spray (Xylometazoline only on medical advice, max. 3-5 days)
• ❌ Essential oils directly (menthol, eucalyptus, camphor) — risk of breathing spasms in babies!
• ❌ Stuff cotton/tissue in the nose
• ❌ Have baby blow their nose — babies can't do this, pressure damages the middle ear

Make saline solution yourself?

Yes, it's possible: 1g salt (tip of a knife) in 100ml boiled water. BUT: Ready-made single-dose vials (Rhinomer Baby, NaCl 0.9%) are more sterile and precisely dosed — worth it.

This information does not replace medical advice.