How to blow baby’s nose

Have a baby who's all stuffed up? Wish there was a way to blow your baby’s nose? There’s nothing worse than having an uncomfortable, fussy baby who can’t sleep because of mucous buildup — and we all know that if a baby in a household isn’t sleeping, no one is sleeping.

If your baby is congested but happy, there’s nothing to worry about — unless the blocked nose is preventing your baby from eating or sleeping. If a stuffed-up nose is keeping your baby from sleeping or eating, then it’s time to take action.

Just because your baby isn't old enough to understand how to blow his nose, it doesn't mean you can’t do it for him. It’s time to learn how to blow baby’s nose or clear it up.

• Put a humidifier or even a bowl of warm water in your baby’s nursery. The higher humidity level may help loosen the mucous in the nose to provide relief.
• Before feeding or putting your baby down to sleep, take your baby to the bathroom. Shut the door, run the hot water in the shower, and sit with your baby for a few minutes while his body absorbs some of the moisture in the air.
• Salt water nose drops or sprays, also known as saline nose drops, can be useful. This product can be bought at most pharmacies. Use these drops before feeding or sleep time. Take note that the skin around the nose may become slightly sore from the saline solution. But it may be worth it because these drops can be very effective for decongestion.
• Nasal aspirators, which come in many shapes and sizes, are a way to remove the mucous from your baby’s nose using suction. Some are bulb-shaped syringes, some come with a tube that you suck out of (it’s not as gross as it sounds when it’s your own baby!) and some can even be electric-powered. Nasal aspirators can work very well for some people, but not well for others. Do what works for your baby.

At around two years old, many children will have learned how to blow their nose. Until then, try the above methods to get things cleared up.