Infant nasal congestion, a common challenge for new parents, can make breathing, feeding, and sleeping difficult for a baby. Because infants breathe primarily through their noses, a simple cold can significantly affect their comfort and ability to thrive. Nasal aspiration using a human-powered device is an effective method to clear the nasal passages and provide relief. This guide offers specific, safe instructions for using aspirators that rely on adult breath to create suction.
Preparing the Baby and the Nasal Aspirator
Before beginning the suction process, ensure the aspirator is clean and ready, typically by inserting a new disposable filter if using a tube-style device. To increase effectiveness, administer nasal saline drops first to moisten and loosen thick, dried mucus. Place two to three drops of sterile, non-medicated saline solution into each nostril a few minutes before suctioning begins.
The baby should be positioned safely on their back on a flat surface, such as a changing table or the floor, with their head slightly tilted back. This positioning helps the saline solution travel down the nasal passage and loosen the secretions. Swaddling or having another adult gently hold the baby’s arms can help minimize movement, which is common as babies often dislike the sensation of the drops and the ensuing suction. Performing the aspiration before a feed or a nap is ideal, as a clear nose makes both activities much easier.
Step-by-Step Suction Technique
With the baby positioned and the mucus loosened, the adult places the mouthpiece in their mouth. Position the soft nasal tip of the device just against the opening of the baby’s nostril. Form a gentle seal at the edge of the nostril without forcing the tip deep into the nasal passage, which could cause irritation.
To begin, the adult takes a gentle, controlled breath in through the mouthpiece, pulling the mucus into the collection chamber. The suction should be applied steadily and moderately, not forcefully, to prevent damage to the delicate nasal lining. The built-in filter prevents mucus or germs from traveling up the tube and into the adult’s mouth.
After a few seconds, or once the mucus flow stops, the nasal tip is slowly removed from the nostril. The process is then repeated for the second nostril, alternating between sides if the first attempt does not fully clear the passage. To minimize the risk of trauma and inflammation to the nasal tissues, suctioning should be limited to a brief duration per nostril and not performed more than three or four times per day.
Post-Procedure Care and Device Hygiene
Immediately after the suctioning is complete, it is important to comfort the baby, who may be upset from the experience. Offering a cuddle or a feed can help them calm down, and now that their nasal passages are clear, they should be able to breathe more easily. Parents should monitor their baby’s breathing and overall condition, seeking medical advice if congestion is accompanied by a high fever or if the mucus contains blood.
The human-powered aspirator must be disassembled and thoroughly cleaned after every use to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Remove and discard the used disposable filter immediately, as it traps the infectious mucus. All remaining pieces, including the nasal tip, tube, and collection chamber, should be washed with warm, soapy water.
Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, then allow them to air dry completely before reassembly. A damp, warm interior is an ideal environment for microbial growth, so ensuring the parts are fully dry prevents re-infection. Some models permit sterilization in boiling water or a bottle sterilizer, but always check the manufacturer’s specific instructions.