5 Baby Nasal Aspirators That’ll Help Your Little One Breathe Easy

The joys of new parenthood are almost too numerous to count, but there will come a time when it’s necessary to engage in some less pleasant parental activities. And while you might already know all about those messy diaper changes, there’s also the task of blowing baby’s nose for them. It’s quite common for babies to have nasal congestion from time to time. And while there’s no need to panic over every little sniffle, children aren’t developmentally able to blow their nose until age 2, which means clearing up that stuffy nose falls to you. Have no fear, though: When used correctly, a nasal aspirator can help baby breathe easier. (As always, talk to your pediatrician if you’re concerned about baby’s congestion or it seems to linger.) But with all the options out there to choose from, how do you know which is the best nasal aspirator for your family? Below, we outlined how to use different types of nasal aspirators, as well as our favorite options for babies and toddlers.

What is a Baby Nasal Aspirator?

A baby nasal aspirator—aka a snot sucker—is a device that uses suction to safely remove mucus and boogers from baby’s nose. By clearing their sinuses in this way, baby will be able to breathe easily again. There are a few different models, including oral suction aspirators, bulb aspirators and electric aspirators. We’ll outline the difference between each type below.

• Oral suction baby nasal aspirators. An oral suction aspirator is essentially a double-sided tube. One end goes just into baby’s nose (don’t push the tip in too far), and the other end goes into the caregiver’s mouth—oral suction is used to suck out the mucus and clear any obstruction. This gentle method ensures you control the force of suction yourself. Have no fear, filters and stoppers keep the process clean and hygienic.

• Bulb baby nasal aspirators. Frequently used in hospitals to clear baby’s nasal passages right after birth, a bulb aspirator consists of a rubber bulb and a narrow, tapered opening. To use, you squeeze all the air out of the bulb, place the tip at the entrance to baby’s nostril, and release slowly to create a vacuum suction and release mucus.

• Electric baby nasal aspirators. Usually powered by battery, these models are designed to be the easiest to use. One end goes at the entrance of baby’s nostril, you press a button, and the aspirator suctions out the mucus. Electric aspirators may be a bit pricier than bulb or oral suction models, but many parents like that they do the job with minimal effort—plus, they’re easy to clean.

When Should You Use a Baby Nasal Aspirator?

According to Jack Maypole, MD, a clinical associate professor of pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine, children can have up to 12 colds in the first year of life alone, and congestion comes with the territory. Maypole says that common symptoms include dried mucus around the nostrils, the dreaded snot bubble or strings of mucus that may drip out of the nose. That said, children react differently to congestion depending on their age and stage of development. Infants tend to breathe through their nose, explains Maypole, so when their nasal passages become gummed up with mucus, they may sputter, snort and gag at times, as they work to breathe through their nose. You may find they’re fussier than usual or having a harder time feeding at the breast or bottle. This is when a baby nasal aspirator comes in handy.

How to Use a Nasal Aspirator

Below, expert tips to help you use a baby nasal aspirator effectively:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after you complete the process to prevent the spread of germs.

• Saline drops help loosen stubborn mucus. “A couple of squirts of saline spray or a few drops from an ampule applied inside the nose may soften dried mucus and make it easier to remove,” says Maypole.

• Place the aspirator tip at the entry to the nostril. Be careful not to too far inside the nose in order to avoid any injury.

• After using, clean the aspirator thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any bacteria buildup.

What to Look out for When Using a Baby Nasal Aspirator:

Baby nasal aspirators are effective at clearing nasal passages, but Maypole emphasizes that you shouldn’t use them more than three times a day. Too much usage can lead to nasal irritation or nosebleeds. You should always be aware of the amount of suctioning power you use, regardless of baby’s age. Start using the lowest amount of suction and then work your way up, keeping an eye on baby’s comfort as you do so. If the process is causing baby more distress than relief, try a different route. Another effective option? Give baby a warm bath or shower and let the steam work its magic. “The heated water vapor will help moisturize plugged mucus and trigger some vasodilation in a child’s nostrils. This effect can thin out the mucus and offer some temporary relief,” adds Maypole. At the very least, it’ll help relax baby before bedtime. If you do decide to use a baby aspirator, make sure that it’s BPA-free, phthalate-free and latex-free—like the ones on the list below.

Best Baby Nasal Aspirators

Ready to start your search? Here, find our picks of the best nasal aspirators to clear congestion in babies. From basic bulbs to nifty electric models, you’re sure to find an aspirator to suit your needs.

About the expert:

Jack Maypole, MD, a clinical associate professor of pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine and a member of the educational advisory board at The Goddard School.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Sniffles Be Gone: How to Treat a Baby Cold

Doctor-Approved Home Remedies to Relieve Baby Congestion

Best Humidifiers for Baby