Remember that you’re not pulling out mucus from the back of their throat. Instead, you’re just using the aspirator to take out the mucus, saliva, or vomit that’s in their mouth. Sometimes, your baby might need both their nose and their mouth aspirated. If this is the case, always suction their mouth first.
Aim the aspirator away from the baby’s face while you squeeze out the air.
Remember, only suction material from inside the baby’s cheek. Don’t try to pull anything out of the back of their throat!
Clear the aspirator again before using it on the baby’s nose.
Studies show that using an infant aspirator with a saline solution is an effective way to manage upper respiratory infections. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
To make your own saline, mix 1 cup (240 mL) of warm water with 1/4 teaspoon (1. 4 g) of salt in a clean jar. Stir the mixture until the salt is dissolved. If you make your own saline, mix up a new batch every time you plan to clear your baby’s nose.
If your baby is really squirmy, ask someone to help you keep the baby still while you clear their nose.
Your baby may sneeze when the saline goes into their nose.
Avoid pushing the end of the aspirator deep into your child’s nostril because this can damage their nose.
Sometimes the bulb doesn’t reinflate because it is pushed up against the inside of the baby’s nostril. Try pulling the tip of the aspirator back slightly to see if the bulb refills. If not, the aspirator is probably clogged.
If there’s mucus sticking to the tip of the aspirator, wipe it away with a clean cloth or tissue.
Wiping away the mucus will help prevent skin irritation around your baby’s nose, and will also help keep their nostrils clear.
Suctioning your baby’s nose too often can lead to dryness, irritation, or nosebleeds. If your baby is still congested and you’re worried about overusing the aspirator, try placing a cool mist humidifier near their crib or sitting in the bathroom with them for 15 minutes with a hot shower running. [21] X Research source
Do this several times, and shake the bulb after filling it with water to help loosen anything sticking to the inside.
Hot water works best for dissolving soap and residues inside the bulb.
