How to use a baby nasal aspirator

Manual aspirators feature a simple design with just a few parts: a mouthpiece, a tube, and a nose tip. To use a manual aspirator, the parent places the nose tip just inside the baby's nose and sucks on the mouthpiece to create suction and suction out mucus. They are very affordable and portable but can be unpleasant for some parents to use. However, they do not require batteries and have fewer parts to clean compared to battery-powered aspirators. For those on a budget or who prefer a minimalistic design, a manual aspirator can be a good option.

Some key features of manual baby nasal aspirators include:
•Very simple design: Just a mouthpiece, tube and nose tip. Few parts make them easy to use and clean.
•Non-powered: No batteries required so they are very environmentally friendly.
•Budget-friendly: Manual aspirators are the most affordable type, often under $10.
• portable: Their simple design means they can easily be thrown in a diaper bag or purse and used on the go.
•Gentle suction: As the parent controls the suction, it can be kept very gentle. This is good for young babies or those not used to nasal aspiration.
•No risk of burns: There is no motor or battery that could potentially cause burns. As long as the parts are properly cleaned and the aspirator is used as intended, there is minimal risk of injury.
•Easy to clean: The few, large parts can typically be cleaned thoroughly with hot, soapy water and properly air dried.
•Available in silicone or plastic: Some manual aspirators are made of silicone which some parents find more appealing and easier to clean. Plastic aspirators can also be a good, budget-friendly option as long as they are PVC and phthalate free.

To use a nasal aspirator:

1. Sit or stand the baby upright. Tilt their head back slightly for the best access to the nose.
2. Apply a few drops of saline nose drops to moisten the mucus and make it easier to suction. Gently tilt the baby's head back to allow the drops to drain.
3. Place the tip of the aspirator just inside one of the baby's nostrils. Do not insert the tip too far into the nose.
4. Gently create suction by squeezing the bulb on a bulb syringe, turning on the battery-powered aspirator, or sucking on the tube for a manual aspirator.
5. Suction in short bursts, stopping if the baby shows signs of discomfort. Remove the aspirator and use a nasal wipe or tissue to wipe away loosened mucus.
6. Repeat the process for the other nostril.
7. Allow the baby to rest in an upright position. The suction can irritate the nose, so the baby may be fussy for a short time after using the aspirator.