How to Clear a Baby's Runny / Blocked / Congested Nose (Home remedies)

If your baby has a runny or blocked nose, you may be wondering how to help them breathe easier and feel more comfortable. Here are some steps you can take to clear their nasal passages and relieve their symptoms.

1. Spray baby with Sterimar. Sterimar is a natural seawater spray that helps to moisten and cleanse the nasal mucosa. It can also reduce inflammation and prevent infections. You can use Sterimar Blocked if your baby has a more serious congestion or a viral infection. Spray gently into each nostril, holding the baby upright or slightly tilted.

Tip: Sterimar Blocked has higher salt content and could cause more discomfort than the normal Sterimar, but it will dislodge mucus more effectively. If you do not suck out the Sterimar spray after use, it can pool in the sinus and eventually lead to further infection, and also prolong stinging.

2. Wait a few minutes then use a manual or electric nasal aspirator to suck their nose. You can use a bulb syringe, a nasal tube, or an electric aspirator, depending on your preference and availability. Be gentle and careful not to insert the tip too far into the nostril or cause any discomfort to the baby. If a stronger suction is needed, I usually cover one nostril while sucking the other. It will be uncomfortable for sure, but it helps get the nasty mucus out.

Chiboji is a popular non-electric nasal aspirator with great reviews

For electric ones, consider Lollababy or this no brand one which is a lot cheaper but gets the job done!

3. Use Iliadin for baby. Iliadin is a nasal spray that contains oxymetazoline, a decongestant that shrinks the blood vessels in the nose and reduces swelling. It can help to open up the airways and make breathing easier for the baby. Use only as directed by your doctor or pharmacist (can be found at Guardian), and do not use for more than three days in a row, as it may cause rebound congestion.

4. Apply garlic balm that soothes and helps with flu, nasal congestion etc. Garlic balm is a natural remedy that has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help to fight off infections and soothe the irritated skin around the nose. You can also make your own garlic balm by mixing some crushed garlic cloves with coconut oil or olive oil, or buy one online. Apply a small amount to the chest, back, nose bridge and feet of the baby, avoiding the eyes and mouth.

I've been using this one and found it really helpful for my baby and even tried it on myself.

5. Euky Bear Warm Steam Vaporiser

Euky Bear Steam Vaporiser creates a soothing flow of steam to help loosen phlegm and congestion in the chest and nose for easier breathing. Adding moisture to the air also helps soothe a sore throat and dry itchy eyes for a more comfortable sleep. It is also whisper quiet for better rest. We noticed that our LO could sleep much better after turning on the vaporiser when she has a cold/flu! Definitely worth a try.

6. Happy Noz is another highly raved product shared by mummies. These are patches where you can stick on your LO's clothes, fan, air cond, bedside etc. to release the essential oils which helps relief allergy, congestion and blocked nose. It's worth a try and the scent is definitely soothing. They have different scents for different functions such as anti-bacterial, anti-virus, cough and of course the original onion patch for colds/flu.

7. If symptoms persist, consider bringing to a PD. If your baby's runny or blocked nose does not improve after trying these steps, or if they develop other signs of illness such as fever, cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, you should consult a PD as soon as possible. They can diagnose the cause of the problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment for your baby.

Especially when babies start IFC, it's common that they catch a flu virus or a cold. To strengthen my baby's immunity I've been offering Sambucol. For children beyond 1 year old, Bicold has been recommended to help reduce the chances of getting infected or at least make the recovery faster. These can be given daily.

This is the Sambucol Black Elderberry + Vitamin C for Baby

Bicold immune support, which contains Bakers Yeast Beta Glucan which seems to be an effective ingredient for protecting children.

These are some of the tips I've learned along the way as a mum and I've kept these products ready at home in case baby needs them. Remember to follow the instructions on the products you use and seek medical advice if needed. Let me know if you have more tips to share!