Baby Saline Drops & Snot Sucker: How to Use | Parenting Hub
Saline drops loosen mucus so baby can feed and sleep. Here's a safe step-by-step using a bulb or suction aspirator.
Saline drops plus gentle suction before feeds and sleep can make a huge difference to a congested baby.
Step by step
Best timed 10 minutes before a feed or sleep.
- Lay baby on their back or slightly on the side
- Place 1–2 drops of sterile saline in each nostril
- Wait 30–60 seconds for mucus to loosen
- Suction gently with a bulb or aspirator — short, light pulls
- Wipe and clean the device thoroughly after each use
How often
Up to 3–4 times a day during a cold. Over-suctioning can irritate the lining — if you see blood streaks, take a break.
When to seek help
- Persistent bleeding after suction
- Suction not helping — breathing still laboured
Common questions
Bulb vs electric aspirator?
Both work. Many parents find manual suction devices most controllable. Use whichever you find easiest and gentlest.