What Are Good Home Remedies for Nasal Congestion in Infant?

For adults, nasal congestion is an annoyance. For infants it can be much more serious since babies, unlike adults, usually know how to breathe only through their noses. Until babies are at least 4 to 6 months old, treating congestion requires "a high level of vigilance" from parents or other caretakers, according to Medical Look. Fortunately, many of the most common remedies use components likely to already be in your home.

Steam

Steam is one of the most effective remedies for nasal congestion, especially for infants, for whom over-the-counter decongestants usually are not recommended. Humidifiers and vaporizers work well, but if you don't have access to either of these, sitting with your baby in a bathroom while a hot shower runs, or in a kitchen while a pot of water boils, can have the same effect.

Saline Solution and Nasal Aspirator

Use an over-the-counter saline solution or make one yourself. (Guide-to-baby-needs.com suggests combining 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 4 ounces of cooled boiled water.) Use a small dropper to put two drops in each of your infant's nostrils. Allow about five minutes for crusts to soften and congestion to clear, then use a nasal aspirator to suck out the mucus (see Resources for detailed instructions).

Extra Liquids

When your infant is congested, increase her liquid intake. Diluted juice (half water, half juice) may be recommended for babies who can drink juice; water between feedings may be recommended for babies at least 6 months old. In some cases, rehydration fluids might be suggested for older babies, according to guide-to-baby-needs.com. Follow your pediatrician's advice.

Breastfeeding

For breastfed babies, breastfeeding can be a good option even with congestion as long as you first use a nasal aspirator to make sure the baby can breathe through his nose without difficulty (refer to the previous section). The mother's immunities that are passed to her child through breast milk can help eliminate the cause of the congestion, according to WiseGeek.com.

Warm Washcloth

Holding a warm washcloth on each side of the nose can lessen nasal congestion in infants, although the relief usually lasts only until the washcloths are removed. Since infants' skin is especially sensitive, be sure not to make the washcloth too hot. If it's the right temperature, it should feel comfortable on your upper arm, according to guide-to-baby-needs.com.

Warning

Although nasal congestion is common in infants, check with your doctor if your child's mucus turns bright yellow or dark green, which could indicate a secondary infection; if she seems to constantly have a runny nose, which may suggest allergies; if you suspect an ear infection; or if she is running a fever, according to robynsnest.com.