Nasal congestion is one of the most common illnesses you can expect once your baby starts being around other little ones , going to daycare or spending time outdoors.
Most babies with congestion will be extra fussy and feel uncomfortable. Congestion can also mess with their feeding and sleep. So don’t worry if they are off their typical feeding or sleeping routine when they have stuffy nose. It should pass once they feel better.
Causes of congested nose in babies
- Common Cold
- Allergies
- Dry air
- Teething.
This list is not exhaustive. Generally, when babies catch a cold or are around dust or pollen, their bodies produce extra mucus to trap germs or irritants. Since babies can’t blow their noses yet, all that mucus just sits there, and blocks their tiny noses.
How long does it take for a baby to get over a stuffy nose
Most babies get over a stuffy nose in about 7 to 10 days, especially if it’s caused by a common cold.
If it’s due to dry air or mild allergies, it might clear up even sooner once you add moisture to the air or remove the trigger.
However, if the congestion lasts more than two weeks, gets worse, or comes with a fever or trouble breathing, it’s best to check with a doctor.
Stuffy nose remedies
Here are the best tried-and-true remedies that can actually help clear up baby congestion and make things a little easier for both of you. Hopefully, one (or all) of them will bring some relief to your little one.
1. Clear the Nose with Saline Drops & Suction
A few drops of saline in each nostril help loosen up the gunk, and a gentle suction tool can help remove it. I use this NoseFrida snot suction and it works wonders. Your baby might fight it, but trust me – it makes a huge difference in how well they can breathe.
2. Use a Baby-Safe Vapor Rub
A gentle vapor rub made for babies can help open up their airways. Just rub a little on their chest, back, and even the soles of their feet before bed. The menthol in it will help them breathe better.
3. Try a Vapor Shower Gel at Bath Time
A warm bath with a vapor-infused baby wash or bath bomb can help soothe congestion. Frida baby does this really amazing eucalyptus bath bombs for babies and kids. The steam from the shower combined with eucalyptus scents can work wonders to clear up stuffy noses, and the warm water helps relax them for better sleep.
4. Give a Warm Bath Before Bedtime
Speaking of baths, even if you don’t have a vapor wash, a simple warm bath helps loosen mucus and calm a fussy baby. I always look forward to outflow of mucus after my baby has had a hot bath. The trick is to allow the bathroom get nice and steamy before putting them in the tub to maximize the benefits.
5. Offer a Warm Drink (If Age-Appropriate)
For babies over six months, a little warm water can be soothing for their throat and help break up congestion. If they’re still exclusively on milk, offering warm breastmilk or formula can be just as comforting.
6. Use a Humidifier in Their Room
A cool mist humidifier adds moisture to the air, preventing dry nasal passages and helping loosen congestion. Check out the reviews of this levoit humidifier, it’s the best one I’ve used so far. Just be sure to clean it regularly – humidifiers can get gross fast if not maintained properly.
7. Use a Plug-In Vaporizer for All-Night Relief
If your baby struggles to breathe at night, a plug-in vaporizer (like the Vicks ones) can provide a continuous release of menthol to keep their airways open. Just place it in their room, but not too close to the crib, so the scent isn’t overwhelming.
8. Elevate their heads while they sleep
Use a wedge pillow for baby. A friend gifted me this one and it was a game changer. It helps drain the mucus from baby’s nose and will surely help them breathe and sleep better.
9. Give Medication if Needed
If your baby is really struggling, a pediatrician-approved medication like infant Tylenol or Motrin (for babies over six months) can help with any discomfort caused by congestion. Always follow the dosage instructions or check with your doctor first.
10. Don’t forget the cuddles
Just cuddle them to sleep or whilst they rest. Being close to you helps them feel safe and comforted, which can make them less fussy.
Your body warmth can also help relax them, and if you do skin-to-skin contact, it may even help regulate their breathing. Plus, holding them upright while cuddling can help with drainage, making it easier for them to breathe.
Sometimes, a little extra love is just what they need.
Final thoughts – Hang in There, Mama
Having a sick baby is tough, but you’re doing an amazing job. They might not understand it yet, but all these little things you’re doing? They mean everything. Take a deep breath, cuddle that sweet baby, and know that this won’t last forever. You’ve got this.
