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Watching your baby struggle to breathe properly due to blocked nostrils from a respiratory infection and cold is sad. Thankfully, with the best baby nasal aspirator, you can help your baby clear the nasal blockage. This device will help your baby breathe easily without any struggle. However, as a parent, you want to ensure that your baby receives a good quality, safe and effective product. Here, we have a list of performing nasal aspirators for infants available on the market. You should consult your baby’s pediatrician before planning to go for these aspirators.
Top Picks
What Is A Nasal Aspirator?
A nasal aspirator is a device that helps you suction out mucus from the infant’s nose. The aspirator is needed when the baby’s nasal passage is congested to the point that breathing becomes difficult.
Unlike adults, infants cannot blow their nose. Therefore, the mucus inside the nose needs to be cleared manually by an adult. The nasal aspirator pulls the mucus out of the nose and nasal passage to make breathing easy. There are different types of nasal aspirators, depending on how they are used to remove the mucus.
11 Best Nasal Aspirators
1. Best Oral: Fridababy NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 29,452 fine reviews on Amazon.
The Fridababy nasal aspirator is one of the best and probably the most popular oral nasal aspirator for babies. Here’s a video of a tester’s experience that explains more about this non-invasive nasal aspirator.
Pros
- Since it makes use of mouth-controlled suction, you can fine-tune the amount of suction depending on the nasal congestion.
- A hygienic disposable filter traps the mucus and also prevents it from sliding into the caregiver’s mouth.
- The nostril piece does not enter deep into the nose, thus making it safe for the baby.
- It is made from BPA and phthalate-free plastic, making it safe for the baby.
- The pediatrician-recommended nasal aspirator is dishwasher safe.
Cons
- You will have to buy filters regularly.
- The nasal tip has only one size, and it may be too small for older infants.
- Some users find it hard to suck out tough snot from the baby’s nose.
"I appreciate this device's efficiency in clearing out infants' noses. The loose parts can be a bit challenging, so remember to secure the pieces post-cleaning. Overall, it's hygienic, easy to use and clean, and an essential nursery staple for me."
2. Best Hospital-Grade: BoogieBulb Baby Nasal Aspirator
The bulb-like syringe nasal aspirator for cold and flu relief is quite convenient for removing mucus.
Pros
- It is made from hospital-grade latex, which prevents the buildup of germs.
- The doctor-approved BoogieBulb comes in three sizes, and you can pick one that works best for your baby.
- The bulb unscrews to split into two halves, which lets you conveniently flush out the mucus from the bulb and keep it clean. The bulb is also dishwasher safe.
Cons
- It takes some practice to learn to create the right suction pressure for removing the mucus.
- Some users complain that the bulb comes apart when pressed. A few users also noticed air escaping between the two halves of the bulb.
Quick tip3. Best For Twins: OCCObaby Baby Nasal Aspirator
It is a battery-operated aspirator with multiple nasal probe tips, making it ideal for parents who want nasal aspirators for twins or multiple babies. This video showcasing a tester’s experience will help you understand more about this easy-to-use baby snot sucker.
Pros
- The compact shape of the battery unit renders it portable. The single-button operation makes it easy-to-use.
- The manufacturer ships the product with an oral suction hose. It comes handy when you run out of battery power.
- The electric unit comes with wide, long reach, and gentle tips that are ideal for newborns.
Cons
- Some parents find the suction power is not strong enough.
- The unit also requires you to move the tip in a slow circular motion within the baby’s nose to get the most amount of mucus out.
"I am impressed by the efficient suction of this nasal aspirator and its versatile use for different ages. It's sturdy and also has manual options. Although it can be a bit noisy and require frequent battery changes, I do not mind these minor issues."
Fridababy NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator Best Oral | BoogieBulb Baby Nasal Aspirator Best Hospital-Grade | OCCObaby Baby Nasal Aspirator Best For Twins | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | White | - | Green |
| Material | BPA Free, Phthalate Free | - | Silicone |
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.5 x 6 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 1.41 Ounces | - | - |
| Batteries | - | - | 2 AA batteries required |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 29,452 | 2,333 | 9,854 |
| Price | $49.58 | $18.97 | $43.99 |
4. Best Noise-Free: Little Martin’s Baby Nasal Aspirator
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 14,322 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
Little Martin’s battery-operated nasal aspirator for stuffy nose has a silent motor and convenient functionality.
Pros
- The tip is made from soft silicone, which is gentle on the baby’s nose. The silicone tip can be removed and sterilized.
- The electric unit is lightweight and waterproof. A single button switches on the motor.
Cons
- The nasal aspirator comes with a standard-sized tip, which may not suit all babies.
- There is only one suction setting, which may not be strong enough when the baby’s nose is heavily congested.
Quick fact5. Best For Newborns: Bubzi Co Baby Nasal Aspirator
Bubzi Co oral nasal aspirator for newborns gives parents precision control over the level of suction. Check out this review video about a tester’s experience to make an informed decision.
Pros
- The tip of the suction probe is thin enough to suit young babies, including newborns.
- The suction probe tip is made from soft, hospital-grade silicone.
- The mucus collection container is large enough to place a rolled tissue paper inside. The tissue can absorb some mucus, which can be useful when the baby has a runny nose. It also makes it easy to clean the aspirator.
Cons
- Almost all parts of the aspirator come in contact with mucus. It means you have to rinse the aspirator completely after each use.
- Some users report that the aspirator lets some amount of snot get into the caregiver’s mouth. However, placing a tissue paper or cotton inside the collection container can help mitigate the problem.
6. Best With Adjustable Suction Speed: Nosiboo Pro Nasal Aspirator
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 609 satisfied customers on Amazon have said good things about the product.
An electric nasal aspirator that lets you regulate the suction settings. The colorful design is a bonus to keep the little one engrossed.
Pros
- The electric unit is separate from the suction tube, which prevents the mucus from coming in contact with the unit.
- The nasal aspirator with adjustable suction levels – choose a speed as required to clear the mucus from the baby’s nasal passage.
- A suction balloon head at the end of the tube is the only part that you need to clean after usage.
Cons
- The unit does not work on batteries, which reduces the aspirator’s portability.
- Some may find this nasal aspirator a bit expensive.
Quick tip7. Best With Electric Suction: BabySmile Nasal Aspirator
BabySmile’s nasal aspirator hastens the process of mucus removal in a safe and effective way. The main electric unit of this nose suction aspirator is also separate from the suction tube, which eventually makes maintenance easy.
Pros
- The suction provided by the aspirator is hospital-grade. The unit is made from BPA-free plastic and is FDA-approved.
- A silicone tube has a probe that you gently insert into the baby’s nose. The tube and the baby can be held at any angle for easy removal of snot, even when the baby is wiggly.
- The electric suction unit does not come in contact with the snot, which helps maintain hygiene and also makes the aspirator easy to clean.
Cons
- The electric unit requires connection to a plug point and does not work on batteries, which decreases the portability of the aspirator.
- The suction components have several parts that require disassembly before cleaning.
"I appreciate the inclusive design of each attachment, preventing the spread of germs. Although finding the clip can be challenging at times, it's durable and practical, and the replacement parts are easy to access. I think it's a good purchase."
8. Best Budget-Friendly: BabyBubz Nasal Aspirator
If you are on a budget and looking for a portable snot sucker and mucus remover, then BabyBubz nasal aspirator will make an excellent choice.
Pros
- The mucus is trapped inside a transparent plastic container, and cannot go into the suction tube or the parent’s mouth.
- No replacement filters or parts are required for this mucus remover with mouth-controlled suction.
- The nasal probe tip has a slight bulge, which limits the tube from going too deep into the baby’s nasal passage.
Cons
- The container and the tube have several small nooks and corners that you need to flush to remove the mucus thoroughly.
- The nasal probe tip may seem big for younger babies.
"This nasal aspirator is practical and effective for my kids' congestion. It's soft, easy to use, and efficient in cleaning babies' noses. Although the small tubes and lack of a filter can be a letdown, it's a great option for cold days."
9. Best Dishwasher: BabyComfy Nasal Aspirator
The safe and effective BabyComfy nasal aspirator offers a great level of customization for an oral suction mucus remover.
Pros
- You get two nasal probe tips: a standard one and a fine tip for newborns.
- The mucus collection cup can fit a rolled tissue paper, which works as a filter to trap the snot.
- It is made of phthalate-and BPA-free silicone material and has a child-friendly design.
- The manufacturer ships the dishwasher-safe product with a mesh bag to allow carrying all the parts together.
Cons
- Some parents feel that the suction power is not enough to draw out thick nasal mucus.
10. Best USB-Chargeable: Grownsy Baby Nasal Aspirator
The Grownsy baby nasal aspirator is ergonomically designed to help clean your baby’s nose easily and effectively.
Pros
- Its soft silicone tip helps remove mucus from the baby’s nose delicately and safely with its 65 Kpa strong suction power.
- This nasal aspirator with soft tips features an automatic booger sucker and a pause function, making it convenient.
- It is USB rechargeable and delivers 120 minutes of uninterrupted use with full charge.
- The pack contains three reusable nasal suction tips that are washable too.
- The contents in the pack are made of food-grade PP material, making it safe for your baby.
- It features a LED display which offers enhanced visibility and plays music to soothe the babies.
Cons
- The silicone tips may pop on and off often
- It is not dishwasher-safe
"This device met my expectations with its effective suction, music, lights, and nozzle shapes. Despite some hiccups, it's easy to use and makes the task hassle-free, making it peaceful for me and my baby."
11. Best Portable: Graco NasalClear Nasal Aspirator
Graco’s safe and effective nasal aspirator has an ultra-compact design and is ideal for mothers who want a travel-friendly baby’s nasal suction device.
Pros
- The collection cup has several small parts that can require proper cleaning and drying before reuse.
- The mucus collection parts of the aspirator are removable and dishwasher-safe.
- Ideal first birthday or baby shower gift.
Cons
- The collection cup has several small parts that can require thorough cleaning and drying before reuse.
- Some users report that the product did not last very long.
"These replacements for Gracos' nasal aspirator with two size options for different ages are indeed a practical buy. Although it may not appeal to everyone, I like its music function as it keeps my babies distracted during the process."
Types Of Nasal Aspirators
The three types of nasal aspirators are.
- Bulb syringe nasal aspirator is made from rubber or medical-grade silicone and is shaped like a balloon: spherical on one end and pointed, tapered on the other end. You press the spherical end and gently insert the pointy end into the baby’s nostril. Gently releasing the spherical side will suction out the mucus from the baby’s nose. Bulb aspirators are economical and also easy to operate.
- Oral aspirators have a long tube, with plastic ends on both sides. A pointed plastic end goes into the baby’s nose while the other end is put in the caregiver’s mouth for oral suction. There is a filter in the tube that prevents the mucus from getting into your mouth. Correct operation of oral aspirators takes practice. Also, not all caregivers may be comfortable with the idea of sucking a baby’s nasal mucus using their mouth.
- Electric aspirator uses battery power to generate a suction force. All you need to do is insert the suctioning end of the aspirator into the baby’s nose and press a button, which initiates the suctioning process.
How To Choose The Right Nasal Aspirator For A Baby?
Remember these points when shopping for baby nasal aspirators.
- Nasal tip size: The size of the nasal tip can vary across nasal aspirators. Pick one with a tip that is suitable for your baby. Some aspirators come with interchangeable tips and can be an ideal choice if you plan to use the aspirator for long.
- Ease of cleaning: The aspirator’s tip should be easy to clean with soapy water. Choose a hygienic nasal aspirator with a wide opening to allow the water to evaporate entirely and prevent the formation of molds.
- Suction strength: The suction strength varies from one aspirator to another. Bulb syringe and oral suction aspirators may be gentle nasal aspirators as they offer a gentle suction pressure owing to their manual control, while the electric aspirator has a stronger suction capability. You can consider an aspirator depending on the suction tolerance of the baby and the level of congestion they have.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are nasal aspirators good for babies?
Nasal aspirators are effective devices for clearing nasal congestion in babies. They also improve respiratory health in winter or cold seasons (1). However, ensure that you are using the aspirators sparingly in a day.
2. How often can I use a nasal aspirator on an infant?
Before using the nasal aspirator, clean the surrounding nose area with a tissue to minimize the irritation. Use the nasal aspirator at most four times a day (2). You can also use saline spray or drops to dilute thick mucus.
Catherine Moore, a certified newborn care specialist and professional nanny, says, “A nasal Aspirator should be used judiciously. And always follow the guidelines of your child’s pediatrician to prevent irritations in the delicate nasal passages of your baby.”
3. When should I clean my baby’s nose?
Nasal congestion makes breathing difficult in infants. So it would be best if you clean their nose regularly. Further, it is advisable to keep your baby’s nose clean during breastfeeding.
4. Are electric nasal aspirators safe to use?
Electric baby nasal aspirators are safe and effective if they meet certain safety standards. Therefore, you can check if your nasal aspirator complies with safety regulations and standards set for them. Additionally, ensure that you begin with low suction levels to prevent irritation or injury on delicate skin.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Our team of trusted writers and reviewers have created this post to help you learn everything about nasal aspirators. We have listed the best baby nasal aspirators that help remove sticky mucus from your baby’s nose without much hassle. The tried-and-tested options listed here are portable, easy to clean, and made of safe materials. Moreover, we have also included the various types of nasal aspirators and a buying guide mentioning the factors you should consider when choosing one.
The Bottom Line
Baby nasal aspirators can help your little one clear their blocked nostrils and breathe easily. But before purchasing these aspirators, you should consult your baby’s pediatrician. Nasal tip size, suction strength, and cleaning ease are some of the most essential factors to consider while buying an aspirator for your child. Bulb syringe, oral, or electric aspirators can be purchased to best suit your baby’s requirements. But ensure they are compact enough to fit in your palm with ease. We recommend the BoogieBulb Baby Nasal Aspirator, made of hospital-grade latex to prevent germ buildup, and the Fridababy NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator, which helps provide fine control over suction power and includes disposable filters. Also, consider the Grownsy Baby Nasal Aspirator, which is ergonomically designed and USB-rechargeable.
Infographic: How To Use A Manual Nasal Aspirator On Babies?
A manual nasal aspirator is a simple and efficient device designed to safely eliminate excess mucus from a baby’s nose, aiding in congestion relief and improved breathing. Refer to the following infographic to learn how to use a manual nasal aspirator properly, ensuring efficiency, comfort, and hygiene. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Do you use a nasal aspirator for your baby? Do share your experiences in the comment section below.
References
- The impact of nasal aspiration with an automatic device on upper and lower respiratory symptoms in wheezing children: a pilot case-control study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6001015/ - Suctioning the Nose with a Bulb Syringe
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/suctioning-the-nose-with-a-bulb-syringe - Suctioning the Nose with a Bulb Syringe
https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/s/suction
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