Saline guides · Part 2 of 2
Nasal rinse water and device care
Nasal saline for a stuffy nose
A squeeze bottle or neti pot raises a question you can skip with sealed, ready-to-use nasal saline. What water goes into the device? The FDA advises using distilled or sterile water, or tap water that has been boiled and cooled according to its directions. Ordinary tap water can be safe to drink and still carry organisms that can cause harm when introduced into the nose.
Keep the water and the equipment separate in your mind
Safe water is the first check. The second is the device itself. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how to prepare the saline, clean the device and let it dry. The package instructions may specify how to prepare a particular volume. Keep the packet or instructions nearby, especially if you switch between a spray and a rinse bottle.
Three things to read on the carton
Look for a nasal-use statement, then match the delivery instructions to the product in your hand. Finally, read the storage and discard directions. A single-use ampoule has different handling instructions from a multi-use nasal spray bottle. A saline percentage tells you how much sodium chloride is in the solution. The directions give you the details you need to use that specific format.
If you have a weakened immune system, the FDA advises talking to your healthcare provider before using a nasal irrigation system. Stop and ask for advice if irrigation makes symptoms worse or is followed by fever, nosebleeds or headaches. Keep the packaging or take a photo of it so you can explain exactly what you used.
Sources and instructions
AI-assisted editorial article published by Steralis Labs, which sells saline products.