Mother using the rechargeable nasal aspirator on her baby

Clearing Newborn Congested Nose: Practical Solutions

Updated October 2026 · Reviewed for safety and accuracy by the Lively Living team

Snuffly, snorty newborn noises can be alarming when you're a new parent. The good news is that a stuffy nose is very common in the early weeks, and most of the time it's nothing serious. This guide explains why newborns get congested, how to clear your baby's nose safely at home, and the signs that mean it's time to get medical help.

Why newborns get congested

Newborns breathe mainly through their nose, and their nasal passages are tiny, so even a small amount of mucus or milk can make them sound blocked. Many newborns also sneeze often and make snuffly noises in the first few weeks as their noses clear out fluid from birth. If your baby is feeding well and otherwise content, this is usually normal.

Because babies rely on their nose to breathe while they feed, a blocked nose can make feeds harder, and that's often the main reason to help clear it. Learn more in our post on whether babies breathe through their nose or mouth.

Common causes

Colds and other viruses. The most common cause, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is most active in the cooler months.
Dry air. Air conditioning and heating can dry out delicate nasal tissue.
Irritants. Cigarette smoke, vapes, dust and strong fragrances can all irritate little noses.
Milk. A little milk can sometimes come up into the back of the nose after feeds.

How to clear a newborn's nose

Step 1. Loosen the mucus with saline. Lay your baby on their back and put 1 to 2 drops of saline (salt water) nose drops into each nostril. Wait a minute or so for it to soften the mucus.

Step 2. Gently remove the mucus. A rechargeable nasal aspirator uses gentle suction to draw the loosened mucus into a collection cup. Start on the low suction setting and hold the soft tip at the entrance of the nostril, never pushing it inside. A few seconds per nostril is plenty. Our step-by-step nasal aspirator guide walks you through it.

Step 3. Wipe away any mucus around the nostrils with a soft, damp cloth.

Step 4. Clean the aspirator in warm, soapy water after every use and let it air dry.

Clearing your baby's nose just before feeds and sleep makes the biggest difference. Don't overdo it, though: clearing more than a few times a day can irritate the inside of the nose.

Not sure which aspirator to choose? Our nasal aspirator buying guide compares the main types.

A note on newborns and essential oils. Avoid essential oils, vapour rubs and chest balms for babies under 3 months. Saline, a gentle aspirator and comfortable air are the safest options at this age.

When to seek medical help

A snuffly nose in a baby who is feeding and settling well is usually fine. Watch for signs that your baby is working hard to breathe. Call 000 if your baby:

is breathing very fast, grunting, or their nostrils flare with each breath
has skin that sucks in between or under the ribs, or at the base of the neck
has blue or pale lips, or pauses in their breathing
is very drowsy, floppy or hard to wake

See your GP the same day if your baby:

is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C or more
is feeding much less than usual or has fewer wet nappies
has a cough, or seems unwell or unusually unsettled

Trust your instincts. You know your baby best, and if something doesn't feel right, get them checked. You can also call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 any time to speak with a registered nurse.

Keeping little noses clear

Keep the air smoke-free. Never smoke or vape around your baby, in the house or in the car.
Wash hands. Ask everyone to wash their hands before holding your baby, and ask unwell visitors to come another time.
Keep the air comfortable. A cool mist humidifier stops nursery air from getting too dry, especially with air conditioning or heating on. Our award-winning Aroma-Snooze Plus combines a cool mist humidifier with soothing sounds and a soft red night light. Read are humidifiers safe for newborns? for tips on using one safely.
Breastfeed if you can. Breast milk passes on antibodies. The Australian Breastfeeding Association helpline (1800 686 268) can support you.

Aroma-Snooze Plus humidifier by Lively Living

Frequently asked questions

How do you clear a congested nose in a newborn?

Put 1 to 2 drops of saline in each nostril, wait a minute, then gently remove the loosened mucus with a nasal aspirator. Do this before feeds and sleep.

Is it normal for newborns to be congested?

Yes. Newborns often sound snuffly because their nasal passages are so small. If your baby is feeding well and content, it's usually nothing to worry about.

When should I worry about my newborn's stuffy nose?

Get medical help if your baby is working hard to breathe, feeding poorly, has fewer wet nappies, is unusually sleepy, or is under 3 months with a temperature of 38°C or more.

Is it OK to let my newborn sleep with a stuffy nose?

Yes. Clear their nose before sleep and always place them on their back on a firm, flat mattress. Don't raise the head of the cot or use pillows or wedges. Red Nose has the full safe sleeping guidelines.

The bottom line

A congested nose is one of the most common worries in the newborn weeks, and it's usually easy to manage with saline, a gentle aspirator and comfortable air. Keep an eye on feeding and breathing, and don't hesitate to get help if something doesn't feel right.