Chronic sinusitis –– a condition characterized by long-term sinus inflammation –– affects more than 28.9 million Americans. Though common, without treatment, sinusitis can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms and make it difficult to breathe.

There are a variety of over-the-counter medications designed to relieve chronic nasal congestion. Even so, nothing compares to nasal irrigation. This at-home treatment presents few side effects, effectively flushes your nasal passages, and reduces congestion, drainage, and pain.

In this article, we define nasal irrigation, explain the benefits, and highlight some of our best-selling products.

What is nasal irrigation?

Nasal irrigation uses a neti pot and a saline solution to clean or flush your sinuses out. Your sinuses are a group of hollow passages inside your nose and head that produce mucus. The mucus drains through your nose, preventing bacteria, pollutants, and dust from entering your airways.

Nasal irrigation is unique in that it doesn't use any medication. As a result, treatment is safe for anyone, including people with drug allergies and sensitivities.

What conditions can benefit from nasal rinsing?

A nasal rinse with a Neti pot is a safe and effective way to treat various conditions, including:

  • Nasal allergies

  • Chronic sinusitis (a sinus infection)

  • Post-nasal drip

  • Colds

  • A stuffy nose

  • Facial pain

  • Sinus headaches

You might also benefit from treatment if your nasal cavities get clogged with mucus, making it difficult to breathe.

How do I use a Neti pot?

To rinse out your nostrils, you need the following items:

  • A neti pot or a small teapot

  • A saline solution (you can buy one or make your own)

  • Bottled water that's distilled or sterilized (if you use tap water, boil it first)

After you gather everything, prepare the nasal rinse. To do that, open the package that came with your neti pot or mix your own.

To create your own nasal rinse, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 3 teaspoons of iodine-free, preservative-free salt

  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda

  • 8 ounces of distilled, sterilized or previously boiled water

Mix the salt and baking soda solution into the water until they're fully dissolved. Then, pour the solution into your neti pot.

After you fill the neti pot, go to the sink or the bathtub and tip your head at a 45-degree angle. Then, place the spout of the neti pot inside your nostril and carefully pour the saline solution out.

It's normal for some of the fluid to run down the back of your nose and into your throat. You can swallow it or spit it out.

After you empty the neti pot, blow your nose, refill it with the saline solution, and repeat the same steps on your other nostril. Once you're finished, sit the neti pot out and let it air dry.

Is it okay to rinse my nose with tap water?

Never fill a Neti pot or a squeeze bottle with water from the tap. Even though it's treated, tap water contains microscopic organisms like bacteria, amoebas, and protozoa. If you rinse your sinuses with untreated water, you're more likely to experience potentially serious complications, like an infection.

Where can I buy a Neti pot and other related products?

Here at Carewell, we carry various products to assist with at-home nasal irrigation. Some of our best sellers include:

Himalayan Neti pot

This neti pot, manufactured by The Himalayan Institute, makes it easy to clear dirt, pollen, and other irritants from your nasal passages. It's made of ceramic, contains no chemicals like BPA or latex, and provides lasting relief for dry or stuffy nostrils.

Navage Saline Irrigation Starter Kit

The Navage Nose Cleaner is a modern take on the traditional neti pot. It uses a battery-powered suction device to flush irritants from your nose, including viruses and bacteria.

In addition, the starter kit contains 20 Navage SaltPod capsules. The capsules are formulated to relieve congestion so you can breathe easier, sleep better, and feel healthier, without using over-the-counter drugs.

SinuAir Formulated Saline Powder

Last on our product list is saline powder from SinuAir. If you regularly use a neti pot but don't have the time or energy to make your own irrigant, consider this pre-packaged powder.

It's specifically formulated to mimic your body's salinity and electrolyte composition, reducing the buildup of mucus and other irritants in your nasal passages. Plus, because it's pre-packaged, the powder is perfect for travel. Simply throw a few packets in your suitcase.

Don't let chronic nasal congestion affect your quality of life. With a neti pot and other necessary items, you can breathe more clearly, reduce inflammation, and get your sense of taste and smell back.

As always, if you have questions, please reach out to our friendly Care Specialists at any time. Call (800) 696-CARE or send an email to support@carewell.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Chad Birt
Chad Birt

Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.