Saltwater washes (saline lavage or irrigation) help keep the nasal passages open by washing out thick or dried mucus; they can also help improve the function of cilia that help clear the sinuses. This can help prevent the spread of infection to the other sinuses and reduce postnasal drip. It also can make the nose feel more comfortable by keeping the mucous membranes moist.
You can buy saline nose drops (such as Ocean or Salinex) at a pharmacy, or you can make your own saline solution by mixing 1 tsp (5 g) of table salt in 1 pint (473.2 mL) of water and adding a pinch of baking soda. Your health professional may recommend a different strength of salt, baking soda, and water. Use the saline solution at body temperature. To apply homemade saline solution:
| Author | Amy Fackler, MA |
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology |
| Last Updated | August 22, 2006 |
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