How to Use a Neti Pot

What is a neti pot?

A neti pot looks like a small genie lamp or teapot. It’s used to pour salt water (saline solution) into one nostril to drain out of the other nostril. Using a neti pot may help a stuffy nose. It can clear out your nasal passages, reduce swelling, and help your natural defenses work better. Neti pots usually cost less than $20. The most common side effects are burning or stinging in the nose.

How do I make the saline solution?

You can buy premixed packets of salt to add to water. Or, you can make your own salt mixture at home. Here is one recipe you can use:

  • 1 teaspoon of un-iodized salt (canning, kosher, pickling, or sea salt)
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 2 cups (480 mL) of lukewarm water. Use only distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled tap water. Tap water must be boiled for three to five minutes to kill germs.

Mix the salt, baking soda, and water together. Fill your neti pot with the mixture. You can make a stronger saline solution by using two teaspoons of salt. Always mix a fresh solution before each use.

How do I use the neti pot?*

After filling your neti pot with the saline solution, follow these steps:

  1. Lean over a sink.
  2. Position your head so that one ear is facing the sink and one ear is facing toward the ceiling.
  3. Gently place the tip of the neti pot’s spout into your top nostril, so that a seal is formed.
  4. Tip the neti pot up so the salt water enters your top nostril. (Breathe through your mouth).
  5. The solution will drain out of your other nostril.
  6. Once the pot is empty, stand up straight, breathe out of both nostrils, and blow your nose into a tissue.
  7. Refill the neti pot and repeat these steps for the other nostril.

*A video showing how to use a neti pot is also available at www.pharmacistsletter.com/netipot.

Some people like to use the neti pot in the shower, instead of over the sink.

If you have stinging or burning in your nose, you can:

  • Use less salt in the saline solution (use one-half teaspoonful instead of one teaspoonful).
  • Try slightly changing the temperature of the water. Do not use cold water or hot water.

Do not share your neti pot with anyone. Clean your neti pot after each use. Wash it with hot, soapy, distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water and allow it to air dry. If you use your neti pot often, consider getting a new one every few months.

If you are also using a nasal steroid spray, use it 30 minutes after you use the neti pot.

[This handout may not cover all possible information. It does not replace the need for professional medical care. Always follow the instructions from your healthcare provider.] [March 2019; 350305]

Related Articles