Do Babies Breathe Through Their Nose or Mouth?
A common question from parents is whether babies breathe through their nose or mouth. While babies can technically do both, their natural instinct is to breathe through their nose.
According to Dr. Nina Shapiro, newborns are "obligate nasal breathers," meaning they rely primarily on their nose to breathe. This is due to their physical makeup, including a smaller mouth, a larger tongue, and an elevated larynx, making mouth breathing more difficult.
Although babies can begin to breathe through their mouth around five months, they will still prefer nasal breathing, just like adults do.
Baby Noses and Congestion
Babies have small nasal passages that can get blocked easily due to colds, teething, or dry air. Since babies are primarily nose breathers, nasal congestion can cause significant discomfort. If your baby’s nose is blocked, it can affect their ability to feed properly.
When they are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, their mouth is occupied, so they need their nose clear for breathing. This makes it essential to keep their nasal passages open, especially during feeding times.
A blocked nose can not only disrupt their sleep and feeding but also lead to discomfort and frustration for both the baby and parents. If congestion isn’t cleared, it may lead to breathing difficulties, which can make a baby feel distressed and restless.
How to Clear a Blocked Nose
Since babies can’t blow their nose or sniff until around 4 years of age, parents need to help clear their congestion. Here’s an easy two-step process using your Snotty Boss Nasal Aspirator:
- Flush the Nose: Use 2-3 squirts of saline spray in each nostril to soften the mucus. Saline is just purified salt water and is safe to use daily from birth. It gently loosens any mucus buildup.
- Suction It Out: Use Snotty Boss Nasal Aspirator to quickly and easily remove the mucus. Keep your baby upright while using it to allow gravity to help the process.
Your Simple Snot Solution
If your baby struggles with congestion, the Snotty Boss Nasal Aspirator can become your go-to tool. Thousands of Australian families trust it to clear their babies' noses, helping them breathe, feed, and sleep more comfortably. Find it at your local Terry White Chemmart or shop online and experience relief for both you and your baby.
