Saline nasal rinses, steam, humidifiers, and hydration may help loosen mucus and relieve congestion.
Untreated tap water should never be used for nasal irrigation; use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water.
Nasal decongestant sprays should only be used as directed, as prolonged use can cause rebound congestion.

How to clear a stuffy nose includes saline nasal rinses, inhaling steam with eucalyptus, using a humidifier, and staying well hydrated. These home remedies may help loosen mucus, reduce congestion, and make breathing easier.

How to clear a stuffy nose depends on the underlying cause, which may include the flu, a cold, respiratory allergies, prolonged use of nasal decongestants, or structural changes inside the nose. Babies can also develop nasal congestion because their nasal passages are very small and mucus is harder to clear.

Treatment may include home remedies or medication, depending on the cause and the severity of symptoms. A healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate treatment, especially if congestion persists, worsens, or is caused by an underlying medical condition.

This content is solely for informative purposes and should not replace a medical consultation. Do not interrupt your current treatment without seeking medical guidance.

Natural remedies

The main ways to clear a stuffy nose fast include:

1. Rinsing your nose with saline

A saline nasal rinse can be performed with a needle-free syringe or nasal irrigation device. It helps remove mucus and secretions from the nasal passages, which can make it easier to breathe.

To prepare the saline solution, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 1 cup of distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water, then fill the syringe or nasal irrigation device. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, untreated tap water should not be used for nasal irrigation because it may contain organisms that can cause serious infections.

Place the tip of the syringe or irrigation device in one nostril and gently release the saline, allowing it to drain out through the other nostril. Repeat the process on the other side.

Another option is to use a prepared sterile 0.9% saline solution.

2. Inhaling steam with eucalyptus

Inhaling steam with eucalyptus may help clear a stuffy nose without causing significant discomfort. This method should only be used by adults and children over 12 years old.

The steam helps thin nasal secretions, while eucalyptus may have a decongestant effect that helps relieve congestion.

Add 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl containing about 2 cups (500 mL) of boiling water. Place a towel over your head to contain the steam and inhale it for about 5 minutes, keeping your face at a safe distance from the hot water.

3. Humidifying the air

Adding moisture to the air can help keep the airways hydrated and reduce irritation. This may make mucus easier to remove when congestion is caused by excess nasal secretions.

You can humidify the air by using an electric humidifier or taking a hot shower. Another option is to place a bowl of hot water in the room, provided it is kept in a secure location to prevent burns or spills.

4. Drinking 2 to 3 liters of water per day

Drinking water can help thin nasal secretions and make them easier to clear, which may improve breathing.

Warm herbal teas may also be helpful, particularly teas traditionally used for their decongestant effects, such as eucalyptus or peppermint tea.

5. Eating foods rich in vitamin C

Vitamin C supports normal immune system function and may help the body recover from colds and the flu, which are common causes of a stuffy nose.

Vitamin C foods include pineapple, guava, oranges, lemons, tangerines, strawberries, and kiwi.

6. Taking a hot shower

The steam from a hot shower may help thin nasal mucus and make it easier to clear. This can reduce the discomfort caused by a stuffy nose.

7. Applying a warm peppermint compress

Applying a warm, damp towel soaked in peppermint tea to the face may help relieve nasal congestion. Peppermint is traditionally used for its expectorant properties, which may help loosen mucus and secretions.

8. Using a nebulizer

Using a nebulizer with saline may help relieve a stuffy nose. The mist hydrates the airways and thins nasal secretions, making them easier to clear.

Add 5 to 10 mL of sterile 0.9% saline solution to the nebulizer cup.

Sit comfortably, place the nebulizer mask over your nose and mouth, and breathe slowly and deeply for about 20 minutes or until the saline is gone.

9. Drinking warm tea

Warm teas, such as ginger and garlic tea or peppermint tea, may help clear a stuffy nose. These ingredients contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and are traditionally used to help loosen mucus and relieve airway irritation.

Warm tea also helps keep the body hydrated. Warm foods such as soups and broths may also help loosen nasal secretions and soothe irritation inside the nose.

10. Elevating the head of your bed

Elevating the head of your bed may help reduce nasal congestion at night. Lying flat increases blood flow to the nose and makes it more difficult for nasal secretions to drain toward the throat, which can worsen congestion.

You can elevate the head of the bed with secure bed risers or sturdy wooden blocks. This keeps the upper body slightly raised and may help keep the airways open.

11. Massaging your face

Gently massaging the cheeks and the bridge of the nose may help relieve discomfort caused by nasal congestion.

Mix 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, with 2 drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender essential oil. Use the mixture to gently massage the area for about 5 minutes, avoiding contact with the eyes and the inside of the nose.

Clearing a baby’s stuffy nose

A stuffy nose is common in babies because their nasal passages are very small. Since babies cannot blow their noses, mucus can build up and make feeding and sleeping more difficult.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, saline drops, sprays, or mist can loosen mucus so that it can be gently removed with a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator.

Other ways to help relieve a baby's stuffy nose include:

Use a cool-mist humidifier in the baby's room if the air is dry.
Hold your baby upright during feedings and while awake to make breathing more comfortable.

Eucalyptus essential oil should not be used in babies or children under 12 years old because it may cause allergic reactions or breathing problems.

Medication for a stuffy nose

Medication for a stuffy nose should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider. The most appropriate treatment depends on the cause of the congestion and whether home remedies have provided relief.

Medications that may be recommended include antihistamines, such as brompheniramine and chlorpheniramine, and decongestants, such as oxymetazoline and pseudoephedrine.

These medications may be taken by mouth or used in the nose, depending on the active ingredient and product. They can help relieve nasal congestion and make breathing easier.

Nasal decongestant sprays should only be used for the length of time stated on the label or recommended by a healthcare provider. Prolonged use can cause rebound congestion, in which the medication becomes less effective and inflammation inside the nose worsens.

How to Clear a Stuffy Nose Fast: 11 Natural Remedies