Wash your hands thoroughly.
Use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water.
Prepare the neti pot by rinsing it with clean water and drying it.
Mix the saline solution:
Use a pre-made saline packet, or
Mix 1/2 teaspoon non-iodized salt with 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces (240 mL) of water.
Fill the neti pot with the saline solution.
Lean over a sink and tilt your head forward slightly.
Turn your head so one nostril points upward.
Place the spout into the upper nostril and create a comfortable seal.
Breathe through your mouth.
Pour steadily so the solution flows through the lower nostril.
If needed, gently adjust the angle of your head or the position of the spout.
Allow the solution to drain completely.
Repeat on the other side.
Gently blow your nose after both sides.
Rinse the neti pot with clean water after use.
Air-dry the neti pot completely.
Clean and replace the neti pot as recommended by the manufacturer.
Stop and seek medical advice if you have severe pain, nosebleeds that don’t stop, worsening symptoms, or signs of infection.