“Nasal aspirators are very simple little devices for clearing mucus from babies’ noses. They basically have a tiny nozzle that goes in the nostrils and some suction is applied that very simply sucks the mucus—wet and dry—from the nostril,” explains. Dr. Lavin. “Now, it turns out that it is very unusual for a baby to need this help. The one time in life it is very helpful is right after birth, and maybe the next one to two days, because at birth we all are fresh from soaking underwater for months and our noses, throats, and lungs are still very wet. But within 24 to 72 hours, all that amniotic fluid clears, and the need to suck fluid from the nose of babies essentially disappears.” With manual nasal aspirators, you will typically either stick the tip inside your child’s nose and suck from a tube or press on a bulb-like syringe to help pull out any snot. As for electric nasal aspirators, you simply stick the tip inside your child’s nostril and press a button. If you’re ever concerned you’re doing it wrong or are unsure of how to properly use the product, contact the manufacturer.