Neti Pots Can Bring Relief but Also Nasty Sinus Infections if Not Used or Cleaned Properly

The teapot-shaped devices have become a fixture in many homes, but they may be doing more harm than good

Whether dry winter air irritates your sinuses or seasonal allergies make breathing difficult, nasal irrigation often brings soothing relief. One popular device is the neti pot, which looks like a tiny teapot and lets saline solution flow through your nasal passages. Used correctly, it can help, but used incorrectly, it can introduce dangerous germs.

Safe and Effective When Used Properly

Neti pots and other nasal-rinsing devices treat congestion, colds, and allergies by flushing sinuses with sterile saline. The Food and Drug Administration says they are safe and effective when instructions are followed and cleaning is meticulous.

Tap Water Can Cause Serious Infections

Plain tap water should never be used as a nasal rinse. It is not sterile and can contain low levels of microorganisms that are harmless to swallow but can thrive in nasal passages. Rare but deadly infections have been traced to using unboiled tap water in neti pots.

Use Only Safe Water

Fill the device with distilled or sterile water purchased in a sealed container or tap water that has been boiled three to five minutes, then cooled to lukewarm. Always dissolve the supplied saline packets or a doctor-recommended salt mixture so the rinse matches your body’s chemistry and does not sting.

Follow the Directions

Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly, water temperature, saline mixture, and technique. Tilt your head, breathe through your mouth, and let gravity do the work. Rushing or improvising raises the infection risk.

Consult Your Doctor First

If you have a weakened immune system, frequent nosebleeds, chronic ear infections, or any other medical concerns, ask your physician before using a neti pot. Seek medical care right away if you develop fever, persistent headache, or worsening nasal symptoms after rinsing.

Consider Age and Fit for Children

Pediatricians sometimes recommend nasal rinsing for children as young as two, but very young kids may not tolerate it. Use a child-sized device and supervise closely or choose an age-appropriate saline spray instead.

Keep the Device Spotless

Wash hands, face, and the device before and after each use. Disassemble and scrub with hot soapy water, rinse with sterile or boiled water below 120 °F, then air-dry completely. Periodically disinfect with white vinegar or 70 percent isopropyl alcohol if the manufacturer approves. Dishwashers, even on sanitize cycles, may not fully sterilize porous or delicate parts.

Alternatives to Neti Pots

Pre-mixed saline squeeze bottles and pressurized saline sprays cost more over time but require no mixing and minimal cleaning. They can be a convenient option for travel or for users who worry about proper neti-pot hygiene.

For additional guidance on nasal irrigation and water safety, visit FDA’s consumer information page.