How to wash, spray and drop your nose

How nasal treatment is delivered matters as much as what is delivered. A good rinse reaches the lining of the sinuses; a poorly aimed spray hits the septum and runs straight back out; nose drops only reach the smell area if your head is positioned correctly first. These three short videos demonstrate the techniques.

These videos were originally produced with the support of the British Rhinological Society.

Using a nose wash

Almost every nose can be better with a regular nose wash with salt water. The video demonstrates the technique with a NoseWell rinse bottle.

Aiming your nasal spray

Using a nasal spray correctly really makes a difference to its effectiveness. Aim out, not up, so the spray reaches the lining and not the septum.

The Kaiteki position for nose drops

Taking your nose drops in the Kaiteki position maximises their delivery to the olfactory cleft, the part of the nasal cavity that does the smelling.

When to use which

A daily nose wash is the foundation of most nasal treatment; do this first
A steroid spray is for daily preventive treatment; aim out and breathe gently in
Nose drops in the Kaiteki position target the smell area; do this when steroid drops have been prescribed for smell loss or polyps

If you would like to be taken through any of these in clinic, mention it at your appointment.

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This guide is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Contact the practice if you have questions about your own care.