Content

• To step
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

If you have a cold or an allergy, blowing your nose can help clear your nostrils.Blowing your nose may seem like a simple task, but there is actually a right way and a wrong way to do it. If you muzzle with too much force, you can make things worse by giving yourself an ear infection or an infection of your sinuses. Instead, blow one nostril at a time, making sure to take it easy.

To step

1. Grab a paper or cotton tissue. The type of material you snout at is a matter of preference, and entirely up to you. Some people like tissue paper, while others prefer old-fashioned cotton tissues. In some cases you will have to get what is within reach because you cannot always predict when to blow your nose. Here's an overview of the different options:
   • Tissues paper: These are made of soft paper and sometimes soaked in lotion to help soothe the skin on your nose that can become dry and irritated after frequent blowing.
   • Cotton handkerchiefs: These are usually made of soft cotton, which is said to be gentler on the skin than paper. Make sure to use a clean area for each time you use your muzzle, and wash your handkerchiefs often, as handkerchiefs can become breeding grounds for bacteria.
   • Toilet paper or kitchen roll: use only as a last resort. They are made from rougher paper and sometimes treated with chemicals that irritate the skin.
2. Open your mouth and close your eyes. This relieves pressure on your face, and for some it makes the experience of blowing your nose more comfortable. Open your mouth slightly, and close your eyes if you need to.
3. Close one nostril with your finger. It doesn't matter which nostril you start with. Pick one and use your finger to snap it shut.
4. Gently blow the handkerchief through your open nostril. Hold it up to your nose and blow gently until your nose is clear. Remember not to blow or force it too hard; if nothing comes out, stop blowing. It may be helpful to move the finger holding your nostril closed when you inhale to give another gentle blow. Try to press your nostril close to the nose bone and all over the soft part of your nose.
5. Switch nostrils and blow again. Close the nostril that was open and blow through the nostril that was closed. Again, don't blow too hard; blow gently and then stop.
6. Wipe your nose. Wipe the outside well with a clean part of your paper or cotton handkerchief. Make sure your nose is dry and there is no mucus on the outside of your nose.
7. Provide the paper or cotton handkerchief. If you used a disposable sackcloth, dispose of it in a trash can afterwards. If you used a cotton handkerchief, fold it so that the used part is enclosed within the folds.
8. Wash your hands. This will prevent you from transferring germs to people you shake hands with and surfaces you touch during the day. Use soap and warm water, then dry your hands with a clean towel.
9. Help your mucus flow easily. If your nose feels blocked and you're having trouble blowing, there are a few ways you can keep your mucus flowing so that you can clear your cavities. Rather than trying to force it out, let it flow gently by trying the following:
   • Drink plenty of water and hot drinks to keep you hydrated
   • Take a steamy shower as hot steam helps to clean the cavities
   • Use a neti pot
   • Eat something spicy

Tips

• Don't blow your nose too hard!
• Drink some water to help loosen it up.
• Eat something spicy to help loosen it up.

Warnings

• Don't blow too often, it can get raw and hurt, as your nostrils need a little bit of that stuff for protection.

Necessities

• Paper tissues
• Soap and water or hand sanitizer for when you travel or in public places.
• Handkerchiefs