In a clean container, mix 3 teaspoons of iodide-free salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and store in a small airtight container.

Add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to 8 ounces (1 cup) of lukewarm distilled or boiled water.

Using a soft rubber ear bulb syringe, infant nasal bulb or a commercial nasal saline rinse product from your drug store, use the rinse by following these steps:

Draw up saline into the bulb. Tilt your head downward over a sink (or in the shower) and rotate to the left. Squeeze approximately 4 ounces of solution gently into the right (top) nostril. Breathe normally through your mouth. In a few seconds the solution should come out through your left nostril. Rotate your head and repeat the process on the left side.

Adjust your head position as needed so the solution does not go down the back of your throat or into your ears.

Blow your nose very gently to prevent the solution from going into your ear and causing discomfort.

After using the rinse, you may continue using your prescribed nasal medications as normal. You may notice that they work better.

You can store your solution for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best to mix a fresh solution with every application.

Do not use sinus rinses if your nasal passageway is severely blocked. As with any medical product, be sure to speak to your doctor about using sinus rinses and stop using if you experience pain, nosebleeds or other problems.