Nasal strips for sleep: what they are, what they do and how to use them

If you wake up with a blocked nose, breathe through your mouth at night or find it hard to get air through your nose when you lie down, nasal strips for sleep are one of the simplest solutions. In this guide we explain what they are, what they are for and how to use them.

What are nasal strips?

A nasal strip is an adhesive band with a flexible structure inside. It sticks to the outside of your nose and, as it tries to return to its flat shape, gently pulls the sides of your nose outwards. This leaves the nasal passages a little more open so more air comes in. They contain no medication: they work only from the outside.

What are nasal strips for sleep for?

• Breathing better through your nose when it closes up or gets blocked at night.
• Reducing snoring caused by a blocked nose. If you snore because air does not flow well through your nose, opening it helps.
• Sleeping more comfortably, without having to breathe through your mouth.
• Relieving nasal congestion, drug-free.

Note: nasal strips do not solve snoring with other causes. If you snore a lot, pause while breathing or wake up tired, see a doctor.

Do they work?

They work best when the problem is in the nose: a nose that closes up when you lie down, congestion, or simply narrow nasal passages. If your problem is something else, you may not notice a difference.

How to put on nasal strips, step by step

1. Wash and dry your nose well. No creams or oil, so it sticks properly.
2. Remove the backing paper without touching the adhesive too much.
3. Place the strip in the middle of your nose, just above the flared part of the nostrils (the part that opens when you breathe).
4. Press the ends for a few seconds so it sticks.
5. In the morning, remove it slowly, ideally after washing your face with warm water.

Each strip is single use.

Which nasal strip should I choose for sleep?

For sleeping every night we recommend HASLOM® Premium nasal strips: Smart Flex technology, hypoallergenic adhesive and 60 strips per pouch (about 2 months of use). If you also do sport, Black nasal strips have an extra-strong hold for training.

Not sure which one is right for you? See all nasal strips, take our 30-second quiz or see the value packs.

This article is for information only and does not replace a doctor's advice. Always read the instructions before using the strips.