The Battery Operated Neti Pot
When it comes to nasal irrigation systems, there is definitely no shortage of options. People always wonder which one to choose. Should you get a traditional neti pot or one with a motor? What’s the difference?
Well in this post, I want to outline a few things that will hopefully help you make the right decision.
What is a Battery Operated Neti Pot?
A battery operated neti pot is basically just that – a neti pot that has a motor, powered by batteries. Except they’re a little more advanced than a traditional neti pot.
Many people are going with battery powered because of the convenience and portability (as opposed to a standard electric one that you have to plug into an outlet).
One of the most popular, and in my opinion – the best, is the Navage Nasal Irrigation System. It uses gentle suction power to “pull” the saline solution through your sinuses rather than push it by force. It’s a gentler, more effective way to clean your nasal cavities.
==> You can see my full review of the Navage Nasal Cleaner here <==
What About a Traditional Neti Pot?
A traditional neti pot is made from plastic, ceramic, or stainless steel, and resembles a tea pot, but with a longer spout. The pot is filled with saline solution and then poured into the nostril with the purpose of cleaning out your nasal cavities.
However, neti pots lack in the way of promising the most efficient cleaning. There isn’t any force except gravity to bring the water through your nasal cavities. On top of that, they’re quite messy. If you’re not careful, you’ll end up with water all over yourself and your bathroom sink.
Other Options for Battery Powered Nasal Washers
The NeilMed Sinugator Pulsating Nasal Wash:
This one is nice when it comes to portability. It’s relatively small, and comes equipped with a low pressure system, which is claimed to be non-burning or stinging. It can even be used right after sinus surgery.
The cost for this unit is about $21 on Amazon.
The Matwave Nasal Irrigator CleanPro:
The Matwave Nasal Irrigator is actually both battery powered and AC adaptable. So if you’re at home, you don’t have to waste your money on batteries. It has a 600ml reservoir, a one-touch button for activation, and a magnetic wand for easy handling.
Word of caution though on this model: Quite a bit of feedback on this unit mentioned its low quality, and even stopped working after only a few months of use. At $49.00, it’s ok if you’re on a budget…but I wouldn’t consider a good long-term investment.
AGOLUO Oral and Nasal Irrigator
This one is actually pretty cool because it doubles as a water flosser, as well as a nasal irrigator. It uses a cordless/wireless charger, making it even more portable; and a full charge will last up to 2 weeks.
The Agoluo includes 3 interchangeable tips so other members of the family can use it. This one isn’t too bad at only $51.99.
Why Use a Battery Powered Irrigator?
There are several reasons I would recommend using a battery irrigator. I’ve pretty much written off traditional neti pots since I bought my battery powered irrigator. (I got the Navage, which you can read about here.) Here are a few of the reasons why I love my nasal cleaner that only needs batteries:
More effective: Traditional neti pots use gravity over water pressure and don’t have the cleaning force needed to adequately clean your sinus cavities.
Batteries make it convenient: If you’re like me, I hate messing with cords and electronics when it comes to water and the bathroom. The last thing I want to do is splash water near an outlet I’m using.
Batteries make it portable: This is perhaps the biggest selling point to me, and why I chose battery powered. I can take it with me and use it anywhere. I don’t need to worry about finding an outlet, regardless of where I’m at.
What Should You Look For When
Shopping for a Battery Operated Sinus Irrigator?
Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering which nasal cleaner to buy…
Power: One of the biggest complaints I’ve seen on cheap irrigators is that there wasn’t enough “horse power” to flush the sinuses. You need something that’s going to do more than just wet your nasal.
Quality: How will it hold up? Most people who use nasal irrigators need them quite often. Which means it will get repeated use. If you’re going to spend the money, spend a little extra and get one that is built well and isn’t made with cheap, thin plastic. (Tip: Go to Amazon and click on the 1 star reviews. This is usually a pretty quick way to find out the common flaws of a product.)
Size of Irrigator: Do you plan on taking it with you when you travel, or to work? Make sure it’s a size that you find convenient enough to put into a bag or easy to carry when you go places if you plan to travel with it.
Size of saline canister: This is more for convenience. If you want to make sure your sinuses are flushed all in one swoop, make sure the canister that holds your saline solution is big enough to complete the job first time around. Otherwise you’ll have to refill and remake your solution, which is a little extra hassle.
Guarantee: Is it backed by a warranty or satisfaction guarantee? It’s always a good idea to go with one that backs their product with at least a year-long warranty or a money-back guarantee. This way you’re not out anything if the product isn’t what you thought it was.
Final Words:
If you’re thinking about purchasing an irrigator and throwing away your neti pot, I think your life is about to change for the better.
I mentioned the Navage earlier and why I think it’s the best. It uses suction power rather than traditional force, so it fees better, which is one of the main reasons I switched to one of these.
Plus, it’s very easy to use, and a whole lot less messy. Here’s a little video to show you how it works.
==> Here’s my review after using the Navage. You can read about it here <==