A Few Happy Customers:
We had problems using the bulb, could not suck any of the snot out. We then bought an electrical aspirator – will not go anywhere without it!
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This page has been created to answer your basic questions in relation to nasal aspiration and the operation and care of your specific nasal aspirator. Please use below form or e-mail your inquiry to info@snotty.com.au and we will post all relevant questions and answers below.
For your convenience the latest question and answer will be posted on top of this page.
Q. I can not find the o-rings in the manual for snotty one, where are they exactly located?
A. We have now updated our manual and our next production will contain the information. Please download the below picture, which contains all o-rings called: CUP SEAL, CUP SET SEAL, BATTERY COVER SEAL.
Q. My snotty is not stopped working properly, makes a noice but there is no suction.
A. You should check you aspirator by removing the silicone nozzle and placing you finger over the large plastic hole.
1. If there is no suction there, the aspirator has been assembled incorrectly or an o-ring has been damaged.
2. Referring to your manual, please remove the collection cup (C) with base (D) by pulling them straight out.
Switch on the unit, if there is suction through the inlet hole (G), put the aspirator back together and this
time remove collection cup (C) only (by twisting it as per the instruction manual -
this will leave the base plate (D) attached to the aspirator.
3. Here place your finger over the blue pipe of base (D) this pipe is cut at an angle -
if suction is not present this indicates the small black o-ring on air hole plug (F) is damaged.
4. If suction is present continue with re-attaching the collection cup (C) and testing once again at the
tip (large hole without silicone nozzle), if no suction is felt here inspect the large green o-ring for damage
or re-assemble the collection cup again. (the lines on the side of the collection cup (C) the base (D) and
the blue eclipse on the aspirator handle should align IN FULL when collection cup is assembled properly.
Most of the time a proper re-assembly of the collection cup (C) and the base (D) is sufficient to correct
the leakage, which is the most common assembly problem.
Q. I have ordered and paid for my Snotty One today, will I receive it first in August?
A. NO! Your Snotty One will be posted within 24 hours (during weekdays). We are only running low on stock,
once we have sold out the aspirator will be temporarily not available for purchase on the web.
Q. I have lost my manual for my Snotty One, can you please send me one?
A. Your manual is available electronically, please click the below link to download a PDF version of your SNOTTY ONE manual.
Q. How often do I have to change the o-rings in SNOTTY ONE ?
A. There is no set time, usage will determine when it is appropriate to replace the o-rings. Obviously if the aspirator is taken apart more frequently the o-rings may have to be replaced earlier. The key factor is proper maintenance and care not to damage the o-ring while assembling the aspirator, as any damage will surely lead to leakage and inadequate suction pressure. Please also maintain the o-rings by using silicone grease to lubricate and preserve them, this should be done at least once every 3-6 months depending on usage. Silicone grease will not swell or soften the rubber, which hydrocarbon based greases will do.
NEVER use hydrocarbon-based greases on the o-rings as this will damage and deteriorate them !
Q. I bought one of your amazing snot machines at the Sydney Baby Show last year. I have used it so much. But recently, it stopped sucking, its like the seal around the clear plastic cover is broken. Any ideas would be great because I really need to use it again.
A. If you remove the collection cup (C) and base (D) and switch on the unit, and there is suction through the inlet hole (G), the problem may be with one of the seals (large green or small black one). Please inspect these for damage. Sometimes a proper re-assembly is sufficient to correct the leakage. If not an o-ring might have to be replaced. You can order a replacement pack of 2 o-rings or a set of o-rings and a nozzle under Products - Spare Parts, these range from $5.40 to 10.00 for a set.
Q. Can I use the aspirator on older kids?
A. Although it is most essential to aspirate infants, commonly described as obligate nasal breathers as they prefer breathing through their nose rather than mouth, you can use an aspirator on toddlers, teenagers and adults if there is a need. The preferable aspirator in this case would be one that can provide you with constant suction. We can here offer you Snotty Me and Snotty One. Each of these aspirator have their advantages, as well as disadvantages, ranging from price, portability and suction strength/ability. Please read the individual aspirator descriptions to gain more knowledge in relation to their functionality.
Q. Do I have to use saline before I suck out the boogers?
A. YES ! We always recommend that you spray saline up the nostrils a couple of minutes before aspiration to ease the extraction.
a) saline will loosen up the mucus
b) saline is a non medicated substance and can be used as frequently as required without any side effects
c) saline in it self acts as a bacterial inhibitor assisting your child in the fight of the cold
d) saline can also promote mucociliary clearance by moisturizing the nasal cavity and by loosening dry material
Extraction of dry mucus may result in slight damage to the delicate nasal mucous membrane and should be avoided at all time. Although a runny nose may have the appearance of exactly that; a runny nose, we can never be certain of the consistency of the mucus deeper inside the nasal cavity.
* One contraindication to nasal aspiration or using saline would be if your child has undergone treatment or surgery in which case you should ALWAYS consult your ENT specialist.
Q. Can I use any type of batteries in my Snotty One?
A. Although you can use any type of AA batteries in your Snotty One the unit has been specifically designed for alkaline batteries these will last you longer than regular AA batteries and most of the time give you better suction. We personally prefer rechargeable batteries from an environmental point of view as well as due to frequent use and continuous demonstrations.
Q. Which nozzle do I use with my SNOTTY ONE? which one do I try first? Is there a colour sequence, I have noticed the holes in the end are vaious sizes, does that relate to which nosel sizes they are?
A. There is no particular chronological sequence to the use of nozzles. The main aspects are:
a) the size of your child's nostril
b) the type of cold
The pink nozzle offers the smallest hole, as such will result in a stronger suction pressure with a smaller air flow.
The blue would offer you medium suction with medium air flow.
The white nozzle offers the largest hole and the greatest air flow (which often is most beneficial) however at a slightly lesser vacuum pressure.
From our experience it is more of an adjustment to your child's shape of nose, as well as an adjustment to the type of cold that determines the type of nozzle used - not as much the age of the child.
Do you have a question?