6 Natural Cold-Prevention Strategies

Nasal Rinse

How it helps: Neti pots and irrigators cleanse the nasal passages with a saltwater solution. “A daily saline rinse helps sweep bacteria, viruses, and irritants from the respiratory tract,” says Ellert. With a classic neti pot, the solution is poured into one nostril, travels into the sinuses, then drains from the other nostril. Today a battery-powered irrigator can be easier and more comfortable to use (try the Waterpik Water Pulsator; $35, waterpiksinusense.com). A saline nasal spray, like Simply Saline ($6, drugstore.com), offers similar benefits.

Good to know: Clean your irrigator or neti pot with soap and water after every use. “Without good hygiene, these can be vehicles for transmitting viruses and bacteria from person to person,” says Ellert.