Frequently Asked Questions

Our nose is part of a wonderfully designed system that protects our nasal passages from outside irritants. This "system" is covered with microscopic hair-like structures called cilia that pulsate and clear foreign substances from your nasal membranes and out of your sinus passages. When your immune system reacts to an allergen, the mucous produced by your body becomes thick and sticky. When this occurs, your cilia are covered up by this thicker mucus and are unable to move freely to clear the membranes. In effect, the cilia become stagnant, immobile and ineffective at helping you clear out foreign substances and infections. Historically, many cultures & people have used nasal irrigation in an attempt to find relief from clogged nasal passages.

SinuPulse pulsatile nasal irrigation stands out as the best method for nasal cleansing due to its ability to closely mimic the natural pulsatile movement of cilia in the nasal passages. Our patented method employs a gentle, rhythmic flow of saline solution that not only clears mucus but also stimulates the cilia, enhancing their natural function in removing debris and pathogens. Clinical research demonstrates pulsatile irrigation can be more effective than other methods for removing bacteria and more effective than some antibiotic solutions for clearing infection¹.

Compared to traditional neti pots, nasal wash bottles (NeilMed), and suction (Navage) pulsatile irrigation offers several key benefits:

1. Enhanced Mucus Clearance: The pulsatile action creates a dynamic flow that effectively dislodges and removes more mucus, allergens, and bacteria compared to static irrigation methods. This helps reduce nasal congestion and the risk of infections more efficiently.

2. Natural Stimulation: By mimicking the cilia’s natural motion, pulsatile irrigation supports the body’s own mechanisms for maintaining nasal health. This can lead to improved overall function of the nasal passages, promoting better breathing and sinus drainage.

3. Comfort and Precision: Pulsatile systems are designed to deliver a controlled, steady stream that adjusts to the contours of the nasal passages, making the process more comfortable and less invasive. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive nasal linings or those recovering from sinus surgery.

4. Thorough Coverage: The rhythmic flow ensures that the saline solution reaches deeper into the sinus cavities, providing a more comprehensive cleanse. This is crucial for individuals with chronic sinusitis or allergies, as it helps reduce inflammation and improve sinus health.

5. Consistency and Convenience: Devices used for pulsatile irrigation are typically easy to use and provide consistent results with each use, making them a convenient option for regular nasal hygiene. This can be particularly advantageous for those with ongoing nasal issues who need reliable relief.

SinuPulse pulsatile nasal irrigation offers the most effective, natural, and comfortable way to maintain nasal health compared to other methods, Recently rated the #1 nasal irrigation system by NY Magazine, and supported by dozens of published medical reports, SinuPulse is the #1 choice for individuals seeking to enhance their sinus care.

¹ Efficacy of Irrigation Removing Staphylococcus, Anglen,Orth Trau 1994 Oct;8(5):390-6. Clinical Study:Laryngoscope.2000 Jul;110:1189-93

No, there are many methods of nasal wash products designed to cleanse the nose with a saline solution. A wide variety of these nasal wash products including neti pots, bulb syringes, suction devices, and nasal wash bottles direct a saline solution into the nose. Their effectiveness is limited since the saline solution often relies on gravity or pressure alone and not the leverage provided by the oscillating rinse action of the SinuPulse. These products deliver a solution that generally flows over the top of the bio-film in a superficial manner doing little to break down biofilm and restore the natural ciliary function necessary for long term protection. SinuPulse pulsatile technology has been reported in dozens of medical journals to be more effective for maximum cleansing benefits and removing bacteria from hard to reach areas. The patented design of the SinuPulse delivers up to 600 ml/min nearly 3X the flow rate of other products including the many "knock offs" from China sellers that have a flow rate of approximately 250 ml/min.

The SinuPulse Elite® and SinuPulse Traveler® Irrigation products use a gentle pulsing rinse to maximize leverage and cleansing benefits. The pulsating rinse action helps restore and matches the natural rate of pulsation of the nasal cilia which are key to protecting your sinuses against foreign bodies. No other form of nasal irrigation does this. The pulsating rinse action not only helps you feel clear and makes breathing easier it addresses the underlying problem of poor functioning cilia the key to long term sinus health. Healthy cilia are one of the most important elements in filtering allergens and preventing sinus infections.

There are many methods of nasal irrigation none as effective or as simple to use as the SinuPulse products. Neti pots are messy and uncomfortable to use. They rely on gravity and force the user to be placed in an awkward position tilting the head from side to side creating pressure and potential ear sensitivity. Nasal wash bottles do not offer a controlled flow rate and can deliver too much pressure also contributing to ear sensitivity. In addition, recent published medical journals have reported high rates of contamination with up to 80% contaminated after the third use. The best way to cleanse and restore natural ciliary movement is pulsatile irrigation with SinuPulse.

When comparing the SinuPulse Elite vs The SinuPulse Traveler there is a trade off between performance and durability of the SinuPulse Elite for the convenience, space saving, and portability of the SinuPulse Traveler. Summary: The SinuPulse Elite is the "Gold Standard" for superior performance and efficacy for chronic sinus and allergy issues with dozens of published medical reports and millions of satisfied users. The SinuPulse Traveler is a great companion unit for those with occasional allergy and sinus issues that emphasize portability and convenience over performance and durability.

Since we introduced the first FDA registered pulsatile nasal irrigation system, almost 30 years ago, the category has become very popular. Many factories in China are jumping on the bandwagon producing counterfeit products and low end "knock offs" including Maoever, Tilcare, Nascool, NasalFresh MD, Heyaxa, Locool, iTHERAU, Sonmol, GAILYUS, and SinuFlux to name just a few. Aside from the intellectual property and technology theft online marketplaces like Amazon and Wal-Mart enable China factories to sell directly to US customers questionable products where in the past they would generally produce an OEM product for an established American or European brand that was designed to meet much higher quality control and regulatory standards. Most of these China "Knock Offs" are not designed to these high standards and are lower end appliances with a sub par build quality and performance. Particularly concerning is the frequent use of questionable plastics and other materials that often contain toxic levels of chemicals and hormones that can leech into the solution. When it comes to nasal irrigation and your health don't settle for anything less than American brand quality and medical grade materials designed to meet US regulatory requirements. SinuPulse products are engineered with the finest materials and workmanship. We utilize plastics that are environmentally sensitive and chemically neutral including materials that are BPA, estrogenic, and androgenic free. When your health matters most... trust the best, don't settle for less!

No not at all. Some may envision an unpleasant experience of accidentally getting water up your nose but actually, it is quite pleasant. The water flow is adjustable to meet individual needs gently bathing your nose with a pulsating rinse designed to moisturize and cleanse the nasal passage sand sinuses. The soothing rinse will leave you breathing better, feeling clear, and healthy.

- Distilled or sterile water recommended best.

- Boiled water for 3-5 minutes, allowed to cool until lukewarm. Previously boiled water can be stored for use within 24 hours.

- Filtered water with an absolute pore size of 1 micron or smaller (e.g. NSF 53 or NSF 58).

Any saline product may be used with the SinuPulse Elite® and SinuPulse Traveler® models. However, SinuAir is recommended best for pulsatile nasal irrigation and all other nasal wash methods. It is much more than simply food grade sodium chloride (salt) and baking soda found in most other saline products. SinuAir contains sodium, potassium and calcium salt compounds in a formulation widely reported both effective and gentle for maximum comfort, cleansing benefits, moisturizing, and to enhance nasal ciliary function. This formulation will appear slightly cloudy and is normal. The gentle soothing formulation and maximum cleansing benefit is an excellent alternative for those sensitive to harsh saline solutions.

The SinuPulse Elite® and SinuPulse Traveler® models take only minutes to use. Simply add saline powder or non iodized salt as directed and mix with distilled water. Add the prepared saline solution to the water tank. Simple and easy to use, the SinuPulse Elite® and SinuPulse Traveler® models deliver a gentle pulsating rinse that cleans and moisturizes. It is far less messy than a neti pot or nasal wash bottle. The pulsating rinse action of the SinuPulse products will do all the work leaving your nose feeling refreshed and clean.

Note: O-ring may be black or clear

No, it is similar to the sound level of a Water Pik. Excessive noise (squeal) may occur if the SinuPulse Elite water tank is not fully secure. This is due to the robust motor and pump assembly that creates strong suction and a possible air gap between the water tank and the SinuPulse unit. This is easily resolved by lubricating the O-ring located on the outside bottom of the water tank. This enhanced Oring (may be black or clear) is uniquely resistant to saline, seals the water tank when seated on top of the SinuPulse, and helps regulate water flow. The O-ring may be dry before first use and require lubrication which is entirely normal. The O-ring may become dry from a period of regular use or after a period of inactivity. To lubricate the O-ring simply apply a very small thin application of Vaseline with your finger around the O-ring which does not need to be removed. A small application is all that is needed to ensure optimal performance with periodic applications 2-3X annually.

The noise level is comparable to most standard oral irrigator (water pik type) products. The robust motor and pump assembly has been designed specifically to withstand the corrosive effects of saline. The electronic piston driven pump assembly creates a 1200 pulse per minute intermittent pulsating rinse for maximum cleansing benefit reported so effective at removing bacteria. The high-performance motor and piston driven pump assembly have been carefully designed to balance the need for high performance and durability with sound level. Certain bathroom environments and non-sound absorbing surfaces and countertops such as granite and tile may increase sound levels. A simple hand towel placed under the unit will help reduce the sound level considerably. You can find answers to many common questions by visiting Troubleshooting Tips. Many issues can be easily resolved with a few simple steps. The answer might be there already!

Note: O-ring may be black or clear

If the motor is running but the solution is not pumping, experiencing reduced water flow, or leaking appears under the unit - this is almost always a quick and easy fix. On the outside bottom of the water tank you will find a small O-ring. This enhanced Oring (may be black or clear) is uniquely resistant to saline, seals the water tank when seated on top of the SinuPulse, and helps regulate water flow. The O-ring may be dry before first use and require lubrication which is entirely normal. The O-ring may become dry from a period of regular use or after a period of inactivity. To lubricate the O-ring simply apply a very small thin application of Vaseline with your finger around the O-ring which does not need to be removed. A small application is all that is needed to ensure optimal performance with periodic applications 2-3X annually.

Clean the SinuPulse Elite regularly as directed. Rinsing the unit monthly with dilute vinegar (3:1) is recommended to help reduce mineral deposits and calcification which can accumulate and contribute to reduced performance (flow rate) and premature wear. Use of distilled water is recommended best for long term durability. Empty water tank after each use, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry. Do not leave solution in water tank when not in use. The water tank is not intended to store solution between uses. Following these simple steps will keep your SinuPulse® irrigator clean and ensure optimal performance. You can find answers to many common questions by visiting Troubleshooting Tips. Many issues can be easily resolved with a few simple steps. The answer might be there already!

The O-ring on the bottom of your water tank may be black or it may be clear. This enhanced Oring is uniquely resistant to saline, seals the water tank when seated on top of the SinuPulse, and helps regulate water flow. The O-ring may be dry before first use and require lubrication which is entirely normal. The O-ring may become dry from a period of regular use or after a period of inactivity. To lubricate the O-ring simply apply a very small thin application of Vaseline with your finger around the O-ring which does not need to be removed. A small application is all that is needed to ensure optimal performance with periodic applications 2-3X annually.

Use of saline solutions and hard or soft water sources can contribute to mineral deposits and calcification which can accumulate in your irrigator and cause a loss in pressure, flow rate, and effectiveness over time. Following some simple steps will keep your SinuPulse irrigator clean and ensure optimal performance.

1. After each use rinse the water tank and irrigation tips with warm water and liquid soap to clean and remove residual saline and allow to air dry.

2. Regularly rinse the system after use, and before being stored for any period of time, with clean water to reduce mineral deposits and calcification.

3. Allow the unit to run an additional 5 seconds to push out any residual solution.

4. Wipe down the unit regularly with warm water and liquid soap to remove any saline solution that may have spilled on the exterior.

5. Rinsing the system monthly with a dilute vinegar solution (2:1) is recommended to help disinfect and decalcify mineral deposits for optimal flow rate and performance.

It's easy to keep your SinuPulse irrigator products clean so you continue to get the maximum benefit for your sinus health. You can find answers to many common questions by visiting Troubleshooting Tips. Many issues can be easily resolved with a few simple steps. The answer might be there already!