Premaking & storing Saline solution for NeilMed sinus rinse
Can I premake & store in a clean/sterile container the saline solution for my NeilMed sinus rinse? If yes, do I need to refrigerate it or can I keep it at room temperature?
I was planning on mixing 4 of the Neilmed salt/saline packets with 32 ounces of distilled water and, then storing it in a clean/sterile container until it was time to use it.
Thanks in advance for your reply.
~Paula
Yes, saline solution can be pre mixed, but it must be handled carefully to help reduce the risk of contamination.
When using a NeilMed Sinus Rinse, microbiological safety is very important. Even distilled water is no longer sterile once it has been opened and exposed to air. After saline is mixed, the solution is no longer sterile and improper storage may allow bacterial growth. Keeping the solution at room temperature increases this risk.
If you choose to pre mix your saline solution, we recommend the following:
- Use freshly opened distilled water.
- Mix the solution in a clean, thoroughly disinfected container.
- Store the solution in the refrigerator.
- Use within 24 hours (up to a maximum of 48 hours).
Refrigeration helps slow bacterial growth. Before use, warm the solution to a lukewarm temperature. Do not microwave the solution in a closed container. Discard the solution if it becomes cloudy or shows any signs of contamination.