Equate Nasal Strips Review 2026: Pros & Cons

Equate Nasal Strips: Quick Verdict

Equate nasal strips are an affordable, drug-free option for mild nasal congestion and snoring. They can improve nasal breathing and help you sleep better, but performance is inconsistent compared to some premium brands.


Pros

  • Affordable

  • Easy to use

  • Drug free

  • Available at Walmart


Cons

  • May fall off at night

  • Can irritate sensitive skin

  • Stiff material might cause discomfort


Struggling to breathe through your nose at night? Waking up with dry mouth or snoring complaints?

If you searched for an Equate nasal strips review, here’s the quick answer: they are affordable and can provide instant relief, but they are not the strongest, most consistent option available

In this guide, we break down features, pricing, pros, cons, and better alternatives so you can decide fast.

Equate Nasal Strips

Second Wind Nasal Strips

Best For

Budget-conscious users looking to try out nasal strips for the first time. 

External nasal expansion for a less invasive, more comfortable experience.

Stand-Out Feature

Affordable pricing with patented SmartFlex technology.

Instantly improves nasal breathing by 33% without needing to put anything in your nose.

Price

  • Clear Nasal Strips (26 count): $7.82

  • Tan Nasal Strips (26 count): $7.82

  • 1-month supply: $30.00

  • 3-month supply: $85.00

  • 1-year supply: $299

Pros

  • Stiff material has a powerful spring-like action.

  • Made in the USA.

  • Extremely comfortable and lightweight (some users even forget they're wearing it).

  • Less invasive and claustrophobic compared to internal nasal dilators.

  • Available in different color options.

  • Comes with pre-application cleaning pads to prepare your nose for better adhesion.

Cons

  • Some users experience issues with the strips falling off shortly after application.

  • Skin irritation and redness might occur.

  • Higher premium price compared to some other nasal strips.

Comfort

Comfortable for some, but the stiffness of the material can cause discomfort.

Extremely comfortable and safe for sensitive skin. Less adhesive surface area compared to other brands, makes removal easier too.



Who Equate Nasal Strips Work Best For

Equate nasal strips work best for budget-conscious users who want short-term relief from nasal congestion or mild snoring.

 

They are ideal for:

  • Stuffy nose due to colds

  • Allergy-related congestion

  • Occasional snoring

  • First-time nasal strip users

They are not ideal for chronic sleep apnea or severe deviated septum cases. For mild nasal breathing problems, they can be a simple first step.


Key Features of Equate Nasal Strips

  • Drug-free nasal congestion relief

  • Spring-like band lifts the nasal passages from the outside

  • Available in clear nasal strips and tan versions

  • 26 count and bulk 78 count options

  • Sold at Walmart

  • Designed to reduce snoring and improve sleep

  • East peel and stick application

The strip works by gently pulling open the nostril walls. This increases airflow instantly and reduce the need for mouth breathing. 


Pricing

  • Clear Nasal Strips 26 count: $7.82

  • Tan Nasal Strips 26 count: $7.82

  • Clear Nasal Strips 78 count: $23.46

Equate Nasal Strips are one of the most affordable options, but there’s no cost reduction for bulk buying.


Equate Nasal Strips Pros

Equate brand nasal strips provide solid entry-level relief. They are simple, accessible, and budget-friendly for everyday nasal congestion support.


Pro #1: Affordable

Equate is significantly cheaper than most name-brand options like Breathe Right Nasal Strips. At around 30 cents per strip, it is one of the most affordable nasal strip choices available.

So, if you are unsure whether nasal strips work for you, this is a low-risk buying option.


Pro #2: Instant Nasal Relief

The strip works instantly by lifting the nasal passages. Many users report being able to breathe through their nose within minutes of application.

This can reduce snoring intensity and improve sleep quality, especially when congestion is due to colds or allergy flare-ups.


Pro #3: Easy to Apply

The application process is simple. All you need to do is peel, place across the bridge of your nose, and press down.

Most beginners can use it correctly on the first try, but for the best results, check out our guide on how to apply nasal strips. 


Equate Nasal Strips Cons

Despite the low price, there are performance trade-offs. Adhesive strength and skin comfort are the most common complaints.


Con #1: Adhesive Issues

Customer reviews for Equate extra strength style commonly mention that the strip may peel off during sleep.

If you sweat at night or have oily skin, adhesion can weaken and when the strip falls off, airflow support stops making their performance inconsistent.


Con #2: Skin Irritation

Some users report redness, irritation, or skin peeling when removing the strip.

The adhesive can feel sticky and harsh, especially for sensitive skin types. While not dangerous, repeated irritation can make using them regularly uncomfortable.


Con #3: Material Can Feel Too Stiff

Some users report that the strip material feels too stiff across the bridge of the nose. While the rigid band helps create lift and open the nasal passages, it can also feel tight or unnatural.

This firmness may reduce comfort during sleep, especially for people sensitive to pressure on the skin.


Equate Nasal Strips Customer Reviews and User Ratings

Overall rating feedback is mixed but generally positive. Most complaints relate to adhesive issues and skin sensitivity.


Positive Reviews

Positive reviews often mention instant relief and improved breathing during sleep. Many customers appreciate the price and availability at Walmart. For mild congestion, most reviews summary sections show decent satisfaction levels.

(Source: Walmart)


Negative Reviews

Negative customer reviews for Equate focus on adhesion problems. Some users state the strips wouldn’t stay on, while others struggle with skin irritation and peeling.

(Source: Walmart)


Equate Nasal Strips Alternatives 

If Equate nasal strips do not meet your needs, stronger or more skin-friendly alternatives may provide better long-term results.


Second Wind Nasal Strips 

If you're looking for an instant way to breathe easier and reduce snoring stemming from nasal congestion without pain or discomfort, Dream Recovery’s Second Wind Nasal Strips are a great solution.

These tried and tested strips are designed to deliver up to 33% more airflow after application, making them the best pick for nasal breathing problems, better sleep, improved workouts, and less snoring.

Shop Second Wind Nasal Strips now. 

 

Breathe Right Nasal Strips

Breathe Right Nasal Strips are a well-established brand known to reduce congestion, snoring, and difficulty with nasal breathing. They have a strong spring-like action, making them a good choice for those who need daily support due to nasal breathing problems like a deviated septum. 

For more information, keep reading our full Breathe Right Nasal Strips Review or checkout our guide to Equate vs Breathe Right.


Airmax Nasal Dilator

Airmax is an internal nasal dilator placed inside the nostrils. It has a winged design that can be very effective at opening up the nasal passages from the inside out. It also comes in two different sizes, making it easier to find a comfortable fit.

Read our full Airmax Nasal Dilator review here.

 

Equate Nasal Strips or Second Wind Nasal Strips? 

Equate Nasal Strips are a decent option for budget buyers with mild congestion who want simple, drug-free relief, but adhesion issues and discomfort are sometimes a concern.

Second Wind Nasal Strips are better for users who need a stronger lift, sweat resistance during intense workouts, and sensitive skin protection all night long.

 

Breathe easier now with Second Wind Nasal Strips.

 

 

Back to blog