If you are especially worried about infection, it's okay to clean the piercing as often as every few hours. Avoid cleaning too often, however, if you're using a particularly harsh cleaning agent. Clean the piercing twice a day. Use a sterile saline solution, a 50/50 water-and-soap solution, or hydrogen peroxide. Twice a day, saturate a Q-Tip or cotton swab with the cleaning solution, then let it soak into the pierced area for a few minutes. Wipe your piercing from inside and outside your nose. If you've given yourself a nose ring, rotate it slightly each time you clean it. [5] X Research source Repeat this process every day until the piercing heals. Your nose will be swollen and sore for a few days after the job, but it should feel normal before the week is over. Be aware that the piercing may take as long as 3-4 months to completely "heal".