How to Clean a Hand-Held Nebulizer

Nebulizers are inhalers that spray a fine mist of medication through a mask that is placed over the face of an infant, child or anyone who has an acute case of asthma. The mist that is sprayed from the nebulizer is intended to loosen any mucus in the lungs so it can be more easily expelled through coughing. Airway muscles are relaxed in this treatment making air movement more efficient. It is important to keep a nebulizer clean so that it works properly.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Water
• Clean cloth
• Clean towel
• Vinegar
• Plastic bag

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Instructions

• 1

  Turn the nebulizer switch to the off position.

• 2

  Disconnect the nebulizer cup, tubing and mask from one another.

• 3

  Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a cup of warm water.

• 4

  Wash the nebulizer cup, tubing and mask with a clean cloth soaked in the warm soapy water. Do not submerge the cup or tubing in water or place either part in the dishwasher.

• 5

  Rinse off all of the soapy parts of the nebulizer.

• 6

  Lay each part to dry on a clean towel.

• 7

  Place the thoroughly dried parts in a plastic bag.