How to Clean Nebulizer Parts
It's important to clean your nebulizer after every use and do a deep cleaning a couple of times a week to prevent infection and other medical complications. The process is not difficult but does require consistency to reduce the chance of getting ill.
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Things You'll Need
- Nebulizer
- Soap
- Toothbrush
- Rubbing alcohol (90% or greater)
- Distilled white vinegar
Instructions
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1
Every day, rinse out all of the medicine from the cup after a nebulizer session. Disassemble the nebulizer piece by piece (as much as possible without using a screw driver). This means that the mouthpiece/face mask, the tube that connects the mouthpiece, the medicine cup, the funnel shaped piece, and any other large pieces need to be separated and removed from the device. Use a clean toothbrush and warm soapy water to scrub these pieces down after each use to prevent infection. (Reserve the toothbrush for this task alone.)
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2
Remove the filter by removing a cap in the main machinery by the compressor. Use warm, soapy water to clean this sponge after every use.
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3
Unplug the nebulizer. Wash the exterior of the compressor housing with a slightly damp cloth. If desired, a solution of 90% alcohol can be used once a week. Make sure that none of the moisture gets into the machine.
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4
Rinse each piece (except the compressor housing) in distilled water. Allow the parts to air dry on a dry towel.
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5
Twice a week, take apart the nebulizer and soak the pieces in vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse the pieces in distilled water before setting them aside on a towel to air dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Some nebulizers have parts that can be boiled. Do this only if the literature that came with the nebulizer recommends it. Most nebulizers are not dishwasher safe, so again, unless the literature that came with your product specifically recommends it, do not put pieces in the dishwasher. If you see any sign of mold, call your physician for a new nebulizer. Never clean the tube. It should be replaced periodically. Do not use bleach on the nebulizer and make sure that all traces of cleaner are removed from the nebulizer before use. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about maintaining your nebulizer. Read and follow the directions that come with your nebulizer.
