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Using a Nebuliser at Home: Correct Technique, Cleaning and Common Mistakes
How to use a nebuliser, prepare the medicine and clean the device: a step-by-step guide to correct nebulisation for children and adults.
Contents
A nebuliser turns liquid medicine into a fine mist that is inhaled directly into the lungs. It is prescribed for asthma, COPD, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis and some lung infections. Used correctly it works well, but poor technique and inadequate cleaning reduce effectiveness and increase infection risk.
| Type | Feature | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor (jet) | Air pressure creates the mist | Most common, noisier |
| Ultrasonic | Sound waves create the mist | Quieter; not suitable for some drugs |
| Mesh | Vibrating mesh creates aerosol | Small, quiet, portable; careful cleaning |
Preparation
Wash hands, place the device on a flat surface, check medicine, dose and expiry, add the medicine (diluted with saline if prescribed) and connect the mask or mouthpiece and tubing.
Correct use
- Sit upright; lying down reduces lung delivery.
- With a mouthpiece, seal the lips around it; it delivers better than a mask for people who can use it.
- A mask should fit snugly over nose and mouth.
- Breathe slowly and deeply through the mouth, with short breath-holds if possible.
- Continue until misting stops, usually 5–15 minutes.
- After steroid medicines, rinse the mouth and wash the face if a mask was used.
| Mistake | Result | Correct |
|---|---|---|
| Holding the mask away ("blow-by") | Most medicine is lost | Mask on the face |
| Treating a crying child | Poor lung delivery | When calm or asleep |
| Lying down | Less effective | Upright |
| Not washing the cup after use | Bacterial growth | Clean after every use |
| Mixing drugs on your own | Interactions | Only as prescribed |
| Not rinsing after steroids | Oral thrush | Rinse the mouth |
Cleaning
After each use: wash the cup, mouthpiece or mask in warm soapy water, rinse and air-dry on a clean cloth. Do not wash the tubing; run the compressor to dry it if moisture gets in.
Weekly: disinfect as per manufacturer (boiling or a suitable solution).
Periodically: replace the air filter and worn parts. Do not share masks or cups.
Seek urgent help if breathlessness worsens despite treatment, lips turn blue, speaking is difficult or there is marked chest indrawing.
We supply nebulisers, train families and provide home respiratory physiotherapy across Yalova, with support in Bursa, Istanbul and Kocaeli–Gebze.
