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How to Clean a Small Volume Nebulizer

A nebulizer is a machine that uses compressed air to turn liquid medication into a fine breathable mist, also referred to as aerosol. Nebulizer treatments are initiated to aid with chronic lung conditions such as asthma, bronchitis or cystic fibrosis. Since the medication is directly delivered to the respiratory system, it is imperative the nebulizer be cleaned properly to prevent a lung infection. A small cleaning is required following each use and an in-depth cleaning and disinfecting is required each day.

Things You'll Need

  • Distilled white vinegar
  • 2 plastic bowls
  • Plastic bag
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Instructions

  1. After Each Use

    • 1

      Turn off and unplug the nebulizer machine. If your nebulizer is battery powered, simply turn the machine off.

    • 2

      Remove the nebulizer medication chamber and mouthpiece from the tubing. If you are using a mask with your nebulizer, remove the mask at this time as well.

    • 3

      Disassemble the nebulizer medication chamber by turning the top counterclockwise and pulling the two sides apart.

    • 4

      Rinse the mouthpiece or mask with warm water. Hold the item under the water for at least 30 seconds.

    • 5

      Shake off any excess water. Place the pieces on a paper towel to air dry.

    • 6

      Rinse the nebulizer medication chamber with warm water. Hold the chamber under the water for at least 30 seconds.

    • 7

      Shake off any excess water. Place the chamber on a paper towel to air dry.

    • 8

      Assemble the nebulizer and run the machine for 20 seconds complete the drying process.

    • 9

      Store all of the pieces in a plastic bag to prevent the buildup of lint and dust on the components of the nebulizer.

    At the End of Each Day

    • 10

      Turn off and unplug the nebulizer machine. If your nebulizer is battery powered, simply turn the machine off.

    • 11

      Remove the nebulizer medication chamber and mouthpiece from the tubing. If you are using a mask with your nebulizer, remove the mask at this time as well.

    • 12

      Disassemble the nebulizer medication chamber by turning the top counterclockwise and pulling the two sides apart.

    • 13

      Fill a bowl with hot water and a mild detergent soap. Place each piece in the bowl, making sure they are fully submerged in the solution. Soak the pieces for five minutes.

    • 14

      Remove the pieces from the water and rinse thoroughly under warm water.

    • 15

      Fill a bowl with a solution of hot water and distilled white vinegar. The solution should be mixed to a concentration of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water.

    • 16

      Place each piece in the bowl and soak for 30 minutes.

    • 17

      Remove each piece and rinse thoroughly under warm water. Shake off any excess water and place on a paper towel to air dry.

    • 18

      Assemble the nebulizer and run the machine for 20 seconds to complete the drying process.

    • 19

      Store all of the pieces in a plastic bag to prevent the buildup of lint and dust on the components of the nebulizer.

    • 20

      Wipe the outside of the nebulizer machine with a clean, dry paper towel.

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