Most medications for the treatment of respiratory diseases of the upper, middle and lower airways are available on a liquid form and can therefore be used with a nebuliser. Nebulisers also allow mixing different medications in the nebuliser chamber, so that they can be inhaled at the same time for a higher convenience.

Depending on the type of nebuliser, the nebuliser can contain several pieces:
• The main unit or compressor
• The nebuliser kit where the medication is added
• The tube that connects the main unit with the nebuliser kit
• Mesh cap
• Mouth piece to inhale medication through the mouth
• Nose piece to inhale medication through the nose
• Mask
• Air filter

Note: Always refer to the cleaning instructions as included in the instruction manual of the nebuliser.

It is recommended to clean the nebuliser kit, mouth piece, nose piece and mask after each use (but necessary after every day of formal use). They can be washed with warm water and a mild detergent. Then, you should rinse them thoroughly with clean hot tap water and allow to air dry in a clean place.

Disinfection should be done once a week. This can be done by boiling these parts for approximately 10 minutes except for PVC parts (some masks and tubes) which can harden and deform when this is done. Alternatively, use commercially available disinfectant. Thoroughly rinse with clean water after disinfection; follow the instructions given by the supplier of the disinfectant.

The casing of main unit and the tube do not require extensive cleaning, but can of course be cleaned using a soft cloth with water and a mild detergent. Wipe the casing and immediately dry using a soft clean cloth.

The air filter should not be washed. In case it was to become wet it should be replaced to avoid blockages.

Specifically, for a mesh nebuliser: the mesh cap should be cleaned after each use:
• Fill the medication container with water and nebulise the water. To prevent medication from drying and adhering to the mesh after use, nebulise the water for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Then wash the mesh cap in mild (neutral) detergent, and rinse with clean water. Allow to air-dry in a clean place.

Nebulisers are appropriate for the use of babies and children.