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Studies have shown that microbial contamination of nebulizers contribute to respiratory infections. While Sunny Rays Neb Cup Holders provide a stable place to hold nebulizer cups, it is the patient's or care provider's responsibility to properly sterilize nebulizer cups before use. Below you will find basic instructions on cleaning and disinfecting nebulizers curtesy of cystic-fibrosis.com, but please check with your care team's recommendations for cleaning your nebulizer cups.
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Additional cleaning tip: Sunny Rays Neb Cup Holders can be wiped down with a sterile alcohol prep pad.
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Disposable nebulizers
Disposable nebulizers are made of plastic that cannot withstand heat cleaning methods or multiple uses. When it comes to using disposable nebulizers the following tips are important to know. You should wash your hands before using them. They should be thrown away after 24 hours. You should use single-dose vials of medication whenever possible with disposable nebulizers.
Reusable nebulizers
Reusable nebulizers are sturdy enough for multiple treatments over weeks and months. However, to be reused, this equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected or the germs that cause lung infections can grow.
Four steps for nebulizer cleaning:
1. Clean: Wash your hands, then wash all nebulizer parts in a clean basin with dish detergent. Use a paper towel to scrub the parts and then toss the towel in the trash. Rinse off the soap.
2. Disinfect: There are two methods to disinfect your nebulizer: heat methods and cold methods. The method you use depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the CF Foundation’s best practices.
Heat methods
Boil for 5 minutes at a rolling boil.
Microwave for 5 minutes, submerged in sterile water in a microwaveable bowl.
Dishwasher, if your dishwasher remains at 158 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 30 minutes.
Electric steam sterilizer. These are baby bottle sterilizers with a 6-8 minute steam cycle.
Cold methods
Soak in 70%-90% isopropyl alcohol for 3-5 minutes.
Soak in 3% hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes
3. Rinse: You must rinse your nebulizer after using any cold method to get the disinfectant off the parts.
4. Air dry: Lay the nebulizer parts on a clean paper towel to air dry. If the paper towels get damp, move the parts to new, dry paper towels.