Hi Nancy, I hesitate to recommend a single nebulizer because everyone develops their own preference based on their life and severity of their ailment.
For many years, at home I have relied on the cheap Medicare covered machine by Pari Vios - I call it the "big green machine" because mine happens to be that color. I am on my 3rd one in over 20 years. Pluses - inexpensive, powerful, reliable. Minuses - big, relatively noisy and not easy to take along.
My current preferred lightweight, portable compressor nebulizer is the DeVilbiss Traveler with battery pack. Pluses - light, reliable, long battery life, can plug into auto too. Minuses - not as powerful, compressor gets weaker after 3 years or so depending on use.
Handheld, mist-type nebulizer - None currently. The only one I ever liked is discontinued. Most of the ones for sale are not reliable, or not suitable for 7% saline, or begin to leak quickly.
One thing to remember, whichever nebulizer you buy, read the manual about changing the filters - then change them MORE often, because multiple daily uses they need it sooner. My daughter killed one this winter by not doing it because a clogged filter taxes the compressor.
What is everyone else's go-to nebulizer?
Thanks Sue! I think I recall that you used a nebulizer that you sterilized by putting it into a microwave. I use a Phillips Respironics that has a plastic tube leading to a mouthpiece that sprays a .7 mist. I have to sterilize with hot water and 99% anti bacterial soap. It takes a lot of time. I want something easier. Any recommendations?