Cleaning + disinfecting nebulizer and aerobica

I wash and rinse mind after each use using hot water and dish detergent. I have 2 Aerobika and I am planning to buy another . I have 4 aerobika's. . After the last session of the day, I sterilize in a Bololo baby bottle sterilizer. I use filtered and boiled water in the sterilizer. It takes about 1/4 cup of water.
About every 2 weeks I also boil nebulizer and Aerobika using my Instant pot . I boil when the nebulizer gets really slow. Not sure whether it helps or not, but I think the boiling can clear that tiny pin point hole.
I have found that the Instant pot and baby bottle sterilizer has save me time and reduced stress

At the end of the day I throw mine in the dishwasher or hot soapy water and Sterilize once a week using the Medela Sterilizer bag that goes in the Microwave. I was told at NJ to wash them daily and I only needed to Sterilize once a week.

I used to just rinse the nebulizer under filtered water, but now use Medela and microwave once per day. It’s so easy, I figure why not?

@sara10, this question is a perennial favorite in the MAC group. Allow me to link you to previous discussions that have loads of wisdom and tip that you're looking for about cleaning and sterilizing besides the tips you've already gathered here from @gardiner @pop55 and @raney.

@thumperguy, started this one:
- Living Dangerously - Nebulizer Cleaning https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/living-dangerously/

@128128terry11t started these two:
- Is it okay to microwave nebulizer or in baby bottle sterilizer? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/microwaves-and-nebulizers/
- Aerobika/nebulizer cleaning question https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/cleaning-question/

Thanks for that info Colleen. My question is I will be using the Medela to sanitize the nebulizer mouthpiece and chambers, but what about the tubing? Do I need to do anything with that as far as sanitizing goes? Thanks in advance.

Hi dc1950, I think I can address your question. We have used nebulizers in our home for years and have never sanitized tubing. If you are using the machine correctly the tubing should always be dry, so nothing can grow in it. If you see moisture droplets in it any time, simply disconnect the mouthpiece from the tubing and leave the compressor running for 10 minutes to dry it out.

Mouthpieces, whether regularly sterilized or not, should be replaced every 3-6 months based on your doctor's recommendation. Simply replace the tubing at the same time. When I order my replacement mouthpiece, I make sure new tubing is included.

How often do you replace the mouthpiece and solution chamber?
Sue

Thank you Sue. I thought I read not to anything with the tubing, except running the compressor to dry it, but I'm happy that you are doing that way also. I was told 3 - 6 months too and follow that. Thanks again!

Wondering if anyone has had problems obtaining 3% Saline for use in the nebulizer. In the Philadelphia area none to be found including mail order pharmacy.

I have been unable to get 7% saline from CVS, too.

Her is where I have been getting mine since local pharmacies seem to be in short supply.
https://www.amazon.com/Hypertonic-Solution-Nebulizer-Inhalation-Single-Dose/dp/B0871LCK71
Sue