For families managing asthma, allergies, frequent cough or other breathing problems, a nebulizer is one of the most useful devices to have at home. It turns liquid medicine into a fine mist that is easy to breathe deep into the lungs — especially helpful for young children and elderly people who find inhalers difficult. This guide explains the types of nebulizers, how to choose one, and how to keep it clean.
What is a nebulizer and how does it work?
A nebulizer (sometimes called a 'breathing machine' or 'cough machine' at home) converts prescribed liquid medication into an aerosol mist. You breathe the mist through a mask or mouthpiece, delivering the medicine directly to the airways and lungs. It is widely used for asthma, COPD, bronchitis and respiratory infections, on a doctor's advice.
Types of nebulizer
Compressor (jet) nebulizer
The most common and economical type for home use. It is robust and reliable, and works with most standard medications — good for regular home treatment, especially for children. For babies and young children, a 2-in-1 unit is convenient — see the Omron NEC-301 Duo Baby, which combines a compressor nebulizer with a nasal aspirator.
Mesh nebulizer
Compact, silent and battery-powered, a mesh nebulizer is ideal for travel and on-the-go use, and works at any angle. See the pocket-sized Omron NE-U100 Mesh Nebulizer.
Browse all options in our Respiratory Care collection.
How to choose the right nebulizer
- For a child: a compressor nebulizer (or a baby 2-in-1) with a child mask is reliable and economical.
- For travel or frequent use away from home: a silent, portable mesh nebulizer.
- For regular home use: a sturdy compressor model offers great value.
- Always check that it suits the medication your doctor has prescribed.
How to use and clean a nebulizer
- Wash your hands, then add the exact medicine and dose your doctor prescribed to the medication cup.
- Sit upright, fit the mask or mouthpiece, and breathe normally until the mist stops (usually 5 to 15 minutes).
- After each use, wash the mask, mouthpiece and cup in warm water and let them air-dry.
- Disinfect regularly as the manual advises, and replace parts periodically.
Good cleaning is essential — a dirty nebulizer can carry germs straight to the lungs.
Related respiratory devices
For sleep apnoea, see our Auto CPAP machine; for clearing the airway of mucus, see the suction machines in our Respiratory Care collection.
Frequently asked questions
Which nebulizer is best for a baby?
A compressor nebulizer with a soft child-size mask is reliable and economical for babies; a 2-in-1 model that also works as a nasal aspirator is especially convenient for young children.
Compressor or mesh nebulizer — which should I buy?
Compressor models are economical and robust for home use; mesh models are silent, portable and battery-powered for travel. Both deliver medication effectively.
Can I use a nebulizer without a prescription?
The device can be bought without a prescription, but the medicine and dose must be prescribed by your doctor. Always follow their advice.
How often should I clean my nebulizer?
Rinse the parts after every use and disinfect regularly as the manual advises, to prevent infection.
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