Asthma inhaler spacers

[Jigsawsoap]

Hi everyone! I'm 77 use a volumes error spacer still not sure if I should wash it or not ( inside and out) anyone know? Thanks glad of any sound advice!

[soulsaver]

You should have had a leaflet that comes with it, it'll say.. Failing that, the professionals all agree it should be washed... but they can't seem to agree how often, most say once month.. the big one that splits into 2 halfs (Allen & Hanbury's) can go in the dish washer, not sure on the smaller one with rubber ends.

Key is to let it air dry so you don't subsequently inhale lint/paper particles or cause a static build up.

From on line advice: "Your spacer should be cleaned once a month in warm soapy water to prevent build up of medicine residue on the inside. It should be left to drip dry rather than dried with a cloth. Drying with a cloth, or cleaning the spacer more frequently than every month, can cause static to build up on the inside of the spacer, which can impair its performance".

[Badbessie]

There can be a build up of bacteria some research as shown. A number of people just wash it once a week in normal washing up liquid. This would appear to work. I use Milton and soak overnight just to be sure.

[Hidden]

Yes. It ought to be washed once a week and replaced every six months.

[andmikel in reply to Hidden]

Getting a replacement every six months may be dificult unless you buy your own.

[Hidden in reply to andmikel]

I get mine on prescription, and have never heard of anyone having to buy their own. A lady the OP's age is exempt from prescription charges too.

[Hidden]

Got a small spacer wash it once a week leave to air dry and store in a food bag in between use. I carry it with me when I'm out just in case xxx

[stone-UK]

Hi

NICE Guidelines

Spacers

1.2.2.15 The spacer should be compatible with the patient's metered-dose inhaler. [2004]

1.2.2.16 It is recommended that spacers are used in the following way:

the drug is administered by repeated single actuations of the metered-dose inhaler into the spacer, with each followed by inhalation

There should be minimal delay between inhaler actuation and inhalation

tidal breathing can be used as it is as effective as single breaths. [2004]

1.2.2.17 Spacers should be cleaned no more than monthly as more frequent cleaning affects their performance (because of a build up of static). They should be cleaned with water and washing-up liquid and allowed to air dry. The mouthpiece should be wiped clean of detergent before use. [2004]

[Ccupcakes]

I follow the guidelines that Stone posted, however I do clean the mouthpiece with Milton liquid every time I use it, basic hygiene really, just seems like common sense to me.

[Beth1949]

I was told to clean with soapy water and vinegar. Rinse and air dry.