How to Clean and Disinfect Your Aerobika and AeroEclipse XL Devices
If you use airway clearance devices like the Aerobika® or the AeroEclipse® XL nebulizing cup, keeping them clean is one of the most important ways to protect your lungs and get the most out of your treatments.
These devices help open your airways and remove mucus, making it more difficult for bacteria and other pathogens to remain in your lungs. But if they are not cleaned and disinfected properly, the devices themselves can become a source of contamination.
For people living with bronchiectasis, this step is especially important. Bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) can thrive in moist environments and may be difficult to treat once established.
Regular cleaning and disinfecting helps keep your equipment safe, protects your lungs, and supports an effective airway clearance routine.
At a Glance
✔ Clean your airway clearance devices after every use.
✔ Disinfect them once each day of treatment.
✔ Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
✔ Replace your devices according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
✔ Proper device care helps reduce contamination and keeps your airway clearance routine safe and effective.
Daily Cleaning vs. Daily Disinfecting
Although people often use these terms interchangeably, cleaning and disinfecting are not the same thing.
Cleaning (after every use) removes mucus, medication residue, and other debris.
Disinfecting (once each day of treatment) kills bacteria and other microorganisms that may remain after washing.
Both steps are essential for keeping your equipment safe and functioning properly.
Daily Cleaning
After each treatment:
Wash all washable parts with warm water and a mild dish soap.
Rinse thoroughly.
Allow the parts to air dry completely on a clean towel or drying rack.
Many components can also be cleaned in the top rack of a dishwasher using a normal wash cycle. However, avoid doing this if the dishwasher contains heavily soiled dishes.
If you have hard water, mineral deposits may build up over time. An occasional soak in a diluted white vinegar solution can help remove scale and keep your equipment functioning properly.
Daily Disinfecting
Once each day that you use your equipment, disinfect all washable parts using one of the methods recommended by the manufacturer.
Common options include:
Boiling
Diluted bleach solution
Microwave steam sterilization bag
Electronic steam sterilizer
After disinfecting, allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling your device.
A Note About the Manometer Gauge
If your Aerobika® includes a manometer gauge, do not wash, soak, boil, or disinfect it.
Instead, simply wipe the outside with a clean cloth as needed. Submerging the gauge can damage it and affect its accuracy.
When Should You Replace Your Devices?
Even with excellent care, airway clearance devices do not last forever.
As a general guideline:
AeroEclipse® XL nebulizer cups: approximately every 6 months
Aerobika® OPEP devices: approximately every 12 months
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as replacement intervals may vary by model and frequency of use.
Make It Part of Your Routine
The good news is that caring for your equipment doesn’t have to be complicated.
Once cleaning and disinfecting become part of your daily routine, they become as automatic as brushing your teeth. Spending just a few extra minutes each day helps protect your lungs, reduces the risk of contamination, and keeps your airway clearance routine working as intended.
I hope you find these instructions helpful! If you have any questions or tips that have worked well for you, I’d love to hear them in the comments below.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the instructions provided by your device manufacturer or the advice of your healthcare team. Always follow the cleaning, disinfecting, and replacement recommendations for your specific airway clearance device. If your healthcare provider gives you different instructions, follow their guidance.
