Inhaler tips: simple steps to breathe easier

Using an inhaler wrong cuts how much medicine reaches your lungs. A quick change in technique can mean fewer symptoms and fewer rescue inhaler trips. These tips cover MDIs (press-and-breathe), DPIs (dry-powder like Ellipta), spacers, cleaning, and travel—straightforward stuff you can start doing today.

How to use your inhaler right

MDI (metered-dose inhaler): shake the can, breathe out fully, put the mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips, press once while you start a slow, deep breath, keep breathing in for 3–5 seconds, then hold your breath for 5–10 seconds. If you need a second puff, wait 30–60 seconds and repeat.

DPI (Ellipta, Diskus, etc.): you do not shake. Breathe out away from the device, place mouth over the mouthpiece, inhale quickly and deeply to pull the powder into the lungs, then hold your breath for 5–10 seconds. If you can’t inhale forcefully, a DPI may not be ideal.

Spacer or holding chamber: this is a game-changer for MDIs. Attach the spacer, fire the inhaler into it, then breathe in slowly. Spacers cut throat deposits and help kids or anyone who struggles with coordination.

Care, checks and travel hacks

Check the dose counter every week. Don’t guess how many puffs are left. If there’s no counter, track the date you opened it and the number of puffs used. Throw out expired inhalers.

Clean the mouthpiece once a week. For MDIs, remove the canister and wash the plastic case with warm soapy water, air dry completely before use. DPIs usually just need a dry wipe—never wash the inside; moisture ruins the powder.

Rinse your mouth after inhaled steroids. This simple step cuts the risk of thrush and a hoarse voice. If you notice white patches or throat pain, tell your clinician.

Keep a spare inhaler at home, at work, or in a trusted bag. Extreme heat or cold can damage inhalers—don’t leave them in a hot car or under direct sun. When flying, carry inhalers in your hand luggage with a copy of the prescription.

When switching inhalers (brand, device, or dose), ask your pharmacist to show you the new technique. Switching devices is common—Ellipta devices feel different from MDIs—and a short demo prevents mistakes.

Signs it’s time to see a clinician: you’re using your rescue inhaler more often, waking at night with symptoms, or your inhaler no longer helps. If side effects like tremor, fast heartbeat, or persistent cough appear, check with your provider.

Small habits matter: set a phone reminder for daily maintenance inhalers, store spacers and extra mouthpieces clean and dry, and always carry a written action plan if you have asthma or COPD. A few simple tweaks will make your inhaler work the way it should—so you can breathe easier and live more confidently.