Looking After My Inhaler

Cleaning and looking after your inhaler and spacer

Keeping your inhaler clean, and when not in use keeping the mouthpiece covered, will mean you can avoid problems like accidentally breathing in dust from the mouthpiece. Storing it somewhere cool and dry is important. Avoid keeping your inhaler on a hot windowsill, or in a damp bathroom.

Always remember to check the use-by date of your inhaler. Plan in advance to make sure you do not run out of inhalers, especially over holidays.

Wash your spacer device every 2 to 4 weeks with hot soapy water and allow to air dry. Replace your spacer every 12 months.

Ask your GP, nurse, or pharmacist for a new spacer at your yearly asthma or COPD review.

Disposing of inhalers and medicines

You should not put your old or unwanted inhalers or any medicines in your household rubbish or recycling bins. It is important all medicines are disposed of safely.

Take your old or unwanted inhalers to your local community pharmacy. They may be able to recycle them or dispose of them in an environmentally friendly way.

For more information about lung health and your inhaler visit https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/

Find out more

Read our leaflet and posters providing important information about inhaler medicine:

Inhaler Leaflet

Inhaler Poster

Inhaler Technique Poster