What should you know about cleaning incentive spirometer?

An incentive spirometer is a breathing exercise device with a mouthpiece and a visual guide that responds to inhalation. Saliva and moisture can collect around the mouthpiece, while dust can affect storage and handling. Cleaning removes residue between uses and reduces the chance of transferring germs when the device is shared, although personal devices should not normally be shared. The device is different from a clinical [Spirometer], which measures breathing during a diagnostic test.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or the plan given by your healthcare team. Some parts may be washable, while others should not be soaked, boiled or exposed to disinfectant.

Wash your hands before handling the device. Remove the mouthpiece if the instructions allow it, wash it with mild soap and clean water, rinse thoroughly, and let it air-dry completely before reassembly. Do not share mouthpieces. Store the spirometer in a clean, dry place away from smoke, dust and direct heat. Check for cracks, cloudy plastic, a loose connection or a guide that no longer moves normally; ask the care team before replacing a part. Use the device with the breathing technique you were shown, not with forceful or painful breaths.

Stop and seek medical advice if using the device brings chest pain, severe breathlessness, faintness, blue lips or worsening symptoms. Contact your clinical team if fever, a new cough, increasing phlegm or reduced ability to take a breath develops after an operation or illness. A dirty or damaged device should be replaced or cleaned with professional guidance rather than improvised chemicals.

How often should I use the device? Which parts can I wash? Should I bring it to follow-up appointments? What should I do if the marker does not move or breathing becomes uncomfortable?