You can choose an inhaler for a child by model type - compression, ultrasonic, steam, membrane. Steam cannot be used under the age of 1 year, all others are allowed even for newborns. The choice can be oriented towards manufacturers: Switzerland, Japan, Russia, Germany are considered leading countries in the manufacture of specific medical equipment.
It is recommended to obtain a recommendation from a pediatrician, who will make it based on the needs of the child and adult family members.
How to choose an inhaler for a child: we understand the types
You can choose an inhaler for a child based on their types, there are four in total - steam, with membranes (MESH), ultrasonic and compression. They can be used not only for children's inhalations, but also as part of therapy for adults - you just need to include a mask for the appropriate age.
Steam inhalers
They are among the simplest designs, have an affordable price and compact size. Pediatricians do not recommend using such equipment in young children. Despite the availability of reliable steam temperature sensors and adult control, respiratory tract burns in children are periodically diagnosed.
Disadvantages of steam inhalers:
- age restrictions - under 5 years of age they should not be used for inhalation therapy;
- It is forbidden to perform manipulations if the patient’s body temperature is elevated to 38 degrees or higher;
- not suitable for inhalation with medications - when heated, they lose their medicinal properties;
- the therapeutic effect appears only in the upper respiratory tract - steam particles cannot fall below the trachea due to their large size.
We recommend reading the article about the main types of inhalers. From it you will learn about what inhalers are used for, their mechanism of action, types of inhalers for children and their characteristics. And here is more information about which nebulizer to buy for the whole family.
Ultrasound equipment
It can operate from an electrical network and batteries, breaks down the solution into the smallest particles and is therefore suitable for therapy for diseases of the lower respiratory organs. Ultrasonic inhalers also have significant disadvantages:
- Do not use a solution containing antibiotics or hormonal drugs for manipulation. This is due to the fact that under the influence of ultrasound, the active ingredients of the products are simply destroyed.
- There are age restrictions - such equipment is not used for children under 6 months. The fact is that in ultrasonic inhalers the connecting tube between the mask and the device is very short.
With membrane (MESH)
They are distinguished by the ability to independently regulate the size of the released particles of the medicinal solution, which makes it possible to treat various respiratory diseases. Membrane inhalers are very economical to operate, consume little electricity and have a reasonable/limited consumption of the medicinal solution. Equipment of this type can operate on batteries and is therefore classified as mobile.
MESH inhalers work perfectly with all types of medicinal solutions, including antibiotics and hormonal drugs. During operation, the equipment makes virtually no sounds and can be used for manipulation at any age, even in infancy. The only but very significant drawback is the cost, which is quite high regardless of the manufacturer.
Advantages of membrane inhalers:
- the ability to perform the procedure on bedridden patients;
- can work for a long time without breaks;
- the molecular structure of any medicine is preserved;
- You can set any operating mode.
MESH inhaler Little Doctor LD-207U
Compressor inhalers
Used for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases, the operating principle is identical to ultrasound equipment. The device is bulky, but can work with almost all types of medications. The main disadvantage is that due to the compressor, it makes a lot of noise during inhalation, which can frighten a small child.
Compressor inhalers are affordable and always include an adult mask. Models of such equipment from the latest generation have become more compact, but they still cannot be used for inhalation of bedridden patients.
Compressor inhaler Omron NE-C28P
The best mesh inhalers
Mesh nebulizers are modern devices characterized by silent aerosol production. The main element of this design is a mesh membrane through which the drug is broken down under the influence of ultrasound. The modification combines the advantages of a compressor and ultrasonic inhaler; in addition, oil solutions can be used here. The only disadvantage of a compact, effective, silent device is the price.
Xiaomi Andon VP-M3A
A popular brand offers a specialized device that forms a fine suspension that penetrates deeply into the respiratory tract. The membrane-type nebulizer is made of white, durable plastic; it is transparent on top, which allows you to control the solution flow.
Portability is ensured by a rechargeable battery via the MicroUSB interface.
The container for the medicinal solution holds up to 8 ml of liquid, there is a button to open it. The size of the produced particles is 3-5 microns, they are sprayed at a speed of 0.2 ml/min.
The main feature of the nominee, how it differs from others, is its miniature size: with dimensions of 59.5 × 46 × 110 mm, it weighs only 80 g. The noise threshold does not exceed 50 dB. There is a light indicator of readiness to work. The nominee is suitable for people of all ages.
Advantages:
- Miniature body;
- Portability;
- Minimal noise;
- Recharge via MicroUSB;
- Light indication;
- Self-cleaning function.
Flaws:
- Rarely found in pharmacies;
- No batteries.
The manufacturer does not provide a battery; 2 rechargeable AA batteries must be purchased. After installing them, open the top cover to place the solution, install the mask, and turn on the spray mode. As soon as the green LED lights up, put on the mask while holding the nebulizer vertically.
Pari Velox
A universal inhalation device for adults and children, featuring innovative vibrating membrane technology without heating the solution. Reliability of the design and ease of use are guaranteed by German quality, ergonomic design, and a minimum number of components.
Kit - mouthpiece with exhalation valve, membrane cleaning device, bag, cable.
The nebulizer is almost silent - the threshold is 20 dB. Autonomy is provided by batteries/adapter. Capacity volume – 6 ml. Productivity is 0.65 ml/min, while the size of the drug suspension does not exceed 3.8 microns.
To minimize the impact on the environment, the sprayer is equipped with a spatial storage and a valve system. Dimensions – 8.5×5.5×12.5 mm, weight 110g.
Advantages:
- Mobility;
- Reliable assembly;
- Ease of use;
- No loss of medication;
- Does not heat up while spraying;
- Automatic shutdown.
Flaws:
- Price;
- Short warranty period (1 year).
The latest generation device can even be connected to a car's cigarette lighter or used with a power cord. For each case, you only need to buy a special adapter.
Which inhaler to choose for a child by manufacturer
If you focus on manufacturers, then you should choose an inhaler for a child from six companies:
- Microlife. The Swiss manufacturer supplies the market with inhalers for home and professional use. The equipment is distinguished by high quality and long service life.
- Omron. This is a Japanese manufacturer that produces various types of inhalers, including mobile ones - they can literally be “carried in your pocket” and used on business trips and on vacation. The devices are repairable, the company has representative offices in many countries around the world.
- Little Doctor International. Singaporean manufacturer of professional and home medical equipment. Its products have a successful combination of quality, cost and safety in inhalers.
- Well. An English manufacturer that specializes in children's equipment. The inhalers are shaped like trains, and this relieves the baby’s fear of manipulation. High quality combined with reasonable cost has made Well inhalers one of the most popular on the market.
- A&D. A Japanese company that produces various types of inhalation equipment for home use. It successfully uses modern technologies in production - its products are equipped with various sensors, controllers and are considered the safest for use in pediatric practice.
Watch the video on how to choose a nebulizer for home use:
What are the best inhalers for children?
A doctor will help you choose the best inhaler for your child; he will give recommendations regarding not only the manufacturer, but also the specific type of equipment, and will be able to determine exactly which one is needed in the treatment of colds, asthma, and others.
The best steam inhalers
All models are used to treat coughs, colds, soften the nasopharyngeal mucosa and warm the upper respiratory organs.
| Name and photo of the steam inhaler model | Brief technical specifications | Description |
| MED2000 Cow | Product weight – 800 g. Capacity for solution – 80 ml. The duration of continuous inhalation is 7 minutes. Powered by mains. The set includes: a nozzle for cosmetic procedures, children's masks and a measuring cup. For manipulations, you can use alkaline and soda solutions, mineral water, essential oils, decoctions and infusions of herbs, all preparations intended specifically for inhalation. | The shape and appearance of the device resemble a cow, which is made specifically for the procedure for small children. The inhaler is intended for the treatment of acute respiratory diseases, inflammatory processes in the bronchi, laryngitis and allergic cough. The presence of a special cosmetic attachment in the kit allows adults to carry out professional facial skin care. It works quite loudly, the temperature of the steam at the outlet can “float”. |
| B. Well WN-118 | Weight – 560 g, volume of container for medicinal solution – 80 ml, time for one procedure – 8 minutes. Powered by electricity, the kit includes a container for solutions, a needle for cleaning, a children's mask and a mask for cosmetic procedures. For manipulation, you can use mineral water, decoctions/infusions of medicinal herbs, special preparations for inhalation, and essential oils. | Can be used to treat and prevent allergies, sinusitis, colds and flu. Steam is produced at a constant temperature of 43 degrees, and this provides rapid relief of breathing by reducing swelling of the mucous membrane. It is possible to independently set the size of the particles at the output, the set includes an adult mask, the device belongs to the family category. |
| Romashka-3 | Weight – 700 g, solution container volume – 60 ml, procedure duration – 20 minutes, complete set. Essential oils, specific preparations for inhalation, decoctions of medicinal herbs, and mineral water can be used for procedures. | Used for the treatment/prevention of acute and chronic respiratory diseases - rhinitis, sinusitis, sinusitis, infections of the pharynx, larynx and bronchial inflammation. It is possible to use the device for cosmetic procedures. There is a valve for releasing hot steam, the safety of the equipment is at a high level. |
The best compression inhalers
Despite their noisy operation and some cumbersomeness, such devices are optimally suited for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases at home.
| Name and photo of the compression inhaler model | a brief description of | Description |
| Omron NE-C24 Kids | Weight – 270 g, volume of solution container – 7 ml, duration of one manipulation – 20 minutes. The kit includes a mouthpiece, children's/adult masks, a special nozzle for babies, and filters. Mineral water, specific preparations for inhalation and decoctions of medicinal herbs can be used as a medicinal solution. | It has a “childish appearance”, belongs to the family type of equipment and is suitable for carrying out procedures for all family members. The device allows you to use almost all medications for therapy, but herbal decoctions/infusions should be from a pharmacy and not prepared at home. It works quite quietly considering the type of model. |
| Omron compAIR NE-C28 | It is distinguished by its large size and weight of 1900 g, the capacity of the container is 7 ml, the time of one inhalation is 14 minutes. The set includes children's/adult masks, a mouthpiece, a special nozzle for nasal procedures, and 5 filters. The device is suitable for the use of various medications, including antibiotics and hormonal drugs. | The presence of a fine aerosol greatly increases the effectiveness of each procedure. The solution particles are very small, which allows both older people and infants to take deep breaths. The medicinal solution enters the lowermost parts of the respiratory organs. The device can be boiled or treated with chemical disinfectant solutions. |
| B. Well WN-115K | Weight - 1730 g, solution container volume - 13 ml, one inhalation can last 30 minutes. The set includes children's and adult masks, a mouthpiece and 3 air filters. Various medications can be used for inhalation, including antibiotics, mucolytics and hormonal drugs. | It is produced in the form of a bright train that makes a characteristic noise and releases steam - the child will not be afraid of inhalation. The resulting aerosol contains microparticles of the medicinal solution; they penetrate into the lowermost parts of the respiratory system. The device has protection against overheating. |
TOP ultrasonic inhalers
Such models break the medicinal solution into tiny particles, which makes it possible to treat diseases of the lower respiratory organs. But ultrasound destroys the active ingredients of antibiotics and hormonal drugs.
| Ultrasonic nebulizer model name | a brief description of | Description |
| A&D UN-231 | Weight 185 g, container volume – 4 ml, one inhalation can last 10 minutes. The standard package includes a car adapter - the device is considered mobile. The use of medications for the procedure must be agreed upon with the attending physician. | It is possible to direct a stream of aerosols to a specific area of the respiratory system; the device is charged from an electrical network and a car battery, and is compact in size. Can be used at any age for the treatment and prevention of almost all respiratory pathologies. |
| Omron U17 | Weight – 4 kg, volume of container for medicinal solution – 150 ml, can work continuously for 72 hours. The device makes it possible to carry out procedures with all medications, including antibiotics and hormonal drugs, decoctions/infusions of medicinal herbs, and mineral water. | Suitable for treating severely ill patients who are in a constant supine position. The device is equipped with an overheating sensor and turns off automatically. Aerosol particles have micro-sizes, which makes it possible to treat all pathologies of the respiratory organs. Equipped with a monitor that displays all the functionality of the inhaler. |
| Little Doctor LD-250U | Weight – 1.35 kg, solution container volume – 12 ml, continuous operation time – up to half an hour. It works only from the mains; only specific preparations for inhalation can be used as solutions. | It comes with various attachments, including those for newborns, and is equipped with two fuses - this makes the inhaler safe. You can set 3 operating modes, the aerosol can penetrate specifically into the pathological focus. |
MESH nebulizers
These models of inhalers allow you to use any medications in therapy; they work both from an electrical network and from batteries (battery).
| Model name | a brief description of | Description |
| B. Well WN-114 | Weight – 137 g, volume of the solution container – 8 ml, inhalations last a maximum of 20 minutes. Suitable for procedures with any solutions, including essential oils. | It is equipped with a membrane to which ultrasound is applied, due to which the solution is transformed into an aerosol with microparticles. Inhalations can be performed for newborns and at any other age. |
| Omron NE U22 | Refers to electronic mesh inhalers, weight only 100 g, capacity volume – 7 ml, manipulation time – 20 minutes. Car adapter included | It can treat all diseases of the respiratory tract, it is small in size - a “pocket” device. Essential oils and decoctions/infusions of medicinal herbs cannot be used as solutions. |
| Pari Velox | Made in Germany, weight - 110 g, container volume - 6 ml, one inhalation lasts only 3 minutes. The kit includes a mouthpiece with an outlet valve for reusable use. | It operates due to a vibrating membrane, producing an aerosol mist that reaches the pathological focus in seconds. The device is a portable type. |
Rating
| Nomination | Name | Spray speed | Nutrition | Noise level | Prices, rub |
| Best reviewed for the whole family | B.Well PRO-110 | 0.4 ml/min | from the network | average | from 1420 to 3250 |
| Omron Comp Air NE-C24 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | average | from 3229 to 5183 | |
| Best for kids | Omron Comp Air NE-C24 Kids | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | average | from 3351 to 5775 |
| B.Well WN-114 child | 1 ml/min | from batteries, from mains | short | from 4260 to 5995 | |
| Little Doctor LD-212C | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1668 to 2810 | |
| The best nebulizer in the form of a toy | B.Well PRO-115 | 0.4 ml/min | from the network | average | from 2240 to 3750 |
| MED2000 Penguin | 0.2 ml/min | from the network | average | from 2744 to 3590 | |
| Philips Respironics Sami the Seal HH1335/00 | 0.15 ml/min | from the network | high | from 4538 to 5888 | |
| AND CN-232 | 0.2 ml/min | from the network | high | from 2670 to 5095 | |
| Best for adults | Omron Comp Air NE-C21 Basic | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | short | from 2350 to 3522 |
| The best compressor inhalers | Omron Comp Air NE-C300 Complete | 0.7 ml/min | from the network | high | from 4279 to 6240 |
| B.Well WN-117 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1630 to 3165 | |
| The best ultrasonic inhalers | AND UN-231 | 0.5 ml/min | from the network | short | from 2618 to 5149 |
| Little Doctor LD-250U | 1.5 ml/min | from mains, from battery | average | from 2749 to 4988 | |
| The best mesh nebulizers | Omron Micro Air NE-U22 | 0.25 ml/min | from batteries | short | from 11400 to 19100 |
| B.Well WN-114 adult | 1 ml/min | from batteries | short | from 3312 to 5827 | |
| Best inexpensive | Armed 403E | 0.1 ml/min | from the network | high | from 1570 to 2350 |
| Best steam | B.Well WN-118 | 0.3 ml/min | from the network | from 1475 to 3365 | |
| Best for Travel | B.Well WN-114 child | 1ml/min | from batteries, from mains | short | from4260 to 5995 |
Best reviewed for the whole family
B.Well PRO-110
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable
- Compact
- Not very noisy
- Includes adult and children's masks, mouthpiece, and nose piece.
- Sprays well
Flaws
- A little heavy if you take it with you on trips
Omron Comp Air NE-C24
Advantages
- Easy
- Minimum drug consumption
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Not noisy
Flaws
- No shut-off feature
The best nebulizer for children
Omron Comp Air NE-C24 Kids
Advantages
- Doesn't scare the child
- Three sizes of masks
- Quiet
- Comfortable
- Easy
Flaws
- No separate nose piece
- Price
B.Well WN-114 child
Advantages
- Compact
- Silent
- Easy
- Mobile
- Possibility to operate on batteries
Flaws
- Batteries drain quickly
- Expensive
- Fragile
- The membrane gets wet
Little Doctor LD-212C
Advantages
- Several nozzle options
- Budget
- Availability of replaceable nozzles
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
Flaws
- Noisy
- Doesn't work occasionally
The best nebulizer in the form of a toy
B.Well PRO-115
Advantages
- Qualitative
- Children's design
- Lots of attachments
- Doesn't make noise
- Practical
Flaws
- Size
MED2000 Penguin
Advantages
- Comfortable
- Easy
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for any age
- Equipment
Flaws
- A bit noisy
Philips Respironics Sami the Seal HH1335/00
Advantages
- Practicality
- Compactness
- Design
- Convenience
- Ease of use
Flaws
- No
AND CN-232
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Children's design
- Reliable
Flaws
- Can't use oils
- Fragile container
- Noisy
Best for adults
Omron Comp Air NE-C21 Basic
Advantages
- Not noisy
- Small
- Compact
- Low price
- Multiple attachments
Flaws
- Low performance
- Sprays poorly
The best compressor inhalers
Omron Comp Air NE-C300 Complete
Advantages
- Compact
- Easy to use
- Multiple Spray Modes
- Interesting design
- Easy to use
Flaws
- Noisy
- Price
- May leak when tilted
B.Well WN-117
Advantages
- Price
- Comfortable
- Easy to use
- Suitable for children and adults
- Multiple attachments
Flaws
- A bit noisy
The best ultrasonic inhalers
AND UN-231
Advantages
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Quiet
- Easy
Flaws
- Solution spills when tilted
Little Doctor LD-250U
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Masks for children and adults
- Spare containers for medicine
Flaws
- It is necessary to hold the container with the solution
The best mesh nebulizers
Omron Micro Air NE-U22
Advantages
- Silent
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Easy
Flaws
- A little expensive
- Fast battery consumption
B.Well WN-114 adult
Advantages
- Compact
- Easy
- Silent
- Powered by mains and batteries
Flaws
- Unreliable plastic camera
- The membrane often gets clogged
The best inexpensive nebulizer
Armed 403E
Advantages
- Not expensive
- Qualitative
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
Flaws
- Noisy
Best steam
B.Well WN-118
Advantages
- Low price
- Easy to use
- Nozzle for children and adults
- It turns itself off
- Compact
Flaws
- Steam temperature is not regulated
Best for Travel
B.Well WN-114 child
Advantages
- Compact
- Silent
- Two masks
- Easy to clean
Flaws
- Price
- Fragility
- Batteries drain quickly
Characteristics of the inhaler for newborns
The choice of an inhaler for newborns should be coordinated with a pediatrician, since different pathologies will require a specific type of device, but it is important to know what characteristics you need to pay attention to first:
- steam inhalers - they are generally prohibited for use in children under 12 months of age;
- ultrasonic and membrane inhalers are the best choice;
- silent operation - this will make the procedure comfortable for the baby, he will not cry from fear;
- the shape and type of the toy is a good choice for a small child; it will distract from the manipulation itself;
- the possibility of natural inhalation of aerosols - it will be possible to inhale a newborn even during his sleep.
The best inhalers for babies include:
- Omron NE-C802/NE-C801 - the most compact nebulizers, they are of the ultrasonic type, have an interesting “toy” shape, with bright pictures pasted on top;
- Lella Flaem Nuova - made in the shape of a bright ladybug, allows you to independently set the particle spray mode, the kit includes a construction set and children's books;
- MED 2000 Pingoo U2 – comes in the form of a penguin toy, has three aerosol spray modes, and a timer for automatic shutdown.
Omron NE-C802/NE-C801 Lella Flaem Nuova MED 2000 Pingoo U2
The listed inhaler models are practically free of drawbacks, or they are insignificant for the convenience and safety of operation.
Is it worth buying a nebulizer?
A nebulizer is worth buying for inhalation procedures in childhood, because such equipment:
- clears the respiratory tract of mucus;
- prevents the penetration of allergens into the respiratory tract and relieves symptoms of already progressing allergies;
- relieves inflammation in all parts of the respiratory tract;
- increases immunity, enhances the body's protective functions;
- almost instantly relieves spasms in the bronchi;
- relieves swelling of the mucous membrane, quickly facilitates breathing;
- relieves paroxysmal cough;
- ensures delivery of the drug to all parts of the respiratory system.
Watch the video about Dr. Komarovsky’s advice on choosing an inhaler:
Advantages and disadvantages
All doctors admit that inhalation is an effective procedure for treating respiratory diseases. With the advent of nebulizers, it has become more convenient. Such devices have many advantages:
- they are compact and easy to use, they can be used at home;
- unlike steam inhalations, the procedure can be performed even on small children and bedridden patients;
- thanks to the delivery of the medicinal aerosol to the site of the disease, they have a rapid effect;
- you can use any drugs;
- In order for the medicine to enter the respiratory tract, it is not necessary to inhale deeply, so the device can be used in any physical condition of the patient.
Attention! The disadvantages include the rather high price of the device. Therefore, those who have chronic respiratory diseases or young children who often suffer from chronic diseases buy them.
