Spacer use: simple steps to make your inhaler work better

Having trouble getting your inhaler medicine into your lungs instead of on your tongue? A spacer can fix that. It’s a cheap, easy tool that makes inhalers more effective — especially for kids, older adults, or anyone who struggles with timing the spray and the breath.

Why use a spacer?

Spacers hold the medicine in a small chamber so you can breathe it in slowly. That means more medicine reaches your lungs and less lands in your mouth or throat. You’ll likely feel faster relief, and you may avoid side effects like throat irritation and oral thrush.

How to use a spacer (quick, practical steps)

These steps work for most meter‑dose inhalers and spacers. Read your spacer’s leaflet too — some models have small differences.

1) Shake the inhaler well. Take off the cap and attach the inhaler to the spacer.

2) Breathe out gently to empty your lungs (don’t blow into the spacer).

3) Put the mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips around it. If you’re using a mask (for babies or some children), make sure it fits snugly on the face.

4) Press the inhaler once to release a puff into the chamber. For infants and small children using a mask, give 4–5 calm breaths after the puff so the medicine reaches their lungs.

5) Breathe in slowly and deeply. Try to hold your breath for a few seconds if you can — this helps the medicine settle in the lungs.

6) If you need a second puff, wait about 30 seconds and repeat the same steps. Don’t fire two doses back-to-back without a breath between them.

Tip: Keep calm and move slowly. Fast, panicked breaths make the spacer less effective.

Common mistakes to avoid: forgetting to shake the inhaler, not sealing the lips, firing the canister while breathing out, or rushing multiple puffs together.

Cleaning and care: Wash plastic spacers once a week with warm soapy water. Let them air dry — don’t use a cloth to rub the inside. Avoid harsh cleaners. Check for cracks or sticky valves and replace the spacer if it’s damaged or hard to clean. Many manufacturers recommend replacing spacers every 6–12 months, but follow the product guidance or ask your pharmacist.

Who benefits most? Kids under 5, older adults, people with poor inhaler technique, and anyone using steroid inhalers to reduce mouth side effects. If coordination is fine, some adults still prefer a spacer for better delivery.

If you’re unsure which spacer to pick, how to fit a mask, or whether your technique is right, ask your pharmacist or inhaler nurse to watch you use it. A quick demo can make a big difference.

Using a spacer is one of the simplest ways to get more from your inhaler. Little changes in how you use and care for it can lead to clearer breathing and fewer side effects.