What is the Difference Between a Nebuliser and a Steamer?

Which is best for vocal health? A nebuliser or a steamer?

Both nebulisers and steamers can benefit singers by directly hydrating and soothing the vocal cords, but they work in different ways and offer distinct advantages depending on your needs.

What Is a Nebuliser?

A nebuliser is a device that converts liquid (usually saline or medicated solutions) into a fine mist of microscopic particles that can be inhaled directly into the lungs and throat. It delivers targeted hydration deep into the respiratory tract, reaching the vocal cords without excessive heat.

Benefits for Singers:

• Deep Hydration - Provides direct and immediate moisture to the vocal cords and surrounding tissues, which is crucial for maintaining vocal health.

• No Heat - Unlike steamers, nebulisers do not rely on heat, making them safer for singers who are sensitive to warmth or dryness caused by heated air.

• Portable - Nebulisers are compact and easy to carry, making them convenient for travel or backstage use.

• Gentle on the Voice - Particularly useful if the vocal cords are inflamed or swollen, as the cool mist soothes without exacerbating the condition.

• Safe for Frequent Use - Can be used multiple times a day without irritating the vocal cords.

When using a nebuliser, allow at least 15 minutes before you use your voice again. I perosnally use the Omron MicroAIR U100 (https://amzn.to/4hsbzuV) and am very happy with it.

What Is a Steamer?

A steamer produces warm, moist air by boiling water. The steam is then inhaled to soothe the throat, loosen mucus, and hydrate the vocal cords. Steamers can be standalone devices or improvised using a bowl of hot water and a towel.

Benefits for Singers:

• Relieves Mucus - The heat from steam helps loosen thick mucus or phlegm on the vocal cords, improving vocal clarity.

• Improves Circulation - The warmth can increase blood flow to the vocal cords, aiding in recovery from overuse or mild inflammation.

• Soothing Warmth - Beneficial for singers with colds, congestion, or post-nasal drip, as it clears airways and reduces irritation.

• Low-Tech and Accessible - Steamers are affordable, simple to use, and can often be improvised with household items.

When using a steamer, steam AFTER singing and give your voice complete rest for at least 30 minutes. I prefer using a steamer before bed so that my vocal cords get a complete rest, allowing the body to do it's healing through the night. I use the Dr Nelson's Inhaler as I like how it doesn't contain plastics but there are more affordable steamers available such as the Medisure Steam Inhaler.

Remember, although both methods are great for supporting vocal health, they shouldn't be a last resort and should be used alongside proper vocal technqiue and hydrating with water. If you're interested in finding a vocal routine perfect for your voice, get in touch here to see how Act Natural Performance can help you!

Want to learn more about steamers and nebulisers? You can find out which one would best suit your needs by downloading our free resource handout here.

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