How to Inhale Properly

Inhaling properly means consciously giving your airways a moment of rest. The warm, moist air soothes, hydrates, and provides a sense of relief—with very little effort. Many people experience inhalation as a small break that can easily be integrated into the day and feels pleasant after just a few minutes. It doesn’t matter whether you use classic steam or a modern inhalation device. Once you know how to inhale correctly, a simple practice becomes a gentle routine that supports you throughout the season.

The Essentials at a Glance

• proper inhalation: helps create a more comfortable breathing experience—whether in dry air, cold weather, or as a small wellness ritual
• two common methods: classic steam inhalation and proper inhalation with inhalation devices
• electric nebulisers: produce a fine mist that many perceive as gentle
• relaxation: a quiet place, warm water, and a comfortable posture support an easy routine
• optimal timing: inhale in the morning or evening to unwind or gently moisten the airways
• additional extras: complementary routines like mindful breathing or nasal care for greater well-being

Why is proper inhalation a popular routine in many households?

Our airways are exposed to various stressors in everyday life: dry heating air, dust, cold, pollen, or intense speaking. All of these can strain the mucous membranes. When you inhale properly, a fine steam or mist is created that many find soothing. If your nose feels dry or your throat is irritated, the application may provide relief.

Many also use inhalation to unwind from daily stress, care for their airways, and consciously calm the body. The combination of warmth, moisture, and steady breathing is perceived as a moment of wellness that fits easily into daily life.

How do you inhale properly?

There are several ways to inhale correctly. A well-known method is inhaling over a pot. A more modern option is using an inhalation device to benefit the mucous membranes. Nasal rinsing can also be a useful supplement.

1. Classic steam inhalation – clearing the airways

With this method, hot water is poured into a bowl, pot, or steam inhaler. You then lean over it at a slight distance, optionally cover your head with a towel, and breathe in and out calmly and evenly.

Important to note:

• The water should be warm, not boiling.
• Keep enough distance from the bowl so the warmth feels pleasant.
• The application usually lasts between five and ten minutes.

This form is suitable if you want to inhale without a device. It’s a simple, natural ritual.

2. Proper inhalation with a nebuliser – electric inhalation devices

Modern electric inhalation devices such as the IN 515 ultrasonic inhaler or IN 705 mesh inhalter nebuliser produce a very fine mist that you inhale steadily. Adults and children often prefer using a device because the mist remains consistent and cool.

Advantages many appreciate:

• gentle, consistent mist production
• easy to use
• suitable for mobile use
• various attachments for personal preference

Thanks to the intuitive operation, inhaling properly with an inhalation device is straightforward.

Tip: Nasal rinsing as a complementary routine

To support the mucous membranes, nasal rinsing can be a helpful addition. Combined use can further soothe the mucous membranes. Nasal rinses gently moisten the nose and are especially common in many households during dry months as part of daily airway care.

Proper inhalation: step-by-step guide

To ensure the process is comfortable and consistent, the following routine has proven effective:

1. choose a quiet place: The body relaxes more easily when the environment is calm and breathing can flow naturally.
2. prepare the device or bowl: Fill the nebuliser according to manufacturer instructions or heat the water for steam inhalation.
3. sit comfortably: Keep your back upright so the chest has enough space for breathing.
4. breathe slowly and deeply: Inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth—always without force.
5. five to ten minutes of inhalation: A moderate duration is sufficient for most people.
6. finish slowly: Don’t stand up immediately afterward; allow your body to settle for a moment.

When to inhale – recommended times

There are several situations and moments when people particularly enjoy inhaling. These include:

• in dry indoor air: During the heating season, many choose to inhale because it feels more comfortable.
• in the morning to start the day: After waking up, the airways may feel dry or tired. A short inhalation session may help ease into the day.
• before sleeping: Many find evening inhalation relaxing, as it supports easier breathing and unwinding.
• when exposed to cold or external irritants: After spending time in cold winter air or after heavy voice use, using a nebuliser can gently care for the mucous membranes.

Clearing the airways – practical everyday options

You can support your airways even without inhaling over a pot or using a device. Further tips for clearer breathing include:

• drink enough: Fluids support natural moisture in the respiratory tract.
• ventilate regularly: Fresh air improves indoor climate.
• warm, moist towels: Lightly warmed, damp towels applied to the face are often perceived as pleasant.
• mindful breathing: Calm, conscious breathing helps the body move into a relaxed state.
• humidify the air: A humidifier can add moisture to dry indoor air, which may benefit the nasal mucosa.

These small measures help support breathing comfort without requiring much effort.

Conclusion: proper inhalation as a soothing ritual

Proper inhalation creates a small moment of calm in everyday life. It can be done with warm steam or with modern medisana devices such as the IN 515 or IN 705. The combination of warmth, moisture, and mindful breathing forms a ritual that fits well into a personal routine. Inhaling properly is a simple way to clear the nose and breathe with more awareness.

FAQ on proper inhalation

How do you inhale correctly—through the mouth or nose?

Many people inhale both through the nose and mouth, depending on which areas they want to target. Nose breathing directs the steam into the upper airways, while mouth breathing reaches further into the throat. Calm, steady breathing is essential for the process.

How long does proper inhalation take with a pot or inhalation device?

Inhalation typically lasts about five to ten minutes. This duration is enough for many to consciously experience the warm moisture. A relaxed environment helps maintain steady breathing.

How often can you inhale with a nebuliser in everyday life?

For many, once a day is sufficient, but it can also be done more frequently based on comfort. The key is a rhythm that fits easily into everyday life without causing strain. Some prefer inhaling in the morning, others in the evening.

What is the difference between inhaling with a device and with a pot?

The main difference lies in how the mist is generated: steam comes from hot water, while electric devices produce a fine, cool mist. Electric inhalators like the IN 515 or IN 705 work very evenly and are highly convenient. Many appreciate them for their mobility and precise, controlled operation.

What temperatures are important for proper inhalation?

For classic steam inhalation, warm but not boiling water is ideal. Very high temperatures can be uncomfortable, so gentle adjustment is recommended. Electric inhalators, on the other hand, automatically generate a tempered mist.

How do you inhale properly when you have a cold?

When you have a cold, inhale warm steam or fine mist through the nose slowly and evenly. An upright sitting position, enough distance from the bowl or device, and moderately warm water provide a comfortable routine. The most important aspect is choosing a gentle temperature and taking your time during the process.