10 Best Expert-Recommended Steam Inhalers To Buy In 2024
Combat troublesome coughing and sneezing with safe and effective medical devices.
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Steam inhalation is a great way to deal with a blocked nose and any other type of upper respiratory tract congestion. While there are many steam inhalers, you need the best steam inhalers in the market that deliver the promised results. This is why we’ve made a list of the top steam inhaler models you can buy.
Also, speaking about the benefits of steam inhalation, Dr. Inna Hussain from the Rush University Medical Center had this to say “Steaming is a great way to hydrate the throat but more specifically the vocal folds. When you breathe in the steam, the mucus in your airway absorbs the moisture, thus thinning out the vocal folds. This improves the quality of voice, helps reduce irritation, helps reduce strain.”
In This Article
Steam Inhalers Vs. Humidifiers
Steam inhalers are different from humidifiers. A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air to maintain the room’s humidity levels. On the other hand, steam inhalers are small and designed to direct warm air into the nasal passage (or onto the face) to the respiratory tract to clear mucus, nasal blockage, irritation, and relieve symptoms of respiratory issues.
Consult a doctor before trying steam therapy for your respiratory condition and stick to the prescribed method and duration. Scroll down to check out the best steam inhalers you can buy.
The 10 Best Steam Inhalers Of 2024, According To Reviews
1. Best Dishwasher-Safe:Vicks Steam Inhaler
Image: Vicks Steam Inhaler
The Vicks Steam Inhaler provides temporary relief from sinus and nasal congestion. This inhaler is compatible with Vicks VapoSteam or Vicks VapoPads for soothing comfort. The kit comes with five scented pads. The device is reusable. You have to pour hot water into the inhaler and use it for steaming. However, this device is not suitable for symptomatic relief to infants. Check out the review of this product and the reviewer’s experience, for more information.
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe
- Portable
- Spill-proof
- Lightweight
Cons
- Manual operation
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 2,507 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best Portability:My Pur Mist Handheld Personal Steam Inhaler Vaporizer
Image: Mypurmist
The MyPurMist Personal Steam Inhaler Vaporizer produces a fine mist deep into your sinus cavities and provides maximum and quick relief from respiratory issues. It is best for relieving sinus congestion, cold, and allergy. The inhaler, with proven expertise, automatically turns off after each use, is portable, easy to use, and releases almost 100% germ-free steam.
Pros
- Hospital-grade material
- Comfortable and soft mask
- Easy to use
- Easy to carry
- Automatic turn-off feature
Cons
- Works only with distilled water
3. Best For Daily Skincare:MHJLBJQ Professional Steam Inhaler
This professional steam inhaler can double as a facial steamer to add moisture, decongest the pores, and enhance your skin care routine. It releases mild steam and warm mist that helps clear sinus congestion, and nasal blockage, and relieves dry nose.
Pros
- Auto shut-off function
- Facial rejuvenation
- Adjustable steam intensity
Cons
- None
Pro TipVicks Steam Inhaler Best Dishwasher-Safe | My Pur Mist Handheld Personal Steam Inhaler Vaporizer Best Portability | MHJLBJQ Professional Steam Inhaler Best For Daily Skincare | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.3 Ounces | 2.55 pounds | - |
| Dimensions | 3.13 x 10.75 x 5.25 inches | 8 x 7 x 6 inches. | 7.5 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 1.21 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,507 | 729 | 234 |
| Price | $13.2 | $149.95 | $19.99 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best User-Friendly Design: Conair True Glow Moisturizing Mist Facial Steamer
Image: Conair Get the health benefits of a facial along with the functions of an inhaler in the Conair True Glow Moisturizing Mist Facial Steamer. This 2-in-1 sauna system gives you all the health as well as skin care benefits wrapped in one.
The sauna system also includes a separate attachment of a nasal cup that is designed for a concentrated nasal steaming to maintain nasal hygiene. The gentle, soothing steam helps you keep your beautiful, healthy-looking skin intact while relieving your nasal area without harsh steam. It is designed to give your skin optimal cleaning, exfoliation, and hydration to open pores and stimulate blood circulation. It comes with 7 timer settings and also has an auto shut-off function.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Easy to clean
- Customized timer settings
- Auto shut-off function
- Safe to use
Cons
- Tiny reservoir
- Mild steam strength
5. Best Noise-Free:MGLIFMLY Personal Cool Mist Steam Inhaler
The Cool Mist Steam Inhaler is an ideal companion for relieving asthma, sore throat, fever, cough, and nasal mucus. It is a compact and portable device with a USB cable, batteries, and removable easy-to-clean cups that offer quiet operation. The inhaler is developed with ultrasonic Vibrating Mesh Technology (VMT) and contains a mesh/membrane with 1000–7000 laser-drilled holes. The membrane vibrates at the top of the liquid reservoir to produce fine mist through the holes, making it suitable for kids, adults, and older adults.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Easy to clean
- Low noise
Cons
- Not durable
6. Best For Pore Cleansing:Hann Professional Sinus Steam Inhaler
The Hann Steam Inhaler also works well as a facial steamer. You can use it to add moisture to dry skin, deep clean your pores, and relieve nasal congestion. It has separate attachments for facial steaming and sinus inhalation. You can also use it as a humidifier for your home or an aromatherapy diffuser to relieve stress. Watch this in-depth review video to gain insights into the usage and benefits of this product based on the reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Automatic power off
- Includes measuring cup
Cons
- No steam control button
Remember7. Best For Allergy Symptoms:Gurin Personal Steam Inhaler
The Gurin Personal Steam Inhaler releases hot vapor that soothes and opens the nasal passages to relieve cold, sinus infections, asthma, and allergy symptoms. It also helps relieve congestion and is suitable for kids and adults. The system has a steam intensity control button to help set it at your comfort level. It also works as an aromatherapy diffuser for your home.
Pros
- Adjustable steam control
- Has an aromatherapy diffuser
- Safe to use
Cons
- Small capacity
8. Best Lightweight:Crane Cordless Steam Inhaler
Image: Crane
The Crane Cordless Steam Inhaler can instantly relieve congestion, dry and sore throat, irritated sinus, etc. This handheld steam inhaler is equipped with multiple warm and cool settings. In addition, it comes with a latex-free mask made of medical-grade silicone, a bottle of inhaler water, a water-resistant bag, and five menthol pads for relieving congestion. The rechargeable batteries stand up to 2 hours.
Pros
- Easy and safe operation
- Lightweight
- Battery operated
Cons
- Does not produce enough steam
9. Best Latex-Free:Veridian Steam Inhaler
Image: Veridian
This kind of steam inhaler, the dual-purpose steam inhaler by Veridian, gives you relief from the symptoms of allergies, bronchitis, colds, flu, laryngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, and more. It provides hot steam in 60 seconds. The device comes with two masks – a small cone mask to direct steam into your nose and mouth and a large mask for facial or aromatherapy treatments.
Pros
- Includes two masks
- BPA-free
- Latex-free
- Works as an aromatherapy device
Cons
- Smells like plastic
10. Best Saline System:AVYA Steam Inhaler
The AVYA Steam Inhaler has a unique and patented saline steam delivery system that helps clear obstruction in the breathing path. The device uses clean nanoparticle saline steam to go deep into your nasal, sinus, and throat passages. This clears the sinuses and helps soothe symptoms of allergy, cold, sinusitis, or flu. The best part about this portable steam inhaler is that you can use it on the go – at home, the office, school, the park, or on your run or vacation.
Pros
- Unique saline system
- Easy to use
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Not durable
Steam inhalers provide respiratory support and comfort during colds and coughs. They are also great for allergies and provide natural relief when you don’t want to keep popping pills. Since no chemical substances are involved they are also safe for children. There are different types of steam inhalers available in the market today, so, here are some pointers to keep in mind to help you choose the best steam inhalers.
How To Choose The Best Steam Inhalers
- Size And Portability
There are both small and big steam inhalers available in the market. The sizes range from small and portable to big ones that need to be placed on a tabletop. Choose a compact, portable model if you travel frequently. But, the advantage of the big machines is that the tank has a large capacity.
- Features
A machine with an ergonomic design is easy to use, especially if it is hand-held. But, bulky hand-held units are difficult to hold. Tabletop units with short power cords are inconvenient to use too. Look for battery operated steam inhalers with long-lasting rechargeable batteries that do not require frequent charging. Also, ensure that the operating instructions are easy to follow and the unit has simple controls, like one-button operation.
- Materials
The durability of the steam inhaler depends on the materials of construction. Sturdy plastic and medical-grade materials ensure that your inhaler is long-lasting and rust-resistant. Choose a device that has a latex-free mask made of medical-grade silicone for increased comfort.
- Aromatherapy Benefits
If you enjoy the luxury of aromatherapy, you can choose a steam inhaler that allows you to add essential oils to the water. These devices have separate drain tanks for adding the aromatherapy oils, to give you a spa-like experience of natural therapy at home. Keep your senses soothed and your house smelling awesome with this type of machine.
- Safety Concerns
While you are using a steam inhaler you need to exercise caution as you are exposed to hot water and steam that can cause burns and scalds. Choose a device that has an adjustable temperature control feature along with an auto cut-off function.
Inhalation therapy has been in existence since ancient times, and it has been instrumental in providing relief from a variety of health issues and complex conditions. Steam inhalers are therapeutic and can be handy whenever you have breathing issues. They have been rigorously tested and proven effective for real-life results. Check out the benefits of steam inhalers in the next section.
Benefits Of Steam Inhalers
- Steam inhalation is usually recommended by physicians for quick therapy time to relieve the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, common cold, and breathing allergies. Steam inhalers use warm and moist air to clear the airways, restoring the respiratory system’s functioning. While they do not prevent colds and flu, they clear the sinuses and throat of mucus to provide relief from colds and coughs.
- Regular steam inhalation lends clarity to the voice and offers relief from difficult breathing. Breathing in steam brings moisture to your voice box. This soothes the vocal folds, hydrates the vocal cords, and reduces irritation and swelling, thereby providing voice clarity.
- Steam inhalers add moisture to areas with dry air which loosen mucus and aid in deep breathing to improve lung health.
- The heat generated from steam inhalers increases body temperature, thereby improving blood circulation throughout the body.
- Increased blood flow in the body eliminates toxins and alleviates severe headaches or migraines.
- Some steam inhalers may double as facial steamers. The steam reduces facial acne and blackheads by decongesting clogged pores.
- Improved breathing and circulation consequently aid in better sleep at night.
Before buying a steam inhaler, there are certain factors you need to consider.
How To Select The Best Steam Inhaler
- Functionality
Different steam inhalers are designed to fulfill different purposes. Some may double as a facial steamer, aromatherapy diffuser, or humidifier. Pick one depending on your needs.
- Steam Control
Some inhalers have an automated steam generation system and adjustable steam levels, while others have adjustable volume, steam flow, and intensity. Pick one as per your comfort levels.
- Ease Of Use
Steam inhalers should be easy to operate or use. Some run on electricity, while others run on rechargeable batteries. You can use battery-operated devices anywhere, anytime. They are best for traveling. However, for electrical devices, you may need a power socket.
- Size
The size of a steam inhaler depends on your ability to store, carry, and maintain it. For example, if you are a frequent traveler, you may need a compact and easy-to-store device.
- Cost
A basic steam inhaler may cost around $30, but high-end inhalers maybe around $200 or more. Pick a suitable one based on your budget.
- Durability
The material with which the steam inhaler is made determines its durability. Most of the devices available on the market are made of durable plastic. However, you will also get aluminum and hospital-grade steam inhalers. They are way safer and more durable.
- Safety
Since using a steam inhaler includes handling hot water and steam, you either need to be extremely cautious or choose an inhaler that comes with a tried-and-tested temperature control feature.
Here is a list of dos and don’ts to follow while using the steam inhaler with a convenient design.
Do’s And Don’ts Of Using Steam Inhalers
- Go through the user manual or manufacturer’s directions to ensure you are operating the inhaler correctly.
- Don’t overfill your device, as this can cause breakage and spills.
- Always supervise your children when using a steam inhaler.
- While using a steam inhaler for your face, keep it several inches away from the steam outlet to prevent accidental burns.
- Don’t put oil or gel in a steamer if it does not support aromatherapy. This can clog and damage the machine.
- Don’t use your steam inhaler for vaginal steaming. This is unsafe, and there is no scientific evidence showing any benefit of vaginal steaming.
Infographic: How To Clean A Steam Inhaler
Steam inhalers need to be cleaned and kept safely. Otherwise, the water trapped inside the inhaler and the residual moisture may lead to mold buildup. Inhaling this can cause further allergies and respiratory issues. Also, cleaning the mineral deposits from the electrodes is important for the proper functioning of the inhaler. Check out the infographic below for a step-by-step guide to cleaning steam inhalers.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Steam inhalers are required to direct warm air into the nasal passage to clear the respiratory tract. If you’re looking for the best steam inhalers in the market, you should opt for those that are reusable and easy to use. Hannah Shine, a personal trainer, advises, “When selecting a steam inhaler, consider ease of use, portability, and safety features.” The Vicks Steam Inhaler has a compact design, is reusable, and comes with 5 scented pads that provide a soothing sensation. The My Pur Mist Handheld Personal Steam Inhaler Vaporizer stands out due to its fine, targeted mist for deep inhalation, making it effective for respiratory issues. The Veridian Steam Inhaler offers a dual mask for inhalation in the mouth and nose and is good for aromatherapy. Opt for reusable, spill-proof, lightweight inhalers with automatic turn-off and germ-free steam. Choose models that clear nasal blockage, and relieve sinus congestion and dry noses. Beginners should opt for simpler models, while advanced users may prefer more complex ones. Furthermore, beginners should avoid steam inhalers that are tricky to operate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to use distilled water with a steam inhaler, or can I use tap water?
Always use distilled water as tap water contains minerals and impurities that may clog the device and damage it.
Is it safe to use essential oils in my steam inhaler?
Yes, only if the inhaler has an outlet for aromatherapy.
Will using a steam inhaler help my congestion?
Yes, steam inhalers can help clear nasal congestion.
Can we use a steam inhaler daily?
Yes. You can use a steam inhaler daily. It will clear out sinuses and help you breathe easier.
Is a steam inhaler the same as a nebulizer?
No. A steam inhaler converts water into a vapor that we breathe in to clear our mucus. On the other hand, a nebulizer is a device that converts breathing medicines into a mist so that the medicines reach the lungs directly.
Is it safe to use tap water in a steam inhaler?
Yes. Mild impurities in water aid it to conduct electricity better and so, using tap water is safe in a steam inhaler.
Can steam inhalers help with asthma?
No. Steam inhalers can at the most reduce wheezing. It is not effective in curing asthma.
Are steam inhalers good for sinuses?
Yes. Steam inhalers open up the nasal passages and make breathing easier. Therefore, these inhalers are effective for sinuses.
Will using a steam inhaler help unclog your ears?
Yes. The inner ear is connected to the throat with the eustachian tube. Therefore, using a steam inhaler can help you unclog your ears. It is recommended to consult a medical expert prior to using a steam inhaler to unclog your ears.
How long can I use steam inhalers?
Use a steam inhaler twice for 10 to 15 minutes daily.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar, the author, has a diploma in health and wellness and specializes in reviewing health and fitness products. She finds steam inhalers extremely comforting whenever she has nasal congestion and a sore throat. She believes steam inhalers are a must-have for anyone struggling with cough, cold, and flu symptoms. She carefully reviewed hundreds of products to find the most effective ones for her readers.
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