Your horse has finished its nebulising session, so you remove the Flexineb mask and put the equipment away. But there's one important step you shouldn't skip: cleaning the medication cup.
A Flexineb uses a delicate vibrating mesh to turn liquid into a fine mist. Residue from nebulising solutions and minerals from ordinary tap water can affect this mesh over time. That's why cleaning your Flexineb correctly is just as important as using it correctly.
And one detail makes a real difference: distilled water.
In this guide, we'll explain how to clean your Flexineb after each use, why distilled water matters and which common mistakes to avoid.
Why cleaning your Flexineb is so important
Whether your horse uses the Flexineb daily or only occasionally, the medication cup needs attention after every session.
Even when the cup looks empty, small amounts of solution can remain behind. If these residues dry onto the vibrating mesh, they may affect mist production.
Regular cleaning helps to:
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Prevent residue from building up in the medication cup.
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Keep the vibrating mesh functioning properly.
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Maintain good hygiene between nebulising sessions.
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Keep the mask clean and comfortable for your horse.
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Reduce avoidable problems with mist production.
The good news? You don't need an elaborate cleaning routine. A few minutes of care after every session can make a difference.
Why should you use distilled water to clean your Flexineb?
This is one of the most important things to remember when cleaning your Flexineb: use distilled water for the medication cup, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Unlike ordinary tap water, distilled water has had dissolved minerals removed. Tap water can contain minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which may leave deposits as the water evaporates.
That's particularly relevant for the Flexineb because its medication cup contains a very fine vibrating mesh. Mineral deposits and dried solution residue can interfere with the mesh and reduce mist production.
Using distilled water during the recommended cleaning procedure helps minimise this risk.
Can you use tap water instead?
It's tempting to rinse the medication cup under the tap, especially when you're in a hurry at the stables. However, the manufacturer recommends distilled water for cleaning the medication cup.
Keep a bottle of distilled water with your Flexineb supplies so you always have it available after a session. It's a small addition to your stable routine that makes correct cleaning much easier.
Remember that cleaning water and the liquid used for nebulising are two different things. Only nebulise solutions recommended by your veterinarian and suitable for your Flexineb.
How to clean your Flexineb after every use
Once your horse has finished nebulising, it's best to clean the equipment straight away. This prevents leftover solution from drying inside the medication cup.
Step 1: Switch off and disconnect the Flexineb
Switch off the controller and carefully remove the mask.
Place the components on a clean surface and keep the electronic controller away from water.
Step 2: Empty the medication cup
Remove any remaining solution from the medication cup.
Don't leave leftover liquid sitting in the cup until the next session. Even small amounts can dry and leave residue behind.
Step 3: Clean the medication cup with distilled water
Follow the cleaning procedure in the manufacturer's manual for your Flexineb model.
The manufacturer's cleaning guidance includes distilled water and a drop of mild dishwashing detergent to help remove residue from the medication cup, followed by rinsing with distilled water.
Make sure to protect the electrical contacts using the protective cap as instructed.
Never touch, scrub or brush the vibrating mesh. It's a delicate component, and attempting to clean it mechanically can cause damage.
Step 4: Clean the mask
While the medication cup is being cleaned, give the mask some attention too.
During a nebulising session, moisture, saliva and stable dust can collect on the mask and its removable components.
Clean the washable parts with water and a mild detergent, following the manufacturer's instructions. If disinfection is needed, use only an approved product and procedure.
Step 5: Allow everything to air-dry
Once everything is clean, leave the components to air-dry completely in a clean environment.
Avoid storing damp parts in a closed bag or container. When dry, keep your Flexineb somewhere clean and protected from stable dust.
Is your Flexineb producing less mist than usual?
You've prepared everything for your horse's nebulising session, but the mist seems weaker than before. Before assuming something is broken, it's worth checking the medication cup.
Residue on the vibrating mesh can affect how efficiently the Flexineb produces mist. This is one reason why cleaning with distilled water after every session is so important.
If you notice reduced mist production:
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Check that the battery is sufficiently charged.
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Make sure the medication cup is connected correctly.
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Check that you're using a suitable nebulising solution.
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Follow the manufacturer's medication cup cleaning instructions.
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Inspect the cup for visible damage or signs of wear.
If cleaning doesn't solve the problem, consult the manufacturer's troubleshooting guidance. The medication cup may eventually need replacing.
At Emmers Equestrian, you'll find Flexineb equipment and accessories to help keep your horse's nebulising routine running smoothly.
Three common Flexineb cleaning mistakes
Even with a good cleaning routine, there are a few things to avoid.
1. Rinsing the medication cup with ordinary tap water
A quick rinse under the tap might seem harmless, but minerals in tap water can leave deposits behind. Keep distilled water nearby and use it for the recommended medication cup cleaning procedure.
2. Trying to scrub the vibrating mesh
If you notice residue, don't try to remove it with a brush, cloth or sharp object. The mesh is extremely delicate and should never be touched directly. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning procedure instead.
3. Putting the Flexineb away without cleaning it
After a long day at the stables, it's easy to leave cleaning until tomorrow. However, dried residue can be more difficult to remove. Cleaning the cup immediately after use is a much better habit.
Make Flexineb cleaning part of your stable routine
The easiest way to keep your Flexineb clean is to make maintenance part of every nebulising session.
Keep your distilled water, approved cleaning supplies and a clean drying area ready before you start. Once your horse has finished, you can clean the medication cup and mask while your horse enjoys some hay or settles back into its stable.
That way, you're not searching for supplies afterwards, and your Flexineb is ready for the next time you need it.
Frequently asked questions about cleaning your Flexineb
Do I need to clean my Flexineb after every use?
Yes. The medication cup should be cleaned after every nebulising session to prevent residue from building up. The mask and washable components should also be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Why do I need distilled water to clean my Flexineb?
Distilled water contains virtually no dissolved minerals, unlike ordinary tap water. This helps minimise mineral deposits in the delicate medication cup and supports proper maintenance of the vibrating mesh.
Can I use bottled mineral water instead of distilled water?
No. Bottled mineral water still contains dissolved minerals. For the medication cup cleaning procedure, use distilled water as recommended by the manufacturer.
Can I use dishwashing detergent to clean my Flexineb?
The manufacturer's cleaning guidance includes a drop of mild dishwashing detergent with distilled water for cleaning the medication cup. Always follow the instructions for your specific Flexineb model and rinse as directed.
Can I put my Flexineb in the dishwasher?
No. Do not put the medication cup or electronic components in the dishwasher. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for each component.
What should I do if my Flexineb stops producing mist?
First check the battery, connections and medication cup. Residue on the vibrating mesh may affect mist production. Follow the recommended cleaning and troubleshooting procedure, and contact the manufacturer or your retailer if the problem continues.
