Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup Review for Singers: A Portable Tool for Vocal Health & Direct Hydration
- Rebecca Reid
- Jan 14
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 31
Maintaining healthy, hydrated vocal folds is one of the easiest and most cost-effective things a singer can do to improve their voice (Alves, et al., 2019). As a Vocal Habilitation Professional, I often recommend tools that support safe, effective vocal care—and the Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup is a simple, budget-friendly option that can be part of a singer’s direct hydration strategy.
Here’s my expert review on how it performs, who it’s best for, and how to use it safely.
Quick Verdict: Compact Steaming Cup for Vocal Hydration—With a Few Drawbacks
Pros | Cons |
Affordable and easy to use | Doesn’t produce consistent steam for 10–15 minutes |
Lightweight and highly portable | Requires refilling for full benefit |
Supports vocal fold hydration | Plastic construction can feel flimsy |
Useful post-performance | Not as durable as ceramic options |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ – 4/5 stars
✅ Best for singers needing a low-cost, portable way to hydrate the voice.
Why I’m Reviewing the Medisure Steam Inhaler
As a singing teacher and certified Vocal Habilitation Professional, I’m always exploring tools that help singers care for their voices in practical, evidence-informed ways. Steaming, can offer relief from dryness and surface-level irritation—especially helpful during seasonal changes or after intense vocal use.
The Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup is a tool I’ve used personally and with students as part of hydration strategies.
What Is Direct Hydration?
Direct hydration means bringing moisture directly to the vocal folds via inhaled steam. While drinking water is essential for whole-body hydration, it doesn’t reach the vocal folds immediately. Steam inhalation can offer temporary relief and help maintain suppleness in the vocal tract tissues—particularly useful in dry indoor environments.
Key Features of the Medisure Steam Inhaler
Compact two-part design: Base for hot water with a simple inhalation top which directs steam through both nose and mouth.
No electricity required: Just add hot water—ideal for travel or use on the go.
Very lightweight and portable: Easier to carry than facial steamers.
Easy to clean and assemble.
This no-frills design makes it a great introduction to steam inhalation for singers who want something quick and affordable.
My Experience Using It as a Singer
What I appreciate:
It’s small and very portable, which makes it ideal for travel or keeping in a studio bag.
It offers quick access to soothing steam after a long teaching day or rehearsal.
It’s a quiet and private way to care for your voice—no buzzing machines.
However, one drawback is that the steam doesn’t last long—just a few minutes per fill. To achieve the recommended 10–15 minutes of steaming, you’ll need to refill it multiple times during one session. This makes it less convenient if you're hoping for a long, uninterrupted steam.
How to Use the Medisure Steam Inhaler Safely
Boil water and let it sit for 30–60 seconds before pouring.
Fill the base about halfway to avoid overflow or burns.
Attach the top, place your mouth and nose over the opening, and breathe normally.
Steam for 10–15 minutes, refilling as needed.
Rinse and air dry thoroughly after each use.
⚠️ Important Safety Note for Singers
Do not sing immediately after steaming. Steaming softens the delicate tissue of the vocal folds. Singing too soon can increase the risk of vocal fold injury. Please wait at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before vocalising after steaming to allow the tissues to return to a safe, natural state.
Who It’s Best For
The Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup is a good fit for:
Singers looking for a portable option (e.g. for travel, studio, or backstage).
Those new to steaming who want a budget-friendly tool.
Performers needing quick post-use relief from dryness or vocal fatigue.
Singers looking to avoid electric steamers or bulky equipment.
Alternatives to Consider
Dr Nelson’s Inhaler – More durable and retains heat longer, but heavier and breakable.
Electric facial steamers – Offer longer-lasting steam, but are less portable and may be noisier.
Nebulisers – Ideal for targeted hydration with saline solution, though more expensive and less accessible for casual use.
Final Verdict: A Handy Starter Tool with Limitations
The Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup is a solid starter option for singers looking to incorporate steam into their vocal care routine. It’s compact, affordable, and ideal for travel—but be prepared to refill it a few times to get the full benefit of a 10–15 minute steam.
Used properly—and with caution not to sing immediately afterward—it’s a valuable addition to any singer’s vocal hygiene toolkit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I steam for vocal health?
Aim for 10–15 minutes per session, 2–3 times a week for maintenance. You can increase frequency during illness, intense performance or rehearsal schedules or dry conditions.
Does steaming replace drinking water?
No. Steam supports direct hydration, but you still need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated overall.
Why can’t I sing after steaming?
Because steaming temporarily softens the vocal fold tissue, making it more vulnerable. Allow at least 30–60 minutes for recovery before singing.
Can I add oils to the water?
For singers, it’s best to avoid adding anything to the water. However, if you're using steam to support recovery from a cold, you may add a maximum of 1–2 drops of tea tree oil or Olbas oil.
Conclusion
The Medisure Steam Inhaler Cup is a helpful, accessible tool for supporting vocal fold hydration. While it won’t replace systemic hydration or technical training, it can be a practical addition to your vocal health routine—especially during busy seasons or voice recovery periods.
As with all vocal care tools, use it as part of a balanced, evidence-based strategy—and always allow time for your voice to settle before singing.
References
Shewell, C., & Sansom, R. (2025). Voice work: Art and science in changing voice (2nd ed.). Wiley Blackwell.
Alves, M., Krüger, E., Pillay, B., van Lierde, K., & Madill, C. (2019). The effect of hydration on voice quality in adults: A systematic review. Journal of Voice, 33(1), 125.e13–125.e28.
*DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this post is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience sudden voice changes, persistent vocal issues lasting more than two weeks, pain, or discomfort while speaking or singing, please consult a GP, ENT specialist, or a qualified vocal health professional. Early intervention is key to maintaining vocal health.
If you’re concerned about your vocal health and want an assessment or personalised strategies to support your voice, you can book a Vocal Health MOT for Singers with me.
