Vocal Steamers Unveiled: A Professional Guide for Singers

Every singer knows the key to a healthy voice: good technique, adequate rest, and proper vocal hygiene. Enter the vocal steamer, a device that has gained a standing ovation from the singing community, from opera pros to pop stars (yes, Taylor Swift and her backing vocalists are fans) to community choristers. Really anyone who loves to sing and wants a boost to their vocal health can benefit from vocal steaming.

What Is a Vocal Steamer?

A vocal steamer is a personal humidifier for your throat and vocal cords. It emits warm, moist air you inhale, hydrating your vocal folds and relieving tired vocal tissues. This is crucial, especially considering how long it can take for vocal cords to heal after strain or injury. Hydration from a vocal steamer can expedite recovery, returning you to what you love sooner.

Who Uses Vocal Steamers?

Vocal steamers for singers are the perfect way to keep your precious instrument in shape. Notable singers like Adele have praised the benefits of steaming, and you can easily find a vocal steamer on Amazon or even at your local music store. Whether it's a portable vocal steamer or a vocal cord steamer designed for home use, these devices are integral to a singer's vocal care routine.

Vocal Steamer Benefits

The benefits of vocal steaming are numerous. They range from improved vocal clarity and increased stamina to reduced risk of vocal damage. A session with a vocal steamer before warming up can make the process more efficient, and using it post-performance can aid in recovery, especially if you're trying to treat inflamed vocal cords.

How to Use a Vocal Steamer

When using a vocal steamer, following best practices to reap the maximum benefits is essential. Here's a quick guide on how to steam your throat:

1. Fill the device with distilled water.

2. Allow it to heat to the appropriate temperature.

3. Inhale the steam for about 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your needs and the manufacturer's recommendations.

4. Ensure you know how long to steam your voice (10-15mins max) to avoid over-relaxing your vocal cords. Best practice—Start with five minutes and see how it affects your voice.

Vocal Steamer vs Nebulizer

A vocal steamer provides moist heat, while a nebulizer—often used by individuals with respiratory conditions—turns liquid medication into a fine mist. Some singers prefer a nebulizer for singers because it can deliver a finer mist, which some believe is more penetrating. However, because of the smaller particles, the nebulizer mist moves deeper into lung tissue, which isn’t necessary for the health of the vocal cord.

The Best Vocal Steamers

In the quest for the best vocal steamer for singers, options like the MyPurmist vocal steamer, Vicks vocal steamer, and various ceramic vocal steamers with precision temperature control are top picks. The best facial steamer for singers can serve a dual purpose, beneficial for vocal and skin health.

Alternatives and Precautions

If you're in a pinch and wondering how to steam your voice without a steamer, a hot shower or bowl of hot water can be a temporary solution. However, caution is advised; one should not oversteam the voice or use a plastic steam inhaler if it isn't designed for high heat.

Maintaining Your Instrument

Beyond vocal steamers, singers often use humidifiers to maintain a moist environment, which is particularly beneficial in dry climates. This is especially relevant here in Canada, where humidity drops in the winter with colder temperatures. The best place to put your humidifier is where you sleep, ideally maintaining around 40-50% humidity. Having one where you sing or spend most of your waking hours would be a bonus. Some newer humidifier models contain a UV light to ensure the steam is sterile and free of bacteria and viruses.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether you're considering a Mypurmist handheld steam inhaler or a Vicks sinus inhaler, a vocal steamer can be a game-changer in your vocal routine. With one of these best steam inhalers for singers, you can ensure that your voice remains in top condition, allowing you to focus on delivering your best performance every time.

Remember, while vocal steamers provide excellent benefits, they are part of a comprehensive vocal health strategy. Hydration, proper technique, and vocal rest are equally important.