Patent Publication Number: US-2020276404-A1

Title: Cannula holders

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/476,127, filed Sep. 3, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/541,723, filed Jul. 4, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/653,010, filed May 30, 2012. The applications listed above are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Nasal cannulas are worn by patients to obtain supplemental oxygen or airflow. A nasal cannula includes a tube worn on the face of a patient and prongs placed in the nostrils of the patient. 
     A nasal cannula may be temporarily removed from a patient for a variety of reasons. When removed from the patient, a nasal cannula may be placed in a variety of improvised locations. For example, the nasal cannula may be placed on a bed, chair, nightstand, or other furniture. As another example, the nasal cannula may be placed on an oxygen tank valve, monitor, or other piece of equipment. When placed in these locations, the nasal cannula may be exposed to unclean surfaces and become contaminated. In addition, when placed in these locations, the nasal cannula may accidentally fall onto the floor or elsewhere and become contaminated. When the contaminated nasal cannula is placed back on the patient, the chance of infection may increase. 
     In addition to nasal cannulas, other medical equipment and breathing devices such as CPAP masks, BIPAP masks, and nebulizer masks encounter the same problems of contamination. 
     What is needed is a device for holding a nasal cannula or other medical equipment when not in use. What is needed is a device which will help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. 
     SUMMARY 
     A device for holding a piece of medical equipment is described. The device includes a receptacle configured to hold the piece of medical equipment. The receptacle has an opening, a front surface, and a back surface. The device also includes a coupling element that may be coupled to the back surface of the receptacle. The coupling element may be configured to couple the receptacle to a location. The device may further include a marking surface coupled to the front surface of the receptacle. The marking surface may be configured to be written on with a writing instrument. 
     A method for holding a piece of medical equipment is described. The method includes providing a receptacle configured to hold the piece of medical equipment, providing a coupling element coupled to a back surface of the receptacle, coupling the receptacle to a location using the coupling element, and inserting the piece of medical equipment into an opening of the receptacle. The method may further include providing a marking surface coupled to a front surface of the receptacle and writing on the marking surface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A-1C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  100 . 
         FIG. 1A  shows a front view of cannula holder  100 .  FIG. 1B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  100 .  FIG. 1C  shows cannula holder  100  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  200 . 
         FIG. 2A  shows a front view of cannula holder  200 .  FIG. 2B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  200 .  FIG. 2C  shows cannula holder  200  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 3A-3C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  300 . 
         FIG. 3A  shows a front view of cannula holder  300 .  FIG. 3B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  300 .  FIG. 3C  shows cannula holder  300  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  400 . 
         FIG. 4A  shows a front view of cannula holder  400 .  FIG. 4B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  400 .  FIG. 4C  shows cannula holder  400  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  500 . 
         FIG. 5A  shows a front view of cannula holder  500 .  FIG. 5B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  500 .  FIG. 5C  shows cannula holder  500  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  600 . 
         FIG. 6A  shows a front view of cannula holder  600 .  FIG. 6B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  600 .  FIG. 6C  shows cannula holder  600  in use with a nasal cannula C. 
         FIGS. 7A-7D  show the concentration of a bacteria at versus time for different receptacles.  FIG. 7A  shows the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds and 1 hour in receptacles made of six different materials.  FIG. 7B  shows the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds, 1 hour, and 2 hours in receptacles made of spunbond polypropylene fabrics of three different weights.  FIGS. 7C-7D  show the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds, 1 hour, and 2 hours in receptacles made of spunbond polypropylene fabrics from three different manufacturers. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS. 1A-1C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  100 . 
       FIG. 1A  shows a front view of cannula holder  100 .  FIG. 1B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  100 .  FIG. 1C  shows cannula holder  100  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  100  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  100  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  100  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  100  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  100  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  100  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  100  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  100  may include a receptacle  110 , one or more coupling elements  120 , and one or more marking surfaces  130 . 
     Receptacle  110  may include an opening  111 , a back surface  112 , and a front surface  113 . Opening  111  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Opening  111  may be configured to lay flat when not in use. Alternatively, opening  111  may be configured to remain at least slightly open to facilitate the insertion of a nasal cannula. Opening  111  may be kept at least slightly open with a stiffening element  115  such as a metal or plastic wire coupled at or near opening  111 . 
     Receptacle  110  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  110  may be capable of being collapsed flat. Receptacle  110  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which is breathable. Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  110 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  110  to an outside of receptacle  110 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a mesh fabric made of polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable fabric. The mesh fabric may be breathable and allow air and moisture to escape. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern configured to reduce the likelihood of snagging or catching the nasal cannula, CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. For example, the mesh fabric may have circular or elliptical openings having a size of approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, with an open area of approximately 30-50%. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern and/or color that allows the contents of receptacle  110  to be at least partially visible. The mesh fabric may be a single layer, double layer, triple layer, or any other suitable type of weave that allows airflow but reduces the possibility of snagging on the medical equipment inserted into receptacle  110 . The mesh fabric may be made of a material that does not substantially weaken when exposed to moisture. The mesh fabric may be of a weight that is light, medium, heavy, or any suitable combination of weights. 
     The mesh fabric may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. The silver may be in the form of silver nanoparticles bound in a zeolite, calcium carbonate, ceramic, or other suitable matrix, applied to the mesh fabric. The mesh fabric may have inherent antimicrobial properties. The mesh fabric may be treated with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or other treatments. 
     Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of one or more nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics may include spunbond polypropylene fabrics available from DuPont, Surya Textech, Oxco, and others. The polypropylene fabrics may be 100% polypropylene or a polypropylene blend. In one embodiment, a polypropylene blend may include approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. In one embodiment, a polypropylene fabric used may have a weight from approximately 20 GSM to 100 GSM. 
     Alternatively, receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a plastic, paper/cellulose, metal, or any other suitable material. Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a material that is perforated or non-perforated. Receptacle  110  may be at least partially made of a flexible or rigid material. Any of these materials may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  110  may be reinforced with a trim  114  along opening  111  and/or one or more edges. Trim  114  may be formed by folding over the fabric one or more times and stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise coupled to itself. Alternatively, trim  114  may be a separate piece of fabric. Opening  111  may be kept at least slightly open by shaping trim  114 . 
     Receptacle  110  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  110  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  110  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  110  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches and a width of approximately 4-15 inches. Receptacle  110  may be configured to be breathable to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  110  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  110 . 
     Coupling element  120  may be coupled to back surface  112  of receptacle  110 . Alternatively, coupling element  120  may be coupled to front surface  113  of receptacle  110 , or any suitable portion of receptacle  110 . 
     Coupling element  120  may include an adhesive tape  121  with a removable backing, such as a double-sided adhesive tape or other suitable tape. Adhesive tape  121  may be configured to adhere to a surface and be strong enough to hold a piece of medical equipment, yet be easily removed from the surface without leaving a residue or becoming separated from back surface  112  of receptacle  110 . Alternatively, coupling element  120  may include one or more hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, straps, hooks, rigid or flexible handles, or other suitable coupling elements. 
     Coupling element  120  may be configured to couple receptacle  110  securely to an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, wall, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  120  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  120  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  120  may be one-time use or reusable. Coupling element  120  may be detachable from receptacle  110 . 
     Marking surface  130  may be coupled to front surface  113  of receptacle  110 . Alternatively, marking surface  130  may be coupled to back surface  112  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  110 . Marking surface  130  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  130  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  110 . Marking surface  130  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  110 . Alternatively, marking surface  130  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  110 . Still alternatively, marking surface  130  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  110 . Still alternatively, marking surface  130  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  110 . Marking surface  130  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  130  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  110 . Marking surface  130  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  100  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  100  is needed. Marking surface  130  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  110 . 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  200 . 
       FIG. 2A  shows a front view of cannula holder  200 .  FIG. 2B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  200 .  FIG. 2C  shows cannula holder  200  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  200  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  200  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  200  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  200  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  200  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  200  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  200  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  200  may include a receptacle  210 , one or more coupling elements  220 , and one or more marking surfaces  230 . 
     Receptacle  210  may include an opening  211 , a back surface  212 , and a front surface  213 . Opening  211  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Opening  211  may be configured to lay flat when not in use. Alternatively, opening  211  may be configured to remain at least slightly open to facilitate the insertion of a nasal cannula. Opening  211  may be kept at least slightly open with a stiffening element  215  such as a metal or plastic wire coupled at or near opening  211 . 
     Receptacle  210  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  210  may be capable of being collapsed flat. Receptacle  210  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which is breathable. Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  210 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  210  to an outside of receptacle  210 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a mesh fabric made of polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable fabric. The mesh fabric may be breathable and allow air and moisture to escape. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern configured to reduce the likelihood of snagging or catching the nasal cannula, CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. For example, the mesh fabric may have circular or elliptical openings having a size of approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, with an open area of approximately 30-50%. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern and/or color that allows the contents of receptacle  210  to be at least partially visible. The mesh fabric may be a single layer, double layer, triple layer, or any other suitable type of weave that allows airflow but reduces the possibility of snagging on the medical equipment inserted into receptacle  210 . The mesh fabric may be made of a material that does not substantially weaken when exposed to moisture. The mesh fabric may be of a weight that is light, medium, heavy, or any suitable combination of weights. 
     The mesh fabric may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. The silver may be in the form of silver nanoparticles bound in a zeolite, calcium carbonate, ceramic, or other suitable matrix, applied to the mesh fabric. The mesh fabric may have inherent antimicrobial properties. The mesh fabric may be treated with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or other treatments. 
     Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of one or more nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics may include spunbond polypropylene fabrics available from DuPont, Surya Textech, Oxco, and others. The polypropylene fabrics may be 100% polypropylene or a polypropylene blend. In one embodiment, a polypropylene blend may include approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. In one embodiment, a polypropylene fabric used may have a weight from approximately 20 GSM to 100 GSM. 
     Alternatively, receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a plastic, paper/cellulose, metal, or any other suitable material. Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a material that is perforated or non-perforated. Receptacle  210  may be at least partially made of a flexible or rigid material. Any of these materials may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  210  may be reinforced with a trim  214  along opening  211  and/or one or more edges. Trim  214  may be formed by folding over the fabric one or more times and stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise coupled to itself. Alternatively, trim  214  may be a separate piece of fabric. Opening  211  may be kept at least slightly open by shaping trim  214 . 
     Receptacle  210  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  210  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  210  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  210  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches and a width of approximately 4-15 inches. Receptacle  210  may be configured to be breathable to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  210  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  210 . 
     Coupling element  220  may be coupled to a hanging tab  222  coupled to back surface  212  of receptacle  210 . Alternatively, coupling element  220  may be coupled to back surface  212  of receptacle  210 , front surface  213  of receptacle  210 , or any suitable portion of receptacle  210 . 
     Coupling element  220  may include an adhesive tape  221  with a removable backing, such as a double-sided adhesive tape or other suitable tape. Adhesive tape  221  may be configured to adhere to a surface and be strong enough to hold a piece of medical equipment, yet be easily removed from the surface without leaving a residue or becoming separated from hanging tab  222 . Alternatively, coupling element  220  may include one or more hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, straps, hooks, rigid or flexible handles, or other suitable coupling elements coupled to hanging tab  222 . 
     Coupling element  220  may be configured to couple receptacle  210  securely to an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, wall, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  220  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  220  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  220  may be one-time use or reusable. Coupling element  220  may be detachable from receptacle  210 . Marking surface  230  may be coupled to front surface  213  of receptacle  210 . Alternatively, marking surface  230  may be coupled to back surface  212  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  210 . Marking surface  230  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  230  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  210 . Marking surface  230  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  210 . Alternatively, marking surface  230  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  210 . Still alternatively, marking surface  230  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  210 . Still alternatively, marking surface  230  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  210 . Marking surface  230  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  230  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  210 . Marking surface  230  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  200  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  200  is needed. Marking surface  230  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  210 . 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  300 .  FIG. 3A  shows a front view of cannula holder  300 .  FIG. 3B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  300 .  FIG. 3C  shows cannula holder  300  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  300  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  300  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  300  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  300  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  300  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  300  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  300  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  300  may include a receptacle  310 , one or more coupling elements  320 , and one or more marking surfaces  330 . 
     Receptacle  310  may include an opening  311 , a back surface  312 , and a front surface  313 . Opening  311  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Receptacle  310  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  310  may be capable of being stacked. Receptacle  310  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  310  may be at least partially made of a material which is breathable. Receptacle  310  may be at least partially made of a material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  310 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  310  may be at least partially made of a material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  310  to an outside of receptacle  310 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  310  may be at least partially made of a material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  310  may be at least partially made of a substantially rigid material such as plastic, metal, or other suitable material. 
     Receptacle  310  may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  310  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  310  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  310  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  310  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches, a width of approximately 4-15 inches, and a depth of approximately 1-3 in. Receptacle  310  may include one or more perforations or holes  316  to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  310  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  310 . 
     Coupling element  320  may be coupled to back surface  312  of receptacle  310 . Alternatively, coupling element  320  may be coupled to front surface  313  of receptacle  310 , or any suitable portion of receptacle  310 . 
     Coupling element  320  may include an adhesive tape  321  with a removable backing, such as a double-sided adhesive tape or other suitable tape. Adhesive tape  321  may be configured to adhere to a surface and be strong enough to hold a piece of medical equipment, yet be easily removed from the surface without leaving a residue or becoming separated from back surface  312  of receptacle  310 . Alternatively, coupling element  320  may include one or more hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, straps, hooks, rigid or flexible handles, or other suitable coupling elements. 
     Coupling element  320  may be configured to couple receptacle  310  securely to an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, wall, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  320  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  320  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  320  may be one-time use or reusable. Coupling element  320  may be detachable from receptacle  310 . 
     Marking surface  330  may be coupled to front surface  313  of receptacle  310 . Alternatively, marking surface  330  may be coupled to back surface  312  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  310 . Marking surface  330  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  330  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  310 . Marking surface  330  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  310 . Alternatively, marking surface  330  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  310 . Still alternatively, marking surface  330  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  310 . Still alternatively, marking surface  330  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  310 . Marking surface  330  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  330  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  310 . Marking surface  330  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  300  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  300  is needed. Marking surface  330  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  310 . 
       FIGS. 4A-4C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  400 . 
       FIG. 4A  shows a front view of cannula holder  400 .  FIG. 4B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  400 .  FIG. 4C  shows cannula holder  400  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  400  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  400  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  400  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  400  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  400  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  400  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  400  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  400  may include a receptacle  410 , one or more coupling elements  420 , and one or more marking surfaces  430 . 
     Receptacle  410  may include an opening  411 , a back surface  412 , and a front surface  413 . Opening  411  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Opening  411  may be configured to lay flat when not in use. Alternatively, opening  411  may be configured to remain at least slightly open to facilitate the insertion of a nasal cannula. 
     Receptacle  410  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  410  may be capable of being collapsed flat. Receptacle  410  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which is breathable. Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  410 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  410  to an outside of receptacle  410 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a mesh fabric made of polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable fabric. The mesh fabric may be breathable and allow air and moisture to escape. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern configured to reduce the likelihood of snagging or catching the nasal cannula, CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. For example, the mesh fabric may have circular or elliptical openings having a size of approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, with an open area of approximately 30-50%. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern and/or color that allows the contents of receptacle  410  to be at least partially visible. The mesh fabric may be a single layer, double layer, triple layer, or any other suitable type of weave that allows airflow but reduces the possibility of snagging on the medical equipment inserted into receptacle  410 . The mesh fabric may be made of a material that does not substantially weaken when exposed to moisture. The mesh fabric may be of a weight that is light, medium, heavy, or any suitable combination of weights. 
     The mesh fabric may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. The silver may be in the form of silver nanoparticles bound in a zeolite, calcium carbonate, ceramic, or other suitable matrix, applied to the mesh fabric. The mesh fabric may have inherent antimicrobial properties. The mesh fabric may be treated with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or other treatments. 
     Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of one or more nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics may include spunbond polypropylene fabrics available from DuPont, Surya Textech, Oxco, and others. The polypropylene fabrics may be 100% polypropylene or a polypropylene blend. In one embodiment, a polypropylene blend may include approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. In one embodiment, a polypropylene fabric used may have a weight from approximately 20 GSM to 100 GSM. 
     Alternatively, receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a plastic, paper/cellulose, metal, or any other suitable material. Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a material that is perforated or non-perforated. Receptacle  410  may be at least partially made of a flexible or rigid material. Any of these materials may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  410  may be reinforced with a trim  414  along opening  411  and/or one or more edges. Trim  414  may be formed by folding over the fabric one or more times and stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise coupled to itself. Alternatively, trim  414  may be a separate piece of fabric. Opening  411  may be kept at least slightly open by shaping trim  414 . 
     Receptacle  410  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  410  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  410  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  410  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches and a width of approximately 4-15 inches. Receptacle  410  may be configured to be breathable to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  410  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  410 . 
     Coupling element  420  may include a drawstring  423  coupled at or near at least a portion of opening  411  of receptacle  410 . Drawstring  423  may be threaded or passed through a portion of receptacle  410  such as trim  414  formed at or near opening  411  of receptacle  410 . Drawstring  423  may extend from one or both sides or ends of receptacle  410 . Drawstring  423  may be cinched and loosened to at least partially close and open opening  411  of receptacle  410 . 
     Coupling element  420  may be configured to allow receptacle  410  to be hung from an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  420  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  420  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  420  may be reusable. Coupling element  420  may be detachable from receptacle  410 . 
     Marking surface  430  may be coupled to front surface  413  of receptacle  410 . Alternatively, marking surface  430  may be coupled to back surface  412  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  410 . Marking surface  430  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  430  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  410 . Marking surface  430  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  410 . Alternatively, marking surface  430  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  410 . Still alternatively, marking surface  430  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  410 . Still alternatively, marking surface  430  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  410 . Marking surface  430  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  430  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  410 . Marking surface  430  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  400  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  400  is needed. Marking surface  430  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  410 . 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  500 .  FIG. 5A  shows a front view of cannula holder  500 .  FIG. 5B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  500 .  FIG. 5C  shows cannula holder  500  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  500  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  500  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  500  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  500  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  500  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  500  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  500  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  500  may include a receptacle  510 , one or more coupling elements  520 , and one or more marking surfaces  530 . 
     Receptacle  510  may include an opening  511 , a back surface  512 , and a front surface  513 . Opening  511  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Opening  511  may be configured to lay flat when not in use. Alternatively, opening  511  may be configured to remain at least slightly open to facilitate the insertion of a nasal cannula. Opening  511  may be kept at least slightly open with a stiffening element  515  such as a metal or plastic wire coupled at or near opening  511 . 
     Receptacle  510  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  510  may be capable of being collapsed flat. Receptacle  510  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which is breathable. Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  510 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  510  to an outside of receptacle  510 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a mesh fabric made of polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable fabric. The mesh fabric may be breathable and allow air and moisture to escape. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern configured to reduce the likelihood of snagging or catching the nasal cannula, CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. For example, the mesh fabric may have circular or elliptical openings having a size of approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, with an open area of approximately 30-50%. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern and/or color that allows the contents of receptacle  510  to be at least partially visible. The mesh fabric may be a single layer, double layer, triple layer, or any other suitable type of weave that allows airflow but reduces the possibility of snagging on the medical equipment inserted into receptacle  510 . The mesh fabric may be made of a material that does not substantially weaken when exposed to moisture. The mesh fabric may be of a weight that is light, medium, heavy, or any suitable combination of weights. 
     The mesh fabric may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. The silver may be in the form of silver nanoparticles bound in a zeolite, calcium carbonate, ceramic, or other suitable matrix, applied to the mesh fabric. The mesh fabric may have inherent antimicrobial properties. The mesh fabric may be treated with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or other treatments. 
     Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of one or more nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics may include spunbond polypropylene fabrics available from DuPont, Surya Textech, Oxco, and others. The polypropylene fabrics may be 100% polypropylene or a polypropylene blend. In one embodiment, a polypropylene blend may include approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. In one embodiment, a polypropylene fabric used may have a weight from approximately 20 GSM to 100 GSM. 
     Alternatively, receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a plastic, paper/cellulose, metal, or any other suitable material. Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a material that is perforated or non-perforated. Receptacle  510  may be at least partially made of a flexible or rigid material. Any of these materials may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  510  may be reinforced with a trim  514  along opening  511  and/or one or more edges. Trim  514  may be formed by folding over the fabric one or more times and stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise coupled to itself. Alternatively, trim  514  may be a separate piece of fabric. Opening  511  may be kept at least slightly open by shaping trim  514 . 
     Receptacle  510  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  510  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  510  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  510  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches and a width of approximately 4-15 inches. Receptacle  510  may be configured to be breathable to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  510  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  510 . 
     Coupling element  520  may be coupled to back surface  512  and/or front surface  513  of receptacle  510 , or any suitable portion of receptacle  510 . 
     Coupling element  520  may include one or more straps  524  coupled to receptacle  510 . Straps  524  may be stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise irremovably or removably coupled to receptacle  510 . Straps  524  may include one or more releasable couplings, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons and/or buttonholes, or any other suitable couplings. Straps  524  may be closed loops or may have free ends  525 . Free end  525  of one strap  524  may be releasably coupled to the same strap  524 , to receptacle  510 , or to another strap  524  coupled to receptacle  510 . For example, a hook-and-loop fastener on a free end  525  of one strap  524  may be configured to be coupled to another hook-and-loop fastener on the same strap  524 , to a hook-and-loop fastener on receptacle  510 , or to a hook-and-loop fastener on a free end  525  of another strap  524  coupled to receptacle  510 . 
     Coupling element  520  may be configured to allow receptacle  510  to be hung from an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  520  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  520  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  520  may be reusable. Coupling element  520  may be detachable from receptacle  510 . 
     Marking surface  530  may be coupled to front surface  513  of receptacle  510 . Alternatively, marking surface  530  may be coupled to back surface  512  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  510 . Marking surface  530  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  530  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  510 . Marking surface  530  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  510 . Alternatively, marking surface  530  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  510 . Still alternatively, marking surface  530  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  510 . Still alternatively, marking surface  530  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  510 . Marking surface  530  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  530  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  510 . Marking surface  530  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  500  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  500  is needed. Marking surface  530  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  510 . 
       FIGS. 6A-6C  show one embodiment of a cannula holder  600 .  FIG. 6A  shows a front view of cannula holder  600 .  FIG. 6B  shows a rear view of cannula holder  600 .  FIG. 6C  shows cannula holder  600  in use with a nasal cannula. 
     Cannula holder  600  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Cannula holder  600  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. Cannula holder  600  is configured to help prevent a nasal cannula from coming into contact with unclean surfaces when not in use, helping to keep the nasal cannula clean. Cannula holder  600  prevents a nasal cannula from falling onto the floor or elsewhere when not in use. Cannula holder  600  provides an alternative to placing or hanging a nasal cannula on equipment, furniture, or elsewhere. Cannula holder  600  may be disposable, or may be cleaned and re-used. Cannula holder  600  may be sterilized using gamma sterilization or other methods, and packaged in sterile packaging and removed when ready to be used. 
     Cannula holder  600  may include a receptacle  610 , one or more coupling elements  620 , and one or more marking surfaces  630 . 
     Receptacle  610  may include an opening  611 , a back surface  612 , and a front surface  613 . Opening  611  may be configured to receive a nasal cannula. 
     Opening  611  may be configured to lay flat when not in use. Alternatively, opening  611  may be configured to remain at least slightly open to facilitate the insertion of a nasal cannula. Opening  611  may be kept at least slightly open with a stiffening element  615  such as a metal or plastic wire coupled at or near opening  611 . 
     Receptacle  610  may be rectangular, semicircular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. Receptacle  610  may be capable of being collapsed flat. Receptacle  610  may be configured to conform to a surface or location to which it is intended to be coupled. 
     Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which is breathable. Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture away from the medical equipment inside receptacle  610 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material which encourages the wicking of moisture from an inside of receptacle  610  to an outside of receptacle  610 , through capillary action and/or other mechanisms. Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a fabric or material with a low surface energy which reduces or discourages the beading or accumulation of moisture. 
     Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a mesh fabric made of polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable fabric. The mesh fabric may be breathable and allow air and moisture to escape. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern configured to reduce the likelihood of snagging or catching the nasal cannula, CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. For example, the mesh fabric may have circular or elliptical openings having a size of approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, with an open area of approximately 30-50%. The mesh fabric may have a mesh pattern and/or color that allows the contents of receptacle  610  to be at least partially visible. The mesh fabric may be a single layer, double layer, triple layer, or any other suitable type of weave that allows airflow but reduces the possibility of snagging on the medical equipment inserted into receptacle  610 . The mesh fabric may be made of a material that does not substantially weaken when exposed to moisture. The mesh fabric may be of a weight that is light, medium, heavy, or any suitable combination of weights. 
     The mesh fabric may be treated with an antimicrobial agent capable of inhibiting the growth of and/or kill microorganisms. The antimicrobial agent may include silver or any other suitable antimicrobial agent. The silver may be in the form of silver nanoparticles bound in a zeolite, calcium carbonate, ceramic, or other suitable matrix, applied to the mesh fabric. The mesh fabric may have inherent antimicrobial properties. The mesh fabric may be treated with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or other treatments. 
     Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of one or more nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics may include spunbond polypropylene fabrics available from DuPont, Surya Textech, Oxco, and others. The polypropylene fabrics may be 100% polypropylene or a polypropylene blend. In one embodiment, a polypropylene blend may include approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. In one embodiment, a polypropylene fabric used may have a weight from approximately 20 GSM to 100 GSM. 
     Alternatively, receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a plastic, paper/cellulose, metal, or any other suitable material. Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a material that is perforated or non-perforated. Receptacle  610  may be at least partially made of a flexible or rigid material. Any of these materials may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. 
     Receptacle  610  may be reinforced with a trim  614  along opening  611  and/or one or more edges. Trim  614  may be formed by folding over the fabric one or more times and stitched, glued, ultrasonically welded, and/or otherwise coupled to itself. Alternatively, trim  614  may be a separate piece of fabric. Opening  611  may be kept at least slightly open by shaping trim  614 . 
     Receptacle  610  may be configured to hold a nasal cannula. Receptacle  610  may be configured to enclose all, half, or any portion of a nasal cannula. Receptacle  610  may also be configured to hold a CPAP mask, BPAP mask, nebulizer mask, or any other piece of medical equipment. In one embodiment, receptacle  610  may have a length of approximately 4-15 inches and a width of approximately 4-15 inches. Receptacle  610  may be configured to be breathable to allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of the nasal cannula or other medical equipment. Receptacle  610  may be configured to inhibit the growth of microbes on a piece of medical equipment placed in receptacle  610 . 
     Coupling element  620  may include one or more straps  624  coupled to receptacle  610 . Straps  624  may be passed through one or more strap openings  626  formed through front surface  613  and/or back surface  612  of receptacle  610 . Strap openings  626  may be formed at or near the upper corners of receptacle  610 , at or near opening  611  of receptacle  610 , through trim  614 , or any other suitable location. Strap openings  626  may be slit-like, elongate, round, or any other suitable shape. Straps  624  may include one or more releasable couplings, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons and/or buttonholes, or any other suitable couplings. Straps  624  may be closed loops or may have free ends  625 . Free end  625  of one strap  624  may be releasably coupled to the same strap  624  or to another strap  624  coupled to receptacle  610 . For example, a hook-and-loop fastener on a free end  625  of one strap  624  may be configured to be coupled to another hook-and-loop fastener on the same strap  624  or to a hook-and-loop fastener on a free end  625  of another strap  624  coupled to receptacle  610 . 
     Coupling element  620  may be configured to allow receptacle  610  to be hung from an oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, rail, or any other suitable location. Coupling element  620  may be configured to hold up to 2 pounds, up to 3 pounds, up to 4 pounds, or up to 5 pounds. Coupling element  620  may be configured to be easily removed. Coupling element  620  may be reusable. Coupling element  620  may be detachable from receptacle  610 . 
     Marking surface  630  may be coupled to front surface  613  of receptacle  610 . Alternatively, marking surface  630  may be coupled to back surface  612  of receptacle, or any suitable portion of receptacle  610 . Marking surface  630  may be written on with a pen or other writing instrument. Marking surface  630  may include an ink, coating, or material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  610 . Marking surface  630  may include a writable ink, a rubberized or plasticized coating, or other material applied to at least a portion of receptacle  610 . Alternatively, marking surface  630  may include a label made of paper, fabric, or other suitable material stitched, glued, taped, or otherwise coupled to receptacle  610 . Still alternatively, marking surface  630  may include a hang tag tied with a string or otherwise coupled to receptacle  610 . Still alternatively, marking surface  630  may be a substantially smooth portion of receptacle  610 . Marking surface  630  may be pre-marked with a mark such as “DATE,” “NAME,” or any other suitable mark. 
     Marking surface  630  may allow a date to be written on receptacle  610 . Marking surface  630  may help indicate for how long a nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  600  has been in use, and may help act as a reminder that a new nasal cannula and/or cannula holder  600  is needed. Marking surface  630  may also allow patient name or any other information to be written on receptacle  610 . 
     Example 1 
       FIG. 7A  shows the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds and 1 hour in receptacles made of six different materials: (1) plastic, (2) a mesh fabric, (3) a copper-treated cotton fabric, (4) a first antimicrobial nonwoven fabric (A1), (5) a second antimicrobial nonwoven fabric (A2), and (6) a spunbond polypropylene fabric, 40 GSM. 
     Multiple pieces of nasal cannula tubing were contaminated with a bacteria,  S. epidermidis , and placed into each receptacle. After incubation periods of 5 seconds and 1 hour, a piece of tubing was removed from each receptacle and the concentration of bacteria (CFU/mL) estimated. Each estimate is the average concentration of two assays. The data for  FIG. 7A  are listed in TABLE 1. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Concentration vs. time, different materials 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Concentration (CFU/mL) 
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Label 
                 Description 
                 5 s 
                 1 h 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Plastic 
                 Plastic 
                 14000 
                 17600 
               
               
                 Mesh 
                 Mesh fabric 
                 7300 
                 840 
               
               
                 Copper 
                 Copper-treated cotton 
                 2600 
                 410 
               
               
                   
                 fabric 
               
               
                 A1 
                 Antimicrobial nonwoven 
                 5760 
                 5520 
               
               
                   
                 fabric #1 
               
               
                 A2 
                 Antimicrobial nonwoven 
                 4420 
                 1690 
               
               
                   
                 fabric #2 
               
               
                 Polypro 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 9900 
                 1220 
               
               
                   
                 (40 GSM) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     After one hour, the spunbond polypropylene had an approximately 88% drop in bacteria concentration. This compares to a 25% increase in bacteria concentration in a plastic bag. The performance of the spunbond polypropylene was comparable to that of the mesh fabric (approximately 88% drop) and the copper-treated cotton fabric (approximately 84% drop) in the inhibition of bacteria growth. 
     Example 2 
       FIG. 7B  shows the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds, 1 hour, and 2 hours in receptacles made of spunbond polypropylene fabrics of three different weights: 30 GSM, 50 GSM, and 60 GSM. In addition, receptacles made of plastic and a mesh fabric were included for comparison. 
     Multiple pieces of nasal cannula tubing were contaminated with a bacteria,  S. epidermidis , and placed into each receptacle. After incubation periods of 5 seconds, 1 hour, and 2 hours, a piece of tubing was removed from each receptacle and the concentration of bacteria (CFU/mL) estimated. Each estimate is the average concentration of two assays. The data for  FIG. 7B  are listed in TABLE 2. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Concentration vs. time, different weights 
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Concentration (CFU/mL) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Label 
                 Description 
                 5 s 
                 1 h 
                 2 h 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Plastic 
                 Plastic 
                 2460 
                 2540 
                 3180 
               
               
                 Mesh 
                 Mesh fabric 
                 2040 
                 260 
                 120 
               
               
                 30 GSM 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 4640 
                 360 
                 980 
               
               
                   
                 (30 GSM) 
               
               
                 50 GSM 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 6110 
                 1540 
                 750 
               
               
                   
                 (50 GSM) 
               
               
                 60 GSM 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 3880 
                 780 
                 50 
               
               
                   
                 (60 GSM) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     After one hour, the three weights had an approximately 92% drop (30 GSM), 75% drop (50 GSM), and 80% drop (60 GSM) in bacteria concentration. After two hours, the three weights had an approximately 79% drop (30 GSM), 88% drop (50 GSM), and 99% drop (60 GSM) in bacteria concentration. The use of heavier weights (50 GSM and 60 GSM) did not have an adverse effect on the inhibition of bacteria growth as compared to the lighter weights (40 GSM from EXAMPLE 1 and 30 GSM). 
     Example 3 
       FIGS. 7C-7D  shows the concentration of a bacteria at 5 seconds, 1 hour, and 2 hours in receptacles made of spunbond polypropylene fabrics from three different manufacturers: KM Corp., Hwaesong, South Korea (MFR 1); Cangnan Xuantong Craft &amp; Gift Co., Ltd., Wenzhou, China (MFR 2); and Maibao International Group Co., Ltd., Hong Kong (MFR 3). In addition, a receptacle made of plastic was included for comparison. The fabric from KM Corp. (MFR 1) was a polypropylene blend, comprising approximately 63% polypropylene, 23% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 8% viscose fiber, 2% acrylic acid, 1.5% polyamide, and 2.5% other materials. The fabrics from the other manufacturers were 100% polypropylene. 
     Multiple pieces of nasal cannula tubing were contaminated with a bacteria,  S. epidermidis , and placed into two sets of four receptacles. After incubation periods of 5 seconds and 1 hour, a piece of tubing was removed from each of the first set of receptacles and the concentration of bacteria (CFU/mL) estimated. The results for the first set of receptacles is shown in  FIG. 7C . After incubation periods of 5 seconds and 2 hours, a piece of tubing was removed from each of the second set of receptacles and the concentration of bacteria (CFU/mL) estimated. The results for the second set of receptacles is shown in  FIG. 7D . The data for  FIGS. 7C-7D  are listed in TABLES 3-4, respectively. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Concentration vs. time, different manufacturers 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Concentration (CFU/mL) 
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Label 
                 Description 
                 5 s 
                 1 h 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Plastic 
                 Plastic 
                 5580 
                 4480 
               
               
                 MFR 1 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 3940 
                 980 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 1) 
               
               
                 MFR 2 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 4220 
                 1160 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 2) 
               
               
                 MFR 3 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 4020 
                 1340 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 3) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Concentration vs. time, different manufacturers 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Concentration (CFU/mL) 
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Label 
                 Description 
                 5 s 
                 2 h 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Plastic 
                 Plastic 
                 5820 
                 3420 
               
               
                 MFR 1 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 4160 
                 700 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 1) 
               
               
                 MFR 2 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 3880 
                 620 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 2) 
               
               
                 MFR 3 
                 Spunbond polypropylene 
                 3760 
                 480 
               
               
                   
                 (MFR 3) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     After one hour, the fabrics from the three manufacturers had an approximately 75% drop (MFR 1), 73% drop (MFR 2), and 67% drop (MFR 3) in bacteria concentration. After two hours, the fabrics from the three manufacturers had an approximately 83% drop (MFR 1), 84% drop (MFR 2), and 87% drop (MFR 3) in bacteria concentration. Especially after two hours, the use of fabrics from different manufacturers did not have a large difference on the inhibition of bacteria growth. Also, the use of a polypropylene blend fabric (MFR 1) did not have an adverse effect on the inhibition of bacteria growth as compared to the 100% polypropylene fabrics (MFR 2, MFR 3). 
     While the foregoing has been with reference to particular embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes in these embodiments may be made without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention.