Tonya,
I have a permanent trach so don't know if that is different. Mucous is worst after I get up in the am. If he leans over when he coughs, it helps to get it up. Also, if it is coming up in strings, use a long handled Qtip, put it in hole in neck horizontal to floor and cough. He should be able to catch the string on the Qtip and then wind it out of the neck. Also, does he have the pink saline squirts? Squirting some of this down neck helps loosen the mucous. The less he has to use to suction machine, the better as it irritates the trach. A good hot shower in the morning with the bathroom door closed is also good for loosing up the stuff. If he can't shower himself just yet, sit in the bathroom with all the moisture after someone else has showered. Hope some of this helps.

Take care,
Eileen