It is important that CPAP masks, parts and machines are always kept in good condition. Proper cleaning and care for your CPAP equipment helps extend the lifespan of your device and ensures effective performance. Find out below just how to get your CPAP equipment sparkling clean each and every time.
Why Having a Clean CPAP Machine and Mask is Vital
CPAP parts collect bacteria and germs daily and clean air is vital for CPAP therapy success.
Prevents Infections:
CPAP machines create a warm, moist environment that can be a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microorganisms. These can cause infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Proper cleaning of CPAP equipment can help prevent the growth and spread of these harmful pathogens, reducing the risk of infections.
Ensures Effective Therapy:
A dirty CPAP machine can affect the effectiveness of therapy by reducing the airflow and causing leaks in the mask. This can cause the air pressure to drop, leading to snoring and interrupted sleep. Regular cleaning of CPAP equipment can prevent these issues and ensure that the therapy is delivered effectively.
Prolongs the Life of CPAP Equipment:
CPAP machines are expensive investments, and proper cleaning can help prolong their lifespan. The buildup of dirt and debris can damage the components of the machine, causing it to malfunction. Regular cleaning can help prevent this damage and keep the machine working properly for years to come.
How Often Should CPAP Equipment Be Cleaned?
There are specific care instructions you should follow to make sure you get the most out of your CPAP equipment and mask. These instructions range from what you should consider for your machine and mask daily, to even longer-term care weekly and monthly.
Daily Cleaning:
After you wake up, it’ll be in your best interest to clean your mask in the morning. Why? While most masks are made from silicone, cleaning your mask in the morning with soapy water ensures that you allow the mask enough time to dry completely.
- Disconnect the mask from any tubing.
- Dissemble each part of the mask and remove the headgear.
- Place the mask and headgear in the warm soapy water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Rinse each piece thoroughly with clean water and hang out of direct sunlight to air dry.
- Let each part dry completely before wearing again that night.
Pro tip: Use CPAP cleansing wipes every morning, especially if you’re always rushing and on the go. Quickly wipe down the mask with one of these in the morning and you’re ready for a bacteria-free night. Regular use of wipes can effectively remove the build-up of dirt, grease and oils; and is a great daily alternative when you’re on the go.
Weekly Cleaning:
The tubing should be cleaned weekly using a mixture of mild soap and warm water.
- Place the tube in warm water and mild detergent. Let it swirl around for at least 5 minutes.
- Use a tube brush to scrub the length of the hose thoroughly to remove any built-up deposits that may be trapped.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Hang on a towel rack to let it fully dry.
Unscented or mild soap, or vinegar, is a low-cost and safe option to clean your tubing. By simply placing the tube in warm water with mild soap and swirl the tube in the water solution. It’ll then be very important to hang the tubing to dry in order to speed up the air-drying process.
If your machine comes with a humidifier or a water chamber, it is important that you don’t neglect this part of your unit. A water chamber should ideally be cleaned at least once a week to ensure that calcium and other minerals don’t build up on the surface. Here is how:
- Remove the water chamber from the CPAP machine unit.
- Using hot, soapy water or a mixture of distilled vinegar and water, wipe down the humidifier chamber.
- Allow to air dry for at least one hour or as long as needed.
Remember, it is important that you only use distilled water for water chambers or unless instructed otherwise by the manufacturer guidelines.
Monthly Cleaning:
The machine's filters should be replaced regularly, following the manufacturer's instructions. Dirty filters can reduce the airflow and cause the machine to work harder, leading to faster wear and tear.
When it comes to cleaning your CPAP filter, this will depend on the filter type you have for your machine. Be sure to check the model of your machine to be certain. It may not necessary to do this monthly unless a specific circumstance calls for it.
Some reusable filters can be cleaned with water, dried and used again with these steps:
- Remove the filters from the back of your CPAP machine.
- Rinse them gently under warm water and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Using a clean dry towel, blot the filters dry and leave flat on a surface to air dry.
Remember: You can only use reusable filters up until a certain point (even if you wash them regularly). Eventually, they will deteriorate. When that begins to happen, you need to replace them.
However, many machines will allow you to replace the filter completely with a new disposable one; making for an easy and quick step in your ongoing maintenance.
Don't forget to keep the outside of the device clean as well:
- Always unplug the machine first.
- Gently wipe the outside casing of the machine with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
- Dry gently with a clean towel.
Top CPAP Cleaning Hacks to Use
Use Distilled Water:
Using distilled water in the humidifier can prevent mineral buildup and extend the life of the machine.
Use CPAP Wipes to Clean Masks:
Think you need a whole array of specialized cleaning products? All you really need for cleaning a CPAP mask is soapy water and a clean cloth. Or if you're pressed for time, use CPAP cleansing wipes.
Cleaning CPAP Hose and Tubing:
Want to make sure that your CPAP hose is fully dry? Plug the tubing back into your machine and turn on the unit for a few minutes. Doing this will help to completely “blow dry” the inside of the tubing before use.
Replacing CPAP Filters More Often:
Disposable CPAP filters should be replaced at least every 1 to 6 months or as needed. You may find, depending on whether you live with animals or if you smoke, that filters will need to replaced sooner than this.
Best CPAP Sanitizers to Have in Your Cleaning Arsenal:
We always recommend you find time to manually clean your CPAP equipment on a regular basis. But we also know that you are only human. Another pro tip is to use a CPAP cleaner and sanitizer. The Lumin UV Light Sanitizer is great for this purpose.
Not only will this CPAP cleaner easily sanitizer all CPAP parts including your mask, tubing, machine and water chamber in as little as 5 minutes. It also is believed to be the easiest and safest way to disinfect your CPAP equipment. All you have to do is connect the sanitizer to your machine and it does all the work.
In Summary
Proper cleaning of your CPAP equipment is one of the most important routines in your sleep therapy. There are things you'll need to do daily, weekly and monthly to ensure you're continuing to get effective treatment. While all CPAP supplies have their recommended replacement schedules, regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of these products.
