CPAP Cleaning Best Practices: Everything You Need To Know

CPAP therapy can make a huge difference in the lives of sleep apnea sufferers. Using a CPAP is the primary treatment method for most sleep apnea patients. So proper use and care of these machines is vital to their performance.

Cleaning CPAP equipment regularly is very important, but many people simply don’t know much about proper CPAP cleaning. In this guide, we’ll go over how to clean a CPAP machine and give you all the info you need to know.

CPAP Cleaning Basics

• All CPAP equipment should be kept as clean as possible
• It’s best to use mild soaps and warm water
• You’ll want to clean components in the morning, to give ample time for them to dry
• You can also use a white vinegar solution to soak CPAP equipment for a deeper clean
• CPAP cleaning is important, but does not end the need to regularly replace CPAP components

How To Clean A CPAP Mask

CPAP masks are made of a soft, flexible material called silicone. Silicone allows for optimal comfort, but the softness of the material means that it breaks down pretty quickly – especially if it’s not cared for properly. If you’re wondering how to clean a CPAP mask, here are some tips:

• The mask pillow should be washed daily/every other day, using a mild soap and warm water
• You can also purchase CPAP mask wipes to make this easier
• After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before use
• Once a week, prepare a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts warm water, and soak your CPAP mask in the solution
• CPAP headgear/straps can be washed as needed (every 1-2 weeks, generally). Wash by hand and air dry
• Avoid using facial moisturizers on your nose, as the oil can cause your mask to break down faster.
• Follow manufacturer recommendations for component replacement

How To Clean A CPAP Hose

The hose is made of a more durable material than the mask, but is nonetheless subject to wear and tear and should be cleaned regularly. Follow the tips below for CPAP hose cleaning:

• CPAP tubing should be washed weekly
• Submerge the tubing in a sink full of warm water and mild soap, and allow to soak for a few minutes
• Rinse very well, shaking off the excess water
• Allow to air dry before use
• Hint: if there is some water left in your hose and you need to use it, you may be able to dry it out by attaching it to your CPAP and turning on the air flow. If it automatically turns off, try activating the “mask fit” setting to keep the air flowing through the tube.

SEE ALSO: The Best CPAP Cleaner: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

How To Clean A CPAP Machine & Other Parts

The CPAP machineVerified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View source itself is significantly more durable and should last for many years if properly cared for. That said, you still need to clean certain components regularly.

• The CPAP humidifier water chamber should be emptied and cleaned daily with mild soapy water
• Once a week, soak the water chamber in a vinegar solution of two parts vinegar to three parts water. Let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
• CPAP air filters should be cleaned and replaced on a regular basis. Check your machine owner’s manual for details, as cleaning recommendations vary based on the type of filter used.
• Some water chambers are dishwater safe, but be sure to double-check this. The humidifier chamber should also be replaced every six months. However, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for replacements.
• The CPAP machine itself does not typically need to be cleaned, but you can dust it with a damp cloth as needed.
• Never use bleach or harsh chemicals to wash CPAP components.
• When you’re finished washing, let the parts dry in direct sunlight.
• When traveling or camping, take CPAP cleaner with you, along with other necessary accessories like a portable battery. Cleaning your CPAP machine while camping ensures you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle outdoors activities.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattresses for Sleep Apnea

Frequently Asked Questions

Do CPAP machines really need to be cleaned?

Yes, cleaning a CPAP machine is crucial for keeping it in peak operational condition. Not cleaning your CPAP machine can allow it to harbor germs and irritants, causing a rash or skin infection.

Parts should be cleaned weekly, and it’s smart to rinse the mask and hose on a daily basis. You should also clean the parts daily when you’re sick, to keep the disease from lingering in your machine.

What should I avoid cleaning my CPAP machine with?

Do not try cleaning your CPAP machine with bleach, chlorine, alcohol-based solutions, scented oils, or moisturizing soaps. These products can degrade the machine’s parts and cause you discomfort when you use your CPAP.

We instead recommend cleaning your CPAP with a specialty CPAP cleaner or with gently warm water and mild dish soap. You can also disinfect parts with a “two parts vinegar to three parts water” solution, discarding the vinegar water after use.

What happens if your CPAP runs out of water?

The CPAP machine will continue running even without water in the humidification chamber. Without a humidifier, you’re more likely to wake up with a dry mouth. If you set the machine at a higher humidifier temperature and higher CPAP pressure, it will use more water. If you need high CPAP pressure, try lowering the humidifier temperature to preserve the tank’s water supply.

How often should you clean your CPAP?

You should do a thorough cleaning of your CPAP machine once a week and do a little light cleaning every morning after using it. Wiping down the mask and cushion and rinsing out the hose can easily be added to your morning routine. Your weekly cleaning should have you properly washing the mask, tubing, and water tank of your machine.

Do I need to change the water in my CPAP daily?

Yes, you need to switch out the water in your CPAP humidification chamber. Re-uring the water can allow microorganisms to flourish, making you sick. You also can’t just use any water, as ordinary tap water can cause minerals to build up in the CPAP machine. Instead, use only distilled water in your CPAP machine.

Conclusion

CPAP cleaning can be a pain, but it’s a necessary part of keeping your machine in tip-top condition. Handwashing components with gentle soap and warm water keeps them in good condition for hassle-free CPAP therapy. If you have any questions about cleaning CPAP equipment, don’t hesitate to ask!