Cleaning Your CPAP: The Best Way

Jan 17, 2020
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CPAP machine uses a hose and mask or nosepiece to deliver constant and steady air pressure. Common problems with CPAP include a leaky mask, trouble falling asleep, stuffy nose and a dry mouth this is due to negligence in cleaning and sanitizing your machine as recommended. It is also the same when you things moldy, its a sign of bacteria building up on your CPAP so cleaning is really a must. But how often and how should you do the cleaning?

It’s important to clean your equipment as specified in your product instructions. Poor maintenance can make your sleep therapy ineffective and damage your equipment. Doing the regular daily, weekly and monthly cleaning and sanitizing for each part is the recommended but it’s quite a hassle for most. So most people rely on cleaning and sanitizing tools like Vastmedic CPAP Cleaner.

Here is what you need for cleaning:

Warm, clean water.
A mild soap or dish detergent.
Clean, dry towels.
Vinegar.
Space to allow your equipment to dry.

And the best part of this article is to take note of what cleaning methods you should avoid:

Do not place anything in your humidifier besides distilled water. Unclean water could cause mineral build up and increase your risk of getting sick. Also, essential oils or CBD drops have chemical additives that could break down your CPAP supplies, leading to cracks and air leaks.
Do not put your equipment in the dishwasher. Some items, like the humidifier, may be dishwasher safe, but other items like your mask and tubing probably aren’t. Refer to your CPAP manual before even considering placing anything in the dishwasher.
Avoid cleaning your equipment with harsh chemicals. Only use certified CPAP cleaning devices and soaps or mild dish detergents to avoid inhaling residue left behind like alcohol, ammonia, or bleach.
Never place your headgear in the washing machine or dryer. Doing so could stretch it out, then it may not fit correctly anymore and it could rip!
Do not mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar in an attempt to make your own cleaner. It creates a peracetic acid that could irritate your skin and eyes as well as cause damage to your lungs.

Remember it is best to maintain the cleaning cycle of your CPAP devices to achieve its best performance and prolong its product life but always keep in mind that you should clean it the right way with the right cleaning devices!

Resources:

https://vastmedic.com/products/cpap-cleaner-and-sanitizer

https://www.cheapcpapsupplies.com/blog/best-ways-to-clean-your-cpap/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/in-depth/cpap/art-20044164

https://www.sleepapnea.com/treatment/cpap-therapy/

https://www.quora.com/Are-CPAP-cleaning-machines-legit-Are-they-worth-the-300-cost