CPAP Hygiene: Keeping It Clean
Proper upkeep of your CPAP machine can help ensure the device functions properly. Keeping it as clean as possible is a vital aspect from the hoses, tubes, and masks to avoid mold and bacteria build-up.
But how to clean your CPAP and how often should you do the cleaning? Well, stay right there as we prepare the tips for keeping your CPAP clean.
Steps To A Cleaner Machine:
- Disassemble the parts of the CPAP machine. Unplug your CPAP machine from its power source, as there may be a danger of electrical shock if you do not. Disconnect your mask from the CPAP tubing. If your mask has a headgear, remove or detach it. If there are other pieces that are easily reattached, these also can be separated. Remove the CPAP tubing from any connectors, the humidifier output, or from the CPAP machine itself, if it connects directly. If you have one, remove the water chamber from the humidifier unit of the CPAP machine, and separate it into its pieces if these are present (and if this is easily done). Most modern water chambers open but may not separate into different parts.
- Take a soft cloth and wet it with warm water. Gently wipe down the external surface of the CPAP machine to remove dust. (Again, make certain it is unplugged while cleaning.)
- Fill a small sink, tub, or basin with warm water. Add a small amount of gentle dish soap. Some will even use a little vinegar in the water (diluted to a ratio of 1:1 with water), but this is optional. Submerge the mask, headgear, tubing, and any connectors in the warm soapy water. Allow it to soak for a short period of time (about 30 minutes). Alternatively, wipe out the mask with a soft cloth and warm water, and swish soapy water through the tubing. Allow everything to air dry on a towel or by hanging (such as over the shower curtain rod in the bathroom). These items should ideally be cleaned every day, but make an effort to do it at least weekly. The humidifier's water chamber should be cleaned with hot water and mild soap. It should also be allowed to air dry.
- Some CPAP machines have filters in place. It will be important to review your manufacturer’s instructions or ask your equipment provider about how these should be maintained. Some can be rinsed but others must be replaced, and the timing of this will vary depending on the environment you use the machine in. The replacement of disposable filters should generally be done at least monthly and perhaps as frequently as every 2 weeks.
- Finally, after everything has been allowed to air dry, reassemble the various parts. Apply the headgear to your mask, hook the mask back onto the tubing and any connectors, and connect the tubing back to the humidifier or directly to the CPAP machine. Turn the machine on briefly and listen for any air leaks that weren’t there previously.
We know cleaning it daily, weekly and monthly following all these steps are quite a hassle so we have researched a better and much easier way to keep the hygiene of your CPAP. We come to a great product known as CPAP Cleaner & Sanitizer. This uses a UV/Ozone cleaning methods comes with this fast and easy to use CPAP materials cleaner. The one-touch operation features a light that turns on when the disinfection cycle starts and automatically shuts off after 5 minutes of use. It is easy to use yet very safe for us and also for taking care of your CPAP machines. This may sound much techy but this CPAP cleaner by VastMedic is very affordable. You can check the product if ever you would love to try the easiest way to upkeep your CPAP to help you breathe better for a longer time. Remember that just a few minutes a day can help keep your CPAP running efficiently for years to come.
Resources:
https://vastmedic.com/products/cpap-cleaner-and-sanitizer
https://www.usa.philips.com/c-e/hs/better-sleep-breathing-blog/better-sleep/keeping-it-clean-cpap.html
https://www.sleepassociation.org/sleep-treatments/cpap-machines-masks/how-to-clean-your-cpap/
