Tips For Cleaning Your CPAP Machine

The Importance of Cleaning Your Equipment

Your CPAP machine plays a vital role in your overall health and quality of life. It’s important to clean your CPAP to keep the machine functioning at an optimal level and to ensure its longevity. Regularly cleaning your CPAP can prevent premature breakdown and mineralization of the equipment.CPAP machine - How to clean your CPAP

By keeping your CPAP clean, you’ll also avoid skin rashes and infections that can occur due to bacteria build-up. If enough bacteria builds up on the mask, it can turn into a foul-smelling mold. This can pose a major threat to your health because breathing in mold can increase your risk for a sinus infection or pneumonia. 

The Steps to Cleaning Your CPAP

You’ll want to clean your headgear and the tubes daily, while the humidifier’s water chamber should be cleaned once a week. You’ll need a few items to clean your CPAP including warm water, mild soap, a clean towel, and a sink or tub. Cleaning your CPAP is simple and can be completed in a few steps:

  1. Unplug your CPAP
  2. Separate each part of the machine so you can thoroughly clean it– mask, tubing, connectors, headgear, and the humidifier chamber
  3. Wash the items in a sink or hot tub with mild dish soap
  4. Rinse your equipment with warm water
  5. Place the items on a clean towel to allow it to air dry

Once per week, you’ll want to soak the humidifier tubing in a solution that consists of one part vinegar and one part water for 15 to 20 minutes. If your equipment has filters, follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer– some can be rinsed, while others will need to be replaced. 

Like any routine, it will become quicker and easier as you get to know the components. Caring for your CPAP can prevent a myriad of issues down the line and provide you with a quality night’s sleep.

We’re Here to Help

If you need any additional care instructions or recommendations on cleaning products, contact Dr. Simmons by calling our Encino office at (818) 300-0070 and a knowledgeable team member will be happy to answer your questions.

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