Your CPAP machine makes a huge difference in your life. It allows you to breathe freely throughout the night so you can wake up every morning feeling refreshed and ready to face the day. It’s essential to maintain it properly to make sure it functions properly, providing the relief you need.
Read our guide to learn how to clean your CPAP machine so it continues to work as effectively as possible.
Why It’s Important to Clean Your CPAP Machine
In order to treat your sleep apnea, it’s crucial to use your CPAP machine every night while you sleep. Since the mask goes directly over your face, it’s likely that bacteria will be transferred from your mouth to the machine.
CPAP also uses water to operate, and this can cause additional bacteria to build up as well. It’s essential to prevent mold from developing inside the machine. If this happens, not only will it start to develop an odor, but there’s also a possibility that you can become ill from breathing in the bacteria.
How to Clean Your CPAP
Your CPAP machine consists of multiple parts, and it’s important to clean each one thoroughly. Dr. Lauck recommends cleaning the system daily, with the exception of your headgear — that can be cleaned weekly.
Every machine includes lists of products that should and shouldn’t be used to clean it, so make sure to read the instruction manual and review those recommendations carefully.
Follow these steps to ensure you clean each part to the best of your ability:
Step 1: Separate each part of the machine so you can clean them completely — this includes the mask, tubing, connectors, headgear, and the humidifier chamber.
Step 2: Wipe down each part using either a wet cloth or cleaning wipes made specifically for CPAP machines.
Step 3: Fill a sink or tub with a mild detergent or vinegar solution, and soak your tube and mask for at least five minutes.
Step 4: Rinse the parts with warm water to remove the cleaning solution.
Step 5: Set each part aside to air dry, and refill the water chamber once it’s dry.
Contact Dr. Lauck With Additional Questions
Your CPAP machine is a complex yet effective system that will treat your sleep apnea, but it’s important to clean it thoroughly to keep it free of harmful bacteria. If you have any questions about which cleaning products you should be using on your system, don’t hesitate to contact us at (817) 431-6764. We’re here to help.