Regular CPAP cleaning is important to help prevent the risk of respiratory infections that can develop in some cases if the CPAP machine is not well maintained.
The CPAP machine works to keep the flow of air into the users’ airways when in use, and this air is typically humidified. When the air is humidified, this can be a breeding ground for bacteria to grow on the CPAP equipment. If the CPAP machine or equipment gets contaminated, the user runs the risk of inhaling this contamination when they breathe. If left untreated, users can become sick and even suffer from allergy symptoms.
Besides the health risks associated with frequent cleaning, the CPAP machine itself can slow in performance if not regularly maintained. To help keep the durability and the CPAP machine running at peak performance, an effective cleaning routine is required.
So let’s dive in and take a look at the best way to clean a CPAP machine.
Cleaning a CPAP Machine
As we have mentioned above, cleaning your CPAP supplies can extend the life and performance of your machine whilst helping to ensure as a user you are not breathing in any contaminated air. The same is equally important for the CPAP mask as oils and dead skin cells can build up on the mask which causes irritation and a poor mask seal if left unclean.
Steps to Cleaning a CPAP Machine
Manufacturers recommend cleaning your CPAP machine at least once a week, and if you’re sick a daily clean will be required.
To clean your CPAP machine effectively, our team at CPAP Ontario recommends the following as a guideline for cleaning your equipment:
Step 1
Before cleaning your CPAP machine, we recommend cleaning your supplies in the morning so you have enough time for the equipment to air dry out. This way, your CPAP machine will be ready and functioning for your evening’s sleep later on in the day.
Step 2
The first thing to do when you set out to clean your CPAP machine is to unplug the device and dismantle each part of the equipment. Once dismantled, we recommend wiping down the machine exterior with a clean cloth to remove any dust.
Step 3
Next, wash the CPAP mask first before moving on to the water chamber and CPAP tubing. When cleaning, make sure to use warm soapy water for a deeper clean of every part of the machine.
Step 4
The final step is to rinse the CPAP hose and other supplies in clean warm water.
Vinegar is a good natural disinfectant to use in addition after the equipment has been washed. For extra cleaning, soak the CPAP equipment in vinegar for 30 minutes, which is sure to help with your cleaning routine.
Once all supplies have been washed and rinsed, the final task is to allow for the CPAP machine to air dry out for a couple of hours.
CPAP Cleaning Products
To help fast track the regular cleaning process of your CPAP, we recommend some of the following CPAP specific cleaning products:
CPAP Wipes
You can reduce the build-up on your mask and machine by using CPAP wipes. At CPAP Ontario we offer a range of CPAP wipes designed for your CPAP machine on our website here.
These wipes should not replace your normal weekly cleaning but can help reduce the build-up of debris to make cleaning quicker.
CPAP Mask Cleaner
At CPAP Ontario we believe mask cleaning is important for the health and safety of our customers. We offer the following Lumin CPAP specialized mask cleaner through our website here.
For a breakdown of all our CPAP-specific cleaning products, please visit our cleaning accessories range here.
Cleaning Tips for the CPAP Machine
The following are some tips to keep in mind when cleaning your CPAP machine:
- Avoid using boiling water for your CPAP mask and CPAP supplies
- Don’t use bleach or harsh cleaning chemicals on the equipment
- Always remember to separate the CPAP machine from the humidifier chamber
Ontario CPAP
CPAP Ontario is dedicated to providing affordable Sleep Apnea equipment to those who need sleep therapy in Canada. We offer products and equipment that is specifically made to help people in Canada improve sleep at an affordable price.
Millions of Canadians have trouble sleeping or suffer from issues relating to sleep. At CPAP Ontario we offer solutions to your sleeping issues with a wide range of products that include advanced technical machinery, masks, and accessories. For more information on Sleep Apnea in general, and for a breakdown of all our products available, visit our product range here.
