Cleaning Your CPAP Equipment

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A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is the most commonly prescribed device for treating sleep apnea disorders. According to Sleep8, there are more than 8 million CPAP users in the United States, and the numbers are increasing 8 to 9 percent every year.

CPAP machines are an effective way to treat sleep apnea. The CPAP sends a steady flow of oxygen into your nose and mouth as you sleep, which keeps your airways open and allows you to breathe normally, helping improve your quality of sleep.

While CPAP machines provide relief for sleep apnea, they do require persistent cleaning and care. Frequent cleaning can remove mold, dust, debris and germs that build up, helping you feel better, not worse.

According to ResMed, it is essential to regularly clean your mask, air tubing and humidifier tube to get the most out of your CPAP machine. Daily cleaning can take up to 5 minutes and requires a sink or tub, warm water, mild soap and a clean towel. Although not all pieces of your CPAP machine need to be cleaned or replaced daily, some elements require care monthly, every three months, every six months, and bi-yearly.  

Daily Cleaning and Care

·      Clean your CPAP mask cushion. At night, your skin releases oils that can hinder the performance of the seal and mask on your CPAP machine. Therefore, you will want to clean your mask cushion every morning to eliminate any oils on the mask.

·      Clean your CPAP mask. Wash your CPAP mask by hand daily using gentle soap and warm water.

·      Clean your humidifier water chamber. After each use, gently rinse out your water chamber and scrub with warm water and gentle soap.

Monthly Cleaning and Care

·      Check mask cushion or pillows. Your mask cushion and pillows can sometimes deteriorate over extensive use. It is essential to check mask cushions and pillows to make sure they are still in good shape and working correctly.

·      Replace your filter. Over time your filter can build up with dust which can interfere with the quality of treatment. We recommend you change the filter in your CPAP machine twice a month. 

Three Month Cleaning and Care

·      Examine your air tubing. Make sure that your air tubing is still intact. Look for small holes or tears that can cause air leaks. If you find any disruption to your air tubing, you should replace it immediately.

Every Six Months

·      Check your headgear and chin straps.  Examine your straps to make sure that they have not lost their elasticity. Replace the parts that are causing discomfort or that are no longer fitting.

·      Replace your water chamber. Aside from cleaning your water chamber daily, we recommend replacing it every six months.

Every Two Years

·      Get your CPAP machine tested. It is important to have your machine tested to ensure that you receive the correct air pressure and that your CPAP machine is working for your benefit.

Have questions or think you might need a CPAP machine?

At FusionSleep®, we have dedicated our entire medical practice to helping patients get their lives back through healthy sleep. We offer various sleep solutions, along with in-lab and at-home sleep testing options and virtual appointments on our established telemedicine platform.  Contact us today on our website or by calling 678.990.3962.

 

Lisa Driscoll