Your CPAP machine allows you to breathe without sleep apnea-related complications for healthier rest every night. Cleaning this essential machine prevents dust and other allergens from accumulating and triggering reactions. It also keeps mold and bacteria from building up and causing further health issues, and removes irritating skin oils and cells from the device mask. To help you clean your equipment, review the following guide. 

How to Clean Your CPAP Equipment

1. Clean Some Parts Daily, Others Weekly 

Since your CPAP machine’s mask and mask cushion or pillow are in close contact with your nose, they require daily cleaning to prevent germs from building up. You’ll also want to empty and dry the humidifier chamber daily and clean it weekly; the hose and reusable filters also benefit from weekly cleaning. Never use harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia to clean the equipment, since they can leave toxic residue behind. 

2. Use Mild Soap & White Vinegar

A soapy water mixture cleans your equipment thoroughly. For more powerful disinfecting, such as when you’re sick, use white vinegar. Fill a clean sink or basin with a warm, soapy water mixture for regular cleaning and submerge the mask, tubing, filters, and headgear for about 30 minutes. Clean the humidifier’s water chamber with soapy water as well. If you are disinfecting with white vinegar, soak the parts using a solution that’s 1 part vinegar and three parts water. Submerge the headgear, mask, and tubing for about 30 minutes. Do not clean your filters with vinegar to avoid damage. Rinse each part completely with water after cleaning. 

3. Allow Each Part to Fully Dry 

Cleaning your CPAP parts in the morning gives them sufficient time to dry. Hang the tubing for efficient drying, such as over your shower curtain rod, and place the other parts on a soft, clean towel for optimal absorption. A soft cushion also keeps the parts from sustaining chips or cracks via hard surfaces. Avoid placing the parts in direct sunlight, since they can become discolored, or near any other heat source that can cause plastic components to melt. You can also use a lint-free towel to dry the parts quickly without the risk of lint residue. Such towels remove calcified deposits at the bottom of the humidifier water chamber as well. 

For quality CPAP equipment replacements, contact Hometown Medical in Flowood, MS. This company offers a diverse range of medical equipment to help area residents enjoy better health, including products covered by insurance. Call (601) 933-4699 today with questions or review  a complete service list online. Get more tips on Facebook.