Learning how to clean your CPAP equipment is important in your therapy for sleep apnea. The standard treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP Machine. When one first begins to use a CPAP Machine, there is often a degree of information overload. After learning about the diagnosis, one is usually sent to a private company or provider of durable medical equipment to get a CPAP Machine and other associated items. At this time, instructions should be given on how to clean this equipment.

 

 

What You Need:

• CPAP Equipment (mask, headgear, tubing, humidifier, CPAP machine)
• Soft Cloth
• Warm Water
• Dish Soap (mild antibacterial)
• Small sink, tub or basin
• Towel

Time Required – 45 Minutes

Difficulty: EASY

Here’s How:

1. Unplug your CPAP Machine from its power source as there might be a danger of electrical shock if you do not.
2. Although there are many type of masks that can be used with a CPAP Machine, these generally deliver air through the nose or mouth. Rather than providing a separate instruction for each type, all of these should be generically called a mask. Disconnect your mask from the CPAP tubing. If your mask has a headgear, detach it. If there are other pieces that can be easily reattached, these can also be separated.
3. Remove the CPAP tubing from any connectors, the humidifier or from the CPAP Machine itself, if it is connected directly.
4. If you have one, remove the humidifier unit from the CPAP Machine and separate it into its pieces.
5. Take a soft cloth and wet it with warm water. Gently wipe down the external surface of the CPAP Machine.
6. Fill a small sink, tub or basin with warm water. Add a small amount of gentle dish soap.
7. Submerge the mask, headgear, tubing and connectors in the warm soapy water. Allow it to soak for a short period of time (30 minutes) then alternatively wipe out the mask with a soft cloth and warm water and swish soapy water through the tubing. Allow everything to air dry on a towel. These items should ideally be cleaned everyday.
8. Some CPAP Machines have a filter in place. It will be important to review your manufacturer’s instructions or ask your equipment provider about how these should be maintained. Some could be rinsed out but others should be replaced, the timing of this will vary depending on the environment that you are using the machine in.
9. Finally, after everything has been allowed to air dry, reassemble the various parts. Turn the machine on briefly and listen for any air leaks that weren’t there previously.
10. If you find that your sleep apnea symptoms have returned or you feel like your machine is not working right, bring it in to your equipment provider and have things checked out.

TIPS:

1. If you have recently been sick, you have to clean your equipment more often.
2. Follow your medical equipment provider’s as well as your manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your CPAP equipment.
3. Never clean your CPAP equipment on a dishwasher or washing machine.

With these simple tips on cleaning and maintaining your CPAP equipment, you will assuredly have a much better CPAP therapy experience. Remember that you can always contact us – Austin Medical Supply Inc. for any of your CPAP needs or questions at (888) 738-5788.