Sleep apnea is a serious breathing disorder that is typically treated with a CPAP machine. It is important to clean and maintain CPAP devices regularly to keep them functioning effectively as a treatment for sleep apnea. Masks, tubing, and other parts that deliver and breathe in air throughout the night are very important to keep clean.
Maintaining a clean CPAP machine on a daily basis can help guarantee that using it improves rather than worsens your health. CPAP cleaners are also available but they have significant safety concerns. Though it may appear difficult to clean every day, it actually only takes a few minutes and can be easily included into your routine. Here’s how often you should clean your CPAP machine.
Why do you need to clean your CPAP machine?
There are a number of benefits to maintaining a regular schedule of CPAP cleaning. Including regular maintenance into your routine can help in following ways:
1. Better seal:
Cleaning your CPAP mask regularly is essential to ensuring that it fits properly and does not fall off during the night. The effectiveness of your CPAP device will be diminished if you are unable to create a tight seal between the mask and your face. Therefore, you may find yourself waking up frequently throughout the night because your airway is unable to remain open. Surely this decreases any benefits from using a CPAP machine.
2. There is less exposure to germs:
You wouldn’t believe the number of bacteria that might potentially grow on and in your CPAP machine. They can reproduce on the mask, in the hoses, and in the humidifier itself. Ensuring that your CPAP is regularly cleaned is a simple method to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful bacteria and germs while you sleep.
3. Improved overall health:
By reducing your exposure to harmful bacteria and germs, you can improve your health. CPAP machines have been linked to an increased risk of pneumonia, possibly because they expose the user to bacteria and viruses while sleeping. Make CPAP cleaning a priority to reduce the risk of this infection and others.
How often should CPAP equipment be cleaned?
Following these guidelines will help you get the most out of your CPAP machine and mask. These guidelines cover everything from daily machine and mask maintenance to more extensive weekly and monthly upkeep.
Daily:
It is recommended that you wash your mask each morning after waking up. Why? Since most masks are made of silicone, taking the time to wash it in the morning will ensure that it dries thoroughly before use. This means it’s back in working order just in time for bedtime. You can let your CPAP mask air dry, but drying it with a clean cloth will ensure it is dry before you use it again that night.
But suppose you’re someone who’s always on the go. It’s not always possible to clean your mask every morning. For this reason, purchasing CPAP wipes is also a smart move. Wipes are an excellent daily alternative when you’re on the go because they can effectively eliminate the buildup of dirt, grease, and oils.
Weekly:
To keep your CPAP equipment working and looking like new, it is necessary to clean the hose once a week. Washing the mask every day is an excellent method for maintaining your CPAP mask.
Cleaning your tube with vinegar or unscented soap is a cheap and risk-free solution. Simply submerge the tube in warm water and add a few drops of detergent or vinegar before giving it a good spin. In order to hasten the air-drying process, it will be crucial to suspend the tubing to dry.
Monthly:
How often you should clean your CPAP filter is going to vary depending on the filter that you use. You should double-check the machine’s model to be sure. The recommended interval between filter changes is every six months. Some filters can be reused after being washed in water and allowed to dry.
While routine cleaning will certainly help your CPAP machine last longer, it’s also important to know when it’s time to replace key parts. Since the mask and tubing can wear out with time, it’s recommended that you replace them every six months for maximum effectiveness.
