CLEANING YOUR CPAP
MASK/INTERFACE CLEANING
People often do not clean their masks properly, or at all. This allows the oils from your face, bacteria, mold, fungus, and germs to accumulate and cause the interface to deteriorate, resulting in poor fit and lack of quality sleep. Also, lack of cleaning can result in infections and skin irritation.
Masks/interfaces should have the cushion and mask parts cleaned and wiped down at least twice a week. Masks should be washed in warm soapy water. Alcohol should be avoided as a cleaner. Allow the mask/interface and parts to air dry and avoid letting them sit in direct sunlight. This process should be done in the morning so it is dry by the time you go to bed. Replace your mask/interface every 3 to 6 months. Replace mask cushions and nasal pillows every 2-4 months.
HEADGEAR/STRAP CLEANING
The headgear and straps should be cleaned weekly. Sweat and oil from your hair build up and need to be removed. Warm soapy water should be used to clean any type of headgear. You will notice it fading and stretching over time. The Velcro will eventually stop sticking. Replace your headgear every 6 months.
TUBING
Tubing should be cleaned weekly using warm soapy water. Swish the soapy water through the tube. It’s best to fill up the sink with the warm, soapy water and let it soak. Rinse the tubing with clean water and allow to air dry. Hang the tubing with the ends facing down so the water will drain. If you have a cold or infection, clean your tubing more often. Tubing should be replaced every 3 months.
WATER CHAMBERS
You should always use distilled water during usage to help prevent mineral build up. Tap water in your chamber causes an accumulation of minerals that will become corrosive and wear out the water chamber and cause it to leak. The warm, moist environment of the chamber promotes rapid growth of mold, fungus, bacteria, and other germs. Cleaning the water chamber is the most important part of equipment maintenance. Twice a week, the chamber should be hand washed in warm soapy water. Chambers should be replaced every 6 months.
FILTERS
Filters are the key to a CPAP/Bi-level blowers’ longevity. Because they are located on the side of the machine, they are often overlooked and forgotten about. Cleaning and replacing the filters is very important.
Non disposable reusable filters– (Dark Blue) These should be cleaned monthly. They should be washed with warm soapy water and allowed to air dry.
Ultra-fine disposable filters-(Light Blue) These are located underneath the dark blue filters. They should not be washed but changed every 2 weeks. Refer to your blower unit manual for proper filters and replacement intervals.
