Cleaning and Maintenance of CPAP Equipment

Q:  How often should I clean my mask and CPAP equipment?

A:  It is important that your CPAP equipment is cleaned regularly.  A few minutes spent each day will improve the lifespan of your equipment and will also ensure that the therapy is hygienic.

DAILY

It is essential that every morning your mask is hand-washed in warm soapy water, thoroughly rinsed with clean water and allowed to air dry out of direct sunlight.  Avoid using harsh detergents or products that contain bleach, alcohol or antibacterial agents as these may damage your equipment.  Liquid soap or baby shampoo are recommended.

Disconnect the tubing from the machine/ humidifier and hang over a towel rack or door handle to allow it to dry.  The water tank should also be removed from the humidifier every morning and washed with a mild detergent.  It should not be replaced until you are ready to use your PAP device again.

WEEKLY

Separate the components of your mask (including the headgear) and thoroughly clean in warm soapy water.   This is a good time to inspect the integrity of each part.  Any damaged pieces should be discarded and replaced.  A soft bristle brush, such as a clean toothbrush, is ideal for cleaning the frame and diffuser ports of your mask.   In addition, hand-wash the tubing that connects your mask to your PAP device and allow to air dry.

Masks

1. Disconnect headgear.	2. Wash using warm soapy water.	3. Rinse thoroughly.
4. Disassemble the mask (the mask here is forillustration purposes only).	5. Use a soft bristled toothbrush to clean the frame thoroughly.	6. Ensure the seal, clips and frame are separated for the best clean.
7. Use the toothbrush to thoroughly clean the seal.	8. Once cleaned rinse off all soap residue.	9. Once rinsed set aside out of direct sunlight to air dry.

Machines

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