If you have recently been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor will recommend treatment with CPAP. Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, therapy consists of a machine, a CPAP mask, hose and a few other miscellaneous parts. The CPAP machine will be worn everyday, so thorough cleaning and maintenance will ensure proper machine function and your good health.
Daily Cleaning
The CPAP mask and hose should be washed every single day because dead skin and oil from the face leaves a residue on the mask after wear. If the mask is not cleaned regularly, residue builds up, which can lead to skin irritation or compromising of the mask's ability to make a good air seal. Many CPAP users hang their CPAP hose over the shower rod to dry. CpapStation.com recommends, "using a dish-washing detergent like Ivory Clear, Palmolive or Dial Anti-Bacteria for cleaning your equipment." Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Weekly Cleaning
The plastic water chamber, or humidifier chamber, in your machine should be washed every week. Mineral deposits and other residue can build up in the bottom of the chamber. CpapNow.com recommends you to "place vinegar/water solution (1 part vinegar to 3 to 5 parts water) to clean humidifier. Soak for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly." Not all humidifier chambers are dishwasher safe, especially the older ones, so be sure to check with your durable medical equipment company before placing it in the dishwasher. Also, the foam filter in the back of the machine should be taken out and rinsed weekly. Once it is dry, place it back in the machine.
Monthly Cleaning
The rectangular white filter that fits over the foam filter needs to be be taken out and replaced monthly. You should also wipe off the surface of the machine at least once a month to prevent a build up of dust. Always unplug the machine when you are cleaning it, and never submerse your machine in water. Following these simple guidelines will help prolong the life of your machine and facilitate good health.
