Maintaining Cleanliness: A Guide to Cleaning Your CPAP Machine Equipment 

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are a lifeline for those with sleep disorders, like Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), providing a steady flow of air to keep their airways open during sleep. However, for CPAP machines to work efficiently, it’s important that they are regularly cleaned and maintained.

An unclean CPAP machine can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odours which can cause further respiratory issues as well as shorten the lifespan of your machine or even void the warranty.

We recommend implementing a daily, if not weekly, cleaning routine for your CPAP machine to ensure that it stays in top condition, helping you to breathe and sleep easier.

Why keeping your CPAP machine clean is important

Keeping your CPAP machine clean is critical. The warm, moist environment inside the CPAP machine creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mould. If the machine isn’t regularly cleaned and you are breathing in contaminated air, you can become more at risk of further respiratory complications/infections and allergies.

What you’ll need to clean your CPAP machine

The equipment you need to clean your CPAP machine are items most people will already have within their homes. These items include:

• Mild liquid detergent. A gently dishwashing liquid is ideal.
• Warm, drinking-quality water
• A sink, tub, or bucket large enough to hold your hose or tubing
• A clean, non-abrasive towel

Key parts of your CPAP Machine

Your CPAP machine has three main components: the CPAP mask cushion frame and headgear, the air tubing and the humidifier tub. Some components will require daily cleaning whilst others will require weekly cleaning. However, for optimal performance, we recommend that both be implemented.

Daily cleaning: CPAP mask cushion and humidifier tub

It’s not necessary to clean your whole CPAP machine every day, However, a simple daily clean of your CPAP mask cushion and humidifier tub will help to keep your machine hygienic and running efficiently.

REMEMBER: Always unplug your CPAP machine from the power source before cleaning.

CPAP mask cushion

1. Gently clean your mask cushion using a mild dishwashing detergent to remove any facial oils and debris.
2. Rinse thoroughly with warm water
3. Allow to air dry out of direct sunlight.

Humidifier tub

1. Wipe the exterior of the CPAP machine with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
2. Empty the humidifier tub with it thoroughly.
3. Allow to air dry out of direct sunlight.

Weekly cleaning: CPAP mask frame and headgear, air tubing and humidifier tub

Giving the larger components of your CPAP machine , like your CPAP mask frame and headgear, air tubing and humidifier tub, a clean every week will ensure that it remains hygienic so you can continue to get a good night sleep.

CPAP mask frame and headgear

1. Gently clean the mask frame and headgear using a mild dishwashing detergent in the sink/tub.
2. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
3. Place on a flat surface and allow to air dry, out of direct sunlight.

Air tubing

1. Rinse the inside and outside of the air tubing using a mild dishwashing detergent in the sink/tub.
2. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
3. Place on a flat surface and allow to air dry, out of direct sunlight.

Humidifier tub

1. Soak your humidifier tub using a mild dishwashing detergent in the sink/tub.
2. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
3. Allow to air dry out of direct sunlight.

Top tips for maintaining CPAP machine cleanliness

Even though regular cleaning of your CPAP machine is vital, there are some additional things you can do to prolong the lifespan of your machine.

• Regularly inspect the CPAP filters for dirt or debris. If necessary, replace disposable filters or wash and dry reusable ones according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Check the air tubing for any signs of wear or damage and replace if needed.
• Use distilled water in the CPAP humidifier to prevent mineral build-up and prolong the life of your machine.
• Store your CPAP equipment in a clean, dry area away from dust and direct sunlight.
• Always plug in your CPAP machine and perform a leak test after cleaning to ensure everything is working correctly.

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your CPAP machine is essential for ensuring its effectiveness and your health.

If you have any questions regarding how to clean your specific model of CPAP machine, please contact us or visit us instore. We are here to support you so you can enjoy a restful sleep every night.