How Do I Clean My CPAP Humidifier?

A lot of people who use CPAP machines with humidifiers don't realize that it is important to clean it. Germs can start breeding in your lungs causing harmful viruses and other health issues. All it takes is a few simple steps to clean your equipment.

 

The first thing you need to do is unplug the machine. You don't want to get electrically shocked during the cleaning process. After it is unplugged you will then want to disconnect your mask. If you have headgear attached to the mask it should be taken off. Also, you should be disconnecting the hose.  All other parts should also be separated to avoid trapped germs and moisture for a thorough cleaning.

 

Now, you should take the CPAP tubing apart from any connectors. The humidifier should be unattached from the machine if it is possible as well if it connects directly. Take the humidifier from the machine and disassemble it if it is possible. If you can't take it apart then try to get in there the best you can with a soft cloth wet with warm water. Wipe the outside of the machine first. There are germs on the outside that shouldn't be in contact with the inside of the machine.

 

The next step is to fill a container with warm water and a little bit of gentile dish soap. This is to submerge the mask, headgear tubing and connectors in. Let it soak for a half an hour and then wipe the mask gently and make sure you get in all the crevices.

 

When the machine and all the parts have been cleaned lay everything out to dry in a clean area on a towel.

 

Now, you can clean your humidifier with hot water and mild soap. It ideally should be cleaned along with everything else daily. If it is a machine that has the filter in place it can be rinsed out but it might need to be replaced. You want to make sure only distilled water goes into your machine because of increased risk of illness and mineral build up.

 

After everything has been washed it should be towel dried and reassembled properly. If your sleep apnea symptoms have returned it might mean the machine has been broken or put together incorrectly so take it to your manufacturer for help.

 

It is strongly advised to make sure that your equipment is clean. Washing it every day is ideal because you are breathing in whatever could be growing inside your machine. Moisture helps bacteria grow. Especially if you have been sick, the germs can get trapped in the filter and inside the hose and mask and grow into something worse.

 

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Gives input and advice on CPAP supplies.