Keeping your CPAP/BIPAP equipment clean is essential in ensuring it functions correctly for an extended period. A Resmed BiPAP Machine or any other equipment meant for sleep apnea treatment can collect dust, dead skin cells, and other particles on the inside, providing a good breeding ground for germs, bacteria, and mold. If you don’t clean your equipment, these particles can cause allergic reactions and worsen the symptoms of respiratory problems. Therefore, we recommend cleaning the device regularly and replacing parts such as the mask, filters, and tubing at least once every three months. Invest in a reliable bottle washer to ensure thorough and efficient cleaning of your equipment, promoting a healthier and more comfortable experience.
Cleaning Supplies You Need To Clean Your CPAP Equipment
Cleaning your CPAP/BIPAP equipment is not complicated nor expensive. But before we proceed to the clean-up steps, ensure you have all these cleaning devices at your disposal:
- Clean, warm water
- Regular soap or dish detergent
- White vinegar
- Clean, dry towels
How To Clean Your CPAP Equipment
CPAP Mask
A CPAP mask constantly touches your facial skin and, as a result, gathers dead skin cells and bacteria. You thus need to clean it at least once a week. Follow the tips below to do that:
- Disconnect the mask from its tubing before disassembling it
- Remove the headgear and place it aside. Alternatively, you can opt to leave it where it was and clean it with your mask
- Place the disassembled mask parts in warm water, add soap and then swirl for 5 minutes
- Rinse each piece thoroughly and let them air dry before reassembling your mask
Filters
Throw away all disposable filters and replace them with new ones as per the recommended time. For reusable filters, wash them once a week depending on the dust, pollen, and other particles they have gathered. Cleaning them regularly helps prevent irritants from entering your CPAP equipment.
- Rinse the filters in warm water and then squeeze to remove excess moisture
- Using a clean, dry towel, wipe the filters and leave them to air dry before returning them to the CPAP machine
One way of knowing if your filters need cleaning or replacing is to check for signs of discoloration
CPAP/ BIPAP Machine
There are different types of CPAP machines from varying manufacturers. With that in mind, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, you may need to clean your CPAP more or less frequently. Here is how to clean your CPAP/ BIPAP machine:
- Unplug it from the socket
- Clean the outside of it using a clean, damp cloth to remove dust particles
- Dry the moisture with a clean, dry towel
- Check if the machine is completely dry before plugging it back in
CPAP Humidifier
Many modern CPAP machines come fitted with inbuilt humidifiers. If your CPAP machine has an inbuilt humidifier, you’ll need to clean it regularly after a week or 2. Follow the steps below to clean your CPAP humidifier:
- Ensure you remove all the water in the water chamber
- Pour a 1-part white vinegar solution and 5-parts water inside the humidifier and leave it to soak for about 30 minutes
- Thoroughly rinse the device with warm water and leave it to fully dry
- Don’t fill it with anything but distilled water to prevent mineral buildup
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your CPAP device is an easy way of preventing germ, bacteria, and dust accumulation while ensuring the device functions properly. Follow the DIY tips we provided to learn how to clean your CPAP machine in just a few steps. Also, remember to replace disposable filters, masks, and tubing regularly as they wear with time.