Spring is on its way! Take this opportunity to sanitize your CPAP equipment for healthy breathing and quality sleep. A clean, dry CPAP system is critical for effectively treating sleep apnea and preventing complications such as lung infections and irritated airways. 

What is a CPAP System?

For those new to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment, this device gently blows pressurized air through a face mask to keep your throat and airway open to curb snoring and sleep apnea. The pressurized air also acts like a lung “splint” to prevent airway collapse for unobstructed breathing during sleep. CPAP helps supply the steady oxygen flow needed to restore healthy REM cycles and reverse symptoms like unrefreshing sleep, morning headaches, chronic fatigue, and concentration issues tied to disrupted breathing. Using your equipment properly and keeping all parts exceptionally clean is imperative for realizing CPAP’s full benefits of improved sleep quality, stabilized health, and a better quality of life. Follow this simple guide for disinfecting your CPAP components this season.

Disinfecting For a Clean CPAP

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends cleaning your mask cushion, tubing, and humidifier daily and the CPAP machine weekly. Here’s a step-by-step process: 

Every Day

Disconnect tubes from the mask and machine, and disassemble parts. Hand-wash the mask cushion with warm water and mild detergent, rinse thoroughly with water. Air dry completely before reconnecting. 

Weekly

Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a disinfectant like Lysol or alcohol wipes. NEVER get moisture or solutions inside the device or electric components.

Monthly

Replace your machine’s reusable particle filters or disposable ultrafine filters according to manufacturer recommendations, usually every 30 days or sooner if dirty. Clogged filters can block proper airflow.

Have a Clean CPAP This Spring

Every 1-2 months do a deep clean by soaking your mask, tubing, connectors, and humidifier tank (if used) in warm water mixed with a drop or two of scent-free soap (e.g. baby shampoo). Let components soak for 15-20 minutes, then brush surfaces with small brushes. Proper scrubbing removes films that hand washing misses. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely before use. Replace parts if worn, cracked, or discolored.  

The Comprehensive Sleep and Breathing Center wants to personally help you keep your CPAP equipment well-maintained. Spring is a great time to call us and schedule an appointment to evaluate:

– If  you need new CPAP accessories or replacement parts

– How well your current mask, hoses, and machine are still working for you

– If it’s time to upgrade your CPAP model for a better data tracking app or Bluetooth connectivity

– If your air pressure settings require adjustment based on your sleep patterns and any weight changes

Each person’s needs, usage levels, and condition of CPAP gear can vary. Come in for an expert assessment of your personal therapy system to troubleshoot any issues and make sure you’re getting optimal results. Improving health is our number one priority. Contact us today to book your CPAP checkup.