(Newswire.net — January 29, 2024) — Your CPAP machine works hard while you get your beauty sleep. CPAP machines are robust devices that can take some abuse and neglect and keep on pumping, but they do require some TLC. Here are seven tips for keeping your CPAP machine in pristine condition.
1. Wipe Down the Mask Every Morning
Your CPAP mask and tubing are exposed to warm, humid air during use. If you just pull off the mask and go merrily about your day, that warm wetness can become a mold incubator. You do not want to grow mold in your CPAP. Make a habit of reaching for a clean cloth and some warm, soapy water each morning. If you prefer, you can use a commercially available mask-cleaning solution instead. Quickly wipe down the mask and hose, use a towel to remove the excess moisture, and leave the device to air-dry all day.
2. Clean the Entire Machine Once a Week
Once a week, it is a good idea to take your entire CPAP machine apart and soak each component in warm, soapy water for around 30 minutes to eliminate any dust, dirt, grime, bacteria, mold spores, or fungi that have made their way inside it. Remember, the air that you breathe passes through this machine; if it is loaded with dirt and microorganisms, you can develop infections, allergies, and sinus and skin irritation. After soaking the components, rinse them well and allow them to dry before reassembling the machine.
3. Don’t Put Your CPAP in the Dishwasher
You may be tempted to wash your CPAP’s parts by putting them in the dishwasher. It sounds like a great idea: it’ll save time and effort, and get them squeak-clean. Unfortunately, CPAP components are not designed to be dishwasher-safe, and running them through the dishwasher can damage them.
4. Replace the Filters as Directed
All CPAP machines have filters in them that help clean the air before you breathe it. Some machines have washable, reusable filters, while others require the filters to be replaced periodically. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions and diligently follow the filter cleaning/replacement schedule. Not replacing the filters often enough is a major cause of premature failure of a CPAP machine.
5. Use Distilled Water
Don’t put tap water into the CPAP’s water chamber. This water is used to humidify the air you breathe, which means it is vaporized and pumped through all parts of the CPAP. If you use pure, distilled water, the water just evaporates, leaving no trace. If you use tap water, minerals will be deposited on the surfaces inside your CPAP machine, which will cause it to work ineffectively and eventually fail.
6. Skip the Sanitizer
Some companies sell ozone or UV sanitizers intended to clean and sanitize CPAP machines. However, the FDA has not authorized the sale of these devices and warns against their use. Not only do they not perform as advertised, they may also be actively harmful to users.
7. Get It Professionally Serviced
CPAP machines should be professionally serviced periodically. Most manufacturers recommend having the device serviced every six months to ensure it works optimally.
If you follow these tips, you can enjoy the restful sleep your CPAP machine provides for around five years before you will need a new machine.