How to Properly Clean Your CPAP Equipment & Supplies

• July 22 2024
• 4 min reading time

Proper cleaning of your CPAP equipment is essential for effective sleep apnea therapy. Our comprehensive guide covers daily and weekly cleaning routines for your CPAP mask, air tubing, and humidifier tub, including the supplies you need and step-by-step instructions. Keep your equipment in top condition with these easy-to-follow tips and discover a range of CPAP products at Tricare Medical Store.

To get the best possible therapy for your sleep apnea, it’s important to properly clean your CPAP equipment on a regular basis. This includes cleaning the mask, air tubing, and humidifier tub to ensure optimal performance and hygiene. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your CPAP equipment quickly and effectively.

Time Required: 5 minutes

Supplies Needed:

• A sink or tub
• Warm, drinking-quality water (86°F/30°C)
• Mild liquid detergent
• A clean towel

Cleaning Your CPAP Mask Cushion, Frame & Headgear

Applies to: AirFit series, Swift, Mirage, Quattro, and Pixi masks, AirTouch F20 cushion

Daily Cleaning (Cushion):

1. Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.
2. Disconnect the mask and air tubing from the CPAP machine.
3. Disassemble your mask into three parts: headgear, cushion, and frame.
4. In a sink or tub, clean the mask cushion to remove any oils. Gently rub with mild liquid detergent and warm, drinking-quality water. Avoid using stronger cleaning products as they may damage the mask or leave harmful residue.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.
6. Place the cushion on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight.

Weekly Cleaning (Headgear and Frame):

1. Repeat steps 1-3.
2. Clean the headgear and frame similarly to the cushion, using mild detergent and warm water.
3. Rinse thoroughly and place on a towel to dry.

Cleaning Your Air Tubing

Applies to: ClimateLineAir™ heated tube, SlimLine™ and standard tubing

Weekly Cleaning:

1. Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.
2. Disconnect the air tubing/hose from your mask and CPAP machine.
3. In a sink or tub, rinse the inside and outside of the air tubing with mild dishwashing liquid and warm, drinking-quality water. Avoid using stronger cleaning products.
4. Rinse thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.
5. Place the air tubing on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight.

Cleaning Your Humidifier Tub

Daily Cleaning:

1. Unplug your CPAP machine from the power source.
2. Disconnect the humidifier tub from the CPAP machine.
3. Empty the humidifier tub and wipe it thoroughly with a clean disposable cloth. Allow it to dry out of direct sunlight.

Weekly Cleaning:

1. Soak the humidifier tub in warm water using mild dishwashing liquid OR in a solution with a ratio of 1 part vinegar and 9 parts water at room temperature.
2. After soaking, rinse thoroughly with warm, drinking-quality water.
3. Place the humidifier tub on a flat surface, on top of a towel, to dry. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight.

CPAP Cleaning FAQs

Can I continue to use my CPAP machine if I’m diagnosed with COVID-19? Yes, continue using your CPAP machine as it benefits your overall health. Follow medical advice from your healthcare provider and read the American Thoracic Society’s tips on daily mask cleaning if diagnosed with COVID-19.

What should I NOT use to clean my mask? Avoid aromatic-based solutions, antibacterial soaps, dish detergents, alcohol, bleach, and strong-smelling products as they can leave harmful residues. Do not use a washing machine or dryer.

Can I use an ozone device with my ResMed machine? Check your specific ResMed User Guide for detailed cleaning instructions and recommendations regarding ozone devices.

Replacing CPAP Parts

To maintain optimal performance, regularly replace certain CPAP parts:

• Every month: Mask cushion, air filter
• Every 3 months: Mask frame, air tubing
• Every 6 months: Mask headgear, humidifier tub

All ResMed CPAP supplies and replacement parts can be purchased separately through Tricare Medical Store. Register your CPAP products to get helpful replacement reminders.

For more details on maintaining your CPAP equipment, visit Tricare Medical Store for all your CPAP needs and supplies.

References:

1. Source: Studies show that AirTouch mask cushions are hygienic to use for one month without cleaning. Learn more about our AirTouch mask here.

2. How to clean your CPAP equipment - Learn more from Resmed .

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CPAP Mask CPAP Supplies

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