Sleep Hygiene & CPAP Cleaning and Maintenance

Sleep Hygiene & CPAP Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the most straightforward ways that you can set yourself up for better sleep, is by practicing good sleep hygiene. For many, quality sleep hygiene means having both a bedroom environment and daily routines that promote regular, uninterrupted sleep. Since sleep apnea sufferers already experience disturbed nights, it’s essential for them to practice regular sleep hygiene, along with proper CPAP maintenance.

Correct upkeep of your CPAP equipment can help ensure the CPAP or BiPAP device functions properly, and you get the best possible sleep health. Due to the humid nature of CPAP machines and masks, they can be the perfect home for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microbes. Therefore, regular cleaning will wash away any dangerous microbes and can prevent subsequent acute and chronic respiratory conditions.

A dirty CPAP machine or mask will also have a shorter lifespan and will need to be replaced more often. Dirt, makeup, and facial oils can degrade the material the mask is made from, while bacteria, old, and mineral buildup can damage the machine motor, humidifier chamber, and tubing. Not only can this become expensive, but it can also lead to skin irritation and facial rashes!

The following is general information to assist in cleaning of the CPAP machine, humidifier (if attached), tubing and mask:

Machine

  • Position the CPAP machine below head-height but NOT ON THE FLOOR. Ensure there is enough space around the machine to allow proper airflow.
  • Wipe over the CPAP machine weekly with a damp cloth or antiseptic wipes to remove any dust. This includes the heating-plate and cradle that are underneath the humidifier.

Filters

  • Change disposable filters every 3 months or earlier if necessary.
  • Clean the washable filter with warm soapy water every 2-4 weeks and replace every 6 months or earlier if necessary.

Tubing

  • Wash the tubing fortnightly in warm soapy water, then rinse with fresh water and allow to air-dry BUT NOT IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT.
  • Replace the tubing every 12-18 months or earlier if necessary.

Humidifier

  • Use fresh demineralised or distilled water daily.
  • Wash chamber weekly with warm soapy water to prevent mineral build-up. Use a vinegar soak prior to this (use 2 caps-full of white vinegar and fill with water, soak for up to 45 minutes).
  • Replace the humidifier chamber every 12-18 months or if damaged.

Mask

  • Wipe mask daily after use with alcohol-free wipes, CPAP mask wipes, or with warm soapy water.
  • Hand wash entire mask weekly, including headgear, in warm soapy water, then rinse with fresh water and allow to air dry NOT IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT. Remember to also clean exhalation ports weekly also with a small brush, e.g. soft toothbrush to prevent exhalation blockage.
  • Replace your mask parts every 12-18 months or earlier if necessary.


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