Are you or a loved one a CPAP user? They can change your life, but up to 50% of people stop using them within one year. Why? Because most find the maintenance of their equipment daunting. At first it might seem overwhelming but understand with time it will become as routine as brushing your teeth.
Whenever moisture is present, from water supplies, from body humidity, or any bodily fluid, bacteria can grow. If your equipment is not properly cleaned and dried, bacteria builds up and can lead to infections in your body, especially in your airway passages. Also, the oils in your skin and the minerals in tap water can cause premature breakdown in the materials used to manufacture your CPAP equipment, especially your mask. Therefore, we recommend the cleaning and disinfection schedule be followed diligently.
Important! Never use any type of bleach, alcohol or cleaning solutions that contain conditioners or moisturisers on your mask, nasal pillows or tubes. It can damage them. Use only warm, soapy water.
|
Equipment |
Cleaning Frequency |
Instructions |
Disinfecting Frequency |
Equipment |
Cleaning Frequency |
Instructions |
|
Non-Disposable Filters |
Weekly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
Not Required |
Non-Disposable Filters |
Weekly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
|
Disposable Filters |
Change as needed 1 to 2 months |
Do Not Wash |
Not Required |
Disposable Filters |
Change as needed 1 to 2 months |
Do Not Wash |
|
Hose (without humidifier) |
Monthly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
Not Required |
Hose (without humidifier) |
Monthly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
|
Hose (with humidifier) |
Weekly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
Once a week |
Hose (with humidifier) |
Weekly |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
|
Mask / Nasal Pillows |
Daily |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
Once a week |
Mask / Nasal Pillows |
Daily |
Mild soapy water, Rinse, Air Dry |
|
Headgear |
As Needed |
Hand wash, Mild soapy water, Rinse, Dry |
Not Required |
Headgear |
As Needed |
Hand wash, Mild soapy water, Rinse, Dry |
|
Humidifier |
Daily |
Empty water daily Mild soapy water, Rinse well, Air Dry |
Once a week |
Humidifier |
Daily |
Empty water daily Mild soapy water, Rinse well, Air Dry |
|
CPAP Unit |
As Needed |
Dust with damp cloth, No detergents or sprays |
Not Required |
CPAP Unit |
As Needed |
Dust with damp cloth, No detergents or sprays |
Here's the key, keep it simple and consistent. A dirty mask does not perform as well. It won’t seal as well on your face when wearing it. By maintaining the cleanliness of your equipment you will help improve the effectiveness. Remember that this unit is changing your life!
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