Are you or a loved one a CPAP user? They are the mainstay treatment for significantly improving sleep apnea, but up to 50% of people stop using them within one year. Why? One reason is how daunting the maintenance of their equipment is. 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 build 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.
It is very important that you never use any type of bleach, alcohol, or cleaning solutions that contain conditioners or moisturizers 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 and work towards better health.
If you or a loved one needs CPAP supplies, then please contact us today!
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