In order to get the best possible results from your CPAP machine, it’s important to clean it on a daily basis. As a piece of medical equipment, if you’re not keeping it clean then it may not provide the necessary benefits as intended.
Why clean a CPAP machine?
Cleaning your CPAP machine helps to remove mold, dust, and germs, as well as other contaminants that may build up over time. Remember, this machine is hooked up to your mouth, meaning there’s a lot of bacteria traveling back and forth.
Dust and dirt
Dust and dirt can cause issues within your CPAP machine, not just for your general health but for the performance and lifespan of the equipment itself.
You might find that if you’re not taking good care of the machine, it’s likely you’ll need a replacement or a repair sooner.
Germs
Germs that come from your mouth and throat, as well as other areas of the body like your lungs, can get into the mask and further down the tubing that is connected to the machine.
Even though you might have cleaned your teeth before bed, there is still a lot of bacteria that can transfer into the mask or hose, warranting daily cleaning.
Other bacteria
There is also plenty of other bacteria that builds up in a CPAP machine. Saliva, dead skin cells, and any oils on your face can also contain bacteria that’s harmful if left unattended on a regular basis.
How long does it take to clean a CPAP machine?
Cleaning a CPAP machine is not as time-consuming as you might think and once you’ve incorporated it into your morning or evening routine, it’ll feel less like a hassle.
The time it takes to clean your CPAP machine is around five minutes, give or take. The more you get used to cleaning the machine, the quicker you’ll get it done.
To clean the machine, there are a number of things you’ll need. These include:
- Warm water (86°F/30°C)
- Mild detergent
- Sink or tub for cleaning the machine
- A clean towel
The warm water and mild detergent are going to help buff away any debris gently without damaging the machine. Depending on the size of the machine, you might cope well enough in a sink or a tub might be required.
A clean towel is important because it will stop any further bacteria from getting onto your clean machine parts. It might be worth looking into additional CPAP cleaning tools like a CPAP cleaning brush or CPAP hanger. This will help ensure your machine is the best it can be with daily cleaning.
Your CPAP machine is an important piece of equipment for helping with sleep apnea, so it is recommended to perform simple maintenance, such as regular cleaning, to extend its lifespan and get the most out of the device with this CPAP cleaning solution. Cleaning your CPAP machine might seem like a lot of effort but it will help avoid any nasty bacteria that will end up making you sick as a result.
Use these tips for cleaning CPAP machines and you’ll find it changes your experience of using the machine, for the better.