5 Steps to Keep Your CPAP Machine Clean

5 Steps to Keep Your CPAP Machine Clean

Your continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine works magic to keep your airways open and unblocked each night while you sleep. But relief from your sleep apnea symptoms can come to a halt if you aren’t adequately taking care of your CPAP machine — ultimately causing more harm than good to your health. 


Because your CPAP machine pushes air through your airways, you must regularly clean your CPAP machine to prevent a buildup of bacteria that could spread through your system.


To ensure you understand the ins and outs of cleaning your CPAP machine, ApneaMed has compiled a quick five-step guide to keeping your CPAP machine clean.

1) Clean Your CPAP Mask

When using a CPAP machine, the air is supplied via your CPAP mask. The mask is affixed over the top of your mouth and nose, and because it touches your skin, it can collect bacteria and dead skin cells from your face.


 To avoid putting a bacteria-infested mask on your face, it is recommended that you clean your CPAP mask once a week, at a minimum. If not, you may notice your skin getting irritated or breaking out from the spread of bacteria.

2) Clean Your CPAP Filters

Your CPAP machine utilizes air filters to clean out contaminants from the air that the breathing equipment is circulating through your system. When these become clogged up with dirt, dust, grime, and other dander from your home, your CPAP machine may become contaminated with these irritants. 


We recommend you follow your air filter’s recommended replacement schedule to prevent these irritants from getting into your CPAP machine.

3) Clean Your CPAP Machine

Every CPAP machine is going to have a different cleaning schedule per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure you confirm the suggested cleaning schedule for the specific model of breathing equipment that you own.


 When cleaning out your CPAP machine, the most important thing is that it is unplugged from its electrical source. From there, you can clean its exterior and interior with a clean towel to wipe away any grime or buildup.

4) Clean Your CPAP Humidifier

Depending on your CPAP machine model, it may have a humidifier unit attached to it. If so, this portion of the equipment also needs to be cleaned. Clean the humidifier every other week by emptying the water chamber, soaking the chamber with a solution of vinegar and water, and rinsing it out.


By doing this, you can have peace of mind knowing your equipment isn’t circulating any unnecessary irritants or contaminants. 

5) Replace Equipment As Recommended

During the weekly or bi-weekly cleanings of your CPAP machine, you should also be taking note if any part appears to be working incorrectly or is beginning to look worn down. Does your CPAP mask appear dirty even after you’ve wiped it down? When was the last time you replaced the air filter?


 Make sure you follow your manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to replacing the different parts of your CPAP machine.

Struggling to Get a Good Night’s Sleep? ApneaMed Can Help

Whether you’re looking for a CPAP machine for the first time or need other products to help alleviate your obstructive sleep apnea symptoms, ApneaMed can help. Our team can guide you through the options available to you, ensuring you get the best night’s sleep possible.


If you’re in the market for a replacement breathing machine for your obstructive sleep apnea, contact ApneaMed. Our team offers home sleep tests and a variety of in-home breathing equipment to treat your sleep apnea safely.


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