CPAP Maintenance

Maintaining CPAP equipment is crucial to ensure lasting functionality and comfort of treatment. If ignored, pressure delivery can lose its effectiveness. Another common behavior that can result from overlooking maintenance is need to tighten the mask to compensate for the degraded seal. This leads to discomfort and therefore impairs the quality of treatment. To help CPAP users get the most out of their equipment, we describe the recommended cleaning/replacement procedures for each part of the CPAP setup. As always, clicking the images where applicable will take you to the corresponding product page.

CPAP Machine

Wipe down with a damp cloth every few weeks. Disconnect the heated humidifier section and wipe down the air inlets as well.

Heated Humidifier

Humidifiers are an optional part of CPAP therapy. If you have one, remove the water reservoir and wipe the heating plate. If available, use distilled water. Replace the reservoir yearly or earlier if permanent build-ups of residue appear.

Tubing

Hang straight down during the day to drain any water accumulated overnight. Rinse with mild soapy water once a week and replace every six to twelve months.

Mask

Hang and leave to air dry during the day. Submerse and rinse with mild soapy water once a week. To ensure an effective seal, replace the mask cushion every one to three months and replace the headgear every three to six months. This article from sleepapnea.org has a useful table of recommended replacement cycles.

Filters

Rinse the foam reusable pollen filter every one to two weeks with water and replace every six months. Replace the disposable filter every one to two months or earlier if dirty.

Maintenance on the machine, humidifier, tubing, mask, and filters if overlooked can lead to ineffective pressure delivery and loose seals. This article communicated the required points to ensure proper care. For additional information, there are more articles you can find online such as the aforementioned article from sleepapnea.org. Take care of your CPAP and continue to wake up refreshed!