How to care your CPAP

If you use a CPAP machine at night to help you breathe better while you sleep it is important that you understand that like any other tool, you must keep it clean regularly. This is because it is a team that is in constant contact with your body and therefore, its hygiene is essential.

A dirty or germ-contaminated CPAP machine can develop viruses or bacteria causing illness in the patient.

There are many products capable of disinfecting and purifying equipment but it is important to know their characteristics since they are not available over the counter, although another more conventional option is to use white soap and warm water or vinegar.

Why is it important to clean the CPAP machine?

The germs that can produce this dirty device will immediately enter the user’s airways, that is, lungs, throat and mouth, since the mask or CPAP tube is in contact with these areas. On the other hand, inhaling and exhaling will increase the amount of bacteria within your body and in the environment.

Dust, mold and other allergens can enter the machine and generate these problems, so it is important to prevent them,the correct way to do it by practicing regular cleaning on the equipment so that these malicious agents do not enter the interior. Other factors that can generate negative consequences are dust and dirt, changes in the machine directly, since it can cause it to break down, having to replace some of its parts or the complete equipment.

How should a CPAP and BIPAP machine be cleaned?

There are many devices on the market and each of them has its own characteristics as well as a particular way in which it is used and why it does not clean. In general, all the elements that make up the machine and that are removable can be cleaned with white soap and water, unless the manual indicates otherwise.

The mask that is used in the mouth or nose, together with the removable tubes and connectors, can be soaked in soapy water and then left to dry in the sun. Some brands recommend cleaning these items with vinegar and water.

If you find visible residue inside the mask or tube connectors, you can clean them with a soft cloth and rinse them with water.

It is important to note that you should not, under any circumstances, place the machine with an electrical cable in water or incorporate a liquid directly. Instead, you can use a damp towel to clean the outside of the CPAP machine.

If your equipment has a humidifier, you can sanitize the water tank as indicated in the user manual and rinse the filters with plenty of water.

What other products can be used to clean the CPAP and BIPAP machine?

Among the devices that can be used is ozone gas which can be dangerous and toxic if its levels of use are not controlled. On the other hand, ultraviolet light which has not been approved by the FDA since it does not provide safety for the user when handling it or on the device in its final finish.

Now you know, if you want to take care of your CPAP machine or your BIPAP remember to clean them frequently.