A well maintained and properly operating CPAP unit is key to the effective treatment of sleep apnea. Most often, when receiving the CPAP unit, you were given instructions and a demonstration on how to clean and maintain it. Of course, as humans we fall victim to forgetfulness and complacency. With that in mind, let’s go through a quick, basic refresher on how to keep your CPAP machine in tip top shape.
Make CPAP Maintenance Part of Your Morning Routine
Like with anything, CPAP maintenance is only effective if it’s done on a regular and recurring basis. Having said that, it is advisable to make cleaning and inspecting your CPAP machine part of your morning routine. Whether you just have to have coffee when your feet hit the floor, or you’re one who loves a morning exercise routine, work giving your CPAP some love in with your favorite way to start the day!
Approach Your CPAP Cleaning and Maintenance Routine Safely
As with any electrically powered device, be sure to unplug the unit before beginning your cleaning and maintenance routine!
Pay Attention to the Key Components of Your CPAP Unit
CPAP units very slightly in their design and operation, so for the sake of educating yourself, you should regularly refresh your knowledge by reading the user manual and any other instructions that come with the unit. Generally, there are some general areas of the machine that need regular attention. Those areas are the mask, filters, and humidifier. If you are not sure how to best clean these specific components, we have some great detailed write ups that can be found at the links below:
- 3 Easy Steps to Make Your CPAP Mask Last(link)
- Keeping Your CPAP Filters Clean(link)
- Keeping Your CPAP Humidifier Healthy Is A Snap(link)
General Do’s and Dont’s To Keeping Your CPAP Unit Well Maintained
No matter what CPAP unit that you have and use, there are some general do’s and don’t to cleaning and maintaining the machine.
- Make CPAP maintenance a part of your morning routine, allowing ample time for the components to dry properly before you use them again.
- Keep the machine and all components out of direct sunlight to avoid premature degradation and wear.
- Never use bleach or caustic cleaners to clean CPAP parts.
- Regularly inspect or have inspected power cords and data cards. Replace if necessary.
- Place machine on a level surface away from anything that may impede airflow into the machines intake.
- Use distilled water to clean CPAP parts.
- Keep a record of when you should order any replacement parts to ensure that your CPAP machine is always usable.
Through making the proper cleaning and maintenance of your CPAP machine a daily routine, you can ensure that it will be operational and available for use. Want to make your CPAP experience even more comfortable? Give our CPAP Comfort sealant a try!
