CPAP Maintenance Basics

– Never clean your equipment with products containing bleach or other harsh chemicals, this could break down or damage the materials.

– Use any grease-cutting, gentle dish soap to clean your equipment. Baby wipes or other body wipes are not recommended as they often have lotions and other additives that can leave a residue on your supplies.

– To dry your tubing, hang it over a shower rail.

– Regularly inspect your tubing, water chamber, cushion, headgear, and frame for cracks, rips, tears, holes, or other wear.

– Using distilled water in your humidifier is highly recommended. If you are not using distilled water, your water chamber must be washed with warm, soapy water daily to prevent buildup.

Step 1: Wash your cushion with an approved mask wipe or warm, soapy water

Step 2: Wash your face before using the mask

Wash your tubing, water chamber, and mask in a basin with warm, soapy water.

Step 1: Replace the disposable filter.

Step 2: Soak tubing, water chamber, and mask in a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts distilled water for 2-3 hours.

Step 3: Wash headgear in laundry (remember to fasten the Velcro down).

Schedule an appointment to have CPAPnow, Inc. service your machine free of charge. It is important to ensure your machine is still in good working condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

With regular use your supplies will become worn out, stretched, and unsanitary. The oil and dirt found on skin and in hair breaks down the rubber seals on the masks as well as the headgear. Because you’re inhaling the air from your CPAP directly into your lungs, it is especially important to replace your supplies. The humidification in the water chamber and tubing can cause bacterial growth if not properly and regularly cleaned and replaced. A clogged or dirty intake filter may prevent the machine from working properly.

It is recommended replacing your supplies according to the schedule laid out by the manufacturer of your equipment. This schedule coincides with what your insurance company will allow. Replacing your equipment on time prevents leaking, unsanitary supplies, and discomfort.

There are some signs you can look for that will signal that your supplies need to be replaced:
– Straps are loose and have to be tightened very often
– You feel your treatment is less effective than usual
– You find the cushion is slippery, even after cleaning

Disposable filter: Every 2 weeks – 1 month

Heated/non heated tubing: Every 3 months

Full face cushion: Every 1 month

Nasal cushion/pillow: Every 2 weeks – 1 month

Mask frame: Every 3 months

Headgear: Every 3-6 months

Water chamber: Every 6 months

Chinstrap: Every 6 months

Non disposable filter: Every 6 months