How to Maintain your CPAP/BiPAP Machine

If any person uses Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP), it is crucial to clean it from time to time and make it germ–free. 

While using CPAP and BiPAP machines, the patient breathes air out of the instrument, including moisture and creates germs. Also, a bad odour is another sign of bacterial growth. Proper cleaning and maintenance of your CPAP and BiPAP machines is mandatory. 

Some CPAP/BiPAP parts may also degrade or require replacement after certain intervals of use. Following an effective cleaning routine can help to make your machine and parts last in good working condition for a longer duration. Some of the best tips for taking care of CPAP and BiPAP machines are as follows:- 

Why is it Important to Maintain CPAP/BiPAP Machines?

It is essential to clean and maintain the machines for hygiene because there is a higher chance of collecting dust, oil, and debris inside the mask, and it will create a home for bacteria, germs, and congestion. As a result, you will get sick, and your life may be in danger. 

If someone is suffering from sleep apnea, you should consult with your doctor and tell them about your health conditions. Conditions worsen because airway pathogens can cause illness, sinus, and pneumonia. Ultimately, daily cleaning will save you the cost of replacing the machine and make you healthy.

How can you Maintain a CPAP/BiPAP Machine?

The medical equipment provider suggests making a habit of cleaning equipment for health. It would help if you cleaned your mask daily; filters, tubes, and water chambers. It is a myth that excessive cleaning can damage equipment, but it does not.

We provide some direction to clean equipment daily or weekly.

Daily Cleaning

• Remove the empty humidifier water chamber so the water can't enter the machine.

• Then allow the water chamber for air dry to clean the surface thoroughly.

• Now clean the mask and headgear with warm soap water. Repeat the process only with warm water.

• Then place it completely dry.

Weekly Cleaning

• Use warm water to clean the chamber or dish soap and put it on the top rack of the dishwasher.

• Again, rinse the chamber with warm water and place it to dry off completely.

• Remove the mask apart and wash all parts and headgear in lukewarm water.

• Before reassembling, place it for complete drying.

• Remove tubing from the pressure valve using a soft brush and air outlet port.

• Take hot soap water and soak tubing in the sink. Then rinse with water and check that all soap water is removed.

• Hang the tube for complete drying outside.

• Often check the ultra-fine filter and change it if it gets dirty, ideally once in a month.

• Use warm water and dish soap to clean the pressure valve.

• Rinse the pressure valve with hot water and place the valve for air dry.

• Ensure that the valve works by pressing and releasing the internal blur disk various times. Place the disk in a normal position.

What Should You Not Use to Clean the Mask?

It is firmly and strictly recommended not to use harsh chemicals for cleaning the equipment. With its residual vapours, it can be dangerous when it is inhaled. The following chemicals or things should not use to clean the medical equipment:- 

• Alcohol

• Bleach

• Aromatic–based solutions or scented oils

• Strong smelling products

• Antibacterial soaps

• Washing machine or dryer

• Dish detergent

Which CPAP Parts Do You Need to Clean and How Often?

Maintaining the equipment properly; you should follow specific instructions to clean the mask and equipment. The instructions are different, like monthly, weekly, and daily. 

Mask - Daily

Why is it better to clean the mask in the morning? Because masks formulate with silicone, cleaning masks in the morning with soap water gives enough time to dry off completely. Cleaning with wipes is also a great choice if you don't have time to clean in the morning. However, it can remove germs, specks of dirt, and excessive moisture. 

Tube - Weekly

The tube requires to be cleaned weekly. For cleaning the tube line, you can use mild soapy water or vinegar. You need to place the tube in warm water and then swirl the tube in water. After that, it is crucial to hang a tube to dry, which speeds up the air-drying process.

Clean the Filter – Daily

When it is about to clean the filter, it depends on the filter type you have for the machine. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully read the instructions (written on the box or manual book) before cleaning the device. For example, a reusable filter installed in some machines can easily be washed with water, dried, and used again. 

What do You Need to Maintain?

It recommends that CPAP/BiPAP machines are required to clean regularly so the germs, dust, and other contaminations will not grow inside your equipment and make you sick. 

Supplies you'll need for cleaning

• CPAP equipment (mask, humidifier water chamber, headgear, tubing, and CPAP machine)

• Warm water
• Towel
• Mild soap
• CPAP/BiPAP cleaning soft brush
• Small sink or tub

Do's and Don'ts to clean CPAP/BIPAP Device

• Due to using equipment, if you feel sick, then wash it often. 

• Before cleaning and using the machine, always follow the instructions of the seller or manufacturer.

• Use distilled or RO water for cleaning the machine parts.

• After cleaning the machine, place it on a surface level so there are no chances of falling or damage.

Don'ts

• Try to avoid cleaning the machines with chemicals. Only use certified cleaning solutions because these chemicals particles are collected inside, which creates problems in inhaling.

• Never use the dishwasher to clean the equipment. Some items like humidifiers are dishwasher safe, but masks and tubes are not safe for cleaning.

• Never place your headgear in the washing machine; otherwise, it will stretch out, and it can't fit properly or could rip.

• Never place a mask directly in sunlight.

How often should you change your CPAP Accessories?

It depends on the general wear and tear, but suggested guidelines to replace the accessories are:

Each month

• CPAP/BiPAP filters

In 3 Months

• Mask Cushion

In 10-12 Months

• Mask
• CPAP/BiPAP Tubing
• CPAP/BiPAP Humidifier

Final Thoughts

You must clean CPAP machines and BiPAP machines from time to time to maintain hygiene. Otherwise, you get sick and have a chance to develop other health issues. With routine cleaning and proper maintenance, you can keep the machine and your health well.