Caring for your CPAP

SLEEP Unit

Phone: (03) 364 1089 Fax: (03) 364 0283Email: sleep@cdhb.govt.nz

Christchurch Hospital

A. Finlay

Why is Cleaning so Important?

• So that equipment lasts longer

• So that germs don’t build up

• Remember you are breathing whatever is growing inside!

Mask• Each morning: wipe seal with warm soapy water

• Fortnightly: soak in white vinegar solution (diluted to half water, half vinegar)

• Never put your mask in the dishwasher

Remember – harsh sunlight, boiling water and harsh cleaners will damage your mask and reduce its life. Be gentle!

Headgear

• Fortnightly: Clean in washing machine. Don’t put in the dryer.

Tip! Before washing, can be a good idea to use a permanent marker to mark where Velcro straps were set to. This helps when re-adjusting the straps after washing.

Hose• Fortnightly – rinse in vinegar/water solution

• It’s important to air dry before using, to avoid “rain out”.

• You can dry your hose by hanging it over a towel rail or shower head

• Don’t use the CPAP machine to “blow-dry” the hose – water can get back into machine and cause short circuits.

Humidifier (if you have one)• Each day – empty unused water. Refill

with new water each night.

• Fortnightly – soak in vinegar/water solution for 30 minutes. Use a toothbrush to clean white scales.

Don’t use toxic chemicals that you wouldn’t be happy inhaling. Stick with vinegar or lemon juice

Filter• Fortnightly – flick/brush off dust.

• Every two months – wash with warm soapy water.

If your CPAP air pressure feels less, it’s likely that your filter is blocked with dust and needs to be cleaned.

How long should my parts last for?Part Replacement time

Mask 1 year minimum

Headgear straps 1 year

Hose 1-2 years

Humidifier chamber >2 years

Filters 1 year

Some do’s and don’ts…

Do clean your machine/mask when you wake up, so it can dry before bed time.

Don’t use face moisturisers before putting CPAP on

Don’t tape over your exhalation port (mini holes in the front of your mask). These are designed to let CO2 out

Finally….

The more you care for your CPAP, the more benefit you’ll gain