How to Clean

Keeping a clean CPAP means better sleep and a healthier you. Here's a short guide for a simple cleaning routine that'll keep your therapy as refreshing as your rest.

What You'll Need:

  • Mild soap (we offer a range of CPAP soaps, or you can use gentle dish soap or baby shampoo)
  • Warm water
  • Soft towel or paper towels
  • A CPAP tube brush
  • Optional: CPAP wipes, vinegar solution (2 parts vinegar to 3 parts water)

Your Cleaning Schedule

Daily:

  • Mask cushion: Wipe with CPAP wipes or wash with soap and water
  • Short tube (if applicable): Rinse and hang to drip dry
  • CPAP hose: Rinse and hang to drip dry
  • Humidifier chamber: Empty, rinse, and air dry
  • *Note: if your mask connects above the head, such as the DreamWear masks or ResMed 30i masks, you'll also want to rinse your mask's hollow frame each day and leave it to air dry.

Weekly:

  • Mask (all parts): Wash with soap and water
  • All tubing: Wash using your tube brush, soap, and water, then rinse thoroughly and hang to drip dry
  • Humidifier chamber: Deep clean with soap and water
  • Reusable filter: Rinse with warm water (check manufacturer's instructions, as your machine may or may not have a reusable filter)

Monthly:

  • Replace disposable filters (newer machine filters may last up to 6 months. Consult your user manual for more specific guidance.)
  • Inspect your mask cushion and replace if needed. Memory foam cushions need monthly replacement, but silicone can last between 1-3 months. 

The Cleaning Process:

  1. Unplug your CPAP machine
  2. Disassemble mask, tubing, and chamber
  3. Wash parts in warm, soapy water
  4. For deeper cleaning, soak non-fabric parts in vinegar solution for 30 minutes
  5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water
  6. Air dry on a clean towel away from direct sunlight
  7. Reassemble once completely dry

Pro Tips:

  • Never use harsh chemicals or boiling water
  • When drying equipment, be sure to air dry out of direct sunlight
  • Avoid activated oxygen or ozone cleaning systems, as they can degrade your equipment and harm your health if used improperly
  • Consider a UVC CPAP sanitizer for extra peace of mind (but know that it doesn't replace regular cleaning)
  • Replace your equipment regularly for optimal performance
  • The Hurricane Equipment Dryer is another great tool to have on hand for thoroughly drying every part of your setup

Remember, a clean CPAP is your ticket to refreshing sleep and vibrant days. If you have any questions about keeping your equipment in top shape, our CPAP Guides are here to help.

Let's tackle sleep apnea together, one clean breath at a time!