To maximize the benefits of using a CPAP machine, it’s important to take the time to clean and care for your equipment. CPAP masks?and hoses can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, germs and other pathogens if they aren’t cleaned on a daily basis.
How to Keep Your CPAP Clean
Fortunately, it’s easy to clean your CPAP equipment. All you need is a few minutes a day to keep germs at bay.
- Soap and water is the simplest way to clean your mask and other equipment.
- In addition to daily cleaning with soap and water, humidifier chambers should also be soaked in a solution of 1-part vinegar and 3-parts water for 15-20 minutes before being rinsed with distilled water.
- Masks should also be cleaned with soap and water every day.
- The gray non-disposable filter should be cleaned at least once a week. Simply rinse with water and allow to fully dry before placing it back into your machine.
Never use bleach to clean your equipment, and make sure that you keep all components out of the sun to avoid UV damage.
Even with diligent cleaning and maintenance, certain parts of your equipment will need to occasionally be replaced, such as the mask. Check with the manufacturer to find out when to replace these parts and accessories.
Now, you can follow the tips above to keep your CPAP mask and humidifier chamber clean. Or, you can invest in a cleaning machine that will take care of the work for you.
The benefit to using a cleaning machine is that the disinfecting properties are stronger than plain soap and water. There’s also no need to worry about soap residue on the mask.
With a cleaning machine, you simply place your mask (and hose in some cases) in the cleaning chamber, and let the machine take care of the rest. They’re easy to use, highly effective and convenient.
We’re going to share our favorite CPAP Cleaning machine models to help you find the right one for your needs.
Our Favorite CPAP Cleaning Machine Models
There are many CPAP cleaning machines on the market today, but these three models are our favorites.
SoClean CPAP Cleaner and Sanitizer + Fisher & Paykel ICON Adapter
The SoClean sanitizer system eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, germs and pathogens without using harsh chemicals. The system is fully automated, so you can spend your time doing more important things.
SoClean’s system uses the disinfecting and sanitizing methods used in produce handling, water purification, hospital sanitizing and hotel housekeeping.
Other sanitizing systems can be complicated, but SoClean aims to make things as simple as possible with this system. The unit sanitizes all CPAP equipment ? including the water in the reservoir ? without you having to remove the mask, reservoir or hose.
Simply place your mask inside the unit, close the lid, and let the device take care of the rest.
SoClean’s system is compatible with most mask types. The interior chamber is 5.5″ x 5.5″ x 7.25,” so it’s large enough to work with most masks. The only exception is a total face mask that covers the entire face.
This particular bundle is designed especially for users of the Fisher & Paykel ICON. If you have a different CPAP sanitizer, you may need to buy another adapter.
Pros
- Automated cleaning for easy use
- Eliminates 99.9% of germs, bacteria and pathogens
- Doesn’t use harsh chemicals
- Compatible with most masks
- Comes with an adapter for the Fisher & Paykel ICON CPAP machine
Cons
- This bundle isn’t right for everyone
The SoClean bundle comes with an adapter for Fisher & Paykel’s ICON CPAP machine. If you have a different machine, you may need to buy a different bundle or an additional adapter.
If you’re looking for a system that offers automated cleaning and doesn’t require disassembly of the mask, hose or reservoir, SoClean’s sanitizing system may be a good fit for you.
Learn more about SoClean’s CPAP sanitizing system.
Sani Bot D3 CPAP Mask Sanitizer
Like the SoClean system, Sani Bot offers automated cleaning. Just fill the stainless steel tank with water, add a disinfecting tablet, place your mask in the tank and set the timer (1-30 minutes).
We like that the Sani Bot D3 offers touchscreen operation and a heater function for superior cleaning. It also has a drying rack to keep your mask germ-free.
Sani includes 60 cleaning tablets, so you can start using the machine right away.
Pros
- Automated cleaning
- Easy touchscreen usability
- Stainless steel water tank resists corrosion
- Uses disinfecting tablets (included)
- Heat function for added sanitization
- Drying rack included for germ-free drying
Cons
- Some masks may not be able to fully submerge in the tank
The only issue with the Sani Bot D3 system is that some masks may not be able to fully submerge in the tank. This is normally only a problem with very large or oddly-shaped masks.
Otherwise, this system is easy to use and offers some nice extra perks, like a drying rack and heated cleaning function.
Learn more about the Sani Bot D3 system.
VirtuCLEAN CPAP Equipment and Mask Cleaner
If this machine doesn’t use water or soap, how does it disinfect? Ozone. Ozone is a popular disinfecting method for CPAP machines because it’s mess-free and easy.
This machine is ultra-quiet with a battery life that lasts 10 years. It takes just two hours to charge the battery, and the unit requires virtually no maintenance.
Here’s how the system works:
- Place your mask in the VirtuCLEAN bag.
- Press the start button.
- Let the machine run for 30 minutes.
The machine will automatically shut down after 30 minutes.
You can also use this machine to clean your humidifier chamber. Simply connect the tubing to the machine, and you’re ready to go.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Automated cleaning
- Does not require water or soap to disinfect
- Lightweight and compact
- Quiet
Cons
- Uses ozone for disinfecting
While convenient, some people prefer not to use ozone for disinfecting, as it can leave behind an odor.
Otherwise, the VirtuCLEAN machine is easy to use, highly effective and compact in size (great for travel).
