What does a CPAP machine do when you stop breathing?

People with obstructive sleep apnea have difficulty breathing while they sleep due to a physical blockage in the upper airway caused by their tongue or the collapse of airway tissues. A CPAP machine delivers a constant stream of pressurized air that forces the airway to stay open, thus minimizing the number of breathing disturbances.

Can you use purified water in a CPAP machine?

Many CPAP machines come equipped with humidifiers that add moisture to the pressurized air to help prevent potential side effects such as dry mouth. To prevent the buildup of limescale deposits and potentially harmful bacteria, you should use distilled water instead of purified water in your CPAP humidifier. Distillation involves boiling water and condensing the vapor back to liquid. This process ensures that minerals, impurities, and bacteria are removed. While purified water is filtered to remove chemicals, it could still have mineral content that is safe to drink but prone to causing buildup in your machine.

How do you clean the inside of a CPAP machine?

You should clean your CPAP machine daily using mild soap and warm water. First, check that your machine is unplugged, then disassemble the power base, mask, and tubing. Wash the inside and outside of the tubing by submerging it in warm soapy water. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations when washing hoses with electrical components. Wash your mask — including its headgear, cushion, and frame — with mild soap and water, ensuring that you clean any facial or hair oils off the surface. If your CPAP machine includes a humidifier, clean the humidifier by soaking it with one part white vinegar and one part water. Rinse all accessories with water and air dry before reassembling your device.

Do you need a CPAP cleaner to clean your CPAP machine?

You don't need a CPAP cleaner or machine to clean your CPAP machine. Many CPAP cleaning machines on the market use ozone or UV light to clean the hoses and tanks of CPAP machines. The FDA now warns against using these cleaning machines due to potential health risks. The FDA has reported that exposure to the chemicals used in these cleaning machines can lead to respiratory infections. Using these cleaners with your CPAP machine may also void the warranty.

Search

Search results

Best CPAP Machines

Best Travel CPAP Machines

Best CPAP Tube Cleaning Brush

CPAP Machines

Best CPAP Hoses

Best BiPAP Machines

ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine Review

Best CPAP Pillows

Best CPAP Masks for Mouth Breathing

Best CPAP Batteries