Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are an effective and widely used treatment for sleep apnea. However, if they are not kept clean they can be a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and viruses. There’s no substitute for soap and water, but CPAP wipes can keep CPAP masks and other machine components clean between more thorough washing sessions.
Through our in-depth research, we’ve found two brands of CPAP wipes that are likely to suit the majority of CPAP machine users. After introducing you to these brands, we’ll walk you through what you should know about buying and using CPAP wipes to help you determine if they’re right for you.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Sleep8 Mask M8tes CPAP Wipes
Ideal For
- Those with sensitive skin
- Frequent travelers
- People whose wipes often dry out
Highlights
- Free of alcohol and oil
- Individually sealed in foil packets
- Contains active antimicrobial and antifungal ingredients
-
Price
$8
The Sleep8 Mask M8tes CPAP Wipes are perfect for cleaning CPAP masks without leaving an alcohol scent or oily residue. While the wipes are an appealing choice for a wide range of CPAP users, they are especially ideal for people with sensitive skin.
The cleaning wipes are made with purified water, antimicrobial and antifungal ingredients, and several additional ingredients that effectively remove dust, dirt, body oil, and other contaminants from your mask. The wipes are free of alcohol and oil, which may appeal to users who typically experience bad skin reactions to these ingredients.
Each pack comes with 30 wipes that are individually sealed. This helps prevent wipes from drying out, which may happen when wipes sit in large containers for extended periods of time. The lightweight foil packets are also ideal for easy stowing in luggage during travel. A package will last about a month for people who use one wipe a day, while those who use two wipes a day should expect to replace their wipes every couple of weeks.
If you purchase the wipes via Singular Sleep, the shipping fee is $7.99. You may return unopened, unused wipes within 30 days for a refund, minus a 15% restocking fee.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on Sleep8 products
Shop NowBest Natural Wipes
Citrus II CPAP Mask Wipes
Ideal For
- CPAP users who enjoy a mild natural fragrance that doesn’t linger
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- People with oily skin
Highlights
- Natural cleansing formula
- Refreshing natural citrus fragrance
- Doesn’t leave residual odors
-
Price
$14
The Citrus II CPAP Mask Wipes are made with natural cleansers, but that doesn’t mean they’re less effective at removing grime. Although not sanitizing, these wipes are among the most powerful when it comes to cutting through body oil buildup on CPAP masks.
Citrus II, a brand of Beaumont Products, manufactures medical-grade germicidal cleaners in addition to CPAP wipes, and the company’s experience with cleaning comes through in this product. The natural cleansing solution uses vegetable-derived ingredients to clean away dirt and oil. Its natural citrus aroma smells fresh while using but does not linger on the mask or other accessories.
While some CPAP wipes can leave a residue that degrades CPAP accessories and shortens their lifespan, the solution used for these wipes is specifically formulated to leave no residue. People with very sensitive skin may notice some irritation from this formula, but the majority of users are likely to find it gentle enough for daily use.
The largest and most budget-friendly container of Citrus II CPAP Mask Wipes comes with 62 wipes, which is enough to last most people one to two months depending on how many wipes they use daily. In addition to the canister of wipes, Citrus II offers individually packaged travel wipes, concentrated cleaner, and sprays.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on Citrus II products
Shop NowWhy We Picked These
When choosing which CPAP products to feature, we conduct in-depth research that is informed by our team’s experience with sleep apnea products and other sleep-related accessories. We then contextualize our findings to provide education and make the buying process as easy as possible for our readers.
What You Should Consider When Choosing CPAP Cleaning Wipes
Not all CPAP wipes are the same, and a brand that works well for one person may not be the right choice for another. Just as choosing a CPAP mask takes careful consideration, it’s easier to pick a brand of CPAP wipes after evaluating it from a number of angles, since some factors are likely to be more important to you than others.
CPAP Wipe Considerations
| Price | Although CPAP wipes vary in price, they are usually more expensive than ordinary cleaning or hand wipes. Most people use one to two wipes per day, so consider whether the monthly cost fits your budget. Buying in bulk can be one way to lower the monthly cost, particularly if done through a subscription service. |
| Residue | Some CPAP wipes leave residue that can irritate your skin, attract dust, and degrade your mask and other accessories. Certain wipes instruct users to rinse the accessories after using the wipes, so consider whether you’re willing to add another step to your cleaning routine before buying. |
| Scent | CPAP wipes are sometimes scented with natural or artificial fragrances. For people who are sensitive to fragrances, scent-free CPAP wipes are likely the best choice. |
| Disposal | CPAP wipes should be disposed of in a sealed garbage can. When flushed, CPAP wipes can cause serious plumbing problems in the home, as well as at water treatment facilities. |
| Environmental Friendliness | If you prefer eco-friendly products, look for CPAP wipes made out of biodegradable cotton with natural ingredients. However, eco-conscious shoppers may prefer to stick with soap and water when cleaning their CPAP accessories, as this is the greenest approach. |
Are CPAP Wipes Useful?
CPAP wipes, while not medically necessary or indicated for all CPAP users, can be practical and convenient when used between more thorough cleaning sessions or when traveling. They are particularly effective for getting rid of facial oil, which can attract dirt and cause CPAP masks to degrade more quickly.
While CPAP wipes may seem similar to baby wipes or all-purpose cleaning wipes, they’re free of additives that may damage CPAP accessories. Some generic non-CPAP wipes may also leave a residue that is harmful or irritating to breathe in.
How Often Should You Clean Your CPAP Mask?
It is generally recommended to clean a CPAP mask and other CPAP machine components on a daily basis with mild soap and warm water, but at minimum it should be done weekly. Most people who use CPAP wipes use them daily, though some people save them for times when ordinary cleaning is impractical.
Cleaning a mask usually requires one wipe, while cleaning both the mask and other accessories may take two or three wipes.
Types of Cleaning Wipes for Your CPAP Mask
Most CPAP cleaning wipes can be broken down into five categories. There is often overlap between the categories — for example, a wipe can be both unscented and natural — but they still provide a valuable place to start when considering which wipe might work best for you.
CPAP Wipe Types
| Scented Wipes | Scented wipes are formulated with artificial or natural fragrances and leave a fresh scent on the mask and accessories. Citrus scents are popular, as they smell clean to many people. When buying scented wipes, consider whether you will be happy with the smell every night. |
| Unscented Wipes | Unscented wipes do not have any added fragrance. They are the best choice for people who are sensitive to fragrances, as well as those with allergies. Some unscented wipes may have a smell due to other additives, but this usually dissipates quickly. |
| Sanitizing Wipes | Sanitizing wipes are formulated to kill bacteria on CPAP masks and other accessories. People with sensitive skin or allergies may want to be cautious when using sanitizing wipes, as some use additives that can irritate the skin or airways. |
| Alcohol-Free Wipes | Alcohol is very effective at removing facial oil and is a natural disinfectant, but it can also degrade CPAP masks and irritate the skin. Alcohol-free CPAP wipes instead use other additives to keep things clean. |
| Natural | Natural CPAP wipes are usually made from 100% cotton or other natural fibers, with natural additives for cleaning. While usually more eco-friendly than other options, natural CPAP wipes are also generally more expensive. |
CPAP Wipes
Most CPAP wipes use a combination of water and glycerine to keep them moist and ready to use, but the other ingredients may differ significantly from brand to brand. Alcohol is rarely used, since it can irritate the skin and degrade CPAP equipment. The material used for the wipe itself also varies, though cotton and cotton-synthetic blends are the most common
Not all CPAP wipes are sanitizing, but some are formulated to kill germs. These sanitizing wipes can be a practical stopgap between more in-depth cleaning sessions, but CPAP masks and other machine components should still be washed with soap and water on a regular basis.
Sanitizing CPAP wipes include ingredients that kill bacteria on CPAP masks and other accessories. However, sanitizing CPAP wipes shouldn’t be used as a substitute for a regular cleaning regimen with soap and water.
Although baby wipes may seem similar to CPAP wipes, it is best to avoid them when cleaning your CPAP accessories. While baby wipes are typically very gentle, they may contain ingredients that can irritate the airways or leave residue on a mask.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a health care provider prior to starting a new treatment or making changes to your treatment plan.
Still have questions?
Sleep apnea products can be confusing. If you need individualized assistance, send us an email at [email protected] with your questions and we'll help find the best fit for you.
Written by
Tochukwu Ikpeze, Staff WriterTochukwu grew up in New York and has a passion for creative and scientific writing. Tochukwu holds an undergraduate degree in Biology and Psychology, a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science, and a Medical Degree as well. In his free time, Tochukwu enjoys reading, learning, exploring various topics pertaining to the human condition and conveying that information to the public through writing.
Reviewed by
Dr. Abhinav Singh, Medical ReviewerDr. Singh is the Medical Director of the Indiana Sleep Center. His research and clinical practice focuses on the entire myriad of sleep disorders.
