3 Tips For Good CPAP Machine Hygiene
CPAP machines can help reverse the negative effects of sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. These machines have the potential to save lives, but they can also become a breeding ground for bacteria if they are not cleaned properly.
You must exercise good CPAP hygiene if you want your machine to serve as an asset in the future.
1. Disassemble Your Machine for Cleaning
A lot of CPAP users think that wiping down the mask, tubing, and machine housing is enough to keep the CPAP clean. Unfortunately, this is not true. You must disassemble the machine in order to achieve a proper cleaning. Taking your machine apart will allow you to use the right cleaning technique for each part.
You can soak plastic tubing in a cleaning solution to remove dirt and bacteria from the inner cavities. You can use disinfectant wipes to clean your face mask, and you can clean out the nooks and crannies of your CPAP machine housing when all external components have been disconnected.
2. Stick to a Realistic Cleaning Schedule
In a perfect world, every CPAP machine would be cleaned on a daily basis. For many people, daily cleaning is not realistic due to time constraints.
If you are unable to complete daily cleaning, you need to work with your doctor to create a realistic cleaning schedule that will minimize your risk of inhaling dangerous particles or organic microbes that might start growing in your CPAP machine.
Anytime you develop an upper respiratory infection or other illness and then use your CPAP machine, it is wise to clean the machine daily until you have recovered. This will prevent the ongoing spread of bacteria or viruses throughout your system.
3. Use the Right Cleaning Products
The products that you use to clean your CPAP machine can have a direct impact on the quality of the air you breathe through the machine each night.
You want to avoid using any soaps or detergents with fragrance additives, as these can irritate your lungs. Only distilled water should be used in the humidifier chamber to avoid a buildup of minerals that might damage your CPAP machine.
A medical supply company will be able to provide you with the cleansers and cleaning wipes you need to care for your CPAP machine properly.
Good hygiene is essential to the success of your CPAP machine. Engage in regular cleaning with the right products to eliminate the potential for contamination within your CPAP machine.
For more information, reach out to CPAP suppliers.