If you have a CPAP machine, then you know how important it is to your daily life. And just like your car, your furnace, and your dishwasher, your CPAP machine and its accessories also need regular maintenance to make sure they function as well as possible. It doesn’t take much – simply a little time and a routine can keep your machine working at its best. Here is what you need to do:Clean your mask and tubing
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With daily usage, your natural oils and chemicals can build up in your mask and tubing, gradually affecting the performance of your CPAP machine.
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Every morning, hand-wash your mask and tubing (and chin straps if you have them) with a non-irritant soap and some warm water. A special tubing brush can get to those hard-to-reach places. Air dry, but not in direct sunlight.
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Clean your humidifier
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If you have a humidifier as part of your CPAP machine, then it too needs to be cleaned.
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Along with your mask and tubing, gently wash the tub with mild soap and warm water. Air dry away from sunlight.
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To minimize chemical buildup in the tub and tubing, fill the tank with distilled water instead of tap water.
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Check it out
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Every month, take a look at your CPAP machine and its accessories. Do you see any signs of wear and tear? Are there any holes, nicks, or tears in the tubing or mask? Even the smallest of holes can reduce your ability to get an optimal sleep.
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Also, look for any buildup, which can affect airflow. Check the filter for dust. Replace any parts as needed.
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The sound of silence?
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As technological advances continue, so do the abilities of your CPAP machine. So if your machine starts to make start unusual noises, regardless of how small, this could indicate that your machine needs some attention with the accessories, pressure, airflow, and more.
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Next up!
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Whether it is due to aging, new features, or changes in your diagnosis, there comes a time when your CPAP machine needs to be replaced for a newer model. But regardless of what machine you have or its age, always maintain your machine and its parts for more efficient functioning and of course, a better sleep.
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